When it comes to learning about a destination’s culture and history, few institutions do it better than museums. These often grand buildings bring together massive collections that showcase a region’s history through art and artifacts. Some offer a single type of artwork (hello, Acropolis and Museum of the Terracotta Warriors), while others take a multidisciplinary approach to exhibits. But what they all have in common is the ability to make your jaw drop when you step inside their doors.
Museums vary in subject matter, but the best ones have the ability to make visitors think differently about society. They also encourage visitors to explore new cultures and topics through carefully curated and transcending exhibitions.
For travelers who are ready to open their minds, there is no shortage of museums all over the world that are sure to enthrall. From the Louvre in Paris to the Natural History Museum in London, there are plenty of galleries that will blow your mind.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, or the Met, is one of the most-visited museums in the world. Its collection is unrivaled and includes works by Monet and Picasso. It is also home to Greek and Roman artifacts, ceramics from Islamic cultures, and a huge number of books and manuscripts, including the Rosetta Stone and the first flag raised by Mao Zedong at the proclamation of the People’s Republic of China.
London’s National Gallery is another top-visited museum. The gallery features 2,600 paintings and sculptures that span the history of European art. Known for its collection of Renaissance masterpieces, the gallery is a must-see for art lovers.
A trip to the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston is a feast for the eyes. The museum’s collection encompasses European art, Egyptian art, and more. The museum’s many highlights include the works of artists like Degas, Renoir, and Cezanne.
The Shanghai Museum ranks 17th for its global reputation, but has a higher ranking within Asia and Europe than in the Americas. This could be due to the museum’s low familiarity rating, which is likely related to its overall evaluation score.
For a different type of museum, consider visiting the Stalingrad Museum in Russia. This massive complex was once a prison, a hospital, and even a factory. The museum is now dedicated to the famous Battle of Stalingrad in WWII and features real war relics from the battle. Several tours are offered and most visitors highly recommend an audio-guided tour.
The Museum of Modern Art in New York is another top-visited museum in the world. The museum’s large collection is devoted to 20th-century and contemporary art from all over the globe. The museum also holds numerous events and lectures. Visitors suggest downloading an app to learn about the exhibits and the history of the museum. The museum is also known for its outdoor garden area. Those who have visited the museum recommend taking a break in the park to relax. They also recommend stopping at a nearby restaurant for lunch to recharge after walking through the many rooms of the museum.
