The most iconic paintings and art pieces in the world are located in Europe. From Monet to DaVinci, they have it all. If you’re planning a trip to Europe and want to immerse yourself in culture and fine art, you may be overwhelmed by all of your options.
Many museums are packed with tourists during most of the year so if you want to see all that you possibly can, you’ll want to have a plan. Keep reading to find the best places in Europe to find classic art.
Classic Art in Europe
The number of historic places and famous art that can be found in Europe is staggering. They host world-famous museums, jaw-dropping castles, and ancient churches that hold art that could make anyone a believer.
If you have a famous European artist, you know that Europe is the only place to find most of their work. If you’re an art lover, pack your bags, get your passport, and hope a plane across the pond.
The Accademia Gallery
Arguably the most famous statue in the world, Michaelangelo’s the David is housed in The Accademia Gallery in Florence, Italy. This is just one of many pieces that any lover of art must see that’s located in Florence.
You can even climb the dome of the Accademia and experience sights and emotions that won’t ever let you forget Florence. If this sounds amazing, learn more about fine art in Florence.
The Louvre
This is a location that deserves to be number 1 on your list. The Louvre in Paris, France itself is a work of art, not to mention that the city itself is a beautiful thing to behold.
The Mona Lisa is perhaps the most famous painting in The Louvre, but there are many to see. There are large crowds to see the painting, but you can learn a lot about classic art while you’re there.
The Tate Britain and The Tate Modern
Both museums are located in London and offer wonderful exhibits. The Tate Britain houses contemporary art showing the culture of Britain through the last century.
The Tate Modern offers exhibits that are more modern as the name implies and that is truly unique. This is the perfect location for those that want to see art that is more modern and daring.
Rome
That’s right, the city itself is like an art museum. One of the oldest places in the world, there are historic buildings and architecture that just can’t be beaten. Strolling through the city, you’ll find fountains and buildings that have stood for centuries.
There is so much to see in the city, that you may want to consider a culture and art tour. Whether you want to see The Coliseum or visit the historic churches that house awesome art, Rome is a must-visit.
Musée de L´Orangerie
Monet’s Water Lilies is one of the most celebrated paintings of all time and one the artist’s most memorable pieces of art. It’s housed in this beautiful museum in Paris. The room that holds the piece of art is outstanding and breathtaking.
Other notable artists whose work you can see here include Renoir and Picasso. If you have younger kids or appreciate modern technology yourself, they have even introduced virtual reality exhibits.
Uffizi Gallery
Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus is a painting that almost everyone has seen, but not in person. Seeing the beautiful painting of Aphrodite is an inspiring experience.
This is yet another great place in Florence, Italy. The city is a great place to stay if you don’t plan on hopping around Europe. There are beautiful houses to rent near the city and you will have no shortage of art to enjoy.
The National Gallery of Norway
Oslo, Norway is home to The National Gallery and one of the finest collections of art in the world. One of their more famous holdings is The Scream by Edvard Munch. Beyond that, they have other paintings, architecture and even 360-degree views of gorgeous costumes.
Sistine Chapel
Even people who know nothing about art know a little bit about the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. Perhaps Michaelangelo’s most famous work, it should be on everyone’s bucket list to look up and take in the epic work of art that has lasted through the ages.
The chapel itself holds plenty of other art to see, but if you’re able to pull yourself away from the ceiling, you should take a stroll around the Vatican and even take a tour to appreciate more spectacular art.
Santa Maria Delle Grazie
In Milan, Italy is a monastery that holds a painting that is the inspiration for many friend group’s pictures around the dinner table. No matter if you’re religious or not. The Last Supper by Leonardo de Vinci is something that you should certainly see.
Other works of art that should be seen while in Milan include The Kiss by Francesco Hayez and a Fresco that is known as The Sistine Chapel of Milan.
Basel, Switzerland
Another whole city on the list as there are over 30 museums to visit while you’re here. The Vitra Design Museum is great for those that want to see something other than famous paintings. The architecture and engineering design on display here are unique and interesting.
If cartoon art, specifically the art of satire is your thing, then you should visit the Cartoonmuseum Basel. It’s one of the largest collections of satirical art and is another great place to visit for a break from the traditional.
Works of Art
You would have to spend an extremely long time in Europe to see all of the classic art on display. Since it may not be realistic to plan all of these places in one trip, you should pick your favorite pieces to see first and then plan more trips to cross everything off your list.
Traveling to Europe can be a rewarding experience. There is enough culture for anyone to appreciate and offers every geographic sight from mountains to beaches. Prepare for your travel by checking out some more great articles here.
