If art and travel are two of your loves then look no further than TNT‘s ultimate list of the world’s best art galleries.
1. Guggenheim, Bilbao
What: The striking building of the Guggenheim, in Bilbao, northern Spain is the museum’s main draw. The brainchild of American architect Frank O. Gehry, it is all twisting and curving fish-scale-like shapes,
wrapped up in an outer titanium layer. Don’t miss Jeff Koons’ giant flower-clad dog and Louise Bourgeois’ spider sculpture (pictured).
Get more info: guggenheim-bilbao.es
2. Louvre, Paris
What: Is she happy or sad? Decide for yourself about Mona Lisa’s state of mind by viewing Leonardo Da Vinci’s beguiling masterpiece at the Louvre. The museum, which first opened its doors in 1793, is home to works by Botticelli, Titian, Bellini and Raphael. If you hate crowds, visit on a Wednesday or Friday night when the gallery opens late.
Get more info: louvre.fr
3. The Met, New York
What: One of the world’s largest art galleries, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is loaded with more than two million pieces. As well as housing works from ancient Egypt, expect plenty of modern and American art.
Get more info: metmuseum.org
4. Hermitage, St Petersburg
What: Ogle three million works of art and artefacts – including prehistoric dope-smoking gear. The museum is set within several buildings, including the Winter Palace, once home to the Russian tsars.
Get more info: hermitagemuseum.org
5. The Uffizi, Florence
What: Be prepared for mammoth queues for one of the oldest art galleries in the world. Marvel at Michelangelo’s David and Botticelli’s Venus, then enjoy a coffee on the café terrace, which offers sweeping views of Florence.
Get more info: uffizi.com
Words: Janine Kelso
