If you’re traveling the world and happen to love art, you’re in luck. There is no shortage of expressive art on this planet. Every culture has a different style and feel and it can be exhilarating to explore different styles in new cities. If you’re looking for the best of the best, though, look no further. From street art in a big city to renowned art museums to grand public sculptures, you’re bound to find something that will take your breath away on our list of the best destinations for art!
1. Paris, France
There is no doubt as to why Paris would top our list of the best destinations for art. There are over a thousand art galleries in The City of Lights, which almost makes you wonder why it wasn’t nicknamed “The City of Art.” Most famous of all is the breathtaking and immense Louvre Museum, where you can catch a glimpse of the iconic Mona Lisa. Or skip the fees and enjoy the free street art while strolling through the historic and colorful Belleville neighborhood. If contemporary art is more your style, be sure to check out Modus Art Gallery and La Maison Rouge where no two visits are ever the same.
2. Lagos, Nigeria
Although Lagos is not a very well-known city (despite it being the largest in Nigeria,) it deserved inclusion on this list due to its quickly growing status as a contemporary art hub. If you enjoy African art in all of its vibrant forms, you can’t miss this locale. Step into the ReLe Gallery to enjoy various eclectic exhibits or visit Terra Kulture or Mydrim Gallery for contemporary Nigerian works that are sure to put this burgeoning city on the map for many art enthusiasts.
3. Tokyo, Japan
Those who adore Asian art and culture will certainly want to explore Tokyo’s vibrant art scene. Whereas most large cities have a central art district, Tokyo is different. There are galleries and artwork tucked away in all parts of this glamorous city. If you really want to see the best this region has to offer, head up 53 stories to the top of the Roppongi Hills Mori Tower skyscraper to visit the Mori Art Museum and revel in their ever-changing exhibits. Or explore something totally different with SCAI The Bathhouse: a 200-year-old former bathhouse turned contemporary art gallery.
4. St. Petersburg, Russia
In Russia, you either go big or you go home and that rule also holds true when it comes to art. Despite being a city that’s not often thought of being associated with art, St. Petersburg is home to The State Hermitage Museum, one of the largest art museums in the world. You can explore everything from historical jewels to photographic art pieces in this marvelous institution. If modern art is more your speed, don’t miss the Anna Nova Art Gallery that features pieces that are no older than from the 21st century.
5. Miami, Florida
Miami, Florida is known for being a hip city and their art scene definitely follows suit. You’ll find all sorts of fun and eclectic artworks sprinkled all throughout Miami. There are street murals to enjoy if you take the famous Wynwood Art Walk, or attend one of the various pop-up art festivals like the annual Art Basal, a world-renowned international art festival that features stunning visual arts every December. If you’d prefer to head to a gallery, check out the Perez Art Museum which holds a grand collection of modern art and has a beautiful backdrop of the Biscayne Bay to add to its splendor.
6. Mexico City, Mexico
The birthplace of renowned artists Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera, Mexico City has a long history of art and self-expression. You can still explore Frida’s gallery and see Diego’s famous murals, but there’s more to Mexico City than this power couple. Internationally, Mexico City is staking its claim in the art world with its annual Material Art Fair. If you like architecture as much as art, you also shouldn’t miss the calming Kurimanzutto, an installation art showcase that needs to be experienced!
