7 Must-See Art Galleries around the World ...

By Alison

The world is full of amazing art galleries, and few of us will ever be able to visit more than a fraction of them. So which are the galleries that you should visit? Many of the best galleries are in Europe, but there are also some extraordinary galleries in the US. Here are some of the must-see galleries that you should visit …

1. Uffizi

building,architecture,estate,lobby,palace, If you're visiting Italy, it would be unthinkable to miss the wonderful Uffizi gallery. So take a trip to Florence and see one of the oldest art galleries in Europe. Naturally the Uffizi contains a vast number of works by famous Italian painters, although you will also see works by the likes of Rembrandt and Goya. A highlight is Boticelli's Birth of Venus.

2. Hermitage

Hermitage Museum,plaza,landmark,palace,town square, The Hermitage, St Petersburg's famous gallery, is reported to contain the largest collection of paintings in the world. Although you'll only see a fraction of these treasures, you could never see everything in one visit, even if there was enough space to display them! The Hermitage museum owes its existence to Catherine the Great, a enthusiastic collector and patron of the arts.

3. Prado

Museo del Prado,Congreso de los Diputados,plaza,landmark,building, A visit to Madrid would be unthinkable without taking in the famous Prado. Like many national collections its focus is on the art of its own country, but the Prado also features works by Italian, Flemish, French and Dutch painters. It's where you can see Rubens' Three Graces and Bosch's The Garden of Earthly Delights.

4. Dulwich Picture Gallery

property,building,stately home,estate,palace, When in London, art fans are spoilt for choice, but shouldn't exclude some of the lesser-known galleries. Head away from the center of town to the Dulwich Picture Gallery, designed to maximise natural light. The building has been extremely influential on gallery design. One painting by Rembrandt has been stolen four times - more than any other artwork in the world!

5. Orangerie (Paris)

Parc De Bagatelle,Schloss Benrath,landmark,building,stately home, Instead of queuing for hours to get into the Louvre, try the nearby Orangerie instead. It's an essential destination for fans of Monet and the other impressionists. You can see some of Monet's water lily paintings here, in rooms designed specially to house them. There are also works by Matisse, Cézanne and Renoir.

6. Rijksmuseum

Amsterdam,Rijksmuseum Amsterdam,Rijksmuseum,Amsterdam,plaza, The famous Rijksmuseum reopened in 2013 after costly and ambitious renovations. It was closed for a decade, so if you were disappointed to find it closed when you visited Amsterdam it's time for a return trip. There are many Dutch and Flemish masterpieces, including Rembrandt's Night Watch.

7. Getty Museum

Visitors to the West Coast should head for one or both of the J. Paul Getty Museum sites. Private collectors are responsible for some amazing collections, and thanks to the Getty wealth the museum is absolutely free to visit. It's an ideal museum to visit if you're interested in European art but can't make it to Europe. You'll see antiquities, fine art and temporary exhibitions.

Art lovers could spend a lifetime visiting art galleries around the world. But if you have to restrict your visit to just a few of the famous galleries, these are some that you should consider. They contain so many beautiful paintings that it's well worth seeing as many as you can. In the larger museums you will have to pick your favorites, or return several time. What famous painting would you love to own?

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top art galleries every woman should visit?
Some must-see galleries include the Louvre in Paris, the Tate Modern in London, and the Museum of Modern Art in New York.
Are these art galleries safe and accessible for solo female travelers?
Yes, most major galleries prioritize visitor safety and accessibility, making them great spots for women traveling alone.
Can I find women artists featured prominently in these galleries?
Absolutely, many galleries highlight works by female artists both historical and contemporary.
Do these galleries offer guided tours tailored for women travelers?
Many galleries provide group tours and private guides, which can be requested to suit personal interests.
Are there any art galleries known for women-centric exhibitions?
Yes, galleries like the Brooklyn Museum often feature exhibitions celebrating women's contributions to art.
What’s the best time to visit these galleries to avoid crowds?
Weekday mornings and off-peak seasons tend to be quieter and more enjoyable for a relaxed visit.
Do these galleries offer workshops or classes for women interested in art?
Several galleries host workshops and creative sessions that welcome all skill levels, often including women-focused events.
Is photography allowed inside these art galleries?
Policies vary, but many galleries allow photography without flash; it’s best to check each gallery’s rules beforehand.
Can visiting these galleries help inspire my own art or creativity?
Definitely! Seeing diverse artworks can spark new ideas and deepen your appreciation for different styles.
Are there nearby cafes or shops where women travelers can relax after a gallery visit?
Most galleries have adjoining cafes and gift shops perfect for unwinding and finding unique souvenirs.
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