Best European Cities for Art Lovers

October 15, 2022
A woman looking at paintings in a gallery.

If you are an art lover, you are on the right continent! For centuries, Europe has been a hub for all the artists to gather and enjoy some of the most significant art pieces in the entire world. Of course, the best art pieces are kept in museums and galleries but don’t be surprised if you get inspired by graffiti on the street or a drawing in a café. Yes, even amateur art is mesmerizing in European cities. But you already know that, right? What you don’t know is where to start. In reality, you don’t know which European city is best for art lovers such as yourself. But don’t worry – we got you. We prepared a list of some of the best European cities for art lovers that we are sure you will enjoy. Thus, keep on reading if you want to plan the best art trip.

Berlin, Germany

Undoubtedly, one of the best European cities for art lovers has to be Berlin. The German capital has a museum island right at its center. And, that island consists of five different museums, through which you can wander for days – yes, it is that big. 

In Pergamon, you can see Islamic art. Bode is excellent for admiring sculptures. Alte Nationalgalerie is perfect for art lovers who enjoy the French Revolution. In The East Side Gallery East, you can experience alternative art. And finally, in Berlinische Galerie, you could meet local artists and enjoy their craft.

Berlin is also a great option if you want to travel with your friends somewhere where you can enjoy art and many other adventurous city-like things. This city has many landmarks, exciting culture, fun hotspots, and more.  Caption: Even buildings in Berlin are artistic.

 A German flag in front of a building.

Even buildings in Berlin are artistic.

London, United Kingdom 

If you are looking for a diverse art scene, consider coming to London. To see Van Gogh, go to the National Gallery. And for Picasso and Warhol, go to The Tate Modern. 

Of course, you can see thousands of artists in these galleries and museums. However, remember that you don’t have to go to a gallery (or a museum) to get artistically inspired. Namely, some areas in London, such as the Shoreditch area, are art by themselves. So, visit them. 

And, while in London, don’t even think about skipping the national landmarks. The London Eye, Buckingham Palace, Tower of London, and many more, are worth visiting at least once in your life. So, if possible, book a more extended stay – you will need at least a week to see the most important and artistic parts of London. 

Paris, France 

We cannot talk about the best European cities for art lovers and not mention Paris. It is where Mona Lisa is, after all. Of course, the Louvre is one of the most popular and most visited museums, but this city has many more artistic places. For instance, Paris has approximately 1000 galleries and 130 museums. And, if that is not enough, let us tell you that the entire city is full of artistic monuments and street art. 

It is always a good idea to come to Paris. So, if your budget allows it, just pack your bag and go. And, regarding packing, don’t forget to add your most comfortable shoes to your travel bag. Trust us. With the number of artistic places in Paris, you will need some good walking shoes to go from one gallery to the other all day. Let everything else in your bag remain the same, and just do this in a hurry. When it comes to last-minute packing, just ensure your walking shoes, passport, and money are ready – that is all you need. 

Caption: When it comes to the best European cities for art lovers, Paris just takes the lead.

Louvre museum.

When it comes to the best European cities for art lovers, Paris just takes the lead.

Florence, Italy

What can be more artistic than Italy? Everything from buildings to food is creative there. And Because Italians are passionate, they create the most mesmerizing art. You will see that art even in gelatos. 

Italy, especially Florence, is great if you are looking for the best vacation ideas for families with teens. Since this is a relatively small and safe town, you can let your teens wander and explore all the beauties of this area. Meanwhile, you can spend your day at Galleria dell’Accademia or Galleria Degli Uffizi. 

Moreover, since you are in Florence, don’t miss out on the city’s churches. That is where you will see some of the most beautiful frescoes in the world. Just go to the city center to a Santa Maria Novella church or go a bit further and find Santa Croce. In both of these, you can see frescoes painted by Giotto. 

A view of Florence's church.

Now is a perfect time to visit Florence, so what are you waiting for?

Amsterdam, the Netherlands

Amsterdam is also one of the fascinating European cities for art lovers. That is a city of Dutch Tulips, canals, fantastic architecture, bike riding culture, and many more. Digital nomads get filled with their remote work while sipping coffee and mingling with other nomads. 

But, let us go back to why art lovers should visit Amsterdam. Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Mauritshuis Museum, De Nieuwe Kerk – need we say more? In Amsterdam, you can see Rembrandt’s The Night Watch, Vermeer’s Girl With a Pearl Earring, and many other famous art pieces. 

As you have seen, there are many European cities for art lovers. We mentioned just a few of them, but you already know that there are many more. To give you a hint – Madrid, Vienna, Athens, Barcelona, Basel, etc., are other great artistic cities in Europe you should consider for your next trip. 

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Related article: The European Capital of Smart Tourism 2020

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Author Bio: Angie Sims 

Angie has been a real estate agent for the last ten years. In her free time, she enjoys writing travel blogs. Angie is also a wife, a mother, and a cat owner. 

 

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