Many cities are described as the “European art capital” for art lovers, but such a place doesn’t exist. The history of European art is rich and long. Each country across the continent has its beauties. The worth-visiting places are countless, which is great, but it also means a lifetime wouldn’t be enough to see them all. That’s why here’s a list of 7 enchanting European cities for art lovers you can start with.
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Berlin, Germany
Berlin’s known as a major art lovers hub not only in Europe but the whole world. Creative individuals from all over gather in the capital of Germany. The city’s large, bustling and relatively cheap in comparison to other western European metropolises, thus many international artists choose to live and work there. Berlin has lots of historically significant museums and galleries, such as the ones being a part of the Museum Island complex, but most of all, it’s the contemporary art that makes it so unique. Berlin’s full of cutting-edge exhibitions, quirky galleries, and experimental events. Don’t miss the KW Institute for Contemporary Art (located in an old factory), Neue Nationalgalerie (20-century art) and Hamburger Bahnhof – Museum für Gegenwart (contemporary art museum situated in an old railway station).
Kraków, Poland
If you love to study the history of art, Kraków’s your destination. With well-preserved medieval castle, countless museums, churches filled with treasures and historical paintings, the city looks as if time has stopped there. In Czartoryski Museum you can see works of such world-renowned painters as da Vinci or Rembrandt. The Gallery of The 19th-Century Polish Art the Sukiennice, Jan Matejko Museum, Józef Mehoffer Museum and Stanisław Wyspiański Museum are perfect for those who want to explore the local art. One more place you should visit is the famous Wawel Castle. To remind yourself you’re actually in the 21st century, spend some time on the Main Square. It’s old-style as well, but there are always lots of street performers spreading their youthful, bohemian vibe. Besides, Kraków’s ideal for book-worms, there’s plenty of literature events being held through the year, including the Joseph Conrad Literature Festival in October.
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Siena, Italy
The whole city of Siena is a paradise for art lovers. Walk around the center, and you’ll feel as if you’ve just entered some medieval “art installation.” Gorgeous architecture, the famous frescos in Palazzo Pubblico, the splendid Duomo cathedral, Sienese paintings in the Pinacoteca, the collection of artworks held in the Palazzo Salimbeni – this charming Italian town has a lot to offer. It might not be as large as other favorite cities in Italy, but it’s packed with art and beauty. After you visit all the churches and museums; sit on the Palio di Siena, Siena’s iconic square, and just soak up the magical atmosphere.
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Paris, France
Paris doesn’t need much of an introduction. The city’s all about art: the architecture is stunning, museums countless and world-known, streets look fabulous, cafés are bohemian, and even Parisians themselves dress as if they too were pieces of art. One place you obviously can’t miss is the Louvre. If you’re visiting Paris for a short time and can only choose one museum to visit, let it be this one. Then, in case you’ve got some spare time left, visit the Musée d’Orsay and take a look at the gems of French art. Actually, as an art-lover you should spend at least one week in Paris so that you could also go to the Rodin Museum, Picasso Museum, Musée Delacroix, Musée Marmottan-Monet and Centre Georges Pompidou. Don’t forget to have a taste of French gourmet cuisine; it’s a form of art as well.
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Rome, Italy
Rome is a paradise made of artworks, it’s an endless source of joy and happiness for art-lovers, and it’s a miracle of creativity. Not many cities around the world have kept so many reminiscents of their long and rich history. Some of Rome’s jewels are thousands of years old; others came into existence centuries ago. Palaces, basilicas, atmospheric plazas and fascinating museums, they’re all beautiful at first glance and even more as you explore them carefully. Inside of Rome’s buildings, you’ll find the works of world’s most notable artists, including Raphael, Maderno, Bramante, Chirico, Caravaggio, Michelangelo, Picasso, Chagall or Gauguin. A trip to Rome wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Basilica di San Pietro. Galleria Nazionale d’Arte Moderna, Galleria Nazionale d’Arte Antica, CineCittà Studios and Museo Nazionale di Villa Giulia are fantastic as well.
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Cordoba, Spain
Even though Cordoba isn’t a world-known art lovers hub, the city’s incredibly charming and artistically vibrant. It’s neither overwhelming nor large, which actually makes it a fascinating destination. There are people who love big cities and there are those who don’t. If you belong to the second group and you’re also interested in arts, you’ll most likely fall in love with Cordoba. The Mezquita Cathedral is one of the most stunning mosques in the world, so you can start your trip across the town with this site. Then take a walk along the Calle de las Flores, a beautiful street full of flowers.
Stroll about Judería (the Jewish quarter) and spend some time on the peaceful squares. On your way, you’ll get to see plentiful wonders of art and architecture. When you plan the trip to Cordoba, do your best to visit the city during one of its incredible festivities, such as the Feria de Córdoba. It’s a great chance to experience the culture, study the local art and learn Flamenco.
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Vienna, Austria
Vienna’s classy. It’s like an elegant, well-read lady. Not only it looks good, but it also knows many things – especially about art. Its architecture is gorgeous and museums numerous. The Kunsthistorisches Museum (Museum of Fine Arts) has great exhibitions, including artworks from ancient Greece and Egypt and amazing pieces collected through centuries from all over Europe. In the Kunsthistorisches Museum, you can meet with such masters as Velásquez, Titian, Rembrandt or Raphael.
MuseumsQuartier Wien displays works of Austrian artists and Museum Moderner Kunst Stiftung Ludwig Wien is all about modern art. Kunsthalle Wien houses artworks by Kandinsky, Picasso, Klee, and Pollock. As you can see, Vienna has so many museums you can spend weeks exploring them. If you’re interested not only in visual arts, but also music, then Vienna’s even more of a must-visit for you. As for classical music, Vienna is THE city. Make sure to attend at least one concert during your stay.
Art lovers Eurotrip
Now you already know where to go, so it’s time to organize your Grand Artistic Art Lovers Eurotrip! Before you hit the road, share this article with your friends.
