Every Art Lover Must Visit Seoul
Many major cities throughout the world are defined by their art offering and institutions. They draw major talent and works to their collections and museums, helping fuel tourism. From cities with a tradition of preserving classical works to those that are pushing contemporary art boundaries, here are 20 cities that art lovers need to visit.
1. Paris
Paris has arguably laid the historical foundation for Western art. From the masterpieces housed in the Louvre to the impressionist works in the Musée d'Orsay, Paris offers an unmatched experience in art education and appreciation.
2. Florence
To some, Florence is more of a living Renaissance museum than a city. Its streets, churches, and public spaces are home to works by Botticelli, da Vinci, Michelangelo, and countless others. When in Florence, be sure to visit the Uffizi Gallery and also take in how art seamlessly blends into life in the city.
3. New York City
New York City is one of the most influential art cities in the world. There's the Metropolitan Museum of Art, MoMA, and tons of modern and experimental galleries in Chelsea and Brooklyn. New York City supports just about every era, style, and genre of art.
4. London
London provides art lovers with a wide and diverse range of artistic experiences. You can see ancient artifacts and contemporary works on the same day. The British Museum, Tate Modern, Tate Britain, and National Gallery are all worth your time.
5. Rome
Rome exists at the intersection of architecture, art, and history, and these forms are inseparable from the city itself. Witness masterpieces by Caravaggio, Raphael, and Bernini in museums, churches, and even public spaces. The scale of Rome's art is maybe its most impressive feature. It offers centuries of artistic accomplishment across the city.
6. Barcelona
Antoni Gaudí's architectural works helped turn Barcelona into a city filled with artistic expression and a fairy tale-like atmosphere. It's home to the Picasso Museum, and there is an endless amount of street art, studios, and experimental spaces across neighborhoods, including El Raval.
7. Berlin
Berlin's art scene stands out thanks to its raw vibe, which is constantly shifting and evolving. Shaped by political and cultural history, Berlin attracts artists from every corner of the globe who want to create in its factories and warehouses that have been converted into studios and galleries.
8. Amsterdam
Art lovers will adore Amsterdam's artistic heritage and thoughtful curation and installation. The Rijksmuseum has works by Dutch masters like Vermeer and Rembrandt. And, of course, there's the Van Gogh Museum, which provides a view into the artist's mind and artistic journey.
9. Vienna
Vienna is an artistic powerhouse. The Belvedere houses some of Klimt's most celebrated works, and the Leopold Museum lets visitors explore Austrian modernism.
10. Tokyo
Tokyo's art scene is a marriage between Japanese aesthetics and contemporary style. Ancient crafts, calligraphy, and woodblock prints can co-exist all in one space.
11. Madrid
One of the most concentrated collections of European art can be found in Madrid. In the Prado Museum, you can gaze at works by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco. There's also the Reina Sofia, which focuses on modern art and includes Picasso's "Guernica".
12. Mexico City
Even the most ardent art lovers tend to overlook Mexico City, which blends ancient, modern, and political art. From Aztec objects to works by Frida Kalgo and Diego Rivera, Mexico City will connect you to its history and culture through art.
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13. Los Angeles
Los Angeles is more than just red carpets and movie producers. In recent years, it's emerged as a global art center. Institutions, including The Getty, LACMA, and The Broad, showcase cross-disciplinary innovation and storytelling. The city's open landscape encourages new voices to take risks.
14. Venice
Venice oozes artistic prestige via its architecture and canals. The city hosts one of the most influential and important contemporary art exhibitions, the Venice Biennale, in the world. Venice's art and culture scene is timeless and always open to experimentation.
15. São Paulo
São Paulo in Brazil is the beating heart of Latin America's contemporary art scene. The MASP is renowned worldwide for its collection and exciting presentation. This city is also home to vibrant street art that fuels its urban energy.
16. Istanbul
Istanbul's artistic inspiration draws from both the East and the West. The city is packed with Byzantine mosaics, Ottoman calligraphy, and contemporary installations that will inspire awe and reflect the city's evolving artistic voice.
17. Chicago
Chicago is famous for its architectural excellence and deep-dish pizza, but it also has a top-notch art museum game. The Art Institute of Chicago carries one of the world's most respected collections, including several Impressionist masterpieces. Art lovers who appreciate structure and history will find Chicago to be enriching.
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18. Seoul
Seoul's art scene has grown in recognition over the last few decades and is now globally revered for its innovation. Museums like the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art make a point to showcase both established and emerging artists.
19. Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires has a strong literary reputation, and its visual arts tradition has been influenced by European culture and local identity. Museums like MALBA, street murals, and independent galleries contribute to a lively and rich art scene.
20. Copenhagen
Copenhagen offers museums like Statens Museum for Kunst and Lousiana Museum of Modern Art. The influence of Danish design principles can be found in the city's architecture and throughout various art exhibitions. Contemporary art in Copenhagen explores sustainability and minimalism.
