If you read our website we point out the numerous truly awe-inspiring things there are to see and experience when visiting Europe. But if you are a person that loves museums, and it is a great way to understand the culture of the place you are visiting, Europe is loaded with first-rate museums.
Of the top thirteen most visited museums in the world, nine are in Europe. Of those, four are in London and three in Paris. The only museum in the world that brings in over 5 million visitors a year and is not in Europe is the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.
I think it's impossible to actually rank museums; they are very personal and what may appeal to certain people and not to others. I personally love the Musee de l'Armee in Paris, one of the top military museums in the world. But obviously many more people would rather visit the Louvre, which is not far away. Different types of museums appeal to different people, and rather than just follow the crowd you should go to those that you find interesting and enlightening.
I think that if you're going to spend some time in Europe, these museums will probably have the most universal appeal. They are not ranked in any particular order, but all should be considered if you really want to learn about European history and culture.
1. Louvre. This massive museum in the middle of Paris was the royal palace on the French monarchy until it was overthrown during the French Revolution. The Louvre is by far the most visited museum in the world with nearly 10 million visitors a year. There is at least a day to spend there, but the three works of art that must not be missed are Venus de Milo, Mona Lisa and Winged Victory.
2. British Museum. This museum in London is the collector of artifacts worldwide, many of them procured when the British Empire ruled the world. The highlights are the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies, but one of the best things I think the British Museum does is its exhibits. They cost a little to attend, but check the museum's websites for what is currently running.
3. Vatican Museums. The highlight here is the Sistine Chapel which is well worth seeing. But you certainly don't have to be Roman Catholic to appreciate these series of museums on the northwest side of Rome. If you employ a guide you will be able to avoid the long lines.
4. State Hermitage Museum. Located in St. Petersburg, Russia, this will not be the easiest to see. But if you have the chance by all means visit this museum, as it has the largest collection of paintings in the world, although most won't be on display. Dating back to 1764 this is one of the oldest museums in the world.
5. Museo del Prado. Located in central Madrid, it houses one of the finest collections of European art, and undoubtedly the best collection of Spanish art in any museum. The best known work in this museum is Las Meninas by Velazquez.
This obviously is a small sampling of great museums in Europe, as every city has museums that are well worth the time to visit. We hope when you visit Europe you will make this part of your vacation.
There are so many places in Europe that are truly unique. Check out our website http://bestvacationeurope.com/ for information on other great things to see in Europe, and for ways to navigate your way around Europe by train. Glen Wheaton is a writer who loves to travel, especially in Europe.
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