From the Sistine Chapel to Van Gogh’s Sunflowers, Europe’s rich culture is largely rooted in art. As a result, Europe’s museums hold some of the finest artefacts the world has ever seen, making them some of the world’s most-appreciated museums.
Further testament to this can be seen in a research project conducted by Forbes, which found that mainland Europe is home to the world’s top three most-appreciated museums. Better yet, each is within easy reach of our P&O ports. Read on to find out more.
3. Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam
Though originally situated in The Hague, the Rijksmuseum has been part and parcel of Amsterdam’s cultural scene for over 200 years – so much so that its ‘I am Amsterdam’ signage is now a mainstay in the city. Jam-packed with 8,000 historical Dutch artefacts, it’s the best place to see the works of world-famous artists Rembrandt, Frans Hals, and Johannes Vermeer in their home country.
Look out for…
…The Philips Wing. Curators organise several exhibitions throughout the year, which are often hosted in this part of the museum. After your visit, be sure to head to the coffee corner for a hot drink, before perusing merchandise and exhibition catalogues at the wing’s dedicated gift shop.
2. Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam
Step into Vincent Van Gogh’s painterly world and explore his largest collection of works at the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam. The institution was established by Vincent Willem Van Gogh – the artist’s nephew – who, on inheriting his uncle’s works (and those of his contemporaries), wanted to make them accessible for all.
Behind the scenes, art scholars work both to preserve the paintings, and to learn more about Van Gogh’s unique style, with their findings often presented in regular lectures hosted by the museum, which is why this is one of the world’s most-appreciated museums.
Don’t miss…
…the artist’s most recognisable work, namely his ‘Sunflowers’ series, as well as his multiple self-portraits.
1. The Louvre, Paris
Drawing nearly 10 million visitors a year, it comes as no surprise that The Louvre in Paris tops the list of most-appreciated museums. Known for its recognisable glass pyramid, the museum’s collections are split into eight departments, including Egyptian Antiquities, Sculptures and Prints and Drawings, and is home to, among other things, Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa.
Adjacent to the museum you’ll find the Tuileries garden – the largest and oldest park in Paris. Touring this landscape is well worth the pit stop, as it’s decorated with 19th Century bronze and marble statues.
Don’t leave without…
…seeing The Venus de Milo. At over 2,000 years old, it’s probably the most recognisable statue in existence, and still evokes a sense of awe in those lucky enough to see it.
Ready to discover the world’s most-appreciated museums? Book your ferry crossing to Calais, a 3 hour drive to Paris, or Rotterdam, an hour’s drive from Amsterdam, today!
Feature image by Tomasz Baranowski
