Top 27 Must-Visit Museums Worldwide

Expansive exhibits and renowned works are what make the top museums.

Some of the best trips include a day or more spent deep inside the halls of a museum. It’s in these grand buildings (which are often impressive in their own right) that travelers can find masterpieces by renowned artists and artifacts that showcase a destination’s culture and history.

While museums are largely subjective—some visitors love art, while others are fascinated by science, exhibits consistently seek to educate and entertain. Although popularity might be one indicator of the best museums, the impressive collections and exhibits are another standard to consider. Some of the world’s best-known museums might be highly visited, yet others are equally compelling due to the sheer size of the exhibits to highly specific subject matter.

From national treasures like New York City’s Metropolitan Museum of Art to niche venues in far-flung destinations, these are the best museums in the world.

Art Museums

Vatican Museums, Vatican City

Housed inside Vatican City, the Vatican Museums are a series of chapels, galleries, and traditional museums dedicated to showcasing work amassed by the Catholic church (think famous Roman sculptures, a collection of modern art, and more).

Louvre, Paris

The Louvre has long been a worldwide favorite. Before becoming a museum, the building was a palace, so the exterior alone is worth the trip. Inside the historic walls, you’ll find celebrated works of art like the “Mona Lisa” and “Venus de Milo.” Moreover, the Louvre’s extensive exhibits could keep anyone occupied for days while exploring.

National Museum of China, Beijing

There’s no better place for travelers interested in Chinese history and art than the National Museum of China. Founded in 1912, the museum sits off Tiananmen Square in Beijing and boasts a massive 1.4 million-piece collection of artifacts, fine and decorative art, and books, covering everything from ancient jade objects to contemporary works.

The National Gallery, London

It’s all about European art at London’s National Gallery, situated in Trafalgar Square. Housing more than 2,600 paintings, it welcomed over three million visitors in 2023. Furthermore, with pieces dating back to the mid-13th century, the gallery is home to works by artists like Cézanne, Monet, and Van Gogh.

Tate Modern, London

Tate Modern is one of a series of free art galleries found in London, Liverpool, and Cornwall. In addition to contemporary art, the museum has immersive exhibits allowing visitors to interact with the works and discover how renowned pieces were made. Moreover, the reading rooms provide access to the library, and plans can be made to view works not actively on display.

The British Museum, London

With a free admission policy (except for certain exhibitions) and a dedication to showcasing human history, The British Museum is among London’s most popular attractions. The museum houses eight million permanent works, many of which were collected by the British Empire during its colonial period.

Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, Madrid

Located in Spain’s capital city, the Reina Sofía is the national museum of 20th-century art and houses many pieces in its permanent collection, accompanied by rotating exhibits. Once visitors are done exploring the sprawling museum, they can take a stroll through Retiro Park to see the Palacio de Cristal, a conservatory made almost entirely of glass.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York City

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, better known as the Met, is one of the best-known museums in the U.S. Notably, the museum is home to many famous works by some of the world’s most celebrated artists. Furthermore, with a permanent collection of over 1.5 million works and a rotating series of exhibitions, there’s an abundance to see and do. Don’t miss the chance to view paintings by Monet and Van Gogh.

State Hermitage Museum, St. Petersburg

In addition to being one of the most popular museums in the world, this St. Petersburg museum holds works from the world’s most notable artists such as Rembrandt, Picasso, and Gauguin. The eye-catching building with gold and white accents houses over three million artifacts and works of art. Consequently, the museum welcomed nearly three million visitors in 2023 alone.

Musée d’Orsay, Paris

The Musée d’Orsay may sit in the shadow of the wildly iconic Louvre, yet it is a stunning museum (which once functioned as a railway station) for anyone wanting to surround themselves with French art including paintings, sculptures, furniture, and photography.

Victoria and Albert Museum, London

As you’d expect from a museum named after royalty—Queen Victoria and Prince Albert—the Victoria and Albert Museum is celebrated for its vast collection of great works. Therefore, if you’re interested in architecture, vintage fashion and furniture, and exhibits related to theater and performance, this museum is a must-visit.

National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.

Seated right on the National Mall is the impressive National Gallery of Art. The museum boasts a collection of notable works from painters, photographers, and sculptors, including pieces by Leonardo da Vinci, Gordon Parks, and Monet. After exploring the museum, you might enjoy visiting the attached Sculpture Garden for art al fresco.

The Uffizi Gallery, Florence

One of the crown jewels of Florence, the Uffizi Gallery features an expansive collection of Italian Renaissance works. The gallery came to possess an extraordinary number of priceless masterpieces when the last Medici heiress gifted the collection to the city. While you’ll have to plan an additional visit to the Accademia Gallery to see Michelangelo’s statue of David, you will find one of the most well-known paintings globally: the Birth of Venus by Sandro Botticelli.

The Getty, Los Angeles

Located in Brentwood, The Getty offers free admission to visitors—though a timed reservation is required. The exhibitions encompass everything from ancient sculpture to modern photography. Moreover, while there is no shortage of art to explore, the museum’s impressive architecture and expansive gardens present breathtaking views of Los Angeles, making it worth planning ahead for your reservation.

Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna

Vienna’s art history museum, Kunsthistorisches Museum, was built to house the royal family’s art collection. It opened to the public in 1891 and continues to display ancient Egyptian works, Baroque pieces, and the notable Picture Gallery, among others. Apart from the array of art, the rich history of the collection—from the Habsburgs’ curation to its survival through World War II—is as fascinating as the artwork itself.

Science Museums

Kennedy Space Center, Merritt Island, Florida

Located just an hour’s drive east of Orlando, the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is a premier destination for space and NASA enthusiasts. The center, which opened in 1967, has expanded to include an array of artifacts from former missions and interactive displays.

National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation, Tokyo

Often referred to as “Miraikan,” the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation is a must-see attraction for many adults and families visiting Tokyo. Outfitted with a dome theater, high-tech exhibits, and interactive displays, the museum focuses on robotics, the science behind aging, and environmental efforts.

Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago

One of the world’s largest science museums, the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry sprawls over more than 400,000 square feet. Filled with interactive and immersive exhibits, the museum encompasses a variety of sciences including design, energy, manufacturing, and technology. Regardless of your specific interests, there’s an exhibit that speaks to you.

Gravity Discovery Centre and Observatory, Yeal

Located roughly an hour north of Perth, Australia, the Gravity Discovery Centre and Observatory harmoniously combines science, nature, and indigenous culture. Visitors can explore various attractions during the daytime; however, it becomes particularly captivating at night when stargazing opportunities abound.

History Museums

Natural History Museum, London

Situated in South Kensington, the Natural History Museum showcases a wide array of animal bones, lifelike dioramas, and educational exhibits dedicated to the natural world. Guests can view the bones of a blue whale suspended from the ceiling and part of the first Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton ever discovered. Although admission is free, securing a timed ticket can expedite your visit.

Wits Origins Center, Johannesburg

While the oldest human footprints are fossilized in Tanzania, the Wits Origins Center in South Africa provides a compelling introduction to the beginning of humanity. In permanent exhibits, you’ll find ancient artifacts like tools, rock art, and the foundations of early civilization. Review the museum’s calendar for lectures, walks, and book launches to enhance your visit.

Museum of High Altitude Archeology, Salta

Located in Salta, Argentina, the Museum of High Altitude Archeology was established to preserve three Inca children found perfectly preserved atop Llullaillaco volcano in 1999. Today, the exhibits feature items discovered alongside the bodies, such as tools and objects that provide insight into their rituals and culture.

National Palace Museum, Taipei

The National Palace Museum in Taiwan holds nearly 700,000 pieces of ancient Chinese imperial art and artifacts. If you’re eager to delve into the 8,000 years of Chinese history—from the Neolithic age to today—this museum presents an unparalleled opportunity.

Museum of Yugoslavia, Belgrade

It isn’t too often that the world map changes, which is why the Museum of Yugoslavia is so interesting. Following its disbandment in 1991, the former nation offers insights into the Balkan region today. To explore artifacts, uniforms, and items gifted to President Josip Tito, a visit to Belgrade, the former Yugoslav capital, is certainly worthwhile.

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C.’s National Museum of Natural History tells the story of planet Earth, addressing its fiery beginnings and life evolution. Exhibits include a Bone Hall (complete with giant sea turtle and flying fish skeletons) and a Hall of Human Origins.

Gold Museum, Bogotá

The Museo del Oro, or the “Gold Museum,” in Colombia’s capital showcases 34,000 historic gold objects created and used by indigenous peoples. The exhibits feature ritualistic vessels, art, and accessories. With audio and texts available in English and Spanish, visitors can learn about indigenous history and the legend of El Dorado.

Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam

Located in the Museum Square, Rijksmuseum is popular, with 80 galleries to experience. The bustling museum boasts works by Dutch masters like Rembrandt and Vermeer; however, its shared history makes it an essential visit. In addition to impressive art, the galleries feature items that explore The Netherlands’ culture and heritage since 1200.