Top 100 best museums in Europe

The Mercedes-Benz Museum is an automobile museum in Stuttgart that is dedicated to the brand and its history, including all brands associated to Mercedes-Benz. The museum is housed in a building designed by UN Studio that is located right outside the main gate of the Daimler factory. The chronologic

The Trevi Fountain, situated in the heart of Rome, is recognized as one of the world's most renowned fountains. This grand marble structure, depicting the titan Okeanos riding his horses through the fountain's flowing waters, is a sight to behold. Its central location makes it easily accessible for tourists exploring the city.

The Bourbon Tunnel (Galleria Borbonica), Tunnel Borbonico or Bourbon Gallery is an ancient underground passage that was constructed to connect the Royal Palace to military barracks in Naples. Presently the tunnels are open for tours, and contains decades of debris, including vintage cars and a disca

Vilnius Cathedral, the principal Catholic church in Lithuania, is situated in the Cathedral Square of Vilnius' historic center. This location is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it a significant landmark in the city. The cathedral's rich history and architectural beauty make it a fascinating place to visit for tourists interested in history, architecture, and religion.

What used to be the headquarters of the Gestapo until 1945 is now an architectural complex which holds the evidence of Nazi crimes. There are three permanent exhibitions in Topography of Terror that you can explore and a number of temporary ones. All information is provided both in German and Englis

The Museo delle Scienze, also known as MUSE, is a science museum located in Trento, Italy. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore various scientific concepts and phenomena in an engaging and interactive environment.

The Royal Palace of Madrid is the official residence of the Spanish royalty but is used only for state ceremonies. Visitors can see the marvelous interior decorations, made using various materials, from marble to mahogany. The palace is also home to Royal Armoury of Madrid. Surrounded by large and p

Dover Castle, located in the town of Dover in the English county of Kent, is a medieval castle that was built in the 11th century. Known as the 'Key to England' due to its historical defensive importance, it is the largest castle in England. Along with Canterbury and Rochester Castle, it is one of the three original royal castles in Kent.

The Vatican Museums, situated in Vatican City, are recognized as some of the largest museums globally. They were constructed by the Roman Catholic Church during the Renaissance period and are renowned for housing a vast collection of significant sculptures. These museums offer a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and artistic heritage of the Catholic Church.

The British Museum is home to one of the largest collections of works and artefacts coming from all over the world. The museum was opened in 1759 and is dedicated to human history, art, and culture. The museum has ten departments with various collections, including artefacts dedicated to indigenous

The Science Museum in London is a renowned institution dedicated to the exploration and understanding of science. It is part of the National Museum of Science and Industry, making it a significant part of the UK's cultural and educational landscape. Visitors can expect to immerse themselves in a wide range of scientific disciplines and historical periods, all under one roof.

The Uffizi Gallery in Florence holds a huge collection of valuable works mostly from the Italian Renaissance. The building was designed by Giorgio Vasari in 1560 for Cosimo I de' Medici, the second Duke of Florence, to house administrative offices and the state archive. Over the time, the Medici fam

Originally a railway station, this Beaux-Arts building now houses Musée d'Orsay, one of the largest art museums in Europe. The Musée d'Orsay in Paris is an art museum that covers the history of Western art between 1848 and 1914, with a strong emphasis on 19th-century French art. The museum has a ren

The National Railway Museum of Pietrarsa is situated near the Naples–Portici railway. The museum is housed in the former 'Bourbon works' Officine di Pietrarsa, which was established in 1840 to build steam engines for ships and boilers for locomotives. This historical site offers a unique insight into the industrial history of Italy and the development of railway technology.

Oskar Schindler's Factory (Fabryka Schindlera) is a museum dedicated to Krakow during the Nazi occupation between 1939 and 1945. It is one of the locations of the Historical Museum of the City of Krakow. The museum is named after Oskar Schindler, who owned the factory during the Second World War. Sc

The National Railway Museum of Pietrarsa, located near the Naples–Portici railway, is a significant historical site. It was originally the 'Bourbon works' Officine di Pietrarsa, established in 1840 to manufacture steam engines for ships and boilers for locomotives. This museum offers a unique insight into the history of Italian industrialization and the development of railway technology.

BMW Welt is the presentation and distribution center for the current products of the BMW car brand and a conference and symposium center in Munich. All kinds of cars, motorbikes, innovations and examples of technology are exhibited in the Markenwelt (Brand World). The building is not only an exhibit

The Pergamon Museum in Berlin is one of the largest museums in Germany. The museum showcases some of the world's most important collections of historical artifacts and art. The museum's collections are divided into three main thematic sections. The most iconic one is the Antiquity Collection, which

The Episcopal Palace of Astorga, a masterpiece by the renowned Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí, stands as a testament to the Catalan Modernisme style. Constructed between 1889 and 1913, this architectural marvel is one of only three buildings by Gaudí outside Catalonia. Its unique design and historical significance make it a fascinating destination for those interested in architecture and history.

The Lisbon Oceanarium is an oceanarium in Lisbon and is the largest indoor aquarium in Europe. The Cceanarium comprises two floors and is divided into six theme areas. The central part consists of a central tank that represents the Oceano Global with various types of sharks and rays, barracudas, man

L’ Atelier des Lumières, located at 38 rue Saint-Maur in the 11th arrondissement of Paris, is a digital art center that opened its doors on April 13, 2018. This unique venue offers immersive digital exhibitions, where thousands of digitized works of art are displayed in high resolution and set in motion to the rhythm of music.

Castel Sant'Elmo is a medieval fortress that sits atop Vomero Hill, adjacent to the Certosa di San Martino, and offers a panoramic view of Naples, Italy. Its strategic location makes it a significant landmark in the city. The castle's name, 'Sant'Elmo', is derived from a 10th-century church dedicated to Sant'Erasmo, which was later shortened to 'Ermo' and then altered to 'Elmo'.

The National Museum of Scotland, located in Edinburgh, was established in 2006 as a result of the merger of two adjacent museums: the Scotland Museum and the Royal Museum. The Scotland Museum is home to collections that shed light on Scottish antiquity, culture, and history. On the other hand, the Royal Museum houses collections that cover a wide range of topics, including science and technology, natural history, and world cultures.

The 17th century Villa Borghese Pinciana, built for Cardinal Scipione Borghese as his suburban manor, is located in the Borghese gardens. It houses the Borghese Gallery with a spectacular collection of renaissance and baroque paintings and sculptures by the most famous artists. You can admire the pa

The Warsaw Uprising Museum (Muzeum Powstania Warszawskiego) is a historical museum in Warsaw that illustrates the events of the Warsaw Uprising, which lasted from 1 August to 2 October 1944. On the one hand, the permanent exhibition shows the insurgents' commitment to a free Poland and, on the other

Ostia, located on the coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea in ancient Latium, Italy, was an important port city for ancient Rome and is believed to be one of its first colonies. This historical significance makes it a fascinating destination for those interested in the history of the Roman Empire.

Hohensalzburg Fortress, also known as Festung Hohensalzburg, is a significant historical site located in Salzburg, Austria. This medieval fortress is situated atop the Festungsberg mountain, providing a panoramic view of the city. It is one of the largest medieval castles in Europe, making it a notable landmark for visitors.

Akershus Fortress, also known as Akershus slott og festning in classical Norwegian, is a significant historical site located in Oslo, the capital city of Norway. It is situated by the Oslo fjord, offering picturesque views of the water body. The fortress is also conveniently located next to the city hall, making it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city center.

Originally built in the second century AD by the Roman emperor Hadrian as his mausoleum, in the 14th century, it was decided that the building should be turned into a castle and a special corridor was added in order to connect the castle with St. Peter’s Basilica. Today, the castle serves as a museu

The National Museum of Cinema (Museo Nazionale del Cinema) is an Italian motion picture museum, that is housed in the Mole Antonelliana tower in Turin. The collections includes pre-cinematographic optical devices (magic lanterns), earlier and current film technologies, stage items from old Italian m

Mozart's birthplace, known as Mozarts Geburtshaus or Hagenauerhaus, is situated at No. 9 Getreidegasse in Salzburg, Austria. This is the very place where the renowned composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born on 27 January 1756. The Mozart family lived on the third floor of this building from 1747 to 1773.

Above the Hexentanzplatz, visitors can find the remains of the Sachsenwall. This wall, made of granite rocks, is believed to be part of a larger fortification that is over 1,500 years old. This historical site provides a glimpse into the past and the rich history of the area.

Hadrian's Villa, also known as Villa Adriana, is a significant historical site located in Tivoli, 25 kilometers east of Rome. The villa is situated 107 meters above sea level, offering a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape. This ancient Roman imperial villa is a testament to the grandeur of the Roman Empire and offers a glimpse into the life of Emperor Hadrian.

The Doge's Palace, also known as Palazzo Ducale, is a significant historical building in Venice. It has served various functions throughout history, including as a government building, a courthouse, and the residence of the Doge, the ruler of Venice. Its architectural style is predominantly Gothic, and it is located next to St. Mark's Basilica in St. Mark's Square.

Fågelsjö Gammelgård, also known as Bortom Åa or the Old Farm of Fågelsjö, is a significant historical site located in Fågelsjö. This village is one of the oldest in a region that was colonized by the Finns in the 17th century. The site offers a unique insight into the history and culture of the region, making it a fascinating destination for tourists interested in history and culture.

L'Oceanogràfic (El Oceanográfico, or The Oceanographic) is an oceanarium in Valencia that was designed by the architect Félix Candela and the structural engineers Alberto Domingo and Carlos Lázaro. L'Oceanogràfic represents various marine ecosystems and is the largest complex (aquarium) of its type

The Alhambra Museum, previously known as the National Museum of Hispano-Muslim Art, is located in the city of Granada. It is situated in the southern wing of the ground floor of the Palace of Charles V in the Alhambra. This location provides a unique setting for the museum, enhancing the historical and cultural experience for visitors.

St Mark's Basilica, situated in the heart of St Mark's Square, is a renowned example of Byzantine architecture. This cathedral is one of the most iconic church buildings in the city, showcasing the rich history and architectural prowess of Venice.

Also known as Her Majesty's Royal Palace and Fortress, The Tower of London was one of the many castles built as part of the Norman Conquest of England. It has been extended several times in the past and has always played a major role in English history. For some time, the Tower was used as a prison.

Please note that the Viking Ship Museum will be temporarily closed for renovations from September 2021 until 2025/2026. This is an important piece of information for tourists planning to visit the museum during this period.

This most famous of Scottish castles has a complex building history. The oldest part, St Margaret’s Chapel, dates from the 12th century; the Great Hall was erected by James IV around 1510; the Half Moon Battery by the Regent Morton in the late 16th century; and the Scottish National War Memorial aft

The Louvre Museum in Paris is the largest art museum in the world. The museum is located inside the Louvre Palace which was once the residence of the French kings. It began its existence as a 12th-century fortress and its parts can still be seen in today’s Louvre. The palace was turned into a public

The Cité du Vin is a unique tourism project located in Bordeaux, France. It combines a wine museum and a wine-themed amusement park, offering a playful approach to olfactory and gustatory perception. This innovative concept allows visitors to explore the world of wine in a fun and interactive way.

The National Gallery is an art gallery that is housed in a neoclassical building built in 1838. The gallery holds an art collection of over 2.600 pieces which contains European paintings from the 13th to the 19th centuries. The highlights include paintings by El Greco, Jan van Eyck, Rembrandt, Ruben

The Tierpark Wolgast is a zoological garden situated in the city of Wolgast, in the northeastern part of the state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. It is a significant regional attraction and is gaining popularity among visitors from the Republic of Poland due to its proximity to the German-Polish border.

The Acropolis Museum is a museum in Athens that is devoted to findings from the Acropolis archaeological site. The museum exhibits almost 4,000 objects. There are mainly sculptures that used to decorate the historical sites located on the Acropolis, but also instruments that the inhabitants of Acrop

The Natural History Museum in London is divided into four zones, each with a common theme. Follow the Red Zone if you're interested in geology. Learn about the history of the Earth and the forces that change it. The Green Zone focuses on birds and fossils, while the Blue Zone is devoted to human bio

The Zürich Wilderness Park, located near the city of Zürich in Switzerland, is a unique combination of the Sihlwald forest and the Langenberg Wildlife Park. The Sihlwald forest is the largest mixed deciduous and coniferous forest in the Swiss Mittelland, offering a diverse range of flora and fauna. On the other hand, the Langenberg Wildlife Park holds the title of being the oldest Swiss wildlife park, providing a glimpse into the rich wildlife of the region.

Leonardo da Vinci's mural painting, 'The Last Supper', is a significant cultural asset located in the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan, Italy. Often incorrectly referred to as a fresco, this masterpiece was created using a 'dry' mixed technique on plaster. The painting depicts the biblical episode of Jesus' Last Supper with his Apostles before his arrest and crucifixion. It is one of the most well-known and valued cultural assets in the world.

The Victoria and Albert Museum holds the largest design and decorative art collection in the world, with over 2.27 million objects. The museum houses collections that span 5,000 years of art, from ancient times to the present day. Through these collections, visitors explore historical and contempora

The Longues-sur-Mer battery is a significant historical site located in Normandy, France. This World War II German coastal artillery battery is situated approximately 1 km north of the village of Longues-sur-Mer. The battery offers a glimpse into the past, providing visitors with an understanding of its strategic importance during the war.

The Fraumünster Church in Zürich is a historical site with a rich past. It was originally built on the remains of an abbey for aristocratic women, which was founded in 853 by Louis the German for his daughter Hildegard. This historical context adds a layer of depth to the church's significance and is a testament to its long-standing presence in the city.

Buckingham Palace is the official residence of British monarchs. Originally built as a townhouse, Buckingham Palace was turned into a private residence for Queen Charlotte in 1761. The palace was reconstructed and enlarged during the 19th century and it has been used as a residence of the British mo

The Prado National Museum holds and exhibits one of the largest collections of European art in the world. It contains more than 7,600 paintings, some of them on the display here and some on loan in other museums. Being one of the most visited art museums in the world, the Prado National Museum is ho

Casa Batlló is a building in the city centre of Barcelona that was designed by Antoni Gaudí, which is considered one of his masterpieces. Casa Batlló has been open to the public since 2002. You can visit the former residence of the Batlló family (Noble Floor), the former storerooms and laundry rooms

The Oceanographic Museum, located in Monaco City, Monaco, is a renowned institution dedicated to marine sciences. It is a part of the Institut océanographique, an organization committed to sharing knowledge about the oceans. The museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the marine world and learn about its diverse species and ecosystems.

Neuschwanstein Castle, a 19th-century palace, is located on a hilltop above the village of Hohenschwangau near Füssen in southwest Bavaria, Germany. The castle was built in a neo-romantic style, which is a revival of medieval architecture. The location of the castle offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape, making it a picturesque spot for visitors.

Built by the Scaliger family in the 14th century, this military castle once served as Verona's main defense point. It is a marvelous and functional gem of Gothic architecture which now houses a history museum. You can easily spend a few hours just wandering around and taking in the splendid views.

More than 860 paintings and nearly 1,200 works on paper by Vincent van Gogh have been preserved. The Van Gogh Museum owns the largest Van Gogh collection, consisting of 201 paintings, 437 drawings and 31 prints. In addition to works by Van Gogh, the museum exhibits a collection of works by other maj

The Einsteinhouse is a museum that is situated in the former residence of the renowned physicist, Albert Einstein. This historic building is located at Kramgasse 49 in the city of Bern, Switzerland. It serves as a commemoration of Einstein's stay in Bern from 1902 to 1909.

The National Archaeological Museum in Athens is the largest archaeological museum in Greece. With more than 11,000 exhibits, the museum has one of the greatest collections of ancient Greek sculptures and pottery in the world. Inside, you can see artefacts that are 9,000 years old, as well as artwork

The Egyptian Museum of Turin (Museo Egizio) is an archaeological museum in Turin that is dedicated to Egyptian archaeology and anthropology. The museum houses one of the largest collections of Egyptian antiquities, with over 30,000 artefacts. Highlight in the collection of the Egyptian Museum of Tur

The Borgund Stave Church is a historical monument located in Borgund, within the Lærdal municipality of Sogn og Fjordane county, Norway. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to explore a piece of Norway's rich history.

Dachau, the first Nazi concentration camp, is located near the town of Dachau, approximately 16 kilometers northwest of Munich. The camp was established in a disused gunpowder factory and was put into operation on March 22, 1933, the same year that Hitler came to power in Germany. This historical site provides a glimpse into the grim past of the Nazi era.

The Valley of the Temples, known as Valle dei Templi in Italian, is an archaeological site located in Agrigento, Sicily, Italy. This site, originally known as Akragas in Ancient Greek, is a significant attraction for those interested in history and archaeology.

The Vasa Museum (Vasamuseet) is a maritime museum in Stockholm that is located on the island of Djurgården that houses the only fully intact seventeenth-century ship, the Vasa, which sank on her maiden voyage in 1628. The main hall of the Vasa Museum contains the ship itself, as well as exhibits rel

Palazzo Madama, located in Rome, is the building where the Senate of the Italian Republic is housed. This historic building is situated within the complex of streets known as the Trident. The history of the current Senate building began in the late 15th century, during the pontificate of Pope Sixtus IV, when Rome was transitioning from a medieval city to a modern one.

The Quinta da Regaleira is an architectural complex located in the historic center of Sintra, Portugal. This city is recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, making it a significant location for cultural and historical exploration. The palace and gardens of Quinta da Regaleira were created by António Augusto Carvalho Monteiro with the help of architect Luigi Manini and cover an area of 4 hectares today.

The Municipal House of Prague, known locally as Obecní dům, is a significant civic landmark and auditorium in the city. It holds a prominent place in the architectural and political history of the Czech Republic. This modernist masterpiece is located in the Republic Square, close to the Powder Tower, and is used for representative purposes.

The Rijksmuseum is located in a unique historical building from 1885 by architect PJH Cuypers. The museum is dedicated to Dutch art and Dutch history. The collection is exhibited in over two hundred rooms and includes works by Dutch masters such as Rembrandt van Rijn, Johannes Vermeer and Frans Hals

Burg Hohenzollern, a castle of the princely Hohenzollern family, is situated between the municipalities of Hechingen and Bisingen in Germany. The castle stands on an 855-meter high mountain, colloquially known as Zollernberg or Zoller. This location offers visitors a unique and breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape.

The Hospital in the Rock in Budapest is a hospital-turned-memorial that serves as a grim reminder of the horrors of the war and of the suffering it brings upon the people. It was first opened in 1944 to serve as a hospital for wounded Hungarian civilians who were injured during airstrikes and, event

The Käfigturm, located in Bern, Switzerland, is a medieval watchtower that dates back to the 13th century. It stands as a testament to the city's rich history and architectural prowess. The tower was initially built during the second expansion of Bern and has since undergone several modifications and renovations. Today, it serves as a significant historical landmark in the city.

Skansen is the world's first ethnographic open-air museum as well as one of the most extensive ones. It was founded in 1891 and its primary aim was to show how people in different parts of rural Sweden lived before the emergence of an industrialized society. Visitors to the Skansen Open-Air Museuma

The Bärengraben, also known as the Bear Pit, is a popular tourist attraction located in Bern, the capital city of Switzerland. It is situated at the eastern edge of the old city, adjacent to the Nydeggbrücke and the River Aar. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe bears in an enclosure while also enjoying the scenic beauty of the surrounding area.

The Prague Zoo opened in 1931 and occupies around 60 hectares where it is home to around 5,000 animals from over 650 different species. The zoo is especially famous for their contributions to saving Przewalski's horse. The part of Zoo along the banks of the Vltava River is flat, but a large part of

Hellbrunn Palace, an early Baroque villa of palatial size, is situated near Morzg, a southern district of the city of Salzburg, Austria. This architectural marvel was built between 1613 and 1619 by Markus Sittikus von Hohenems, the Prince-Archbishop of Salzburg. The palace was named after the 'clear spring' that supplied it.

Suomenlinna (Sveaborg) is a fortress built on six islands in front of the port of Helsinki. Suomenlinna is on the UNESCO World Heritage List, and about 900 people live on the various islands. In addition to a museum and a library, there is also a naval school.

Real Alcázar is one of the best examples of Mudéjar architecture and is the oldest royal palace still in use in Europe. The gargantuan palace complex was originally a Moorish fort and is surrounded by vast gardens. You enter the palace into the Lion's Patio through Puerta del León. The following pat

Literally "Holy Field", this peaceful cemetery holds the sacred soil from Golgotha. Built in the 13th century, it served as a burial place for wealthy Pisans. It is enveloped by beautiful arcades with many frescoes. Enjoy a tranquil stroll and marvel at imposing funerary monuments, historical sarcop

The Rynek Underground (The underground square central museum) is a museum in Krakow that is a branch of the Historical Museum of the City of Krakow. The museum is located below the market square and covers an area of over 6,000. m². The main exhibition in the Rynek Underground are holograms construc

The Montserrat Monastery, a Benedictine abbey, is situated in Catalonia. It is perched at an altitude of 720 meters on the eastern side of the Montserrat mountain, within the municipality of Monistrol de Montserrat. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the tranquility and beauty of the mountainous landscape while exploring the historical and religious significance of the monastery.

The Schönbrunn Zoo (Tiergarten Schönbrunn, Vienna Zoo) is a zoo in Vienna that is considered to be the oldest surviving zoo in the world. The zoo was founded in 1752 and is located in the gardens of the former Schönbrunn Imperial Palace in Vienna. The eye-catchers of the Vienna Zoo are the giant pan

The Lofoten Stockfish Museum is situated in the picturesque village of Å, within the municipality of Moskenes. This location is part of the stunning Lofoten islands, in the county of Nordland, Norway. The museum provides an opportunity to delve into the rich history and culture of this region.

The Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille, located in Lille, is a municipal museum that is dedicated to fine arts, modern art, and antiquities. It is recognized as one of the largest art museums in France, making it a significant cultural destination for art enthusiasts and tourists alike.

The Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden has a history dating back to the 19th century. It is one of the oldest zoos in the world, as well as the oldest zoo in Hungary. The zoo spans an area of over 18 hectares of land and it is home to more than a thousand different animal species. It is located withi

The Château de Fontainebleau is a historic French castle located in the town of Fontainebleau, in the Seine-et-Marne department, approximately 55 kilometers south of Paris. This location makes it an accessible destination for tourists visiting the French capital.

The National Automobile Museum (Museo Nazionale dell'Automobile) is an automobile museum in Turin that holds a collection of almost 200 cars, representing 80 automobile brands from 8 countries. The museum is situated in a building from 1960 that has three floors. The collection of The National Autom

Mozarts Wohnhaus, also known as Tanzmeisterhaus, is a museum located in Salzburg, Austria. This museum is dedicated to the life and works of the renowned composer, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and his family. The Mozart family resided in this house from 1773 to 1780. Visitors can explore the history of Mozart and his family, gaining insights into their lives during the 18th century.

The Würzburg Residence is a former episcopal palace and a combination of rococo and baroque architecture. This historical building, which was built on the orders of the two prince-bishops von Schönborn, is a testament to the architectural prowess of the 18th century. The construction lasted from 1720 to 1744 and was designed by Johann Balthasar Neumann. The late baroque residence is considered one of the most important of its kind.

The Porsche Museum is an automobile museum in Stuttgart (Zuffenhausen) in Germany and is located on the site of German carmaker Porsche. The museum contains an area of around 5600 square metres with around 80 exhibits, including many rare cars and historical models.