【World Museums】Exploring the World's Famous Museums

The Louvre Museum is one of the crown jewels among World Museums, almost synonymous with art. The Louvre’s vast panorama of world art spans from 3000 BC to the mid-19th century, making it a must-see for art lovers visiting World Museums around the globe. Its iconic treasures like the "Mona Lisa," "Venus de Milo," and "Winged Victory of Samothrace" represent the pinnacle of artistic achievement. As one of the most iconic World Museums, the Louvre’s collections are a testament to human creativity throughout history.

Must-see exhibits: The "Venus de Milo," believed to have been sculpted by Alexandros of Antioch around 150 BC, is a symbol of love and beauty. The "Winged Victory of Samothrace" is a masterpiece from the Greek period, revered as a rare treasure. The "Mona Lisa" is famous for Mona Lisa's mysterious smile and her gaze. The glass pyramid, designed by I. M. Pei, gives the Louvre a modern yet historical appearance.

Museum reservations: Tickets can be purchased through the Ctrip app.

Opening hours: Monday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday from 09:00-18:00; Wednesday and Friday from 09:00-21:00. Closed on Tuesdays, New Year's Day, Labor Day, and Christmas. Museum hours are subject to change, so check the official website before visiting.

Location: Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris

Another gem among World Museums is the British Museum, one of the oldest and largest comprehensive museums in the world. The museum’s collections span continents and centuries, offering visitors an unparalleled look into ancient civilizations. The British Museum, like other top World Museums, is home to iconic artifacts like the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles, drawing millions of visitors annually who are eager to experience history up close.

Must-see exhibits: The museum's three treasures include the Rosetta Stone, which was originally from Egypt and features three versions of a decree by an Egyptian pharaoh; the "Admonitions of the Instructress to the Court Ladies," a scroll with 12 paintings, of which the British Museum holds nine Tang dynasty copies; and the Elgin Marbles, which are fragments of sculptures from the Parthenon, dating back over 2,500 years. The museum also has extensive collections in the Asian, Egyptian, Greek, and Roman galleries. Check the museum's website for exhibition schedules before visiting.

Museum reservations: Free reservations can be made on the British Museum's official website.

Opening hours: Monday to Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday from 10:00-17:00; Friday from 10:00-20:30. Closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Museum hours are subject to change, so check the official website before visiting.

Location: Great Russell St, London WC1B 3DG, United Kingdom

The Metropolitan Museum of Art stands as one of the premier World Museums in the United States. With over 200 galleries and more than 365,000 artifacts and artworks, it offers a deep dive into humanity's greatest artistic achievements. From ancient Egyptian artifacts to Impressionist paintings, the Met, like other great World Museums, allows visitors to explore global cultures and art through the ages.

Must-see exhibits: The Temple of Dendur, dating back over 2,000 years to the period when ancient Egypt was ruled by the Roman Emperor Augustus Caesar; "The Dance Class," an oil painting by French Impressionist Edgar Degas created in 1874; "The Great Wave off Kanagawa," a color woodblock print by Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai from his series "Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji"; a painted and gilded papier-mâché Buddha from the Sui and Tang dynasties, originally from Longxing Temple in Zhengding; Van Gogh's "Starry Night," which captures the mystery and beauty of the night sky with its unique brushstrokes and colors; and the golden mask of Egyptian Pharaoh Tutankhamun, a symbol of pharaonic power and a masterpiece of ancient craftsmanship.

Museum reservations: Tickets can be purchased on the Metropolitan Museum of Art's official website.

Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday from 10:00-17:00; Friday and Saturday from 10:00-21:00. Closed on Wednesdays, New Year's Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Museum hours are subject to change, so check the official website before visiting.

Location: 1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028, United States

As one of the most well-preserved imperial palaces in the world, the Forbidden City represents a central piece of Chinese history and is a must-visit among World Museums.The Forbidden City served as the royal palace during the Ming and Qing dynasties and is a symbol of ancient China. You can truly feel its former glory when you step into its grand and orderly high walls and deep courtyards. The Forbidden City is one of the most well-preserved and largest wooden architectural complexes in China and the world. These magnificent buildings are divided into two main parts: the "Outer Court" and the "Inner Court." Walking through the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the Palace of Heavenly Purity, and the Palace of Earthly Tranquility, and admiring the flowers in the imperial garden, you might feel like you've stepped into a historical drama. The Forbidden City houses a vast collection of precious cultural relics, with over a million items. The Treasure Gallery and the Clock Gallery are particularly noteworthy.

Must-see highlights: The Hall of Supreme Harmony, where the emperor held grand ceremonies; the Hall of Mental Cultivation, where the emperor attended court; the beautiful Golden Water Bridge; the Palace of Earthly Tranquility, the emperor's wedding chamber; the Hall of Preserving Harmony, where the imperial examinations were held; the Treasure Gallery with its unparalleled treasures; and the Clock Gallery with its exquisite timepieces.

Museum Reservation: Visitors must be booked in advance, the earliest you can visit is 7 days before 20:00 in the official channel “Palace Museum” small program to book tickets. Annual pass holders must register at least one day in advance.

Opening Hours: Closed on Mondays except for public holidays. Peak season (April-October): 08:30-17:00, off-season (November-March): 08:30-16:30.

Location: No. 4, Jingshanqian Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing

The Prado Museum, another essential stop on any tour of World Museums, boasts an extensive collection of Spanish and European art. It houses masterpieces by artists like Velázquez, Goya, and Raphael. When visiting World Museums dedicated to European art, the Prado stands as one of the most prestigious, offering a comprehensive look at Spain's rich artistic legacy.

Must-see exhibits: Velázquez's "Las Meninas" (The Maids of Honor); Bosch's "The Garden of Earthly Delights" (Heaven, Paradise, Hell); Goya's "Saturn Devouring His Son"; Fra Angelico's "The Annunciation"; Dürer's "Self-Portrait"; Raphael’s “Portrait of a Cardinal"; Caravaggio's "David with the Head of Goliath," and more.

Museum reservations: Tickets can be purchased on the Ctrip app.

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday from 10:00-20:00; Sunday from 10:00-19:00. Closed on New Year's Day and Christmas. Museum hours are subject to change, so check the official website before visiting.

Location: C. de Ruiz de Alarcón, 23, 28014 Madrid, España

The Musee d'Orsay is one of the most celebrated World Museums, showcasing art from 1848 to the early days of Cubism (1848-1912). Located across the river from the Louvre, it completes the artistic trifecta with the Louvre and the Pompidou Center. As a bridge between these two renowned World Museums, the Musee d'Orsay houses masterpieces by Impressionist artists like Millet, Monet, Manet, and Van Gogh. These works highlight the essential role World Museums play in preserving the art and history of this transformative period.

Must-see exhibits: Entering the Musee d'Orsay feels like stepping into the world of Impressionist artists, with works by Millet, Munch, Monet, Manet, Van Gogh, Gauguin, and more. Notable paintings include Van Gogh's "Self-Portrait," Monet's "Impression, Sunrise," Manet's "Luncheon on the Grass," and Millet's "The Gleaners."

Museum reservations: Tickets can be purchased on the Ctrip app.

Opening hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 09:30-18:00; Thursday from 09:30-21:45. Closed on Mondays, New Year's Day, Labor Day, and Christmas. Museum hours are subject to change, so check the official website before visiting.

Location: Esplanade Valéry Giscard d'Estaing 75007 Paris

Among World Museums, the Museum of Egyptian Antiquities stands out as a treasure trove of ancient Egyptian civilization. Located in Cairo's Tahrir Square, it holds over 3,000 years of history, including the famous golden mask of Pharaoh Tutankhamun. The museum, like many other World Museums, is expanding with the newly opened Grand Egyptian Museum, offering even more space to display its ancient wonders.

Must-see exhibits: Notable artifacts include the Rosetta Stone, which unlocked the secrets of ancient Egypt; the seated statue of King Khafre from the Old Kingdom; the seated scribe statue; the golden mask of Tutankhamun; the full statue of King Djoser; the statue of Menkaure with two goddesses; the wooden statue of a priest; the statue of King Hor; the statue of Amenhotep III; the statue of Ramses II as a child; and the mummy room.

Museum reservations: Tickets can be purchased on the Ctrip app.

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 9:00-17:00.

Location: El-Tahrir Square, Ismailia, Qasr El Nil, Cairo Governorate 4272083, Egypt

As one of the most iconic World Museums dedicated to ancient Chinese civilization, the Terracotta Army of Emperor Qinshihuang is a monumental archaeological site. With over a thousand life-sized soldiers, this museum exemplifies how World Museums can provide a window into the distant past, preserving the legacy of China’s first emperor and his incredible army.

Must-see highlights: The main attractions include Pit 1, Pit 2, Pit 3, the Bronze Chariot and Horse Exhibition Hall, and related temporary exhibitions. Pit 1 is the most spectacular, displaying thousands of infantry, chariots, and horses in a grand formation. Pit 2 showcases the diversity and combat strategies of the Qin army, while Pit 3, though smaller, is considered the command center of the Terracotta Army and is well-preserved. The museum also exhibits the Bronze Chariot and Horse.

Museum Reservation: Real-name reservation is required through the official website and WeChat account of Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum. Tickets can also be purchased via Ctrip.

Opening Hours: March 16 - November 15: 08:30-18:30, November 16 - March 15: 08:30-18:00.

Location: 1.5 km east of Qin Shihuang Mausoleum in Lintong District, Xi'an City

The Uffizi Gallery is a Renaissance masterpiece among World Museums, housing priceless artworks by artists such as Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo. Like other significant World Museums, the Uffizi preserves the cultural heritage of a particular era, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the artistry of Renaissance Italy.

Must-see exhibits: The Uffizi Gallery's collection includes masterpieces such as Giotto's "Madonna and Child" (the father of the Renaissance); Sandro Botticelli's "The Birth of Venus" (a signature piece); Sandro Botticelli's "Primavera" (a signature piece); Sandro Botticelli's "Adoration of the Magi"; Sandro Botticelli's "Calumny"; Leonardo da Vinci's "Annunciation"; Leonardo da Vinci's "Adoration of the Magi"; Raphael's "Madonna of the Goldfinch"; Michelangelo's "Doni Tondo" (one of Michelangelo's few easel paintings), and more.

Museum reservations: Tickets can be purchased on the Ctrip app.

Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday from 08:15-18:30; Tuesday from 08:15-22:00. Closed on New Year's Day and Christmas. Museum hours are subject to change, so check the official website before visiting.

Location: Piazzale degli Uffizi, 6, 50122 Florence

One of the finest World Museums in Europe, the Rijksmuseum Amsterdam boasts a vast collection of Dutch art and history. Its architectural grandeur, combined with masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer, makes it a must-see destination for any visitor interested in exploring the treasures of World Museums. Its famous library is also one of the highlights, cementing its reputation as a true cultural landmark.

Must-see exhibits: Rembrandt's "The Night Watch," "The Jewish Bride," "The Syndics of the Drapers' Guild," and "Self-Portrait"; Vermeer's "The Milkmaid" and "The Little Street"; Hals' "Wedding Portrait" and "The Merry Drinker"; Steen's "The Feast of Saint Nicholas"; and Avercamp's "Winter Landscape," among others.

Museum reservations: Tickets can be purchased on the Ctrip app.

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 09:00-17:00. Museum hours are subject to change, so check the official website before visiting.

Location: Museumstraat 1, 1071 XX Amsterdam

The Museum of The Future in Dubai has been recognized by National Geographic as one of the most beautiful World Museums. Designed by Shaun Killa, the museum represents innovation and humanity, standing out as one of the most iconic architectural achievements in modern World Museums. Its exhibits, which focus on themes such as artificial intelligence and biotechnology, position it as one of the most forward-looking World Museums globally, offering unique insights into the future.

Must-see exhibits: The museum's exhibitions cover various fields and themes, with each floor featuring different exhibits that highlight five chapters, such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, sustainability, space exploration, and social change. The museum offers a range of virtual reality experiences, from flying cars to space travel, aiming to inspire people to explore the possibilities of the future.

Museum reservations: Tickets can be purchased on the Ctrip app.

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 09:30-21:00. Closed on September 21-22, 2024. Museum hours are subject to change, so check the official website before visiting.

Location: Sheikh Zayed Rd - Trade Centre - Trade Centre 2 - Dubai

As one of the most famous World Museums, the American Museum of Natural History in New York provides an incredible journey through time, from the early stages of life on Earth to the rise of human civilization. Known for its extensive collection of fossils and specimens, this museum ranks highly among World Museums for its rich educational value and cultural impact, with its iconic dinosaur skeletons attracting visitors from all over the world.

Must-see exhibits: The first floor features exhibits on North American forests, ecological diversity, the Gottesman Hall of Planet Earth, marine life, and mammals. The second floor includes exhibits on Asian mammals, the Roosevelt Hall, the Whitney Memorial Hall of Oceanic Birds, the Hall of African Peoples, and the Hall of Birds of the World. The third floor houses exhibits on reptiles amphibians, and primates. The fourth floor features the Wallace Hall of Mammals and Their Extinct Relatives, the Hall of Primitive Mammals, and the Hall of Dinosaurs.

Museum reservations: Tickets can be purchased on the Ctrip app.

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 10:00-17:30. Closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas. Museum hours are subject to change, so check the official website before visiting.

Location: 200 Central Park W, New York, NY 10024, United States

Singapore’s oldest and most renowned museum stands as a beacon among Southeast Asian World Museums. The National Museum of Singapore traces the country's transformation from a humble fishing village to a thriving metropolis. Like many other World Museums, it uses cutting-edge technology to enhance visitor experiences, making history more accessible and engaging.

Must-see exhibits: The Singapore Stone, dating back to the 13th century, and the four Living Galleries are highly recommended. The museum integrates modern technology into its historical exhibits, using visual, auditory, and tactile methods to convey historical information.

Museum Booking: Tickets can be purchased in time slots via the Ctrip app.

Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Operating hours may vary, so it's advisable to check the official website before visiting.

Location: 93 Stamford Rd, Singapore 178897

The Winter Palace, home to the State Hermitage Museum, is undoubtedly one of the most famous World Museums. Known for its extensive collections of ancient and European art, the museum is on par with other World Museums like the Louvre and the British Museum. Visitors are captivated by masterpieces such as Rembrandt’s "The Return of the Prodigal Son" and da Vinci’s "Madonna and Child," making it a must-see destination for art lovers.

Must-see exhibits: Don't miss the Egyptian Mummy (Room 100), the Peacock Clock (Room 204), Leonardo da Vinci's "Madonna and Child" (Room 214), Rembrandt's "The Return of the Prodigal Son" (Room 254), Rubens' "Perseus and Andromeda" (Room 246), and the Raphael Loggias (Room 227).

Museum Booking: Tickets can be purchased in time slots via the Ctrip app.

Opening Hours: Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM; Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Location: Dvortsovaya Naberezhnaya, 32, Sankt-Peterburg, Russia, 190000

Among the leading World Museums in Asia, the Tokyo National Museum offers a deep dive into Japan’s rich cultural heritage. Located in Ueno Park, the museum is a major highlight for anyone interested in Asian art and history. Like other World Museums, it houses an extraordinary collection of artifacts, including ancient pottery, stunning paintings, and historical sculptures, making it an essential stop for those exploring Japan’s past.

Must-see exhibits: Notable artifacts include the "Pine Trees" screen painting, the "Cypress" painting, the statue of Samantabhadra, and several exquisite Tang dynasty tri-colored glazed pottery pieces from China. In front of the Main Building, there is a massive century-old tulip tree. The garden behind the Main Building is open only during the cherry blossom season in spring and the maple leaf season in autumn, offering stunning views.

Museum Booking: Tickets can be purchased on the Tokyo National Museum's official website.

Opening Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM; Friday and Saturday from 9:30 AM to 7:00 PM. Closed on Mondays. It's advisable to check the official website before visiting.

Location: 13-9 Uenokōen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-8712, Japan

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