If quarantine has lost its novelty and you’re itching to get outside, stress not - we’ve found the perfect solution for culture cravers. While the world’s museums may be shut, virtual viewing platforms are emerging as the new norm. For your chance to visit the world’s most unmissable galleries, read on to discover the best virtual art museums which can be enjoyed from the comfort of your couch.
Scale Michelangelo's Masterpiece
St. Peter’s Basilica is arguably Vatican City’s most iconic landmark, attracting over 25,000 visitors a day. Fortunately, not everyone knows what lies at the top of its famous dome. For those in the know, the ‘Cupola’ offers staggeringly elaborate architecture, panoramic views of the city, and access to the highest espresso bar in Rome. The best news? You don’t have to climb the 551 steps to get there!
Take a virtual You Visit Tour starting in St. Peter's Square, where a guide will narrate you through the hidden gems of each interactive space.
youvisit.com
Timeless Beauty of the Louvre
Home to Da Vinci's Mona Lisa, the Louvre isn't just one of the world's leading art galleries but it's also the largest - home to famous masterpieces like The Seated Scribe, Venus de Milo and the Virgin of the Rocks. Step into the city of lights online and wander through the museum at your own pace.
From Egyptian Antiques to the renaissance ceilings of Galerie d’Apollon, there’s a dedicated virtual tour for every room!
louvre.fr
Modern and Contemporary Classics at the MMCA
South Korea’s National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA) first opened its doors in 1969 and is one of the nation’s four major modern art museums. Located in the heart of the city, it’s known and loved for an impressive visual arts scene, from innovative architecture to international masterpieces. If you’re heading to South Korea on your next vacation, this one should certainly not be missed.
Alternatively, you can explore the MMCA via a virtual tour here.
mmca.go.kr
Delve into Brazilian National Heritage
The Museu de Arte in São Paulo, Brazil, is home to Latin America’s most elaborate collection of Western Art. The gallery features paintings dating back as far as the 14th century hanging from mid-air, on gigantic open-plan flooring. Plus, if you’re lucky enough to be there on a Sunday, be sure to attend the weekly antique fair and bag the perfect gift for a loved one.
On a convenient virtual tour, you can explore over 10 thousand paintings, sculptures and even historical clothing.
masp.org.br
Celebrate Mexico’s Indigenous Legacy
The National Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City undoubtedly has the largest collection of anthropological and ethnographic objects of its kind. Designed by Mexican architect Pedro Ramírez Vázquez in 1964, the site gives you a real feel of how indigenous culture adapted over time and an in-depth understanding of their way of life.
On the museum’s digital tour, choose from over 140 items in 23 exhibit rooms to explore conveniently from your device. Be sure to discover the beautiful murals in the Teotihuacan exhibit and the Aztec Calendar.
mna.inah.gob.mx
Discover Archaeological Wonders in Athens
Founded in 1983, The National Archaeological Museum of Athens is the oldest gallery in Greece. With over 11,000 exhibits, there is so much to see and explore. From prehistoric collections to the museum’s library which has over 25,000 books - now there’s no excuse not to fall in love with Mediterranean history.
Can’t make it to Greece? Take some time to browse the museum's collections from the comfort of your home.
namuseum.gr
Classic Delights at the Rijksmuseum
Step into the Dutch Golden Age at the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, home to an astounding array of ancient art and historical artifacts. With over 80 galleries to explore, there is a positively overwhelming amount to see on their interactive tour, which gets close-up enough that you can even see the intricate brushstrokes of the artworks!
Don’t miss the chance to admire the magnificent works of Rembrandt, Johannes Vermer and Frans Hals on your virtual visit.
rijksmuseum.nl
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Contributing Author Georgia Emily Austin