Seven art destinations to visit on your summer vacay

It seems that when it comes to holidaying people fall into one of two categories: the people who like to Do Things and the people who like to do sweet FA. If you’re the former type, and are looking for a bit of art and culture to soak up alongside all that sun, then this one’s for you. 

We’ve rounded up the best art galleries and museums in some of our fav vacation spots, to help make your holiday that little bit more gorgeous.

Fondation Maeght [Saint-Paul de Vence, France]

If you’re lucky enough to be vacationing on the French Riviera then you’re spoiled for choice with arty excursions. Head inland slightly to the Fondation Maeght nestled in the hills. The stunning architectural space exhibits a notable collection; 12,000 modern and contemporary pieces from titans of twentieth century art, and the grounds are pretty special too.

Museum of Modern Art Dubrovnik [Dubrovnik, Croatia]

MOMAD, as it’s known, in the ancient city of Dubrovnik, displays a collection of modern and contemporary Croatian art, with works inspired by the surrounding Adriatic coastline [which, to be fair, is pretty inspring].

Maison de la Photographie [Marrakech, Morocco]

This museum in the north-African city of Marrakech houses a significant collection of Moroccan photography, offering insights into the country’s history and culture – its collection contains works by well-known artists as well as anonymous snapshots.

Espacio Micus [Ibiza, Spain]

The former home of the late German painter Eduard Micus is now a gallery. Come for the art, stay for the Balearic-cum-modernist interior design inspo.

Istanbul Modern [Istanbul, Turkey]

Located on the shores of the Bosphorus, this contemporary art museum in an extremely slick new space designed by Renzo Piano features a wide range of Turkish and international art, including painting, sculpture, photography, and new media. And there’s air-con, which you’ll probably be craving.

Art Space Pythagorion [Samos, Greece]

This contemporary art museum in the town of Pythagorion on Samos Island hosts rotating exhibitions and events, offering a glimpse into the island’s modern art scene. The museum sits within a former modernist hotel and the art is hung against a backdrop of turquoise ocean and vast sky.

Palazzo Belmonte Riso [Palermo, Italy]

Art is everywhere you look in Italy, from the streets to the thousands of churches. This contemporary art museum in the centre of Palermo often includes photography exhibitions alongside its collection of modern art just in case you fancy a change from fabulous religious paintings.

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