Art and Culture: The Most Visited Worldwide Museums

Calling all art buffs! There are many reasons why a person may choose to visit a destination, including the weather, shopping and main attractions. But for those who possess a passion for art, traveling halfway across the world just to see the Mona Lisa or gaze upon Picasso's early works is not uncommon. Individual museums are powerful enough to spark the interest in a particular location without the help of additional perks, such as sunny weather and beautiful beaches.

One of the most recognized museums in the world is called Le Louvre, which can be found in Paris, France. This sight once served as a medieval fortress, as well as the home of several kings. A wealth of history can be explored when visiting this museum, where tourists can check out the mysterious smile of Da Vinci's Mona Lisa.

See how the former King of Egypt lived when you browse about the Egyptian Museum, located in Cairo, Egypt. More than 120,000 items can be found at this museum, ranging from ancient sculptures to alluring artifacts hailing from the tomb of King Tut. With a collection boasting intriguing items from around the world, the British Museum in London is a great alternative for the Egyptian Museum, which offers the largest ancient Egyptian art outside of Cairo. Although this museum is home to roughly 7 million artifacts, you will have the opportunity to visit 4 million of these highly regarded gems.

It is said that more than half of all the most valued pieces of art can be found in Italy. A bulk of these prized possessions are situated within the Uffizi Gallery in Florence. On the premises, you will encounter a glorious representation of sculptures and paintings, including Botticelli's Birth of Venus. Other artists to keep an eye out for include Rembrandt, Michelangelo and Raphael. Also in Italy, the Vatican Museums in Vatican City offer a look at more than 20 individual collections. The famed Sistine Chapel awaits your arrival, as well as a host of other pieces, such as Egyptian and modern religious art.

The next time you are in Spain, you may want to check out two of their shining glories in the museum world: The Prado in Madrid and The Guggenheim in Bilbao. The Prado holds an impression collection of Spanish art, such as the Three Graces by Rubens. The works of Goya, El Greco and Velasquez are also on display here, alongside a wide-range of drawings, medals, coins and other pieces of art. In the mood for fantastic architecture? The Guggenheim in Bilbao offers a grand showing of design, as well as great modern and contemporary art.

Visiting the New York City area? Anyone who holds a special place in their heart for art will want to pay a visit to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, also referred to as the Met. There are more than 2 million pieces of art, showcasing the talents of ancient and modern artists. Japanese daggers and swords, European paintings, as well as awe-inspiring sculptures come to life at this museum. Still have room for further museum browsing? Don't forget that the MoMA and the Guggenheim are also located in this grand city.

When it comes to museums, the Smithsonian in Washington, DC is a must to mention. Here, you come face-to-face with the largest museum complex and research facility in the world. Attached to this impressive honor are 16 different museums and galleries, such as the Air and Space Museum, and the African Art Museum, which highlight some of the grandest moments in history.