The Art and London Tour

For the art lover, the paintings of London alone make visiting the city worthwhile. Of course, museums in London aren't just about painting. There are also sculptures, textiles and historic furniture - to name just a few of the media represented in the museums in London. Art lovers who have the opportunity to travel to England shouldn't miss London for all its richness. Here are a few highlights from the museums in London.

The Tate Britain Gallery focuses on British art but also includes many international artists. It houses a work not to be missed among the paintings of London - Ophelia by the Pre-Raphaelite John Everett Millais. The astonishing detail and color makes this one of the most famous paintings of London.

The Tate Modern is one of the most cutting edge museums in London, focusing on modern and contemporary art. Expect to see an installation, sculpture or painting that really gets you thinking at the main entrance. The relatively new addition of the Tate Modern is perfectly at home in its city, a reminder that art and London are made for each other.

The Victoria and Albert Museum holds some of the most well-known paintings of London. One of the main museums in London for art and design, it also has a wonderful collection of textiles, furniture and decorative works.

The National Gallery is an equally famous contender among museums in London. It has recently acquired, along with the National Galleries of Scotland, one of the most famous paintings of London (and Edinburgh). Diana and Actaeon by Titian dates from 1556-59.

To visit this and other great paintings of London, one of the easiest methods to get around London is by subway or 'tube'. The relatively simple layout means that the 'tube' is easy to navigate with a subway map. Be prepared for occasional delays, however. Another way to visit museums in London is by taxi cab, although it tends to be more expensive than the subway. Only ride with drivers in the signature black cabs which bear the London cab licence. Walking is another option for visiting the museums in London. Get a good map and stick to the touristy areas in which the museums above are located. London is famously filled with alleys, side streets and backstreets so take care not to get lost on your 'art and London' tour. If your travel to England involves other major cities besides London, you can usually reach the museums in London by train.