18 May marks International Museum Day, which aims to raise awareness of the critical role museums play in society, culture, and development.
Whatever your interests, there’s likely to be a museum for you. Indeed, UNESCO estimates that there are around 95,000 museums around the world today, compared to just 22,000 in 1975.
With summer just around the corner, now is the perfect time to start organising your next holiday. Here are five incredible museums you might want to factor into your plans.
1. The Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza, Egypt
This vast complex, covering 117 acres of land near the Giza pyramids, took 33 years and approximately $1 billion to complete.
The main galleries were partially opened in 2024, and the grand opening took place on 1 November 2025.
According to the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) website, it’s the largest global museum dedicated to ancient Egyptian civilisation from prehistory to the end of the Greek and Roman periods.
There are around 100,000 artefacts on display, including many that have never been available to the public previously, such as the complete Tutankhamun collection.
You can book tickets and guided tours online before travelling.
2. The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art in Los Angeles, USA
This futuristic, sci-fi attraction in Los Angeles is scheduled to open to the public on 22 September 2026.
Shaped like a giant flying saucer, the Lucas Museum will be dedicated to narrative art. It will showcase a collection of more than 40,000 items, including works from renowned creatives such as the painter Frida Kahlo, the writer and illustrator Beatrix Potter, and comic book artist Jack Kirby.
There are five floors covering 300,000 square feet to explore, so make sure you allow plenty of time for your visit.
3. The Louvre in Paris, France
This is one of the most iconic museums in the world, which attracts millions of visitors each year. It’s celebrated for its huge collection, spanning 4,000 years of human history and creativity.
The building is a striking blend of modern architecture and historic grandeur. At its entrance stands the instantly recognisable glass pyramid, which captures natural light and illuminates the central hall of the museum.
What makes the Louvre truly remarkable is the diversity of its exhibits. There are over 35,000 artworks on display, ranging from ancient Egyptian artefacts to Renaissance art and contemporary installations, including masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.
In 2026, the museum is featuring a full programme of major exhibitions, including ‘Michelangelo and Rodin: Living Bodies’ from April to July.
4. Sir John Soane’s Museum in London, England
Compared to the grand scale of the Louvre, this museum in London offers an incredibly intimate experience. It is the former home of Sir John Soane, a pioneering British architect who is best known for designing the Bank of England.
This quirky museum is packed from floor to ceiling with art, antiquities, architectural models, and curiosities arranged in a labyrinth of rooms, offering a deeply personal glimpse into Soane’s life.
Between March and June 2026, there is a free exhibition on Vanbrugh, a renowned architect, dramatist, and radical. The museum also hosts various tours, talks, and family events throughout the year. Check the Sir John Soane’s Museum London website before planning your trip to find out what’s on.
5. The Guggenheim in Abu Dhabi
There are currently three active Guggenheim museums worldwide: the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York City, USA, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection in Venice, Italy, and the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, Spain.
In 2026, the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi is set to open in the United Arab Emirates. The building is currently under construction on Saadiyat Island, and it’s set to be the largest of the Guggenheim museums.
Unlike many traditional museums, this innovative new project is expected to focus on modern and contemporary art from a global perspective. It will host rotating exhibitions, international retrospectives, and site-specific installations.
Keep your eye on how this exciting project progresses as it’s likely to become a landmark destination for both art lovers and architecture enthusiasts.
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Please note
This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at individuals only.
All information is correct at the time of writing and is subject to change in the future.
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