Fortunate to have received a copy of Lonely Planet’s latest release, Art Destinations, I couldn’t have timed it better; I was flying to Europe the following week, making it the perfect companion for the long-haul journey.
Unlike online platforms where information can be scattered and overwhelming, this beautifully designed book is refreshingly simple to navigate. The book is precise and inspiring, rich with practical art focused travel tips, complemented with striking photography.
Art Destinations isn’t just about the world’s largest and most famous galleries or exhibitions in major cities. While icons like Paris’s Louvre naturally make an appearance, the book invites readers to look beyond the obvious — to discover lesser-known locales and unexpected places where art flourishes. From the unique blend of French and Melanesian influences in Nouméa, New Caledonia, to stopping en route to the pyramids to explore Cairo’s bold contemporary art galleries around Tahrir Square, it opens your eyes to artistic experiences you might never have considered before.
The “When to Go” section goes beyond just seasons and weather — it spotlights festivals, temporary exhibitions, and art fairs that might otherwise be overlooked, such as the Contemporary African Art Fair in February. These thoughtful additions elevate the guide from a simple list of destinations to a cultural art calendar, helping travellers plan their journeys around meaningful events that truly inspire them.
Travel is more than moving from place to place, it’s about experiencing the heartbeat of a city and the stories its culture has to tell. Art is often an important gateway into this, from a century old masterpiece in a renowned museum in Athens, to vibrant laneway art tucked down the side streets of Melbourne. This book captures that philosophy beautifully, reminding us that art is not just something to observe, but something we can experience wherever we may roam.
No travel in your near future? I couldn’t think of a more beautiful coffee table book displaying 70 stunning destinations where art is prevalent.
Thank you to Lonely Planet for providing me with an advanced copy. All opinions expressed here are my own.
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