Museums and galleries

For those looking to immerse themselves in a bit of culture at a relaxed pace, a visit to a museum or gallery is the ideal choice. While away a couple of hours strolling around one of these institutions; this is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Below are just a few of the museums and galleries you can visit on a trip with Audley.

Museums & galleries

The Hermitage, Russia

One of the world's premier galleries, the Hermitage is a must-see for any visitor to St Petersburg. Home to the royal family until the revolution, the building itself is known as the Winter Palace, and was a masterpiece of the architect Rastrelli. With many famous Impressionist paintings, old Dutch masters and a whole range of other periods, the Hermitage has something for everyone.

Museum of Egyptian antiquities

There is a vast trove of artifacts here, telling the story of the Ancient Egyptians from their early development into a unified state through to their absorption into the classical world of Rome and Greece. Highlights include objects of great beauty, day-to-day tools and the stunning array of funerary artifacts typified by the famous contents of Tutankhamun's tomb.

The Forbidden City, China

Although not officially classed as a museum, the curators of the site hold vast exhibitions that showcase various elements of the Forbidden City's magnificent past, such as its opulent jewelry and art. The vast site itself is filled with treasures and intricately detailed architecture.

Monuments and museums of Paris

Art and monumental architecture are an integral part of any visit to Paris. From a private tour of the Louvre to a behind-the-scenes look at the Eiffel Tower, France specialist Leanne suggests a few new ways to see familiar sights.

Hall of Opium Museum, Thailand

The Opium Museum, situated in the heart of the Golden Triangle and opposite the entrance to the Anantara Resort, provides an excellent insight into the opium trade so prevalent in this area over the past century.

Museum of Political History, Russia

The Museum of Political History is housed in the mansion of Kshesinskaya, who was a famous ballet dancer and Tsar Nicholas II's lover.