Slow Travel Europe - Museums and Galleries with Free Entry

Grand Place, Brussels

Architecture, galleries, museums, and history go hand in hand when you think of European art and slow travel living. While you might be living abroad on a budget, it doesn't mean you'll be at a loss for creative and cultural things to do.

After you've been handed the keys to your new European apartment and have unpacked your bags, consider spending a few days just walking around and getting to know your neighborhood. It's a good way to begin easing into your new life. You'll marvel at different architectural styles, you'll learn short cuts to take, to get you where you want to go, and you'll have fun checking out the grocery stores, street markets, neighborhood bars, restaurants, and shops.

Within a week or so you'll be ready to begin immersing yourself in the city's art galleries and museums. Each city is different when it comes to offering free entrance or discounted entrance fees. Students under 19 have more free entry opportunities than others. Seniors over 60 have more discounted opportunities. Unfortunately, those in the middle of these years have few options.

However, if you'll be living abroad for at least three months, don't despair. Many European art galleries and museums offer special passes and membership cards, with extra perks, for a reasonable price.

Because I was living on a small fixed income, it was necessary for me to find art galleries and museums that offered free daily entry. As it turns out, these lessor known exhibitions offer a remarkable opportunity to be surprised, awed, and enriched by their collections.

It's best if you can learn about places to visit before you arrive in Europe so you don't spend a lot time, on your phone, doing research there. Below are art gallery and museum listings, for each city I've lived in, that offer free daily entry. These listings will help you begin to fill out your travel planning notebook.

Berlin, Germany

Spree River, Berlin
at Friedrichstrasse Station

Berlin's Spree river is part of an interconnected waterway serving pleasure boats, commercial barges, and tugs. As it flows through the center of Berlin passing the historically significant Berlin Cathedral, Parliament, and Charlottenburg Palace, it also flows around the island in Mitte center, known as Museums Insel, which is home to Berlin's five premier museums.

The Spree river also played a large part in dividing East and West Berlin between 1961 to 1989, when the Wall fell. The river acted as an additional border deterrent, as it separated the districts of Kreuzberg (West Berlin) and Friedrichshain (East Berlin). At this point, the East Berlin regime controlled the entire width of the Spree and they used Patrol boats to police the water way.

Today, a short 30 years later, the citizens, who were born, grew up, lived and experienced life on each side of the border are building a new free city. Berliners are appreciative, connected, creative, engaged, inventive, respectful, modern, and revitalized. Yet, ever mindful of what came before.

Berlin Wall Memorial

The 1.4 km (.86 mi) wall section at Bernauer Strasse is the only full depth preserved section which spans both sides of the street. It marks the East Berlin division line that separated the center of Berlin in the Mitte and Wedding districts. You'll want to allow several hours for your visit as there are separate exhibition locations within the memorial area, each of which are educational and interesting.

You might like to begin by going first to the Ghost Station Exhibit at the Nordbahnhof S-Bahn Station, which is open during regular station hours.

Then cross the street to the Visitor / Documentation Center, which is across from the Nordbahnhof S-Bahn Station.
Open: Tuesday to Sunday 10a - 6p

The Open Air Exhibition and Memorial Grounds have 4 Topic Areas:
A: The Wall and the Death Strip
B: The Destruction of the City
C: Building the Wall
D: Everyday life at the Wall

Open: Monday to Sunday 8a - 10p

The mud brick building of the Chapel of Reconciliation is built over the foundation of the original destroyed sanctuary. It serves as a center of memory, prayer, and worship for parish members and visitors.

Victims of the Wall Prayer Service: Tuesday to Friday 12p to 12:15p

Free Entry
Address: Bernauer Strasse 111 and 119, Mitte district, Berlin 13355
S-Bahn: S1, S2, S25, S26 - Nordbahnhof
U-Bahn: U6 Naturkundemuseum / U8 Bernauer Strasse
Tram: M10 - Nordbahnhof / Berliner Mauer (Berlin Wall)

East Side Gallery

Near the Ostbahnhof, on Muhlen Strasse, the East Side Gallery is a special stretch of the Berlin Wall that's been transformed into a park and an open-air art gallery along the river Spree. It pays homage to Berlin's citizens and history. As soon as the Wall started coming down 129 artists from 20 countries came together to begin painting 106 creative works on the East side of the 1.3 km walls, now known as the East Side Gallery. In 1991 it was designated a protected memorial site. Over time, the elements took their toll on the art. By 2009 the gallery art had been restored and is now under the protection of the Berlin Wall Foundation for it's preservation. Unfortunately random tagging and graffiti vandalism still occurs.

Free Entry
Open: 24 hours a day
Address: Muhlen Strasse 3-100, Friedrichshain Berlin 10243
S-Bahn: S3, S5, S7, S9
U-Bahn: U1, U3
Warschauer Strasse / Ostbahnhof

Tranenpalast

Tranenpalast - Blue Building
German Division Border Experience
Friedrichstrasse Station - south side

The departure terminal building was built by the GDR dictatorship in 1962. It served, until 1990, as a westbound border crossing, which is located at the Friedrichstrasse train, S-Bahn, and U-Bahn station. East German residents weren't allowed to travel into West Berlin. It was up to friends and family in the West to cross over to visit their loved ones. This crossing became known as the Tranenpalast, which translates to Palace of Tears, due to many sad partings. The Tranenpalast became a protected memorial site in 2008 and since 2011 houses a permanent collection of exhibits using original objects, documents, and film to tell the story about living in Berlin during the cold war.

Free Entry
Open: Tuesday - Friday 9a - 7p / Saturday - Sunday 10a - 6p
Address: Reichstagufer 17, Mitte district, Berlin 10117
S-Bahn: S1, S2, S3, S7 / Friedrich Strasse
U-Bahn: U6 / Friedrich Strasse

Berlin has quite a few more museums and galleries that offer free daily entry. Other Berlin museums offer free entry once a week or once a month.

Our custom 149 page Berlin Travel Notebook will help you plan and record your adventure. The 6" x 9" planning notebook, diary, and travel journal includes prompts for pre travel, budget, guidebook, tips and more.

Brussels, Belgium

Place Royal, Brussels
© Slow Travel Tales

Brussels' founding dates from 979 when a small castle was built along the river Senne (Zenne). By 1383 a second larger wall had been built to enclose the fields and hamlets that provided the city's food. Brussels continued to grow and became an important port city on the trade route between Antwerp, Bruges, Ghent, and Cologne. Unfortunately, after nine years of war throughout Europe (1688-97), the King of France Louis XIV, ordered artillery bombing of Brussels, which resulted in a fire that destroyed 4,000 buildings along with The Grand Place. It wasn't until 1831 that Belgium gained it's independence and Brussels was designated the administrative capital with Leopold I as their King.

Cinematek

Cinematek,Brussels
© Slow Travel Tales

The Royal Belgium Film Archive is one of the largest film archives in the world today. For over 80 years the foundation's mission has been to rescue, collect, restore, and preserve long forgotten films before they disintegrate. Over the years, it's been a daunting task to keep the archive intact. With luck, hard work, and perseverance, their endeavor has attracted new partners who share their vision in film preservation and presentation. The museum focuses on the early inventions that led to the discovery of cinematography, which was pioneered by the Lumiere brothers. There are forty displays, several of which are interactive by way of a device mechanism that shows and explains how cinema works. In addition to the museum, the Cinematek has two small screening rooms (117 seats and 29 seats) at the Baron Horta location and a small theater at Flagey.

Tip: Several of the above links are in French. On your laptop, use a Chrome browser and click on the Google Translate icon in the top right of the address bar.

Note: During my time living in Brussels, going to see a film at the Cinematek was one of my most favorite things to do. It's an opportunity to see older iconic films on a large screen in a nice environment with other film devotees. An especially fun experience is to see a silent film accompanied by live piano music.

Free Entry to Museum
In order to see the museum, arrive before a screening.
Doors open 30 minutes before screening (i.e. 6p, 5p, 3p film starts): Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday 5:30p - 10:30p
Thursday and Sunday 2:30p - 10:30p
Saturday 4:30p - 10:30p

Cost of film and exhibition €4
Screening Rooms open 15 minutes before screening. Absolutely no entry to screening room once film has begun.

Address: Rue Baron Horta 9, / Center of City, 1000 Brussels
Metro: Line 1 and Line 5 / Central Station
Tram: 92 and 93 / Palais

The European Parliament

Parlamentarium, Brussels
© Slow Travel Tales

The Parliament is based in Brussels, Belgium. They encourage everyone to come for a free visit. You'll learn about how they work as the 'voice of EU citizens.' The work they do strives to uphold positive democratic influences in Europe and the World. They offer several online resources for planning your visit as well as this PDF brochure on how to visit the Parliament in Brussels.

Free Entry
Open: Monday 1p - 6p
Tuesday - Friday 9a - 6p
Saturday - Sunday 10a - 6p
Address: Willy Brandt Building
Place du Luxembourg 100, Ixelles, 1050 Brussels
Metro: 1, 5 - Maelbeek / 8 min walk
2, 6 - Trone / 7 min walk

Wiertz Museum

Antoine Wiertz Museum c. 1910, Brussels
© Slow Travel Tales

Antoine Wiertz (1806-65) was a Belgian painter, sculptor and writer during the Romantic period. He gained a controversial reputation due to his giant size paintings and dramatic subject matter. Art lovers of all genre are sure to appreciate this museum near Leopold Park.

Free Entry
Open: Tuesday - Friday 10a - 12p and 12:45p - 5p
Address: Rue Vautier 62 / Ixelles, 1050 Brussels
Metro: Line 1 and Line 5 - Maelbeek / 13 min walk
Line 2 and Line 6 - Tron / 12 min walk

Brussels has quite a few more museums and galleries. Most require an entrance fee. Some Brussels museums may offer free entry once a week or once a month.

Our custom 149 page Brussels Travel Notebook will help you plan and record your adventure. The 5" x 9" planning notebook, diary and travel journal includes prompts for pre travel, budget, guidebook, tips and more.

London, United Kingdom

London, circa AD 200
Roman Londinium Settlement
© 1999 Encyclopedia Britannica

London's history dates from AD 43 when Roman military legions formed a settlement, known as Londinium, on the banks of the Thames River. Today's London Bridge marks the vicinity of the earliest Roman bridge built in AD 50. Thus, London grew for many years, becoming a vibrant port and commercial center. However, by AD 410 the Roman Empire was in decline as was Londinium. It wasn't until 866 that Alfred the Great (first king of the English) restored the Roman walled city, made a new city street plan, and built the Thames river quays, which ushered in re-population and reinvigorated commercial trading. After the first great fire of 1123 and the second great fire of 1666, London needed rebuilding again. Sir Christopher Wren and others designed new renaissance style plans to rebuild the city. However, primarily due to private financing and the desire to rebuild quickly, the original medieval street plan prevailed. This time, though, the new buildings were made of bricks and stone. Wren's St. Paul's Cathedral (Church of England) was completed in 1708. London's growth continued and the city emerged as an important center for international trade, commerce and banking as well as having initiated the Industrial Revolution in manufacturing. By 1838, London's influence into the suburbs was expanded when the overland railway opened. Further expansion came in 1863 when the underground transportation system opened, which consisted of gas lit wooden carriages being pulled by steam locomotives. Construction with brick and stone continued with 1903 marking the completion of the neo-Byzantine style Westminster Cathedral (Catholic Church). Unfortunately, London was destroyed again during World War II as it experienced devastating aerial bombing in 1940. Thereafter, large scale rebuilding continued for decades, with the 95-story skyscraper known as The Shard inaugurated on 5 July 2012.

Victoria and Albert Museum

Victoria and Albert Museum, London
© Slow Travel Tales

With over 2.3 million objects spanning over 5,000 years of creativity, the V & A is the world's foremost art and design museum. The collections are diverse and interesting, ranging from eye glasses to shoes, and architecture to furniture, as well as photography and fashion to name a few. The museum began in 1852 with the building foundation stone being laid by Queen Victoria in 1899. There is so much to see, you'll probably want to make several regular visits.

Free Entry
Open: Daily 10a - 5:45p
Friday 10a - 10p
Address: Cromwell Road, London, SW7
Tube: South Kensington via Circle, District, and Piccadilly Lines

Sir John Soane's Museum

The son of a bricklayer born in 1753, Sir John Soane's architectural education began in London at age 15. A grand European tour enhanced his education and introduced him to many historical architectural sites and styles. Later, a distinguished professor at the Royal Academy, the renowned architect was knighted in 1831. Throughout his life he was a collector of interesting and curious antiquities, architectural items, Greek and Roman bronzes, busts, and mosaics. It was his wish that after his death, the expansive neo-classical architect's residence would remain intact as a museum.

Free Entry
Open: Wednesday - Friday 10a - 5p
Address: 13 Lincoln's Inn Fields, London WC2A
Tube: Holborn via Central and Piccadilly
Temple via Central and District

Whitechapel Gallery

Founded in 1901, the Whitechapel is an important international art gallery that showcased, for the first time in London, many contemporary modern masters, such as Picasso, Pollock, Hockney, Rothko, Twombly, and Frida Kahlo. You can be sure to see what's new, innovative, and cutting edge when you visit the Whitechapel.

Free Entry:
Open: Thursday 11a - 9p
Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday 11a - 6p
Monday - Closed
Address: 77-82 Whitechapel High Street, London E1
Tube: Aldgate East via District and Hammersmith & City

London prides it's self in offering free entrance to galleries and museums, which makes living in London on a budget a little easier. You'll never be at a loss for fun and interesting things to do for free.

Our custom 149 page London Travel Notebook will help you plan and record your adventure. The 6" x 9" planning notebook, diary and travel journal includes prompts for pre travel, budget, guidebook, tips and more.

Madrid, Spain

Madrid's Arabic name Mayrit refers to water as 'giver of life'. The city's written history dates from 865 when King Emir Muhammad I commissioned the construction of a small castle and military citadel fortress along the banks of the Manzanares River. Limestone and flint walls were built to protect the enclave. Today, you may visit the Emir Mohamed I Park, which is near the original castle location occupied by the present day Palacio Real and Almudena Cathedral.

In 1085 Alfonso VI conquered Madrid on his way to Toledo. This meant that the city changed from a Muslim community into a Christian one by virtue of the confiscation of the Mosque, which was ordered to be purified and reconsecrated as a Catholic Church.

Art and literature flourished during the years of 1556 to 1659. Known as the Spanish Golden Age, architects (Juan Bautista de Toledo), musicians (Tomas Luis de Victoria), painters (Diego Velazquez, El Greco, Francisco de Zurbaran), and writers (Miguel de Cervantes) came to prominence.

During the reign of Phillip II's court in 1651, Madrid became the capital of Spain.

Over hundreds of years, the original fortress of the 9th century had undergone remodeling and enlargement to become the royal palace, known as the Royal Alcazar (fortress). Unfortunately, on 24 December 1734 a fire broke out in the Alcazar that raged for four days, reducing it to rubble along with the destroyed art, artifacts, jewels, and silver objects. King Felipe V ordered a new palace be built upon the same site (1735-1755), which is today's Palacio de Real de Madrid.

The Napoleonic Wars (1803-1815), saw France turn against Spain during the Peninsular War (1807-1814). On 2 May 1808 (Second of May Uprising), the people of Madrid spontaneously rose up in protest against being occupied by Napoleon's French troops. Street fighting ensued throughout Madrid as troops crushed the rebellion. Many poorly armed citizens died. However, this rebellion sparked the resistance movement, which led to the Spanish War of Independence that raged for six years. Independence from French rule was gained on 17 April 1814 and the 2nd of May (Dos de Mayo/Day of Madrid) is a public holiday for remembrance.

During the reign of Queen Isabella (1833 - 1868) reforms were made, a canal was built to supply Madrid with water, streets were widened, gas street lighting was implemented and squares were built. The period of restoration between 1872 - 1931 saw the inauguration of electric power, the tram service, rail network, and metro.

The dictator, Francisco Franco ruled Spain from 1939 until his death in 1975. A new Spanish Constitution was confirmed in 1978 with Madrid as the capital city. The first democratic elections were held in 1979 to elect Madrid's first city mayor.

Temple of Debod

Temple of Debod, Madrid

The Temple is a beautiful and interesting site to behold. The ancient Egyptian Temple (circa 200 BC) was dismantled in Egypt and reconstructed in Madrid near the Plaza de Espana. Inside the temple you'll view small chambers, ancient artifacts, and hieroglyphics. It's poised atop the historical Principe Pio mountain at the Cuartel de la Montana Park in the Parque del Oeste (Western Park). If you're an avid photographer, you'll want to visit several times during different weather patterns and times of day because the temple, open sky, and clouds reflect in the water pond surrounding the temple. Facing west is an overlook onto the city below with expansive sunset views.

Free Entry
Open: Tuesday - Sunday 10a - 8p
Address: Calle Ferraz 1, Madrid
Metro: Line 3 - Plaza de Espana or Ventura Rodriguez
Line 10 - Plaza de Espana

Espacio Telefonica Foundation

The 1929 Baroque architecture of the Telefonica headquarters building on Gran Via is striking in its history and stature. With 14 floors at a height of 292 feet, it stood as the tallest skyscraper in Europe until 1940. During the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939), the building served as a look out observatory for Republican forces to keep track of opposing forces below. In addition, part of the building served as the Office of the Foreign Press, where Ernest Hemingway dispatched his reports. Located on four floors, this museum and exhibition center showcases some of the most interesting and cutting edge endeavors of present day art and technology. Plan on spending several hours here, with your first stop in the History of Telecommunication's museum devoted to long distance communication, from inception to present day.

Free Entry
Open: Tuesday - Sunday 10a - 8p
Address: Calle de Fuencarral 3, 28004 Madrid
Metro: Line 1, Line 5 / Gran Via

Madrid History Museum

The museum building dates from 1721-1726 and is the work of Pedro de Ribera, one of Madrid's foremost Baroque architects. It previously served as a house of shelter for poor families (Real Hospicio de San Fernando). Re-purposed into a city museum in 1929, the building and museum went through several transformations over the years to emerge into a completely remodeled and up to date facility. Renamed the History Museum of Madrid, it reopened in 2014 with an impressive exhibit collection dating from 1561 to the present.

Tip: The above link is in Spanish. On your laptop, use a Chrome browser and click on the Google Translate icon in the top right of the address bar.

Free Entry
Open: 15 June to 15 September / Tuesday - Sunday 10a - 7p
Otherwise: Tuesday - Sunday 10a - 8p
Address: Calle Fuencarral 78, 28004 Madrid
Metro: Line 4, Line 5, Line 10 / Alonso Martinez
Line 1, Line 4 / Bilbao
Line 1, Line 10 / Tribunal

Madrid has quite a few more museums and galleries that offer free daily entry. Other Madrid museums may offer free entry once a week or once a month.

Our custom 149 page Madrid Travel Notebook will help you plan and record your adventure. The 6" x 9" planning notebook, diary and travel journal includes prompts for pre travel, budget, guidebook, tips and more.

Munich, Germany

Abguss Museum

Old Town Hall / Altes Rathaus, Munich

The Museum of Castings of Classical Paintings specializes in the art of plaster casting and molds that are used in the design and making of sculptures and statues. As far back as 1665, during a visit to the Paris Academy, the artist Bernini recommended using reproductions of original works of art in educating young artists to teach them the idea of beautiful.

Tip: The above links are in German. On your laptop, use a Chrome browser and click on the Google Translate icon in the top right of the address bar.

Free Entry
Open: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 10a - 6p
Tuesday, Thursday 10a - 8p
Closed - Saturday and Sunday
Address: Katharina-von-Bora Strasse 10, 80333 Munich
U-Bahn: U2, U8 / Konigsplatz

Imperial Castle Alter Hof

From 1180 to 1918 the royal Whittlesbach dynasty ruled the German territories of Baveria. In 1255 Louis I, Duke of Bavaria (aka Ludwig I, Louis II, Ludwig II) inherited the Palatinate and Upper Baveria. This castle was built upon a former foundation and became the first
Whittlesbach residence. Over the centuries, city walls and larger imperial palace residences were constructed, hence, in the 16th century, this castle was relegated to be an administrative building. Much of the castle was destroyed in WW II. Although reconstruction took place in 1950, it wasn't until 2005 that an extensive redevelopment was undertaken. The two Gothic west wings were preserved and a historical permanent exhibition is housed in the dramatic vaulted cellar that includes a multimedia presentation.

Tip: Two of the above links are in German. On your laptop, use a Chrome browser and click on the Google Translate icon in the top right of the address bar.

Free Entry
Open: Monday - Friday 10a - 6p
Saturday 10a - 1p
Address: Alter Hof 1, 80331 Munich
U-Bahn: U3, U4, U5, U6 / Odeonsplatz, 6 min walk
Tram: 16, 19 21 / National Theater

Lothringer 13 Halle

Located in a former factory, this institution was founded in 1980 and is funded by the city of Munich. It's an artist-run endeavor specializing in international contemporary art. You'll likely enjoy spending some time in their cafe and book store as well.

Free Entry
Open: Tuesday - Sunday 11a - 8p
Address: Lothringer Strasse 13, 81667 Munich
U-Bahn: U5 / Ostbahnhof
S-Bahn: S1, S2, S3, S4 / Rosenheimer Platz
Tram: 15, 18, 25 / Rosenheimer Platz
Bus: 54 / Orleans Strasse

Munich has quite a few more museums and galleries that offer free daily entry. Other Munich museums may offer free entry once a week or once a month.

Tip: The above link is in German. On your laptop, use a Chrome browser and click on the Google Translate icon in the top right of the address bar.

Our custom 149 page Munich Travel Notebook will help you plan and record your adventure. The 6" x 9" planning notebook, diary and travel journal includes prompts for pre travel, budget, guidebook, tips and more.

Paris, France

Maison de Balzac

Palais de la Decouverte, Paris

Honore de Balzac is one of France's most famous authors. Toward the end of his life, having fallen on hard times, he rented a portion of this modest residence and from 1840 to 1847 he immersed himself in writing and editing his multi volume collection of interwoven novels known as La Comedie humaine (The Human Comedy). Today, the house, courtyard, and garden portray his life and the period through the household furnishings and environment. Over the years the collection has grown to include etchings, paintings, and watercolors, as well as personal items and curiosities. His study is inspirational, with the black marble fireplace and stained glass windows. He even wrote about his writing desk and armchair: "I have possessed her for ten years, she saw all my miseries, wiped away all my tears, knew all my plans, heard all my thoughts. My arm has almost worn it by walking around when I write." The literary library consists of manuscripts, illustrations, and other interesting period items. This is one of three Literary Homes now owned and cared for by the City of Paris.

Free Entry
Open: Tuesday - Sunday 10a - 6p
Address: 47, rue Raynouard, 16th Arr. Paris 75016
Metro: Passy via Line 6 and La Muette via Line 9

Museum of Modern Art

Is one of 14 museums of the city of Paris who come under the city's protection. Their aim is to enrich and preserve the collections as well promote the museums within the community. The Musee d'Art Moderne de la Ville Paris is in the Palais de Tokyo's west wing It's home to 20th and 21st century modern and contemporary art.

After your museum visit, you might want to wander through the plaza at the Palais de Tokyo. Be sure to visit the Readymade Cafe to see their recycled tables made from coffee grounds and the colorful chairs made out of 100% recycled plastic.

Free Entry
Open: Closed for renovations until 11 October 2019
Address: 12-14 Avenue de New York
Trocadero - Passy, 16th Arr. Paris 75116
Metro: Alma-Marceau or Iena via Line 9

Petit Palace Museum of Fine Art

The Palace was built for the 1900 Universal Exhibition and is now considered a historic monument. The museum is home to over 1,300 art objects, icons, paintings, sculptures, and tapestries. The works range from ancient and Medieval to French and Italian Renaissance as well as famous 19th century French artists.

Free Entry
Open: Tuesday - Sunday 10a - 6p
Address: Avenue Winston-Churchill, 8th Arr. Paris 75008
Metro: Champs-Elysees Clemenceau via Line 1 and 13

Paris has a few more museums and galleries that offer free daily entry. Other Paris museums may offer free entry once a week or once a month.

Our custom 149 page Paris Travel Notebook will help you plan and record your adventure. The 6" x 9" planning notebook, diary and travel journal includes prompts for pre travel, budget, guidebook, tips and more.

Rome, Italy

Temple of Hadrian, Rome

Gallery of the Academy of San Luca - The original Compagnia de San Luca was founded in 1478, by a group of Roman artists who endeavored to support and elevate their artistic works. Throughout the 16th and 17th century, many artists were drawn to Rome to live, work, and study. However, without having a patron, it was hard to find a teacher, let alone a place to live and work. The Academy of San Luca intended to help serve the artist's needs. Over time, in exchange for patronage, each artist/candidate would donate a piece of artwork and a portrait. Today, the gallery is located in the 16th century Palazzo Carpegna (near the Trevi Fountain) and includes drawings, paintings, sculptures and 500 portraits. At the time of this writing, you may visit the gallery for free.

Tip: The above links are in Italian. On your laptop, use a Chrome browser and click on the Google Translate icon in the top right of the address bar.

Rome doesn't have very many museums and galleries that offer free daily entry. Although, several Rome museums may offer free entry once a week or once a month.

Our custom 149 page Rome Travel Notebook will help you plan and record your adventure. The 6" x 9" planning notebook, diary and travel journal includes prompts for pre travel, budget, guidebook, tips and more.

Vienna, Austria

Vienna has long been known as an international capital of art as well as the City of Music. In fact, the city has designed several historical self guided walks that encourage you to stroll through the city center. You may take an Art Nouveau Klimt walk as well as following in the footsteps of iconic composers and musicians such as Beethoven, Hayden, Mozart, and Strauss.

Fotogalerie Wien

WUK Cultural Center, Vienna

Founded in 1981 for the purpose of advancing artistic photography and new media, the Vienna Fotogalerie presents exhibitions pertinent to current issues and trends in art. There's a mix of local young and emerging talent as well known international artists. The gallery is one of many organizations housed within the large Cultural Center known as the WUK (Werkstatten und Kulturhaus). Since 1981, the historical 1885 red brick factory building has been transformed into lofts, studios, music rehearsal rooms, and workshops that specialize in child and adult education, fine arts, dance theater, film, and music. The Center hosts a multitude of events, including musical performances in their concert hall. In the center of the complex is a large beautiful courtyard with tables and chairs for socializing, and a nice bistro and bar.

Tip: The above link is in German. On your laptop, use a Chrome browser and click on the Google Translate icon in the top right of the address bar.

Free Entry
Open: Tuesday and Friday 2p - 7p
Wednesday and Thursday 12 noon - 7p
Saturday 10a - 2p
Address: Wahringer Strasse 59, Alsergrund 9th District, Vienna
U-Bahn: U6 / Wahringer Strasse and Volksoper
Tram: 5, 37, 38, 40, 41, 42 / Spital Gassse and Nussdorfer Strasse

MUSA Start Gallery

Showcases 8 - 10 exhibitions for recent graduates of Vienna's art universities. Via jury selection, the artists are given a solo exhibit, which allows them a venue for their work to enter the art market. Free entry for all ages.

Free Entry
Open: Tuesday - Sunday 10a - 6p
Address: Felder Strasse 6-8, 1010 Vienna
U-Bahn: U2 / Rathaus
Tram: 1, 71, D / Rathausplatz - Burgtheater

OstLicht Gallery for Photography

The OstLicht team of specialists endeavor to find, represent, and present unique works by unknown and up and coming photographers. In addition to holding special exhibitions, individual collection consultation, housing an extensive research library, a separate vintage camera and print collection, they preside over the WestLicht Photo Auction. You may peruse the shop, gallery, and library for free. Special exhibitions may require a ticket purchase. The OstLicht Gallery is located in the 120 year old Anker Bread Factory, Brotfabrik Wien, which has been re-purposed into a vibrant neighborhood art and cultural center, to include education, business, events, restaurants and bars. It's all very interesting, so give yourself the opportunity to wander around at your own pace.

Vienna doesn't have very many museums and galleries that offer free daily entry. Although, several Vienna museums may offer free entry once a week or once a month.

Our custom 149 page Vienna Travel Notebook will help you plan and record your adventure. The 6" x 9" planning notebook, diary and travel journal includes prompts for pre travel, budget, guidebook, tips and more.

If you'll be living in several European cities, our custom 149 page Europe Travel Notebook will help you plan and record all your adventures. The 6" x 9" planning notebook, diary and travel journal includes prompts for pre travel, budget, guidebook, tips and more.

Bon Voyage

Art • Travel • Write

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from the book “Innocents Abroad” by Mark Twain

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