Weekend Art Getaways: Luxury Stays & Cultural Escapes
For those who find inspiration in art, a weekend getaway to a city steeped in culture can be the perfect way to recharge your mind and spirit.
Whether you're drawn to Renaissance masterpieces, contemporary galleries, or artisan studios, these curated destinations blend world-class art with luxury stays.
Paris, France – The Classic & The Contemporary
Paris is synonymous with art, from grand institutions to cutting-edge galleries, making it an ideal destination for a weekend filled with inspiration. Check into Le Meurice or Hôtel de Crillon on Friday evening, both of which embody Parisian elegance.
Begin Saturday with a visit to The Louvre, where you can marvel at iconic works such as the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and The Winged Victory of Samothrace. After a morning of classical art, shift gears and explore contemporary galleries in Le Marais, such as Galerie Perrotin, where you’ll find avant-garde exhibitions by leading modern artists. The Louvre's collection, spanning thousands of years, serves as a crucial educational and cultural touchstone, influencing public understanding of global art history and fostering a collective appreciation for diverse artistic traditions. The juxtaposition of classical and contemporary art in Paris reflects the city’s constant dialogue between history and modernity, influencing global cultural trends. Visitors can join sketching tours or take guided photography walks to capture the artistic essence of the city.
On Sunday morning, have brunch at the legendary Café de Flore, a favourite of writers and philosophers, before visiting Musée de l’Orangerie to experience Monet’s Water Lilies, a breathtaking panoramic masterpiece that perfectly encapsulates Impressionism.
Venice, Italy – Art in a Floating City
With its dreamlike canals and opulent palazzos, Venice offers a surreal setting for an art escape. Arrive on Friday and settle into the Aman Venice or San Clemente Palace Kempinski, two luxurious properties that encapsulate Venetian grandeur. Take a private boat ride through the city’s waterways.
On Saturday, immerse yourself in modern art at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, where you’ll find works by Picasso, Pollock, and Dalí. Contrast this with the grandeur of the Gallerie dell’Accademia, home to Venetian masters such as Titian and Veronese. If your visit coincides with the Venice Biennale, explore the national pavilions showcasing contemporary global art. Venice’s art scene, blending historical opulence with modern creativity, reflects its enduring role as a beacon for artistic innovation. Consider attending a glassmaking workshop on Murano Island or participating in a watercolor painting session along the canals.
On Sunday morning, take a short trip to Murano, the island famed for its centuries-old glassblowing traditions. Visit Seguso Vetri d’Arte, a family-run glass atelier where you can watch artisans at work and even purchase a unique piece to take home as a memento of your artistic journey.
Kyoto, Japan – Tradition Meets the Unconventional
A city where heritage and contemporary art seamlessly coexist, Kyoto provides an inspiring artistic retreat. Upon arrival on Friday, check into the serene Four Seasons Kyoto or Aman Kyoto, both of which are surrounded by lush gardens.
Start Saturday with a visit to the Kyoto National Museum, home to priceless samurai-era artifacts and Buddhist sculptures. Wander through the historic Gion district, where traditional wooden machiya houses and tea houses transport you to another time. Then, explore contemporary art spaces such as Galerie Weiss, which showcases modern Japanese artists blending tradition with innovation. In the afternoon, stop by Tsujiri for matcha and wagashi (traditional sweets). The city's blend of ancient craftsmanship and modern artistry fosters creativity and cultural appreciation in visitors and locals alike. Consider participating in pottery or calligraphy classes to engage directly with Kyoto's traditional art forms.
On Sunday morning, engage with Kyoto’s artistic heritage firsthand by visiting Kawai Kanjiro’s House, a preserved home and studio of the famous ceramic artist. Here, you can try your hand at Japanese pottery or calligraphy before bidding farewell to this enchanting city.
London, UK – Timeless Masterpieces & Trendy Art Scenes
London’s mix of historic institutions and contemporary art hubs makes it ideal for a weekend break. Arrive on Friday and settle into Claridge’s or The Connaught, both of which offer timeless British luxury.
On Saturday morning, visit The National Gallery, where you can admire Turner’s dramatic landscapes and Van Gogh’s Sunflowers. After exploring Tate Modern, home to Warhol, Rothko, and Hockney, take a scenic stroll along Southbank. London’s dynamic art landscape continues to shape global trends in music, fashion, and digital art. Visitors can join street art tours or participate in creative workshops focused on urban artistry.
On Sunday morning, visit The Saatchi Gallery, known for its ever-evolving contemporary exhibitions. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the vibrant street art scene of Shoreditch, where Banksy’s work can still be found among a tapestry of urban murals. Before heading home, take a final stroll or soak in the city's creative ambiance.
Seeing the World Through Art
Art has the remarkable ability to evoke deep emotions, challenge perspectives, and connect us to history, offering a space for reflection and creativity. It stimulates the senses and invites us to see the world through a different lens, making every encounter a potential source of personal growth. Whether in a bustling museum or a quiet gallery, art invites us to pause, reflect, and experience beauty in all its forms.
Wherever your curiosity may lead, travel with The Betesh Group.