places to visit near street art

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The top spots to see graffiti and street art in NYC

From storied walls to exciting new spaces, here are the must-see outdoor spots displaying the city's best street art and graffiti

Street art and graffiti in NYC were a product of the 1970s, when the city was bankrupt and  crime was rampant. Growing up in that environment, kids from the Bronx and Brooklyn tagged subway cars and buildings even though it was illegal and dangerous. Eventually, their new art form spread around the world and found its way into  NYC galleries and museums in NYC . Street art thrives, ironically as a sanctioned activity sponsored by business owners, community groups and even developers. Now there are even famous street artists ! But don’t worry: It’s still imbued with the same panache and attitude that made it so compelling back in the day—as you’ll see by checking out our list of the top spots to see graffiti in NYC.

RECOMMENDED: The best outdoor art in NYC this summer

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Graffiti in NYC

1.  Banksy, Hammer Boy

 Banksy famously loves New York City—in 2013, he staged a monthlong, citywide “show” called “Better Out Than In”—but most of his work here has been covered over, torn down to be sold or defaced by taggers. At least this modest stencil piece on the Upper West Side is still intact, thanks to the building owner, who installed a Plexiglas shield in an act of guerilla art preservation.

79th St between Broadway and Amsterdam Ave

2.  First Street Green Art Park

The creativity of the East Village spills out onto the walls at the First Street Green Art Park. The open art space gives artists and designers space to show off their murals, sculptures and other installations as well as hold performances for the neighborhood. Each time you go to this lesser-known spot should be a different experience as murals change often. Plus, during the warmer months, its volunteers hold programming from art workshops to live music. Find out what's going on currently   here .

3.  11th Street and First Avenue

A four-story building in the East Village has been host to several magnificent and colorful portrait murals including Michael Jackson, Ghandi and Ruth Bader Ginsburg, which was the most recent  curated by the public art charity  LISA Project NYC .

4.  Big Pun Memorial Mural

This tribute to the beloved Puerto-Rican rapper Big Pun (aka Big Punisher, aka Christopher Lee Rios) who passed away in 2000 was created by Bronx-based graffiti artists Tats Cru, and gets repainted annually on Pun’s birthday, Nov 10. It’s a fitting reminder of the deep ties between the community and Pun, who was the first Latino rapper certified platinum as a solo act.

910 Rogers Place, Bronx

5.  The Audubon Mural Project

The Audubon Society has been partnering with the Gitler &_____ Gallery in Hamilton Heights to commission street art murals around Upper Manhattan dedicated to birds threatened by climate change. Their fine feathery plumage makes for eye-popping images, and you can find out where to see them by downloading this map from the project’s website. 

Hamilton Heights and Washington Heights ( audubon.org )

6.  Bronx Wall of Fame

This epic South Bronx block is only unofficially dubbed the Wall of Fame. That’s too bad since it could benefit from landmark status; plans are afoot to raze this community beacon in favor of affordable housing. The wall’s pedigree is indisputable: Late Queens legend Iz the Wiz, Long Island’s Phetus and L.A.’s MSK crew represent a tiny fraction of the artists who’ve painted remarkable wild styles, fills, murals and messages across its bricks. The clock is ticking for you to see history before those bricks come crashing down. 

E 173rd St at West Farms Rd, Bronx

7.  The Houston Bowery Wall

Keith Haring was the first big name to paint this wall, in 1982, but its generous surface area and enviable location have inspired an untold number of artists to follow his lead, including legends like Banksy, JR and Shepard Fairey/ The latest installment is by Raul Ayala with Groundswell and Goldman Global Arts.

Houston St at Bowery

8.  The Bushwick Collective

Bushwick native Joe Ficalora has made his neighborhood a go-to by transforming it into a sprawling, 12-square-block outdoor museum that features artists from around the world. While strolling the streets just off the Jefferson Street L train stop, keep an eye out for a moving, photorealistic portrait by the rising Sicilian duo Rosk&Loste, as well as a Wu-Tang Clan illustration by  @7lineartstudio .  

Starts at Troutman St and St. Nicholas Ave

9.  Graffiti Hall of Fame

Founded in 1980 by activist Ray “Sting Ray” Rodriguez as a way to promote graffiti’s positive attributes, this East Harlem wall has evolved into a place where classic graf styles—and the hip-hop culture they’re associated with—can thrive. The massive mural spelling HARLEM doubles as a storybook tour through the city’s street-art history. 

106th St at Park Ave 

10.  Johnson Avenue

This industrial block in Bushwick offers prime wall space for street artists from around the world including right here in NYC. A stroll past the warehouses along the avenue might lead you past colorful murals by the likes of Rime (aka Jersey Joe), Swiss artist Tones One and Host 18. 

Johnson Avenue off Bogart Street, Bushwick, Brooklyn

11.  2 World Trade Center

If you need additional proof that street art has gone legit, look no further than these eye-catching murals painted on a metal shed covering the foundation for 2 World Trade Center—the future skyscraper that will rise on the site in the next few years. In the recent past, artists Todd Gray, Hektad, BoogieRez, Stickymonger, and husband-and-wife duo Chinon Maria and Sebastian Mitre, have covered the structure in bright images inspired by Pop Art and anime, creating a welcome oasis of color in an area (the Financial District) where the palette is, to put it mildly, muted.

12.  Hunts Point

Longtime Bronx trendsetters Tats Cru (Bio, BG183, Nicer, How and Nosm) found their latest ripe facade in 2008 and invited, among others, old friend Goldie, U.K. stencil pioneer Nick Walker, L.A.’s reputed Seventh Letter crew, Crash and Evoke to paint. Out of respect for the building’s owner, they avoid carving, wheatpaste and overt politicizing, but anything else goes. Check Facebook for their next big artist gathering and perhaps an eventual contribution from original Tats collaborator Fat Joe. 

Drake St at Spofford Ave, Bronx ( tatscru.net )

13.  North 6th St

It’s no secret that Williamsburg’s industrial Northside has been almost entirely reconfigured as a young urban professional’s paradise. But not every abandoned warehouse has been claimed. In recent years, Banksy and Nick Walker have left their unique brand of artful vandalism on this strip, and there are still plenty of throwups, murals and even the odd wild style popping up along the drag—development be damned. 

North 6th St between Bedford and Kent Aves, Williamsburg, Brooklyn

14.  Coney Art Walls

Curated by real estate mogul Joseph J. Sitt and superstar art dealer Jeffrey Deitch, this ongoing exhibit still has street cred thanks to its focus on old-school innovators like Lee Quiñones, Crash, Tats Cru and Mister Cartoon. The most recent batch included a Pop Art–inspired mural by D*Face and a mermaid fantasia by the cheeky duo the London Police.

3050 Stillwell Ave, Coney Island

15.  Crack Is Wack

On a Harlem handball court in 1986, Keith Haring threw up this exuberant public service announcement inspired by a studio assistant who had become addicted to the titular drug. While he painted the piece without permission, just as crack was becoming notorious, the work’s message—and Haring’s stature—quickly earned the mural the blessing of the city, which is now restoring it.

128th St at Second Ave

16.  100 Gates Project

The storefront gates in question belong to businesses participating in this unique street art program covering the Lower East Side, in which retailers looking for some of that sweet street creed are matched with artists looking for a legally permitted space to do their thing. So far, some 75 plus murals have gone up, ranging from Buff Monster’s elastic flying brain cum cyclops for Bondy's Cameras and Appliance to Billy the artist’s Picassoid faces for Michele Olivieri’s sneaker mecca. A complete rundown on works and locations can be found on the 100 Gates Project website. 

Lower East Side ( 100gatesnyc.com )

17.  Along the J/M/Z line

The captive audience aboard the MTA’s longest elevated train line has inspired artists from across the city and around the globe to pack the stretch of Brooklyn near the J/M/Z with as many tags, throw-ups and murals as it can handle. It’s even inspired a group called JMZ Walls (@jmzwalls) to not only archive it all but also to bring artists together with property owners who want to support their work.

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Top 20 Places to See Street Art

Long gone are the days where graffiti is viewed only as vandalism, carried out by young troublemakers or criminals. Street art has taken over cities around the globe and we could not be more excited about it! After all, what could be better than giant, colorful murals turning otherwise grimy parts of a city into gorgeous pieces of art? We love the ability of street art to stir the pot a little, add to political dialogue and express the hopes, fears, and ideas of a population.

We have put together this Wanderlist of our top destinations to see awesome street art, hoping to inspire you to check out the free art galleries displayed on city walls. That said, expect this list to change over time, with explosions of colorful expression popping up in even the most remote corners of the world.

1. Cape Town

Cape Town’s incredible street art puts you face to face with the best and worst of South Africa from both yesterday and today. Powerful images cover walls throughout the city and are as thought-provoking as they are beautiful. Don’t miss the District Six neighborhood, which features some of the city’s top work.

2. Bethlehem

The voice of Palestinians has been, in large part, silenced on the world stage. This is not the case on the walls of Bethlehem, where the hopes and fears of Palestinians are featured front and center. Street art is a way for Palestinians to express their anger, without violence. Unlike anywhere else in the world, the street art in Bethlehem has the ability to move you to your very core.

One of the coolest things about the street art in Bangkok is how it is often hidden in corners of the city you wouldn’t expect. Small alleys and otherwise hidden nooks of the city burst with color and bring life to places that would otherwise seem drab. Since the city hosted a Street Art Festival, colorful art has popped up all over the world.

4. Melbourne

Melbourne is covered in art. Everywhere you go, you will find stunning pieces splattered on the side of buildings, highlighting the best of what the creative inhabitants of the city have to offer. The art in Melbourne is all about color. Plan a trip to this awesome Australian city and you are sure to feel inspired.

London has one of the oldest street art scenes in the world, but it has blossomed into one of the top hot spots for colorful expression in recent years. Some of the world’s most famous artists, including Banksy, Stik, JR and Invader have left their mark all over the city. Take some time to observe, not just pass by, and you may be surprised what messages are being conveyed.

Ironically, the street art in Prague blossomed when it was strictly prohibited. Communist rule in this gorgeous European city was not kind to individual expression, but during communist rule, artists rebelled, leaving their views expressed as art on walls throughout the city. Don’t miss the John Lennon Wall, the legendary graffiti wall featuring the very best that the city has to offer.

We love so much about Lisbon, the gorgeous port city and capital of Portugal, with its street art being the icing on the cake. The graffiti in Lisbon has it all, from political expression to fun images meant to do nothing else but make you smile. As you wander the quaint streets of historic Lisbon, keep your eyes open for pops of color.

Lodz is not only a hotspot for colorful, modern-day street art, it also has a huge collection of historic graffiti. Many of the coolest pieces in the city are still around from the 1960s when Poland was under Communist rule. Although faded, these murals tell one incredible story of a city with a varied past. At the same time, huge colorful murals have started popping up throughout the city, as part of an effort by Urban Forms Foundation to turn the city into an open-aired permanent art gallery.

Street art is as Paris as the Louvre (ok, maybe depending on who you talk to, but you get the idea)! Paris inspires people from all over the world who flock to the city to visit. Fortunately for us all, the same is true for artists. Artists are constantly creating and recreating on the walls of the French capital. Even if you think you have seen it all before, think again. The paintings in Paris are constantly being updated and changed.

Berlin’s history is one of the most interesting in the world. The same is true for its street art, which has always been among the top in the world. You can literally spend an entire trip to Berlin just exploring the city’s street art. Don’t miss out on the political and cultural expressions on the still standing pieces of the Berlin Wall.

The historic city of Dublin has been smothered in street art over the last few years. Irish street artists, as well as some international artists, use Dublin as a sort of open-air gallery, displaying their best pieces in different corners of the city. One of the coolest things about this city’s art is the number of centuries old buildings that portray colorful depictions of life today.

Yes, you read that right, Moscow has some unbelievable street art. The Russian Government may go to great lengths to crack down on self-expression, but that is what makes the street art here so unique. Russian artists do their best to express themselves in bold and creative ways and street art has become an excellent outlet for doing just that. Those pieces that have yet to be destroyed by authorities are definitely worth a look.

13. Istanbul

Istanbul’s street art scene is growing almost as rapidly as tourism to the city. One of the reasons for this is the Mural Istanbul Festival, which brings together local and international artists to leave their mark on the Kadikoy neighborhood. Making your way to this awesome neighborhood gives you the opportunity to visit a lesser-known part of Istanbul, where you can almost feel the added energy introduced with gorgeous murals. Don’t want to get lost? Check out the Istanbul Street Art App!

14. New York City

New York City is one of the coolest and hippest cities in the world, so it is no surprise their street art scene is on point. The street art in this city, the birthplace of graffiti, is as diverse as its people. New York speaks to you through pieces splattered all over its walls. In the past, the city has had a love-hate relationship with graffiti, which has long expressed the opinion of some of the city’s most vociferous residents. Today, lucky for us, the city seems to be embracing the beauty this art adds to the city.

15. Mexico City

Mexico is all about color. From north to south, the country adds a little color and spice to the planet. The street art in Mexico City is perhaps the best example of this. Mexico’s culture, politics, and history come to life with stunning pieces that use bright colors as a means of expression throughout the city. Don’t miss the art in the historic city center, particularly on Calle Regina and Calle Reforma, which together feature some of the best of the best of the city.

Bogota’s street art speaks volumes about the many positive changes that have taken place in Colombia over recent years, while still serving as one of the greatest forms of political expression.

The streets of Bogota are covered in colorful, inviting images, showing visitors that the country is open for business. At the same time, you will find some absolutely phenomenal political pieces which go to the gut of the decades-long civil war in the country. Street artists in Colombia do not shy away from the country’s conflicted past, providing a glimpse at what gives the country such a rough reputation, while at the same time demonstrating why the past should be left in the past. Don’t miss the art in Cartagena, Medellin, and many other Colombian cities, which is equally as good!

17. Valparaiso

Street art is the reason to go to Valparaiso. A short trip from Santiago (which also has some great street art), this port city is set against a beautiful background, but the murals that line its streets are what will really take your breath away. The street art is also what has made the city famous, attracting the top artists from all over the world. Wander the streets all day and then sit and enjoy a glass of amazing Chilean wine over a seafood dinner!

18. Sao Paulo

Art is one of the things that makes Brazil, Brazil and gives it the irresistible energy that keeps drawing people in. Brazilian artists have a lot to say and they use paint to tell the world. The paintings on walls across Sao Paulo are cultural expression at its very best. Take the time to wander and find yourself lost in the colorful alleys that serve as hotspots for street artists. Above all, don’t miss Beco de Batman or Batman Alley.

19. Rio de Janeiro

Again, art makes Brazil, Brazil, which is why two Brazilian cities have made our list. Actually, even the Government of Brazil has gotten on board, legalizing street art in 2009. Following this legalization, the streets of Rio de Janeiro, where the inhabitants have long used art as a form of expression, have exploded with thoughtful pieces that go to the heart of social and cultural issues intertwined with the soul of Brazil.

20. Buenos Aires

Argentina is not just for tango anymore. The street art scene in Buenos Aires is tremendous. The art in this already awesome city is a bit quirky and thought-provoking, making it all the more incredible. In fact, Buenos Aires’ street art is so amazing that it is only one of two cities (along with Paris) featured in Google’s Street Art Project, which has given international artists great incentive to use the city as their canvas.

There you go, 20 cities where you are sure to be blown away by the number of fantastic pieces of art available to you, for free, out on the street! Think we missed somewhere? Let us know using the form below.

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15 Places for Street Art and Graffiti in NYC

This post lists 15 locations in NYC, accessible to visitors, where you can find high-quality street art including murals and graffiti created by street artists.

We compiled this list from first-hand experience.

We lead daily walking tours of street art and graffiti through NYC.

Our lead guides, Izzy and Mar, are locals in the Brooklyn and Manhattan street art scenes, and with their help, we put together this list of must-see locations.

We also asked the roughly 200k members of our NYC Travel Tips Facebook group what street art and graffiti pieces they liked, and we incorporated a few in this post.

Our group is made up of locals (including our tour guides), veteran travelers to NYC, and newbies.

You don't need to join the group to read the posts, comments, and recommendations.

15 PLACES FOR GRAFFITI AND STREET ART IN NYC

Starting in the late 1960s and early 1970s, spray paint became a powerful tool for social change in New York City.

In the face of mass consumerism, graffiti writers and street artists fought back with their individual expression and social commentary.

Among the first graffiti artists to garner attention were Zephyr (Andrew Witten), Taki 183, and Blade.

Back then, if you wanted to see the latest works by these kings of graffiti, you either had to live in the inner city or wait for a graffiti artist to emblaze their name across the subway car.

Nowadays, new murals are popping up every day in the concrete jungle.

Below are the best places to see both timeless masterpieces and the latest works of street art in NYC.

Click here to enlarge the map .

1. Bushwick Collective 

To see a collection of stunning murals, head to the Bushwick Collective . 

There is so much artwork to see you won’t be able to stop talking about it for weeks.

The Bushwick Collective is located in Bushwick Brooklyn, just off of Flushing Avenue.

It is approximately a 7-8 minute walk from the nearest train station Jefferson Street (L train).  

We recommend using this Google map to get directions to the Bushwick Collective from anywhere in New York City.

TIP: If you prefer a guided tour, which offers a brief history of the neighborhood, and a detailed description of the murals then, be sure to go on our pay-what-you-like Bushwick Graffiti and Street Art Tour .

2. World Trade Mural Project

For years, Ground Zero was a construction zone that reminded New Yorkers and visitors of the September 11th attacks.

But if you visit the World Trade Center’s Oculus today, you will see the work of some of our favorite street artists commissioned by 2WTC. 

Artists: BoogieRez, Stickymonger, JCBKNY  Photo by:  tour guide Mar

Don’t miss these eye-catching walls, which have given downtown Manhattan a new sense of hope. 

Mar and Izzy, street art tour guides with Free Tours by Foot, are proud to have consulted on the World Trade Mural Street Art Project, which was a result of their co-curating the 69th floor of 4WTC.

They are the tour guides leading street art and graffiti tours for Free Tours by Foot.

And you can see this artwork on our Lower Manhattan Tours as well.

3. Harlem Street Art + Grafitti

Harlem is definitely worth a visit for street art, particularly murals.

We spot at least 5 different murals on our tours of Harlem , including the Know Your Rights mural.

There is one particularly large mural on the side of the Harlem Hospital, which consists of 3 panels telling stories of the African-American experience in the U.S. and was commissioned back in the Great Depression.

In East Harlem, there is the Graffiti Hall of Fame , which still periodically invites lesser-known artists to come and paint their murals.

Unfortunately, most of the artwork is behind a gate, but you can still see it from a distance.

A pair of relatively new murals to the neighborhood are of Dizzy Gillespie, the great jazz musician well associated with Harlem during the Harlem Renaissance.

There are a number of other smaller murals throughout Harlem.

Let us show you. Take our daily guided tour or our GPS-led audio tour .

4. Houston B owery Wall

In 1982, legendary artist Keith Haring painted his first iconic large-scale mural on a wall on the corner of Houston St. and Bowery ( map ). 

Back then, that wall and building were privately owned and Haring and the artists who followed his lead had no permission to paint there.

Fortunately, the property was bought by a real estate developer who was also an art aficionado, Tony Goldman. 

In 2008, Goldman brought on well-known curator Jeffrey Deitch to manage the wall (he was then replaced by the owner of a contemporary art gallery, The Hole). 

In the video, you can see a time-lapse of artist Ron English transforming the wall into his unique style of mural art.

English has also contributed to the L.I.S.A. Project which has artwork on walls throughout Little Italy.

Select artists from around the world are invited to bring their unique style to the wall. The wall is repainted by new artists every several months. 

Past murals included works by Shepard Fairey, Kenny Scharf, AIKO, Os Gemeos, and many others.

TIP: This seminal street art wall is included in our pay-what-you-like Manhattan Graffiti and Street Art Tour . Your guide will discuss the history of the wall as well as the current mural on the wall when you visit.

5. The Little Italy Street Art Project (L.I.S.A.)

This non-profit organization brings street artists to the Little Italy neighborhood in Lower Manhattan to paint murals on the walls of participating businesses and residential buildings, mostly along historic Mulberry Street.

There are several important pieces here, though they do change periodically.

Audrey Hepburn Mural

There are so many that we visit Mulberry Street on our Lower Manhattan Street Art Tour .

We also walk past it on our Downtown and NYC in a Day Tours.

Check our schedule .

Find out more about the project on their website:  https://www.lisaprojectnyc.org/ .

6. The Museum of Street Art

This museum is located in the basement of the CitizenM Hotel on the Lower East Side.

It's a family reunion of sorts for the original artists of 5Pointz in Long Island City.

The museum is free of charge but you should make a reservation because it's more a stairwell than a traditional museum and they limit the number of people in it at any time.

The museum is just 1 block away from the start of our Lower Manhattan Street Art Tour , something you could do just before the tour begins.

7. The High Line

This revolutionary park that sits on the remains of an elevated commercial rail line on Manhattan's West Side has a changing contemporary public art program that includes murals.

But it's also the street art that is parked up alongside the High Line that is of interest to the visitor.

Let us show it to you on our walking tours of the High Line  or take along our self-guided walking tour map .

8. First Street Green Art Park

A must-see space located in the East Village is the First Street Green Art Park .

You can find the entrance to the park on the corner of Houston Street and 2nd Ave ( map ). 

This public space supports emerging artists who work in different mediums.

You can see large murals, photography, and art installations.

There are also community and cultural events held there.

TIP: On our pay-what-you-like Manhattan Graffiti and Street Art Tour , a knowledgeable guide leads you to this park and other street art hot spots. 

Along the way, you will learn about the artists whose work you see and about the neighborhoods you pass through on the tour.

Be sure to also check out the East Village .

9. Welling Court Mural Project (WCMP)

A little off-the-beaten-path, but well worth the trip is the WCMP, in Astoria, Queens ( map ).

You can get there easily by subway but you can also take the East River Commuter Ferry ! 

The WCMP is a massive collection of murals meant to beautify the neighborhood and transform how people experience their environment.

The project was launched in 2010 as a way to beautify the neighborhood.

The first mural project had over 40 murals.

Now the WCMP has more than 140 murals by both New York graffiti artists and international artists.!

It is free to visit and open to the public 24/7, all year long. See the WCMP website for more information.

10. DUMBO Walls

The DUMBO Walls project began in 2012.

Eight walls near the York Street subway station were selected as sites for large murals by famed artists like Shepard Fairey, MOMO, Yuko Shimizu, and several more.

Some of these eight sites have the original murals, while others have new ones.

For example, as of 2019, one can still see the original, though somewhat faded Shepard Fairey mural at the corner of York and Jay Street.

Also, some of CAM's huge colorful owls are still visible along York Street between Adams and Pearl Street.

Other walls have had several new murals since the DUMBO Walls were installed, like the corrugated metal wall on Front Street between Adams Street and Pearl Street. 

Street art is temporary in nature.

There may be a specific artist's mural on a wall one year and then the following year a new mural may be painted.

On the positive side, all sorts of art pop up in DUMBO constantly, so be on the lookout for random art in unexpected places! 

Use this map  to find the DUMBO Walls.

Be sure to look at our post on things to do in DUMBO to find out what else to do there.

And if you are wondering how the neighborhood got its name (no, it's not named after Disney's loveable elephant), read our post on What does the acronym DUMBO stand for? "

ADDITIONAL LOCATIONS

11. Coney Island Art Walls in Coney Island .

12. Crack is Wack by Keith Haring at E. 127 St/2 Ave and Harlem River Drive on the Upper East Side .

13. Hammer Boy by Banksy at 233 W 79th St on the Upper West Side .

14. Jean-Michel Basquiat and Andy Warhol by Kobra, at N. 9th St. just east of Bedford Ave in Williamsburg .

15. Big Pun Memorial by Tats Cru at 910 Rogers Place, in the Bronx.

Contributions to this post by Izzy and Mar.

Choose a Destination... I want them all PLUS general travel tips. Amsterdam Berlin Boston Charleston Chicago Dubai Lisbon London Los Angeles Miami Nashville New York City New Orleans Paris Philadelphia Prague Rome San Francisco Washington DC

About The Author

Stephen Pickhardt

North america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

Where to See the Best Street Art in the World

From graffiti to murals to stencils and wheatpasting, street art is everywhere. Here are our favorite underrated cities around the globe with loud and proud street art scenes.

You’re probably aware of the world-famous street art scenes in Brooklyn , London , and Miami , but street art is a global phenomenon. Whether it’s about celebrating one’s heritage or protesting against the government, artists around the world are painting their messages loud and clear on public canvases. Here are some of the best global cities to be dazzled by this radical art form.

Melbourne, Australia

Called the “stencil capital of the world,” Melbourne’s youth have been painting the town since the 1970s, inspired by the New York graffiti scene at the time. The primary neighborhoods to see street art here are in Fitzroy, Collingwood, and the Central Business District (CBD).

There’s Hosier Lane in the CBD with tons of eclectic graffiti competing for wall space, a Keith Haring mural on Johnston Street in Collingwood, AC/DC Lane with artwork of famous musicians, and much more. For a complete hit list, check out the City of Melbourne’s self-guided street art walking tour .

Hidden in the Laneways of Melbourne’s CBD: 5 Bars Worth Searching For  →

Mission District, San Francisco

The nonprofit Precita Eyes has done extensive cataloging of San Francisco’s street art, concentrated in the Mission District. The main hub is on 24th Street between Mission and York Streets. The art here doesn’t stay up forever and is constantly evolving—it’s usually political, celebrating Latinx resistance and making reference to the Mission’s rich history that predates San Francisco itself.

On Clarion Alley, messages of anti-racism and anti-gentrification cover the walls. On this street you’ll also find the Women’s Building —a historic women-led community center—which is the canvas for MaestraPeace (1993).

South Loop and Pilsen, Chicago

In the South Loop neighborhood of Chicago, most murals can be found on Wabash Avenue heading south from the Adams/Wabash L stop. There’s also the large-scale mural Big Walls in South Loop, organized by Columbia College Chicago and Wabash Arts Corridor in 2016. For a full map of South Loop’s murals, visit the WAC’s website .

In Pilsen, you’ll find works about Latinx pride, similar to the murals in San Francisco’s Mission District. A complete list of murals to be discovered in this district can be found on this WTTW neighborhood guide . You’ll notice minimal to no tagging on the murals in Pilsen as the neighborhood respects and celebrates these masterpieces.

Coghlan and Villa Urquiza, Buenos Aires, Argentina

These neighborhoods in Buenos Aires are now largely deserted from the military dictatorship that took place in the 70s and have become the canvases for large-scale murals by big name street artists like Blu , Martin Ron , and El Marian. Check out Hospital Pirovano which is covered in murals on three of its facades.

The organization Buenos Aires Street Art offers walking tours which go toward sponsoring future murals in the city. They have sponsored over 200 murals, including works by Luxor and Alfredo Segatori , and have a brick-and-mortar art gallery as well.

Valparaíso, Chile

Called “Valpo” by locals, the street art movement here developed in resistance to the 17-year-long military rule of Pinochet. Today, all street art is legal in Valparaíso and the government outright promotes it—shops and restaurants are positively plastered in art and murals. The best place to see street art here is Templeman on Cerro Alegre . There’s also the outdoor Open Sky Museum in the Bellavista neighborhood which includes murals, mosaics, and graffiti by Roberto Matta, Mario Carreño, Pure Evil , Inti , Aislap , and the graffiti crew Un Kolor Distinto .

Travel Crush of the Week: Valparaíso, Chile  →

Nairobi, Kenya

Nairobi’s vibrant murals commemorate great human achievements: in the Central Business District on Kenyatta Avenue by the ICEA Building bus stop, find a mural dedicated to marathon world-record holder Eliud Kipchoge. On Haile Selassie Avenue by Muthurwa Market, there’s a memorial mural dedicated to American rapper Nipsey Hussle. Some important names to know in the Nairobi street art scene are Bomb Squad Crew (made up of Bebeto Ochieng, Kenneth Otieno, and Wanyande Musasia), Wisetwo , and Smoki La .

Walk further down Haile Selassie Avenue to discover one of the biggest murals in all of Africa by Viktart Mwangi , painted on the facades of the Exte Coms House . On one facade is a woman carrying the weight of an enormous pineapple on her head; another features a mural of schoolgirls and sprinters; even more walls display large-scale portraits of strong, beautiful Kenyan women.

The Creative’s Local Guide to Nairobi, Kenya  →

George Town, Penang, Malaysia

The capital of Penang, a state within Malaysia, boasts some of the best street art on the Asian continent. Walk through the Core Zone to find street art around practically every corner. One of the most impressive projects was produced by Kuala Lumpur-based art studio Sculptureatwork: Marking George Town , a 52-sculpture installation by local artists celebrating the city’s unique identity.

There are also a handful of murals by Lithuanian-born street artist Ernest Zacharevic that use 3D objects, like Kids On A Bicycle on Armenia Street, Old Motorcycle on Ah Quee Street, and Boy On A Chair on Cannon Street.

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7 Cities to See Powerful Street Art

Graffiti, murals, vandalism—street art takes on various names, but one thing that rings true across the world is the cultural relevance behind these works of art.

Street art is a city's outdoor museum. Not just attractive to look at, it often functions as a gateway into the underlying social, cultural, or political concerns of the setting in which it appears. While it is easy, upon coming across a beautiful work of art on a city’s wall, to simply snap a photo, upload it to Instagram and move on, the best street art merits spending a few moments to think about what it wants to say. Here we take you on a tour of seven of the world’s best cities for seeking street art with a conscience.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Launched in 2010, the Santurce Es Ley street art festival lit a spark in San Juan’s long-neglected Santurce neighborhood, helping to transform it into a major art destination. But the murals that cover buildings here are not mere wallpaper: many take aim at Puerto Rico’s contemporary and historical issues.

This wall of graffiti in Puerto Rico shows Christopher Columbus's arrival on a sea of blood and death.

On the corner of Calles Cerra and Aurora, a mural depicts Columbus’ three ships as they set sail in 1492. Bodies tumble and the sea turns red. By the collective El Basta , it is called Un viaje con más naufragos que navegantes (“A Journey with More Shipwrecked than Sailors”), a phrase taken from Eduardo Galeano’s The Open Veins of Latin America and, El Basta told us, “highly suitable for describing the processes of colonization, exploitation, and plundering that have occurred (since).”

“In 2014 when we made the mural, there was not much street art with political connotations,” they said, “but that has changed.” Continue down Cerra to see more. Despierta Boricua (“Wake Up Puerto Rican”) by Natalia Sanchez is a cry for an agricultural reawakening. “Puerto Rico is continually being stripped of its riches,” she told us, referring to the economic crisis that has forced citizens overseas to seek work. Returning to work the island’s fertile land “is our only hope in creating a self-sustaining and sovereign country.”

Bogotá, Colombia

The continuing reverberations of Colombia’s history inform Bogotá’s politically minded street art—and a recent event influences how it is produced. Following protests over the police's fatal shooting of a teenage artist in 2011, Bogotá largely decriminalized street art, allowing elaborate murals to flourish.

Starting on Carrera 4 and Calle 12, where a vibrant indigenous-themed mural by Guache covers Holofónica music studio’s façade, explore the rambling, art-filled streets of La Candelaria before heading toward El Centro. Where Carrera 4 intersects with Calle 20, find several themes distilled into one large mural. By the stencil collective Toxicómano , in collaboration with DJ Lu , Lesivo , and Guache, it features the faces of homeless people, suggesting a nod to ‘ false positives’ scandal which saw the army lure poor civilians to remote areas with promises of jobs before murdering them, dressing them in rebel uniforms, and presenting them as guerillas. The grenades that litter Colombia's countryside—remnants of the country's decades-long armed conflict—also appear, alongside sacks of money and a miner's helmet, referencing capitalist greed and exploitation of Colombia's natural resources.

Williamsburg, New York

A neighborhood often depicted as the epicenter of cool, Williamsburg inevitably attracts tourists utilizing the art of its streets as selfie backdrops. Look deeper and discover works depicting the diverse faces of humanity that make up the fabric of our cities.

The exiled Iranian duo, Icy and Sot, depict monochromatic children showered in a rainbow of colors.

Start on North 10th and Bedford where a portrait of an Italian-Jamaican boy named Camilo forms part of Jorit Agoch ’s ‘human tribe’ project. Three blocks south on Berry, Lay Your Weapons Down by Faith47 "reflects on the profound nature of connectedness between people.” At TBA Brooklyn on Wythe, the exiled Iranian duo Icy and Sot depict monochromatic children showered in a rainbow of colors. The duo’s work often comments on the restrictions of life in their home country and this piece could be read as a representation of the creative freedom they have found in Brooklyn.

Istanbul, Turkey

“Istanbul is an amalgam of cultures,” local artist Leo Lunatic told us. “Multiculturalism and diversity are engrained in Istanbul's society and worldview. Despite the current political situation in the region and our geopolitical significance, we as artists, choose to remain largely apolitical. Artists will, at most, create something promoting peace, denouncing war or giving a subtle nod to political preference.”

Culturally, Istanbul’s street artists draw heavily from local history. Many “depict Roman or Grecian busts in our artwork, reflecting Istanbul's past and sculptural heritage still found across modern-day Turkey.” Leo himself often incorporates motifs inspired by Ottoman tiles and architectural details, although his signature is a panda, many versions of which float across the city’s walls.

A depiction of a panda with a spray can by artist Leo Lunatic adorns the outside of an old apartment building in the Galata District in Istanbul, Turkey.

A two-story-high panda clutching a spray paint can in each paw looms beneath the Galata Tower in the Karaköy district. From there, continue southeast through the café-filled backstreets, toward the Bosphorus, to find art covering walls and shop shutters, much of it by the artists Mr. Hure , Olihe, and Luckypunch, whose story was recently told in the documentary Revolt Against Gray .

Cairo, Egypt

The Egyptian revolution in 2011 sparked an explosion of politically influenced street art, the likes of which Cairo had never seen before. Stencils, portraits of fallen activists and caricatures of authoritarian figures covered surfaces around Tahrir Square , particularly on Mohammed Mahmoud street where the American University in Cairo (AUC)’s wall was used by activists “ as a newspaper .”

Oppressive crackdowns on protestors have muted the most provocative artwork. The AUC wall was whitewashed and then partly demolished , but some, including a portrait of a young martyr by Ammar Abo Bakr , remain. From the AUC, head about three miles east to the Mansheya Nasir neighborhood, inhabited by many garbage collectors. El Seed honors these workers with a massive mural , which spans 50 buildings and, in Arabic calligraphy, quotes a third-century Coptic bishop: “If one wants to see the light of the sun, he must wipe his eyes.”

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Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok offers visitors the opportunity to see street art from an unusual angle: from the water. Murals created during last year's Bukruk Urban Arts Festival come into view when traveling on the Chao Phraya Express public ferry from Tha Thien Pier to King Taksin Bridge.

A mural by Roa shows two elephants tumbling down a building wall in Bangkok, Thailand.

The city’s landscape and its residents provided artistic inspiration. Cruising by Chinatown, you’ll spot a cluster of bicycles painted by Aryz , who said he used saturated colors to blend in with the environment. Two elephants tumble across the wall opposite, painted by Roa , who always depicts creatures living in the surroundings he paints.

Stavanger, Norway

Every year residents volunteer the walls of their homes and businesses to artists participating in Stavanger’s NuArt street art festival. No one knows what the artists will produce, but all agree to leave the artwork in place for at least a year. Often, the result is a conversation about local issues played out in public space.

Artist Roa depicts a bisected whale spurting blood and oil on a building wall in Stavanger, Norway.

Start in the city center where, behind the Scandic Stavanger City hotel , a black, white, and red painting by Roa depicts a bisected whale spurting blood and oil—one of several that take Norway’s whale hunting tradition, and/or oil dependence, as its theme. Continue east to Storhaug and two 160-foot-high silos come into view. By Fintan Magee , Monument to a Disappearing Monument addresses the slump in global oil prices and its effect on the economy of Stavanger, Norway’s oil capital. The piece depicts an oil worker painted on one silo and his image reflected, breaking into pieces and vanishing, on the other.

Karen Gardiner is a freelance travel and arts writer from Scotland. Find her at her website , Instagram , and Twitter .

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How to Tour the World's Coolest Street Art From Home

Elen Turner 

A highlight for many travelers when visiting urban destinations is appreciating the arts scene, particularly through murals, sculptures, and other public installations that reflect the creative energy of a place. Even when you aren't able to see them in-person, there are various online platforms that allow you to see the world's street art from home through virtual tours or photography, the latter of which is important because what exists today might not survive weather, demolition, or other human interference long-term. Take a look at some of the world's coolest street art right here.

St+art India

 Elen Turner

St+art India is a Delhi-based not-for-profit foundation that creates art projects in public spaces in India. Their goal is to make art accessible and democratic for everyone, making it available beyond the walls of galleries that few Indians visit. The Google Arts & Culture page contains hundreds of photos of their projects, online exhibits, and more, mainly from Delhi and Mumbai.

Sattya Media Arts Collective

Elen Turner

Kathmandu's Sattya Media Arts Collective is a resource center for artists, filmmakers, photographers, activists, and other creatives. In 2013, they created the Kolor Kathmandu project, which brought international and Nepali artists together to liven up the streets of Kathmandu through murals representing the different districts of Nepal. Sattya also has mural tours of Kathmandu. The website provides more information on their work , and links to Kolor Kathmandu's Facebook page, which documents this project and its off-shoots.

Brooklyn Street Art

Elen Turner 

New York City undoubtedly has one of the most vibrant and varied street art scenes in the world, and different neighborhoods have their own character. Brooklyn Street Art documents the street art of, well, Brooklyn, plus other national and international locations. The website includes blog posts, interviews with artists, and other significant arts figures, and an "Images of the Week" section.

Street Art News

Street Art News is an online magazine that includes artist interviews, retrospectives, announcements of launches and events, videos, and galleries of street art from all around the world. More than just pictures, Street Art News provides a wealth of information about contemporary urban art movements.

Street Art Cities

Street Art Cities is a platform for artists, casual tourists, and street art enthusiasts to record, find, and document street art around the world. The website includes an interactive map with pinpoints across 79 countries, but it's the app that's really exciting and user-friendly. New cities are added frequently. Search your chosen city for works of street art, create routes to follow when you eventually make it to that city, and save your favorite works to admire again later.

Street Art 360

Founded by an Edinburgh-based street art enthusiast, Street Art 360 is an online magazine that provides readers with artist biographies, interviews, photos, street art city guides, book reviews, and information on exhibitions, festivals, and related news around the world. A not-for-profit organization, Street Art 360 brings together writers, editors, and artists from around the world, united by their love of street art. The founder runs street art tours of Glasgow, Scotland.

Tourism Penang

Malaysia's second-biggest city, Penang , is famous for its interactive murals and wrought iron sculptures. The historic George Town neighborhood is particularly alive with art, much of which is painted on the side of elegant colonial-era mansions and shops. While you'll need to go there in person to pose with classics like "Kids on a Bicycle" or "Old Motorcycle" by Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic, Tourism Penang produces a downloadable digital guide . The guide includes a map with artworks pinpointed, as well as photos of key pieces and information on some artists.

Turnpike Art Group

London, like New York, is an artistic megacity with more works of street art than can be documented. One group creating and recording an eclectic range of works across the city is the Turnpike Art Group . The group aims to "break down" gallery walls and provide free art experiences to residents and visitors. Their website provides photos of their street-based works, as well as background information on the artists and installations.

I Support Street Art / The Street is Our Gallery

Courtesy of  I Support Street Art

Another one-stop site for information on street art around the world, The Street is Our Gallery is run by organization I Support Street Art. The website contains a database of artist galleries and interviews, and it publishes articles about various street art topics. They also include a page on street art books for further reading, as well as calls for artists to get involved with projects around the world. 

Sibiu International Street Art Festival

Courtesy of  Sibiu International Street ART Festival  

The annual street art festival in the Romanian city of Sibiu is a colorful treat for residents and travelers who happen to be in town at the time, but the festival's website allows online visitors to tour the city, too. The current website shows art and artists from the summer 2019 edition of the festival; click on pins on a map of the city for more information on artworks, and photos. The site is available in English and Romanian.

Watch This Space

Courtesy of  Watch This Space

Watch This Space is a crowd-sourced online map of past and present street art in Christchurch, the largest city in New Zealand's South Island. It includes photos, a blog with street art, and other arts news from Christchurch, and information on street art tours in the city.

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The World’s Best Cities for Street Art

Local and international graffiti artists have helped transform these destinations into open-air exhibitions of urban creativity..

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Photo by EQRoy/Shutterstock

Some people believe graffiti art is vandalism. Others think it adds to a city’s unique character. Prominent street artists like Banksy and Keith Haring have shown that public art isn’t just a form of creative expression—it can also prompt necessary conversations surrounding important issues such as immigration laws and human rights. While it’s still illegal in most places to post graffiti without a property owner’s permission, these 15 cities display vibrant street art scenes that tend to be championed rather than opposed.

Photo by sunsinger/Shutterstock

Buenos Aires The streets of Buenos Aires are adorned with massive murals and charismatic stencils made by both international and local artists. Throughout barrios (neighborhoods) such as Palermo, Villa Crespo, San Telmo, and Colegiales, various urban artworks convey everything from political messages to lighthearted scenes. To learn how the city’s history is connected to its amazing street art movement, book a walking tour with the nonprofit urban arts organization Graffiti Mundo .

Photo by Boyloso/Shutterstock

Melbourne Australia’s second largest city is internationally known for its labyrinth of colorful “graffiti laneways,” as they’re referred to locally. Street artists from around the world have left their marks on Melbourne ’s most famous passageways, including Hosier Lane, Union Lane, ACDC Lane, and Croft Alley. To see the city’s best spray-painted art, tour downtown’s Central Business District or the trendy Fitzroy neighborhood with Melbourne Street Tours , the only group in Melbourne that hires practicing street artists as guides.

Photo by Dennis van de Water/Shutterstock

Lisbon Previous public-art initiatives like the Crono Project and Galeria de Arte Urbana have made various spaces across Lisbon available for street artists to adorn, from building walls to recycling bins. The Lisbon-based Underdogs Art Gallery leads guided tours around the coastal city, presenting a variety of significant murals and explaining the stories behind them.

Photo by carol.anne/Shutterstock

Berlin Berlin brims with street art far beyond the graffiti-covered remains of the Berlin Wall. During the Cold War, the wall became a target for politically motivated art, as did abandoned buildings across the German city. Today, symbolic street art decorates facades in hip neighborhoods near the East Side Gallery (a remaining stretch of the wall) such as Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain.

Montreal Each June, Montreal plays host to the 11-day Mural Festival , a lively event that attracts prominent street artists in celebration of the international urban art movement. But the local arts community in this Canadian city produces public works throughout the year (even during the winter cold). Take a self-led stroll down Saint-Laurent Boulevard to catch some of Montreal’s best outdoor art displays.

Photo by Sarah Buder

Valparaíso In, Valparaíso, Chile , street art is not only legal—it can also be found around practically every corner. For an overview of the city’s celebrated urban art scene, go on a free tour with Valpo Street Art Tours or simply wander the cerros (hills). There are 42 barrios to explore across the city, most notably the bohemian neighborhoods of Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción.

Photo by Leonard Zhukovsky/Shutterstock

New York City Street art first gained prominence in New York City in the early 1980s. Since then, visual artists from across the globe have flocked here to spray paint their masterpieces on the walls of the concrete jungle. You can see pop art stencils, street installations, and massive wall murals across all five boroughs, from Keith Haring’s iconic “Crack is Wack” mural in Harlem to Brooklyn displays by members of the Bushwick Collective.

Paris Paris doesn’t just embrace art within the city’s galleries and museums; murals also flourish on the walls that line its streets. The French capital is home to pieces made by many international muralists, among them Bristol-born Banksy, the elusive artist who took his message on refugee migration to the streets of Paris in June 2018. From Oberkampf to Belleville to the 13th arrondissement, street art has become a familiar part of the beloved City of Lights that can be explored on an artist-led walking tour with Street Art Tour Paris .

Bogotá For grafiteros in Bogotá, street art provides an outlet for creative commentary on Colombia’s somewhat prickly political past. In the capital’s downtown area, Avenida Caracas and Carrera 10 are great spots to see large mural walls. In La Candelaria, the most historical part of the city, street art is displayed on hostels, storefronts, and cultural institutes. Bogotá Graffiti leads donation-based tours around the city daily and also offers workshops for those interested in mastering the art of aerosol.

Photo by Photo Oz/Shutterstock

Istanbul Most travelers visit Istanbul to see landmarks decorated with delicate Byzantine mosaics and traditional Iznik tiles . But in recent years, the city’s street art culture has grown considerably, with modern neighborhoods such as Kadıköy becoming epicenters for this mode of artistic expression. Download Street Art Istanbul for a self-guided tour of Istanbul’s street art; the free iOS and Android app provides locations for the city’s most prominent pieces as well as information about the artists.

Courtesy of Anima Tours

Cape Town In Cape Town , street art evolved as a form of social and political commentary—largely in reaction to outrage over oppressive South African laws during apartheid. Today, some of the best displays from local and international artists are visible in areas such as Woodstock, District Six, and the Central Business District. Travelers can explore Cape Town’s graffiti scene on an Anima Tours walking journey, which focuses on public art that doubles as activism.

Photo by anderm/Shutterstock

Los Angeles Street art in Los Angeles is famed for a distinctive calligraphy that evolved from a style first used in Latino gang tags. Although graffiti is illegal in the City of Angels, you’d never guess it from the look of downtown’s Arts District. Most buildings in this former industrial area are covered in massive murals and tags that can be viewed on a guided trip with LA Art Tours .

Photo by Will Rodrigues/Shutterstock

São Paulo For a street art–centric experience in São Paolo, head to Vila Madalena, a trendy neighborhood filled with restaurants, bars, and murals galore. “Beco do Batman,” or Batman Alley, is a popular destination for art-lovers thanks to its dense concentration of colorful graffiti works. Another optimal spot for São Paolo street art is the Cambuci neighborhood, where two of Brazil’s most famous street artists, Gustavo and Otavio Pandolfo, were born.

Photo by Patricia López

Mexico City Walk around Mexico City and you’ll see a plethora of painted murals and colorful walls plastered with poetry, political messages, and traditional imagery. Some of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods for street art are Juárez, Roma, and Condesa. Take a private, graffiti artist–led tour with Style Walk Mexico .

Photo by AC Manley/Shutterstock

London London’s world-renowned street art scene is most prevalent in neighborhoods such as Shoreditch, Brick Lane, and Hackney, where spray-painted walls exist among Michelin-starred restaurants and high-end boutiques. For a look at Shoreditch’s best street art, book a wander with Shoreditch Street Art Tours . You can also admire unique pieces of street art around North London in Camden or the Leake Street Tunnel near Waterloo.

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A 9-stop walking guide to Mexico City’s incredible street art

Here's your guide to some of the best street art in mexico city.

Massive kaleidoscopic murals, strange statues, and architecture ranging from the magnificent to the outright bizarre — a walk through Mexico City is an artistic endeavor that will take you past it all. CDMX has long stood among the great art cities of the world, and lately it’s been gaining a reputation as one of the greatest. While much of this notoriety is derived from its abundant, excellent museums — not to mention the fact that it produced the inimitable Frida Kahlo — Mexico City offers a wealth of outstanding art opportunities in its very streets.

• Parque Mexico and Parque España

El Angel de la Independencia

Cocodrilo de leonora carrington, jardin del arte sullivan, monumento a la revolucion, bellas artes, calle violeta, el autentico pato manila.

I’ve come to know it well, having spent several years living across several different districts. If you’re looking for things to do in Mexico City, take a look at a smattering of street art suggestions that can be experienced over the course of an afternoon of walking. I suggest heading out in the morning — by 11:00 a.m. at the latest. Be sure to bring along a water bottle  because you will be walking through Mexico City’s ample sunshine. Mexico has a lot of incredible cities to experience, but there’s no place like CDMX.

Parque Mexico and Parque España

Start in Condesa. You’re most likely already staying in or perhaps near this trendy colonia , which is known for its numerous restaurants, cafes, galleries, and shops, many of which are located in direct proximity of Parque Mexico at the heart of the neighborhood. Walk the path that circles the park along Avenida Amsterdam, grab a coffee or juice at one of the many drink options, then make your way through the dual parks Mexico and España. Here you’ll find several impressive murals, a dog park, an “audiorama” park for silent reading, and a massive bust of Albert Einstein.

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Next, you have a 30-minute walk north to the Angel of Independence, which stands over the center of one of the main traffic circles along Reforma, the city’s central boulevard. This segment is no small jaunt, but you’ll be walking through a charming neighborhood with plenty of random smaller pieces of art scattered about. If you get hungry for breakfast or lunch along the way, stop at Ventanita Café on the Cibeles Plaza for the former or, for the latter, one of the many taco joints just north of Avenida Chapultepec.

Follow Reforma northeast to the statues by the famed surrealist Leonora Carrington. Her enormous Crocodile is the most recognizable and is one of the most iconic works of art in Mexico City. Along the way, you’ll be surrounded by Mexico City’s largest skyscrapers, some of which are impressively weird. This is one of the city’s busiest streets, so there are plenty of street vendors offering handicrafts and other wares to browse.

Artists sell their art in this park throughout the week, but it’s got the most to offer on the weekends. Here you can buy a wide range of paintings, handicrafts, jewelry, and so on. If you do happen to visit over the weekend, be sure to walk through the adjacent street market, Tianguis Artesanal Sullivan , where you’ll find plenty of tasty things to eat. If you’re there on a Sunday, have any barbacoa you see and thank me later.

Now you’ll zag back to continue up Reforma — passing some random art along the way — and continue up to Monument to the Revolution. Some call it unique; others call it strange. I say it’s both. Towering at the center of the park that bears its name, the monument offers a massively weird combination of architectural styles. Along the sides of the plaza you’ll find many little bars and cafes that are great options for cooling off with a drink.

Head due east to a large park on the other side of Reforma. This is Bellas Artes, a bustling area with many statues, murals, and the golden-domed Palacio de Bellas Artes standing at its center. You’ve been walking for a couple of hours at this point, so it’s not a bad idea to step inside the palace and check out some of the enormous murals on display, including a number from Diego Rivera, the famed husband of Frida Kahlo.

Jaunt a few blocks north to Violeta, a tiny neighborhood where all the buildings are painted a uniform color of violet. It’s a uniquely picturesque little stretch of the city. You will perhaps notice that there is a heavy police presence here. That’s because Violeta has a rather checkered past with regard to crime. These days it’s pretty safe, though it is wise to visit during the daytime and remain aware of your surroundings. Bonus points for spotting the handful of businesses that openly advertise their cartel affiliations.

Guerreo is another historically troubled (though recently less so) neighborhood just north of Violeta. The central street offers some of the most glorious murals you’ll find anywhere in the world. It does get rather sketchy after dark — especially if you wander off the main avenue — but during the daytime, the murals are a must-see. While the sun is up, feel free to peruse and take photographs . The owners of businesses with some of the more elaborate artworks are more than happy to talk with you about the significance of the displays.

At this point, you’ve wandered across a significant portion of the city proper, so you’re probably tired, hungry, and ready to head back toward your starting point. I’m presuming that you’re staying in Condesa or Roma, so now it’s time to jump in a taxi and zip back to the origin and eat. El Autentico Pato Manila, which has locations in both of these adjacent neighborhoods, offers artistry of flavors representative of your art-filled day. To put that another way, its food is damn good. The menu is concise — duck tacos, duck tortas, duck spring rolls, or duck wantons — but everything on it is extraordinary.

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There are plenty of hotels in Mexico City, but only one gives off vibes like it’s where Batman stays when he visits town: Umbral Hotel, in the city’s Zocalo district. That may seem like a very specific description, but it’s apt, for – whether intentional or not – Umbral has a decidedly gothy style that lends it one of my favorite aesthetics I’ve seen at any hotel anywhere.

Gothy yet luxurious: just my type.

It's a great time to do some foodie travel. There are more culinary travel destinations than ever thanks to a combination of technology, expertise, and regionality. Even the United States, a relatively young nation by global standards, is flexing its gastronomical might nowadays.

Back in 2004, the UNESCO City of Gastronomy designation was born. It continues today, honoring cities all over the planet with unique qualifications. There are 49 cities and counting, including two American cities. The first city to receive the honor was Popayán, Colombia in 2005. Several more will join the list before the end of 2022.

After perusing some world’s best art hotels, we move our focus back home. From the East Coast to the West Coast, there are some incredible places to not only lay your head, but also feast your eyes on stunning artwork in fine stays across these states.

Come with The Manual on a tour from a new exhibit at New York’s Barclay, to the Midwest and South in Cincinnati and Nashville, across the Rockies in Denver, and down into Los Angeles for some of the best art hotels in the United States.

Lauren Williams | 02 September 2011

9 of the best places to see street art around the world.

The world's walls are covered in graffiti and art, for so many different reasons. We've rounded up where to see the best, coolest and most popular of the lot...

1. São Paulo, Brazil

Batman's Alley

If you happen to look at Beco do Batman on Google Maps, it will look no different to the hundreds of winding alley's that surround São Paulo's blocks. However, this 100 metre long alleyway is covered from top to bottom in colourful, abstract, psychedelic and obscure street art. Batman's Alley could be seen more as an open-air art gallery rather than a short cut between blocks.

Much of the art produced is by those associated with one of São Paulo’s many urban intervention schemes, but the Beco do Batman also attracts sprayers and stencilers from all over the world. With its layers upon layers of paint, Beco do Batman is constantly changing and will surprise you every time you take a stroll between its vibrant walls.

2. Philadelphia, USA

A Love Letter for You

For a feel-good afternoon, hop on the Market-Frankford Elevated line in Philadelphia and keep your eyes fixed on the passing walls. Steve Powers' Love Letter for You project is spread across 50 walls on a 20 block stretch of Market Street. Carefully painted declarations of love and affection – See me how I see you, BEAUTIFUL – stand out in brightly coloured pictures and words.

The Love Letters were originally written for one, with the intention of meaning something to everyone. On Valentine's Day, couples can take a trip on the Love Train.

Go to aloveletterforyou.com for advice on how best to see the murals.

3. Bristol, UK

See no Evil

Better known as the home of Banksy, Bristol has recently hosted the international art project, See no Evil . The project, which was completed over three days at the end of August, aimed to celebrate Bristol's urban art and music scene. Nelson Street, in the heart of the south-west city, is now home to some of the world's largest scale paintings.

The event was dubbed as “Europe's most ambitious permanent art project” – multi-storey buildings have been covered in colour by top graffiti artists from all over the world.

Some of Banksy's most famous pieces can be found on Bristol's streets, Well Hung can be seen when shopping on Park Street, while The Sniper hides above a shop on Upper Maudlin Street.

A full Banksy walking tour can be found here: Bristol Banksy Tour.

4. Berlin, Germany

Berlin Wall

Berlin's East Side Gallery on the Berlin Wall is probably the city's most famous area of street art. This 1.3km stretch of the wall was let loose to street artists when it was torn down in 1989.

This section is currently under renovation, with famous murals being retouched and scrawls of 'I woz ere' being covered. Don't forget to look on the other side of the remains of the wall too.

The walls all around the city are also covered in art, from professional to amateur and political to pretty. There are whole houses covered in brightly coloured, cartoon-like paintings and political stencils can be found dotted around every corner.

The city has been described as “the graffiti Mecca of the urban art world.”

5. Rio de Janerio, Brazil

Morro da Providencia

The 'Women are Heroes' project in Rio shows the faces of women emblazoned across one of Brazil's most dangerous shanty towns. The images of dark eyes and tired faces are pasted on the front of houses in the favela. The impressive size of the images ensures that the women's watchful presence is felt in the street.

Photographer JR has also taken the project, which aims to raise awareness of the hardships women face across the globe, to Sudan, Sierra Leone and Kenya, as well as a host of other cities and countries yet to be under the watchful eye of women scorned.

6. Bethlehem, Palestine

West Bank Wall

Along a wall that functions as a cultural as well as physical barrier, art speaks louder than concrete. Banksy's project, Santa's Ghetto, saw several famous artists cover the blank walls in murals – the girl frisking a soldier being the most memorable.

A series of portraits, called Face2Face , line a part of the wall, where portraits of Israelis and Palestinians, who do the same jobs as each other, are posted up side by side on the wall. Silhouetted images of shepherds and animals can be found along the wall, as well as insects pushing over dominoes and political slogans.

Phrases of protest such as 'This wall will fall ', ' to exist is to resist ' and ' love each other ' also colour much of the barrier. The wall is covered in creativity and beauty – the pictures, paintings and murals that are on show all have one meaning: 'build bridges not walls'.

7. London, UK

Miniature scenes

London street art tends to be loud and crude, but these little gems are worth looking for. Pablo Delgado’s miniature street scenes live lives by our ankles on London's pavements. From families camping to prostitutes sprawling their legs, tiny images have big personalities down on the ground.

Look out for shadows painted across the pavement – they'll lead you to the bigger picture. Delgado's images can mostly by found around Brick Lane, Hackney Road and Arnold Circus.

London's East End is also home to many Stik Men , while the brightly coloured Invader has indeed, invaded London's streets as well as most cities around the world. Realistic scenes, black and white animals and installations of mushrooms and gremlin-like creatures also live on London's vibrant walls.

8. New York City, USA

There is no one place in the Big Apple where street art is better or more intriguing than in any other part of the city. Walk along any street and you'll come across pixelated water taps, whole buildings covered in political images and art designed to cross social bridges – place your hand here, have a stranger place theirs here. Remove when no longer strangers.

For the urban explorers out there, the Underbelly Project is hidden in an abandoned metro station deep underground. The location of the apocalyptic art has not been revealed by artists or journalists, but promises to be a place worthy of stumbling across.

Make sure you keep your eyes peeled for colourful portraits, adapted Walk, Don't Walk signs, and over 100 diary entries painted around the city.

9. Worldwide

Little people

The Little People project ( abandoning little people on the streets since 2006 ), can be found in cities across the world. Little, remodelled train set characters are left on the street in certain places, in certain situations, for only the eagle-eyed to spot.

The scenes are said to reflect the loneliness and melancholy of living in a big city, almost being lost and overwhelmed. However, scenes such as The Last Resort, where a couple in swim-where sit on a tennis ball (with a plastic palm tree attached) in the middle of a puddle, will always bring smiles to people's faces.

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An aerophobic's guide to traveling the world, 22 street art cities to visit in 2022.

Beaches , skylines, food, culture and art, especially street art – there are so many things to explore in a new city. I fell in love with street art after visiting Dubai and it made me wonder where else in the world I can admire beautiful murals.

So I asked the travel blogger community to share their favorite street art cities – here are their top picks (in no particular order):

1. CHIANG MAI, THAILAND

by Natasha from Meldrums On The Move

Chiang Mai is a place we have fallen in love with since our first visit in 2016. In 2017 we decided to stay there for almost six weeks. We mostly stayed in the Old City and spend numerous hours just walking around enjoying the sites and culture. This is when we noticed a number of different street art drawings. One particular favourite was the dogs painting near a shelter. You can find it too if you simply get lost in the north of the Old City of Chiang Mai.

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2. CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

by Claudia from My Adventures Across the World

Cape Town , the incredible Mother City of South Africa, is one of the best cities in the world for street art. The murals can be found just about anywhere. One of the most beautiful pieces is on Shortmarket Street, in the CBD district (a perfect starting point to appreciate street art in the city). This is not far from Bo-Kaap, one of the most charming neighborhoods of Cape Town.

It’s by Falko Starr, who many consider to be Cape Town’s Banksy. Starr believes street art is a form of self-expression, but also a social and political statement, especially in the time of apartheid.

Another part of Cape Town to find impressive pieces of street art is Woodstock. This is a neighborhood where the narrow alleys hide beautiful works of art portraying superheroes, beautiful wildlife, and even political statements. A particularly popular one is that of the Rothschild giraffe, representing a type of giraffe that is most endangered. It’s a reminder of how fragile the beautiful wildlife of Africa is.

District Six is another part of town where there are lots of beautiful murals. The most famous one represents Nelson Mandela, the late former South Africa president. It can be seen on the corner of Canterbury and Constitution Street.

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3. REYKJAVIK, ICELAND

by Becky from  Becky The Traveller

Visiting Reykjavik in Iceland I didn’t have too many expectations about what I would see and do, as a lot of photos of Iceland are stunning landscapes and waterfalls. But Reykjavik was beautiful and finding the colorful street art scattered around the city was a real treat.

Iceland, in general, is known as being an expensive place to travel to. If you’re looking for some   free things to things to do in Reykjavik ,   then spotting the city’s awesome street art is the perfect activity.  Most of the street art I saw was brightly coloured and firewalls or large warehouse buildings. There was a mix of differently sized murals but most of the art was quite easy to spot if you just wandered around the city. 

If you have some free time on your Iceland trip then Reykjavik is definitely worth a visit to enjoy the art around the city and of course, take lots of pretty photos!

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4. MONTPELLIER, FRANCE

by Brie-Anne

From the Space Invader to the monsieur BMX, Montpellier has it all and more. Famed for being one of the most popular student towns in France, this incredible city is home to a plethora of amazing street art. Montpellier is understated beauty in all forms. It’s not as well-known as its south coast acquaintances Nice, Marseilles and Perpignan because it’s really not a large tourist destination – which makes exploring easy. And if you’re into street art, you have a lot of exploring to do.

From the Montpellier tourist office, you can actually book a street art tour which will take you around the city and show you some of the most popular displays. However, if you want to go it alone, these are some of the most notable works of art to look for:

Space Invaders:  You can explore the city based on the world-famous Space Invaders work. And if you mark it on a map, it will form a giant space invader!

Monsieur BMX:  Mr BMX’s work is all around the city. You can’t miss these half bikes stuck on walls throughout the town. He started in Montpellier but has since added his signature BMX to cities like Paris, Brussels and New York.

Trompe-l’oeil:  This is an art technique to create optical illusions and is what creates my favorite mural in Montpellier. There are quite a few paintings in this style throughout the city, and the whole of France in fact, but my favorite is the one at La Place Edouard Adam (pictured).

The Cradle:  Located in the Verdanson area of Montpellier. The “cradle” of graffiti and street art is where professional and amateur street artists come together and add artwork and tags. It’s almost like an open-air museum of street art through the ages.

Colourful Facades : To add some flavor to some of the city’s gloomier neighborhoods giant vivid drawings have been painted on the side of buildings – they’re impossible to miss and make the dullest of buildings look beautiful.

Old City Streets : You’ll see so many small (and large) murals throughout the old streets of the city center that you’ll find it hard to believe that it’s still illegal in France!

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5. AUSTIN, UNITED STATES

by Gemma from Two Scots Abroad

Austin is one of the USA’s coolest and hippest cities. Not only is it popular for music events and food, but it is also renowned for its street art. In fact, Austin’s street art is so popular, you’ve probably seen some of it – like the “You’re My Butter Half” mural or the “I Love You So Much Wall”.

Like all great street art, there is usually a story behind the spray. The “I Love You So Much Wall” was apparently a message from the ex of the shop owner where the message is sprayed. An “I Hate You So Much” message also appeared in Austin later!

Castle Hill is a great area in Austin for graffiti fans as artists have a canvas to play on. Even if you’ve been before it is worth a second visit as the work changes frequently. We love Austin so much we eloped there and got our wedding shots next to the street art. You can read more about our  Austin tips here .

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6. MIAMI, UNITED STATES

by Talek from Travels With Talek

The neighborhood of Wynwood, a few blocks north of downtown Miami , used to be a neglected area. Over the past decade, however, it has become a mecca for artists who have begun turning this previously decaying neighborhood into a vibrant and interesting community. One of the aspects that have made this a cool enclave is the street art you find throughout the neighborhood. The streets’ walls are covered in spectacular art, both conventional and surreal.

People flock to Wynwood to see street art, enjoy a meal or drinks at one of the many new trendy cafes or just stroll. Weekends are the “happening” days but, in Wynwood, every second Saturday is extra special. That’s when visitors looking for culture, fun and food take to the streets to enjoy a night out and everything the Wynwood art scene offers during Art Walk. This event starts at 6:00 pm and goes on through the night. This iconic monthly art event features openings at art galleries, restaurants and retail businesses turning the entire area into one big block party

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7. BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA

by Chris from Amateur Travel

I highly recommend Buenos Aires as a city with great street art. Graffiti is all over the city. Some of the graffiti is artistic to my eye and some of it is not. I did a tour of  Buenos Aires Street Art/Graffiti  to find the best locations and to learn some of the history of street art in Argentina. Street art is particularly prevalent in the barrios of Colegiales, Chacarita, Villa Crespo and Palermo.

Political parties have used graffiti for years but it wasn’t until the country threw off its dictatorship that graffiti was legalized for the people of Buenos Aires, therefore the art in the area often has a political message to it. It was middle class kids who could afford spray paint who started with graffiti. This mural under a highway overpass, for example, is a commentary on soccer thugs and their animal like behavior. Locals would recognize the different soccer teams’ fans pictured here while tourists might not even get the soccer reference without a good guide to explain it to them.

Many of the works you will see are giant murals which in some cases span entire city blocks. There are also sanctioned projects repainting the underside of some highway overpasses.

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8. BELGRADE, SERBIA

by Nate from Travel Lemming

Belgrade may not be at the top of your list of best street art cities, but it should be! The capital of Serbia sports a thriving community of street artists. And the city’s mixture of architecture makes for the perfect canvas for their creations. Best of all, it’s possible to tour the streets of Belgrade with the street artists themselves!

Street Up tours, launched just a year ago, connects artists with visitors for a unique way to experience the street art in the city. You’ll be led through the city by a local street artist, who will provide context on the murals and help you find hidden art that you didn’t even know was around the corner!

Be sure to check out the vibrant Savamala district for incredible stencils and murals. Or wander the Dorcol neighborhood to check out the city’s bohemian quarter. Whether taking a tour or just exploring on your own, you’re sure to agree that Belgrade is one of Europe’s best street art cities!

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9. LISBON, PORTUGAL

by Christa from Expedition Wildlife

The beautiful waterside city of Lisbon, Portugal has become a mecca for artists and street art aficionados. Walking the narrow, cobblestoned streets you’ll see all varieties of art, such as portraits, scenes of landscapes or city life, small art installations, black and white pieces to those all colors of the rainbow, and more.

The neighborhoods on the central and eastern parts of the city have a high concentration of street art which goes on for many blocks, from Bairro Alto over to Alfama, São Vicente, and Graça, and a range of eclectic artwork and masterpieces can be found just roaming about. In the evenings, you’ll hear the soulful tunes of Fado music drifting down alleyways in the Alfama district, further immersing visitors in Lisbon’s feel and culture. Don’t miss getting a fresh custard pastel de nata at Pastelaria Alfama Doce or delicious food and wine at Chapito a Mesa while exploring Alfama’s old castle district.

The funky and hip western side of the city, near the must-see LX Factory, also has a great street art scene as well as an array of artists displaying their works in studios and stalls. Lisbon Street Art Tours ( www.lisbonstreetarttours.com ) offers a variety of tours in English, French, and Portuguese to explore the city’s street art scene and learn more about its history.

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10. NOLSOY, FAROE ISLANDS

Nólsoy is a small, unique island in the Faroe Islands most well-known for its classification as an Important Bird Area by BirdLife International, especially for hosting one of the largest colonies of European Storm Petrel in the world. A little-known secret, however, on this small island is the art murals found on the old wooden doors of boat houses that line the docks leading out to the great Atlantic Ocean.

Though there are only about 10 murals in total, they speak of the relationship that residents of Nólsoy and the Faroes have with nature and the sea, which is essential to their livelihoods and cultural identity. One story in particular tells of the Seal Woman, or Selkie, a legendary mythical creature that can shed her seal skin to walk amongst humans on land. The centuries long history of the Faroese people coupled with the magical scenery, including moss-hewn cliffs and grass-rooved houses set against the roiling sea, make these art pieces that much more special.

Take the opportunity to hop on the last ferry of the day over to Nólsoy from the capital town of Torshavn, and explore these beautiful pieces of art before grabbing dinner and a room at the Kaffistovan í Nólsoy. In summertime, the Kaffistovan can also arrange for you to hike to the bird colonies at night with their experienced, local guide – you won’t want to miss seeing and hearing thousands of birds go in and out of their burrows in the midnight twilight!

11. VALPARAISO, CHILE

by Alya & Campbell from Stingy Nomads

The beautiful coastal city of Valparaiso is considered to be an art capital of Chile. The city, squeezed between the sea and the mountains with its narrow streets on different levels, turn all of a sudden and end with a steep and long staircase heading somewhere into the skies. Not surprisingly street art here is something very special and perfectly fits its environment.

There are three main barrios (neighborhoods) in Valparaiso to see street art: Cerro Concepcion, Cerro Bella Vista and La Sebastiana. The murals are impressive, even some famous Chilean and Latin American artists contributed to it. Some of the most interesting murals can be seen in the Open Air Museum (Museo a Cielo Abierto). The museum is located in the Bella Vista neighborhood and opened in 1992. It consists of more than 20 murals painted on the walls and houses. Some of the artists behind the wall paintings are Roberto Matta, Garcia Barrios, Mario Toral and Eduardo Perez. The museum has no entrance fee and can be visited any time. Of course, famous artists are not the only street art creators in Valparaiso – there are many works by students and unknown streets artists.

Besides murals, another typical way of decorating the streets in Valparaiso is mosaic. Stairs and houses are covered in images and ornaments made from small pieces of colored glass and stones. The most impressive art stairs (Escaleras) are the Sunflower, the Piano, and Escalera Pasaje Galvez. You can spend hours walking around these neighborhoods and discovering street art murals, sculpture, and painted cars.

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12. COPENHAGEN, DENMARK

by Allison from Eternal Arrival

If you’re looking for an interesting street art city, you shouldn’t overlook Copenhagen, Denmark. This trendy Danish capital is well-known for its Scandinavian design and adorable canals, but there’s so much more to Copenhagen than just that. A tour of the city’s street art is a highlight of any  Copenhagen itinerary .

The best place to find street art in Copenhagen is in the neighborhood of Freetown Christiania, a self-governing entity within Copenhagen’s city center. Christiania has a reputation for its lenient attitude towards soft drugs such as marijuana, but it really should be better known for its street art. This neighborhood in the borough of Christianshavn is full of murals by local artists, including the famous “Christiania tree” at one of the main entrances to Christiania.

You can also find murals lining skate parks, abandoned buildings, and walls throughout this former industrial area that has been taken over by artists and anarchists. The art has a variety of artists and messages, but most are pacifist or humorous in nature. In addition to Christiania, you can also find street art in Nørrebro and Westend in Vesterbro, as well as along the street Rentemestervej which is home to eight massive murals.

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13. TORONTO, CANADA

by Stephanie from The World As I See It

One of my favorite cities for street art is Toronto , Canada. Street art can tell a lot about a city. Toronto is one of the most multi-cultural cities in the world and Toronto’s street art beautifully reflects the culture, like Chinese dragons in Chinatown.

One of the most popular spots to see Toronto’s street art is Graffiti Alley. It’s easy to find – it’s even on Google Maps! Graffiti Alley is a one kilometer laneway south of Queen Street West. While the street art here is ever changing, some pieces are staples – like one of my favorites, which is a huge building entirely covered in underwater scenes. Everything from fun fish to sharks, all in a wonderful orange glow.

Another great spot for street art in Toronto is Underpass Park. You certainly won’t see as many people in this lesser known gem. It isn’t your traditional park with grass and trees but this urban park is a perfect city park. Home to basketball courts, a jungle gym, skateboard ramps, and some incredible and vibrant street art.

While there is an array of hotspots in Toronto to find street art, it can really be found everywhere across the city. From giant murals spanning towering buildings to alleyways full of colorful graffiti – Toronto is one of the top cities for street art.

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14. LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES

by Kaila from NomList

It’s not uncommon for outsiders to associate the city of Los Angeles with sunny beaches, blue skies, palm trees, movie stars, celebrities, and the like. Something that is less known, but no less inspiring, is the presence of amazing street art. All across the city are public art ranging from paintings and murals to unique sculptures. In at least one instance, even an old motel was white-washed to transform it into an expression of art.

Another unconventional work of art is located at 5905 Wilshire Boulevard. Consisting of 202 closely spaced and solar-powered cast-iron street lamps, this spectacle powers on at night to create a breath-taking view. These attractions are due to the creativity and skills of many unknown and anonymous artists that take to the streets.

However, there are a few who have made a name for themselves. One such artist is Shepard Fairey, whose best-known piece is a poster created during the 2008 Obama “Hope” Presidential Campaign. Another artist that is popular, but known only by his pseudonym, goes by “WRDSMTH”. His work is characterized by memorable and inspirational quotes featured with simple, but well-depicted artwork. For art lovers or curious travelers alike, Los Angeles street art is a must-see.

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15. VALENCIA, SPAIN

by Teresa from Brogan Abroad

Valencia is in my opinion the most exciting city in Spain. Some even call it “the new Barcelona” but without the crowds. There’s been a lot of regeneration in the city, hipster areas and businesses are sprouting out everywhere and the art and cultural scene is booming. This also includes the increased popularity of street art in Valencia. Most of the art is located in certain neighborhoods, although it can be found everywhere in the city.

Street art tours have become one of the most  exciting things to do in Valencia . They take you through the neighborhoods of El Carmen and Cabanyal in particular, which have become a bit of a mecca for street art lovers. What I love about it is that there is a very active community of local street artists, and as you explore the pieces of art through the narrow streets, you will start recognizing their styles. You will find the ubiquitous and cheeky David de Limón popping up where you least expect it, and the creativity and talent of artists such as Deih, Escif, and La Nena Wapa Wapa is simply stunning.

But it’s not just the local artists who are active in this community – you will also find great pieces by international artists such as Tona, Disneylexya, and Atila_the1. A feast for the eyes of street art lovers!

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16. PENANG, MALAYSIA

by Sarah from A Social Nomad

George Town, Penang is my favorite city for street art. The art you’ll find here is a true celebration of the multi-cultural aspects of the city and gives a great insight into the city’s history. George Town has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2007 along with Melaka and there’s no better way of exploring the heritage than by taking a walk around the street art installations. And there are lots here.

Sculpture at Work has since 2009 installed 52 unique but humorous metalwork illustrations of the history of the city attached to its walls. Here you’ll find details of famous shoe designer Jimmy Choo and amusing digs at backpacker’s looking for cheap lodgings.

Ernest Zacharevic was commissioned to paint a few murals in 2012 – and other artists have since contributed.  These pieces of art combine paint and materials to create an interactive approach that is extremely popular and good fun to see.

The installations are spread throughout George Town and the city provides a map and a walking route to see the major installations. It’s a great way to see the city and explore the streets, and the artwork is both stunning and humorous.

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17. IPOH, MALAYSIA

by Emily from Wander-lush

Ipoh , the capital of Malaysia’s Perak state, is located about three hours by train from Kuala Lumpur. The city has long been lauded as a top destination for foodies — but what many people don’t realize is that Ipoh has an excellent street art scene, too.

Like nearby Georgetown, Ipoh is characterized by its heritage architecture, laneways and gentrified cafe districts — the perfect canvas for murals. A few years ago, local business Old Town Coffee brought Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic (the same artist behind some of Penang’s most famous murals) to Ipoh to create eight large-scale paintings in the Old Town area. Zacharevic’s imagery is inspired by local heritage, and depicts white coffee (for which Ipoh is famous), the city’s mining heritage, and other themes. They can be visited as part of the “Ipoh Mural Art Trail”.

There are lots of other murals dotted around the Old Town, hidden behind shop houses and down alleyways. But my favorite Ipoh street art is located over the river in the new part of town. Mural Arts Lane is a network of narrow lanes covered from footpath to rooftop with dozens and dozens of artworks. Most are by local artists (including Eric Lai, an art teacher), and many have been created in partnership with community groups and schools.

Ipoh is still relatively off the tourist radar, meaning you certainly won’t have to queue to photograph the street art like you so often have to in Penang. Paired with an amazing food scene, off-beat architecture and its close proximity to Cameron Highlands, Ipoh’s street art makes it a must-visit destination in Malaysia.

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18. SINGAPORE

by Andra from Our World To Wander

I am not a huge fan of cities, but when it comes to Singapore , it’s difficult not to fall in love with it. And given that the city is such a majestic one, the best activity is to walk around and discover its neighborhoods. You will be pleasantly surprised to find some pretty impressive street art as well.

One of the places where you will encounter some very vivid street art is Everton Road. The street is filled with murals painted with everyday scenes but in such a manner that one could easily assume that they are for real. The paintings found on Everton Road in Singapore are the art of Mr. Yip Yew Chong. His murals are now depicted in dozens of magazines and travel blogs that recommend them for your next trip to Singapore.

It’s interesting, if you have enough time, to just walk around in the area and absorb the details in the paintings. The longer you look at them, the more surprised you’ll be. That’s because the artist made sure to include many tiny aspects that contribute to the real feeling of the images.

To get to Everton Road, the easiest way is to either walk there through Chinatown or to take the East West Metro Line up to Outram Park MRT Station and walk 10 minutes from there.

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19. BERLIN, GERMANY

by David from Travel With Little One

My favorite street art city has to be Berlin, the capital of Germany. It has long been known for its iconic street art, even before it was called “street art”. I vividly remember the “graffiti” on the Berlin Wall before it was torn down in the late 1980s, and the tradition continues to this day.

One of the best-known places to see street art in Berlin is the famous East Side Gallery, a preserved section of the wall with an array of fantastic murals. These include the Brezhnev-Honecker kiss, the Trabant car bursting through the wall, and many others pieces.

We found great street art all over the city, and one of the best areas for it is Kreuzberg. Here you can see the Cosmonaut mural on Mariannenstrasse, and the incredible Pink Man, close to the Oberbaumbrücke.  Görlitzer Park also has some great murals, including the hip-hop one pictured.

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20. TIRANA, ALBANIA

by Mar from Once In A Lifetime Journey

After over 40 years of communist ruling under a very oppressive and isolating ruler, Albania came out with more willpower than ever to turn things around, especially in the capital of Tirana . The mayor, faced with a limited budget and a very grey architecture and urban outlook, decided to put his artistic career into good use and repaint the facades of the many buildings in bright colors and murals.

The result is one of the most colorful capitals in Europe, with many streets entirely painted in orange, yellow or green and locals taking over with nice murals, street art installations and lots of impromptu initiatives.

To look for street art, simply walk around. You will without a doubt see the electricity boxes painted with cartoon characters and find many facades of former communist concrete buildings now with a new life. Head over to Uilson Square for the famous rainbow buildings.

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21. BELFAST, NORTHERN IRELAND

by Claire from Tales of a Backpacker

Belfast in Northern Ireland has an incredible street art scene, which is a far cry from the political murals that the city used to be known for.  Although street art is found all over the city, the Cathedral Quarter is definitely the place to go to see lots of street art in a relatively small area.  Every year, the city hosts a street art festival when street artists from all over the world come to Belfast to paint and stencil the walls, turning what used to be a drab, industrial city into a colourful, vibrant destination.  I love the street art in Belfast because it is so plentiful and so colourful.  There is something for everyone, whether you prefer bright patterns, beautiful portraits or statement pieces you are bound to find something you like.  My personal favourites are the most colourful murals, it really helps to brighten my day!  If you’d like to find the street art in Belfast, walking around the streets in the Cathedral Quarter you should be able to find plenty of murals, but don’t miss North Street between Royal Avenue and Union Street, or Winetavern Street Car Park across the road.  The Sunflower Pub has murals all around it, and you’ll also find some more on Hill Street and Talbot Street, as well as the corner of Academy Street and Exchange Street.

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22. DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

by Melinda from Meet Mel At The Gate

Do your luxury shopping at City Walk instead of Dubai Mall. Lower prices, calmer atmosphere, and lovely street art. I became a huge street art fan after visiting this place – 16 street artists from five continents have decorated the walls at City Walk. Their work contains everything from vibrant cartoons to musicians in black and white. There’s also street art worth checking out in Karama.

Find Meet Mel At The Gate on Instagram

Can’t get enough of street art? Head to Dubai where street art is blooming. Check out the ultimate travel guide to Dubai before you go.

5 thoughts on “ 22 STREET ART CITIES TO VISIT IN 2022 ”

SO many places to add to my street art bucket list! Thanks so much for letting me share one of my favourite places for street art!

Thank you for sharing Stephanie! I need to visit Toronto soon!

So many beautiful places!! Thank you for putting this list together, and for the opportunity to collaborate :)

Thank you for being a part of it Christa!

Awesome list!! I LOVE street art! I’m from Toronto and really happy to see it on this list. Graffiti Alley is one of my favourite spots in the city too. You’d love Melbourne, it has amazing graffiti!

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41 Top Places To See Street Art and Murals in San Francisco

By Chirasree Banerjee

Last Updated On March 25, 2023

In United States

San Francisco, a city known for its diverse and colorful culture, boasts an incredible street art scene that has flourished for decades.

With murals and graffiti art adorning the walls, buildings, and alleyways of various neighborhoods, the city’s urban canvas reflects its unique blend of cultures, socio-political movements, and creative expression.

The street art movement in San Francisco is a dynamic and ever-evolving force that continues to redefine the city’s urban landscape.

Fueled by the passion and talent of local artists and inspired by global influences, this movement is a testament to the power of art in fostering community engagement and promoting social change.

The rich street art culture in San Francisco has deep roots in the city’s history, dating back to the 1930s when the famous Mexican muralist Diego Rivera painted several murals in the city.

The 1960s and 70s saw a rise in counterculture movements and civil rights activism, leading to an explosion of politically charged murals and graffiti art in neighborhoods like the Mission District and Haight-Ashbury.

Over the years, the street art scene has evolved to include a wide range of styles, techniques, and themes, capturing the essence of San Francisco’s ever-changing landscape and identity.

Street art plays a vital role in San Francisco’s history and identity, as it serves not only as a form of artistic expression but also as a means of social and political commentary.

It tells the stories of the city’s diverse communities, celebrating their resilience and triumphs while also addressing their struggles and challenges.

Street art in San Francisco is a visual language that connects the past to the present, creating a dialogue between the city’s inhabitants, its history, and its future.

The purpose of this guide is to showcase the top 30 street art and murals in San Francisco, highlighting the creative masterpieces that adorn the city’s walls and offer glimpses into its rich cultural tapestry.

From iconic murals in the Mission District to hidden gems in the Financial District, this guide aims to inspire both locals and visitors alike to embark on a journey of discovery, exploring the vibrant and colorful world of San Francisco’s urban art scene .

The Mission District: The Birthplace of San Francisco’s Mural Movement

Nestled in the heart of San Francisco , the Mission District is a vibrant and culturally rich neighborhood known for its strong Latino roots and artistic heritage.

The area’s history goes back to the late 18th century when Spanish missionaries founded Mission San Francisco de Asís.

Over the years, the Mission District has undergone numerous transformations, evolving into the diverse and dynamic community it is today.

The Mission District serves as both a hub of Latino culture and the birthplace of San Francisco’s mural movement, which draws inspiration from the Mexican Muralismo tradition and celebrates the area’s unique blend of cultural, social, and political influences.

This tradition has its roots in Latin America and aims to make art accessible to everyone while encouraging social change.

The neighborhood’s streets, alleys, and buildings have transformed into an open-air gallery adorned with a myriad of murals that reflect the area’s unique blend of cultural, social, and political influences.

The mural movement in the Mission District began in the 1970s when a group of artists drew inspiration from the Mexican Muralismo tradition.

This tradition aimed to make art accessible to everyone and encourage social change. These artists were also influenced by the contemporary Chicano Art Movement.

They started creating large-scale public artworks that focused on social issues and celebrated the district’s Latino heritage.

Among the notable contributors to the Mission District’s mural scene are Precita Eyes Mural Arts and Precita Eyes Muralists, who have played a significant role in creating and preserving many murals in the area, fostering community engagement and artistic expression.

These early murals were visually striking and served as a powerful form of expression for the local community, providing a platform for dialogue, activism, and change.

Now, let’s explore some of the most iconic Mission District murals.

1. Balmy Alley Murals

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Balmy Alley, the heart of the Mission District’s street art scene, is a one-block-long alley showcasing over 30 thought-provoking murals by various artists.

Established in the mid-1980s in response to political turmoil in Central America, these striking murals burst with bright colors and depict themes of social justice, human rights, cultural pride, community resilience, and environmental issues.

The stunning array of murals in Balmy Alley reflects the area’s ongoing engagement with social movements and political change, offering a visual narrative that captures the spirit and struggles of the diverse community.

As you stroll through this iconic destination, you’ll be immersed in the rich tapestry of stories and perspectives that make up the area’s vibrant and ever-evolving culture.

2. Clarion Alley Mural Project

Just a few blocks from Balmy Alley, Clarion Alley is another must-visit destination for mural enthusiasts.

Established in 1992 by a collective of artists, the Clarion Alley Mural Project (CAMP) is an ever-evolving showcase of murals that adorn the walls of Clarion Alley.

These clarion alley murals feature a dynamic collection of amazing murals that address pressing social injustice and political issues, such as homelessness, gentrification, and police brutality .

3. The Women’s Building

Standing tall on 18th Street, The Women’s Building is a vibrant community center that serves women and girls.

The building’s exterior is adorned with the MaestraPeace Mural, one of the best murals in the city, painted in 1994 by a collective of seven female artists.

This breathtaking work of art celebrates the accomplishments and contributions of women throughout history, with vibrant colors and intricate designs that wrap around the building’s facade.

4. Lilac Alley

Lilac Alley, nestled between 24th Street and 25th Street, offers yet another showcase of the Mission District’s street art scene.

The alley is lined with murals painted by local artists, each highlighting various aspects of life in the neighborhood.

From cultural celebrations and historical events to personal stories and abstract designs, Lilac Alley is a microcosm of the creativity and spirit that permeate the Mission District.

5. 24th Street Corridor

Be sure to explore the 24th Street Corridor in the Mission District when visiting Balmy Alley, as it is home to an impressive collection of murals.

Begin your walking tour at the intersection of 24th Street and Osage Street, just one block west of the 24th Street BART Station and near various public transit options. Here, you’ll discover the captivating Osage Street Murals.

Next, walk eastward and step into Lilac Alley to admire the Osage Alley Artwork. Then, return to the 24th Street Corridor and continue your journey until you reach Cypress Street, another alley brimming with artistic murals.

As you stroll back along 24th Street, take in the dozens of vibrant murals that line the corridor. Keep walking east until you arrive at Balmy Alley (mentioned earlier).

Following your visit to Balmy Alley, continue east on the 24th Street Corridor to discover even more murals created by local artists, extending all the way to York Street.

6. Valencia Street Murals

Valencia Street, known for its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and galleries, is also home to a collection of eye-catching murals.

As you wander along this bustling thoroughfare, you’ll encounter artwork on building walls, fences, and garage doors, each piece contributing to the vibrant atmosphere that defines the neighborhood.

The Valencia Street murals capture the essence of the Mission District’s ever-changing landscape, reflecting the diverse influences that have shaped this unique corner of San Francisco.

Travel Tip: While exploring the famous mural alleys in the Mission District, don’t forget to wander along Mission Street itself, where you can discover hidden gems of street art and experience the vibrant atmosphere of this culturally rich neighborhood.

7. Carnaval Mural

The Mission District’s Carnaval Mural a vibrant tribute to the annual Carnaval celebration, was created in 1983 by muralist Daniel Galvez and fellow local artists.

Based on Lou Dematteis’ photographs from the inaugural 1979 celebration, the mural, also known as -Golden Dreams of the Mission, showcases Galvez’s photorealistic painting style, which makes each paint stroke visible from afar.

Skillfully integrated into the building’s architecture, the mural gives the impression of a Victorian era structure.

Restored in 2014, the Carnaval Mural remains a vital part of the Mission District’s history and the local Latin culture.

It is located above the House of Breaks on the corner of 24th St. and South Van Ness Ave.

8. The Capp Street Murals: A Colorful Display of Art and Community

Located in the heart of San Francisco’s vibrant Mission District, the Capp Street Murals serve as a vivid testament to the area’s thriving arts scene and strong sense of community.

Adorning the walls along Capp Street, these murals showcase an array of styles, themes, and techniques, reflecting the diverse talents and perspectives of the local artists who created them.

As you stroll down the street, you’ll be treated to a visual feast of stunning imagery, ranging from intricate patterns and bold designs to thought-provoking scenes and powerful messages.

The Capp Street Murals add a touch of beauty and character to the neighborhood and serve as a platform for artistic expression and cultural dialogue, making them an essential stop for any art enthusiast or curious traveler in San Francisco .

Mission District Mural Art Walking Tour

Embarking on a mural walking tour is an excellent way to appreciate these stunning artworks.

These mural tours are perfect for both first-time visitors and those seeking deeper insights into the local murals and the artists behind them. Often, these tours highlight San Francisco’s vibrant murals and delve into the neighborhood’s history and thriving food scene.

Mission District Mural Art and Food Tour takes you on a journey through the colorful murals of San Francisco’s Mission District. Visit iconic spots such as Balmy Alley Murals, the Women’s Building, and Clarion Alley. Conducted in a small group setting, the tour departs in the morning. Find out more about timings and tickets .

The Mission District: San Francisco’s Hip Melting Pot is one of the best private tours of the Mission District murals. Experience the best of the Mission District with this private tour, requiring a minimum of two adults. Over four hours, a local guide will introduce you to the district’s dynamic culture, delectable food scene, and mesmerizing murals in Clarion Alley. Discover more here .

Free Walking Tours : SF City Guides, a part of the SF City Library, offers a range of free guided walking tours. Some are dedicated to murals, while others include mural stops as you explore different districts. Although these tours are complimentary, a donation of $5 to $10 per person is suggested to support the program. Learn more about the available tours here .

Haight-Ashbury: A Vibrant Canvas of Art and History

Haight-Ashbury, an iconic neighborhood in San Francisco, is best known for its historical significance as the epicenter of the 1960s counterculture movement.

The area’s rich history, bohemian vibe, and strong connection to music and art continue to thrive today, as evidenced by the numerous murals that adorn its streets and buildings.

Here are some noteworthy murals to explore in Haight-Ashbury.

9. Haight Street

As the main thoroughfare, Haight Street is home to numerous murals. You’ll find variousmurals interspersed among the shops, cafes, and boutiques that line this iconic street.

10. The Piedmont Boutique

The Piedmont Boutique, a quirky clothing store on Haight Street, is hard to miss, thanks to the massive pair of fishnet-clad legs that protrude from the building’s facade.

This playful piece of street art perfectly captures the neighborhood’s eccentric charm.

11. Cole Street

Murals can also be found along Cole Street, particularly around the intersection of Cole Street and Haight Street.

12. Shrader Street

Just off Haight Street, Shrader Street has a few murals worth exploring, including some on the side of the Red House building (located at 1660 Haight Street).

13. Masonic Avenue

As you walk along Masonic Avenue, you may come across some street art and murals, particularly near the intersection of Masonic Avenue and Haight Street.

14. Stanyan Street

At the eastern end of Haight Street, where it meets Stanyan Street, you can find some murals near the Amo

SoMa (South of Market): Discovering Murals in a Dynamic Urban Landscape

SoMa, short for South of Market, is a vibrant and ever-evolving neighborhood in San Francisco.

Known for its industrial roots, modern high-rises, and a diverse mix of cultural institutions, SoMa has also become a hub for innovative street art and murals.

As you explore the streets, alleys, and areas of SoMa, you’ll find a wealth of captivating murals that reflect the neighborhood’s unique character and creative spirit.

15. The SOMA West Skatepark

The SOMA West Skatepark is not only a hotspot for skaters but also a canvas for local and visiting artists.

The park’s walls are adorned with a constantly changing array of murals and graffiti, providing a unique fusion of urban culture and art. Be sure to bring your camera, as the artwork here is ever-evolving.

16. Stevenson Street

This street, located between 6th and 7th Streets, features several impressive murals along its length. As you walk down Stevenson Street, you’ll encounter a variety of artwork created by both local and international artists, showcasing the area’s diverse artistic influences.

17. Langton Street

Another area where you can find a concentration of murals in SoMa is Langton Street.

Here, you’ll discover an array of colorful and thought-provoking artworks adorning the walls of industrial buildings, adding life and energy to the urban landscape.

18. Erie Alley

Erie Alley is a small, hidden gem within the SoMa neighborhood, where several murals and street art pieces are tucked away in this less-traveled area.

This alley offers a more intimate experience for mural enthusiasts looking to explore off-the-beaten-path locations.

19. Bluxome Street

Stretching from 4th Street to 7th Street, Bluxome Street is another area in SoMa that boasts a collection of fascinating murals.

The street is home to several large-scale murals that showcase the creative talent and ingenuity of the local art community.

In addition to these specific streets and alleys, it’s worth exploring the broader SoMa neighborhood, as you never know when you might come across a captivating mural or piece of street art around the next corner.

As you wander through SoMa, take the time to appreciate the area’s dynamic blend of history, innovation, and culture, as reflected in its rich and diverse street art offerings.

North Beach: A Celebration of Art, Literature, and Music

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North Beach, a lively and historic neighborhood in San Francisco, is renowned for its Italian heritage, bustling cafes, and strong connections to the Beat Generation of poets and writers.

This culturally rich enclave is also home to a variety of unique murals and public art installations that pay tribute to the area’s storied past and vibrant present.

Here are some noteworthy murals and art installations to explore in North Beach.

20. Language of the Birds

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Located at the intersection of Columbus Avenue and Broadway, “Language of the Birds” is a striking public art installation created by artists Brian Goggin and Dorka Keehn.

This illuminated artwork features a flock of 23 suspended, sculptural books with “pages” that appear to be taking flight, symbolizing the creative spirit of the neighborhood.

As the sun sets, the books light up, creating a mesmerizing display of colors and patterns that reflect North Beach’s literary and artistic legacy.

I highly recommend seeing this artwork at night while exploring San Francisco.

To discover more fantastic nighttime activities in the city, check out this blog post – San Francisco at Night: The Best Things to Do With Family.

21. The Jazz Mural

Situated on the side of the now-closed Purple Onion comedy club at 140 Columbus Avenue, the Jazz Mural is a vibrant and energetic tribute to the area’s rich musical history.

Painted by artist Bill Weber, this expansive mural features portraits of jazz legends such as Billie Holiday, Chet Baker, and John Coltrane.

The Jazz Mural is a visual reminder of North Beach’s long-standing connection to music and entertainment.

22. The Beat Museum Mural

The exterior of The Beat Museum, located at 540 Broadway, boasts a colorful and eye-catching mural dedicated to the influential writers, poets, and artists of the Beat Generation.

This mural showcases iconic figures such as Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, and Neal Cassady, who were instrumental in shaping the neighborhood’s literary and artistic scene during the 1950s and 1960s.

The mural celebrates the area’s rich history and invites visitors to explore the museum’s fascinating collection of Beat Generation memorabilia and artifacts.

23. Columbus Avenue

As one of the main thoroughfares in North Beach, Columbus Avenue features numerous murals and art installations, including the iconic Language of the Birds and The Jazz Mural.

Stroll down this vibrant street to encounter a diverse array of artwork that pays tribute to the neighborhood’s rich history and artistic spirit.

24. Kerouac Alley

Named after the famous Beat Generation writer Jack Kerouac, this small alley connects Columbus Avenue and Grant Avenue.

Kerouac Alley is adorned with literary-themed murals, quotes, and other art installations that celebrate the area’s connection to the Beat Generation and its lasting literary legacy.

As you explore North Beach, these murals and art installations will immerse you in the area’s unique blend of art , literature, and music, reflecting the vibrant spirit and cultural heritage of this iconic San Francisco neighborhood.

25. Grant Avenue

Another essential street to explore in North Beach is Grant Avenue, which runs through the heart of the neighborhood.

Along this street, you’ll find various murals, street art, and unique storefronts that showcase the area’s vibrant character and artistic sensibilities.

26. Green Street

Running parallel to Columbus Avenue, Green Street is another location where you can discover hidden gems of street art and murals.

As you wander down this street, keep an eye out for the colorful artwork that adorns the walls of local businesses and residential buildings.

You may enjoy these other Bay Area travel guides and resources:

• 21 Top things to do in San Ramon, California 
• 31 Top things to do in Berkeley, California
• 30 Top things to do in Pleasanton, California, for fun
• 26 Top things to do in Palo Alto, California 
• 33 Top Things to Do and see in Los Gatos, California
• 40 Top things to Do in Carmel, California – The Ultimate Bucket List 
• 50 Top things to Do in Monterey, California – The Ultimate Bucket List
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• 50 Top Things To Do in Point Reyes, California

Noe Valley: A Charming Art Oasis

Noe Valley, a family-friendly neighborhood known for its tree-lined streets and charming Victorian homes, is also home to a thriving street art scene.

The area’s murals are a reflection of its close-knit community, with works that celebrate the neighborhood’s unique character and natural beauty.

27. The Noe Valley Nursery School Mural

The Noe Valley Nursery School Mural, located on the exterior of the neighborhood’s beloved preschool, is a whimsical work of art that captures the playful spirit of the community.

This enchanting piece features colorful illustrations of children, animals, and nature, as well as a series of inspiring quotes and messages.

28. The 24th Street Murals

24th Street, a bustling commercial corridor in Noe Valley, is home to several captivating murals.

These works of art, which can be found on the walls of local businesses and alleyways, showcase a variety of styles and themes, from abstract patterns to detailed portraits of neighborhood landmarks.

Glen Park: A Hidden Art Gem

Glen Park, a cozy neighborhood nestled in a valley in southeastern San Francisco, is a hidden gem for art lovers.

The area’s street art scene is a testament to its tight-knit community and serene natural setting, with murals that capture the essence of this peaceful enclave.

29. The Glen Park Elementary School Mural

The Glen Park Elementary School Mural, situated on the exterior of the neighborhood’s public school, is a vibrant work of art that celebrates the area’s unique environment and community.

This expansive piece features lush botanical illustrations, as well as scenes of children exploring and learning in the great outdoors.

30. The Glen Park Canyon Murals

Glen Park Canyon, a popular hiking destination and local landmark , is also home to a series of enchanting murals.

These works of art, which can be found along the trails and stairways that wind through the canyon, pay tribute to the area’s natural beauty and the adventurous spirit of its residents.

The Tenderloin: Raw and Resilient

Despite its reputation as a rough neighborhood, the Tenderloin is home to a rich tapestry of street art that tells the stories of its diverse residents.

Amidst the grit, you’ll find murals that speak to the resilience and determination of this unique community.

31. The Tenderloin National Forest

Tucked away on Ellis Street, the Tenderloin National Forest is an urban oasis filled with lush greenery, sculptures, and striking murals.

This hidden gem was created to provide a much-needed respite for the neighborhood’s residents and serves as a canvas for local artists to express their creativity.

The Castro: A Celebration of Pride

As the heart of San Francisco’s LGBTQ+ community, the Castro is a neighborhood that celebrates love, diversity, and acceptance.

The area’s street art is a colorful reflection of this spirit, featuring works that pay tribute to LGBTQ+ icons and history.

32. The Harvey Milk Mural

Located at the corner of Castro and Market streets, the Harvey Milk Mural is a stunning tribute to the late LGBTQ+ activist and San Francisco city supervisor.

Painted by artist Oz Montanía, this vibrant mural captures Milk’s passion for social justice and his enduring legacy.

Chinatown: A Vibrant Cultural Mosaic

San Francisco’s Chinatown is the oldest and one of the largest Chinese communities in the United States.

This bustling neighborhood is a treasure trove of cultural experiences, from authentic cuisine to traditional architecture.

The area’s street art showcases the rich history and traditions of its residents, making it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts.

33. The Ping Yuen Mural

The Ping Yuen Mural, located on Stockton Street, is an expansive work of art that tells the story of the neighborhood’s immigrant community.

This mural features scenes of daily life in Chinatown, as well as tributes to important cultural figures and events.

34. Discovering Diego Rivera’s Masterpieces: Unearthing the Legendary Murals in San Francisco

As a travel blogger exploring the vibrant art scene of San Francisco, I’m thrilled to share my experience discovering the captivating murals of legendary Mexican artist Diego Rivera.

Rivera, a prominent figure in the Mexican muralism movement, left an indelible mark on the city by creating three magnificent murals, each a testament to his artistic genius and passion for social commentary.

35. The Allegory of California

The Allegory of California is the first fresco Rivera finished in the US. You will find it adorning the grand stairwell in The City Club in downtown San Francisco.

With a towering figure of Calafia, the mythical queen of California, at its center, the mural showcases Rivera’s mastery of detail and symbolism.

36. The Making of a Fresco Showing the Building of a City

Housed within the Diego Rivera Gallery at the San Francisco Art Institute, this fascinating mural provides a unique, self-referential glimpse into Rivera’s creative process.

Depicting the construction of a city, the mural also portrays the artist and his assistants at work, creating a visually compelling meta-narrative.

37. Pan American Unity

You can see Diego Rivera’s Pan American Unity, a fresco that celebrates artists, artisans, architects, and inventors who use art and technology as tools to mold society in The San Francisco Museum of Modern art (SFMOMA)

It is now on view at the Roberts Family Gallery on Floor 1 through Summer 2023 for free.

Embarking on this journey to uncover Diego Rivera’s masterpieces in San Francisco has been a truly enriching experience.

Exploring these murals offers not only a visual feast but also a deeper understanding of the city’s cultural heritage and the timeless power of art to inspire and educate.

38. Unraveling the Stories of Coit Tower Murals: A Glimpse into San Francisco’s Past

Perched atop Telegraph Hill, Coit Tower is an iconic San Francisco landmark that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

Beyond its architectural splendor, Coit Tower also houses an exceptional collection of murals that capture the essence of life in San Francisco during the 1930s.

Painted by a group of local artists as part of the Public Works of Art Project (PWAP), these murals offer a fascinating glimpse into the city’s history, culture, and social dynamics.

Upon entering the tower’s lobby, you’ll be immediately immersed in the vibrant scenes that adorn its walls.

The Coit Tower murals depict various aspects of life in San Francisco during the Great Depression, including labor strikes, industrial growth, and the bustling urban landscape.

With influences from the Mexican muralism movement, the artists sought to create a powerful visual narrative that showcased the struggles and aspirations of everyday people.

Among the talented artists who contributed to the Coit Tower murals are Victor Arnautoff, Bernard Zakheim, John Langley Howard, and Maxine Albro.

Each artist brought their unique style and perspective to the project, resulting in a diverse array of themes, techniques, and imagery.

As you explore the murals, take note of the intricate details and hidden symbolism that reveal the artists’ commentary on social, political, and economic issues of the time.

Visiting the Coit Tower murals is an enriching experience for art lovers, history buffs, and curious travelers alike.

To make the most of your visit, consider joining a guided tour, which provides valuable insights into the murals’ creation, the artists behind them, and the historical context in which they were conceived.

As you delve into the captivating world of the Coit Tower murals, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the stories and experiences that have shaped San Francisco’s rich cultural tapestry.

39. The George Washington High School Murals: Celebrating History Through Art

Commissioned by the Federal Art Project in the 1930s, the George Washington High School murals in San Francisco serve as a testament to the power of art in preserving and reflecting history.

Painted by renowned Russian-American artist Victor Arnautoff, these murals depict various scenes from George Washington’s life and the early history of the United States.

Arnautoff, a prominent figure in the social realist movement, aimed to portray a nuanced and truthful representation of history.

The murals illustrate key events and figures from the era, including George Washington as a military leader and statesman, as well as scenes of the American Revolution and the founding of the nation.

While the murals have been celebrated for their artistic and historical significance, they have also been the subject of controversy due to their depiction of sensitive subjects such as slavery and the treatment of Native Americans.

In recent years, there have been debates about the murals’ place in a modern educational setting, leading to discussions on the preservation of historical art and the role of public art in promoting awareness and dialogue about the past.

Despite the controversies, the George Washington High School murals remain a remarkable example of the power of art to capture the complexities of history.

For those interested in the intersection of art and history, these murals offer a unique opportunity to explore the stories and perspectives that have shaped the United States and to engage in meaningful conversations about the role of art in reflecting and challenging the past.

40. Umbrella Alley in Fisherman’s Wharf: A Whimsical Walk Through Art

Nestled in the heart of San Francisco’s bustling Fisherman’s Wharf , Umbrella Alley offers visitors a delightful escape into a world of colorful murals and enchanting street art.

This charming, hidden gem features a narrow pedestrian walkway lined with vibrant umbrellas suspended overhead, casting playful shadows and creating a cozy atmosphere.

The walls of Umbrella Alley are adorned with an eclectic mix of murals, depicting a variety of themes and styles that showcase the creativity and talent of local artists.

As you wander through this captivating corridor, you’ll be treated to a visual feast of imaginative designs, ranging from marine life and iconic San Francisco landmarks to whimsical patterns and abstract compositions.

Umbrella Alley provides a unique opportunity to experience the artistic side of Fisherman’s Wharf, away from the bustling tourist spots.

This magical little nook offers a perfect backdrop for taking memorable photos, as well as a serene spot to pause and appreciate the fusion of art and urban landscape.

Whether you’re a long-time local resident or a first time visitor, Umbrella Alley in Fisherman’s Wharf is a must-see destination for anyone seeking a whimsical and inspiring escape within San Francisco’s lively cityscape.

41. Discover the Historic Murals of Rincon Center in San Francisco

Rincon Center, situated in the South of Market neighborhood of Downtown San Francisco, is a vibrant complex that encompasses shops, restaurants, offices, and apartments.

Occupying an entire city block near the Embarcadero and bordered by Mission, Howard, Spear, and Steuart Streets, this dynamic center showcases a remarkable collection of murals that hold both historical and artistic significance.

Located within the historic Rincon Annex Post Office building, completed in 1940, the “History of San Francisco” mural series features 27 tempera-on-gesso murals painted by Russian immigrant artist Anton Refregier.

Commissioned in 1941 for $26,000, these murals were created from 1941 to 1948 as part of the Section of Painting and Sculpture of the United States Department of the Treasury.

Depicting California’s rich history and San Francisco’s vital role in it, the murals span various subjects, such as Native American population, Spanish colonization, the Gold Rush, labor movements, and technological advancements.

Refregier’s murals, executed in the social realism style, stirred intense controversies after World War II due to their portrayal of social issues and labor strikes.

These disputes reached the U.S. Congress, where critics demanded their destruction.

Despite the challenges, the murals were preserved, and the post office lobby became an integral part of the Rincon Center development.

Today, Rincon Center’s murals offer visitors a unique insight into San Francisco’s diverse history and serve as a testament to Anton Refregier’s artistic talent. As you explore the Rincon Center, take the time to admire Refregier’s work and ponder the stories and events that have shaped the city and the state of California.

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San Francisco’s vibrant and diverse street art and murals are a true testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage and artistic spirit.

These 41 top locations offer a unique glimpse into the lives, stories, and experiences that have shaped this iconic city over time.

As you explore the streets and alleys of San Francisco, take the time to appreciate the striking artwork that adorns its walls, and immerse yourself in the creative energy that flows through every corner.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, these captivating murals serve as a colorful reminder of the resilience, unity, and beauty that define San Francisco.

So, embark on a visual journey through the city’s history, and let the artistry of these murals inspire you as you uncover the ever-changing tapestry of this remarkable urban landscape.

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I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to 41 Top places to see Street Art and Murals in San Francisco. You may enjoy these other San Francisco and Bay Area travel guides:

• Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco and More: 21 Cultural Gems 
• One Day in San Francisco Itinerary: For Every Traveler
• 100 Best Free Things to Do in the San Francisco Bay Area 
• Discover 80 Best Non-Touristy Things to Do in San Francisco 
• Easy Day Trips from San Francisco 
• San Francisco to Death Valley – A Super Scenic California Road Trip! 
• Exploratorium in San Francisco – When the Destination is Science!
• San Francisco at Night: The Best Things to Do With Family 
• Super scenic Cypress Trees and Tunnels near San Francisco 
• Beautiful steam train rides near San Francisco! 
• San Francisco Bay Area Gardens
• Bay Area’s Best Redwood Hikes: A Comprehensive Guide 
• Bay Area weekend getaways on California Highway 1 
• 16 Top Wine Country Getaways Near the San Francisco Bay Area 
• 55 Best Indoor Activities in the San Francisco Bay Area: Rainy Day Fun

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Chirasree Banerjee

Hello. My name is Chirasree. I have been traveling for almost 11 years to places all over the world. I enter into a separate reality during my travels and enjoy the allure of escape from the mundane. I seek beauty through nature and human-made creations. Because beauty is powerful. I seek knowledge. I observe, absorb, and write about the places I visit and the profound realizations and inspirations that each place has to offer.

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Hello. My name is Chirasree. I have been traveling for almost 15 years to places all over the world. I enter into a separate reality during my travels and enjoy the allure of escape from the mundane. I seek beauty through nature and human-made creations. Because beauty is powerful. I seek knowledge. I observe, absorb, and write about the places I visit and the profound realizations and inspirations that each place has to offer. 

I lived in Switzerland for six years and dwelled in absolute beauty, day and night. The house of Charlie Chaplin in Vevey , the house of Herman Hesse in Lugano,

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22 Best Cities to See Street Art in Europe

By: Author Angela Price

Posted on Last updated: March 12, 2024

Table of Contents

Frequently Asked Questions

What is street art.

Street art is a visual form of art. It is created both officially and unofficially in urban locations for public visibility.

How does street art differ from graffiti?

While all art openly created and displayed on the street sits under the umbrella of street art, there are differentials between the two.

While graffiti in Europe displays words, line drawings and mainly the artist’s tag (street name), street art ranges from abstract to fine art paintings depicting almost anything and everything you can imagine.

Fantasy creatures, famous characters, historical and political events, the list is endless. The street artist shares his or her vision through the painting for others to reflect upon and enjoy.

Is street art legal? 

If it appears unofficially, it is illegal; however, street art is regarded by many as a valid form of art, and legally paid commissions are undertaken by artists, often in urban areas that are being re-developed. Shoreditch in London is one such example.

When did the movement first appear?

In the 1970s and 1980s, European graffiti artists started tagging their names onto buildings, trains and walkways.

Bold and vibrant wording evolved into image-based graphics, which in turn became street art in Europe as we recognise it today. It has become a way to express emotions on current topics, from war to peace and suffering to happiness.

What mediums do street artists use?

Mediums such as spray paint, emulsion, permanent markers and recycled materials are used to create various styles and techniques. Spray paint alone tends to be the medium of choice for graffiti artists.

Which city in Europe has the most street art?

Berlin – The German capital has the largest concentration of street art in Europe and probably the world.

Who is the most famous street artist in Europe?

Banksy, a street artist from the UK, took the world by storm in 2010 when his first pieces of art started to appear in cities around the world.

Girl with a Balloon and Kissing Coppers brought him to the public’s attention, and now Banksy’s artwork sells for millions. He remains anonymous, and random pieces of Banksy art continue to appear in urban cities.

This travel guide may contain affiliate links – Please read my  disclaimer and privacy policy for details.

Discover where to find street art in Europe’s cities

With contributions from fellow travel bloggers, I can show you where to find street art in Europe.

Each blogger, including myself, has visited the 22 cities on this list. They have given their insights into what to see in each one and which amazing street artists have left their mark on them.

Street Art in the United Kingdom

London has some of Europe’s most vibrant and exciting street art, if not the world. Urban artists claim the walls and buildings of London with an ever-changing repertoire, and you can see fantastic and detailed examples of graphic street art in many different areas in and around the city.

Shoreditch and Brick Lane areas are the best places to check out London’s outdoor street gallery, but keep an eye out all over town, and you will spot colourful daubings on some of the most unexpected objects.

Street art walking tours will take you around the most popular pieces, ranging from Amazon tribesmen to Banksy originals, the godfather of street art. Wander around the area of Brick Lane, starting at the Stolen Space Gallery on Osbourn Street and then head towards the markets.

Either side of the street has artwork somewhere, and as Brick Lane merges into Shoreditch High Street, you will see London’s urban street art scene at its best. With new urban artists emerging, you might be the first to spot a new piece of art.

Another popular urban art space in London is the Leake Street Graffiti Tunnel in Waterloo. Special council permission has been given to legally use it as a venue for street artists to express their creativity. It is an ever-evolving canvas; each visit will be a chance to see new artwork.

Remember to visit Hackney in East London, where street art and graffiti are everywhere: on walls, floors, even cars!

Sheffield, UK, is a utopia for street artists and those who love visual creativity.

While much less thought of in the conversation of urban art – it’s hard to escape London’s long shadow – visitors to Sheffield can find a wealth of colour, vibrancy, political expression, artistic skill and boundless imagination on the city’s walls. As a fan of such things, the  Sheffield street art  scene exceeded my expectations.

There are pieces all over the city centre, with large clusters near Arundel Street, Wellington Street, and surrounding areas.

You can even find street art spreading into the suburbs along any main road leaving the city centre, especially London Road, which leads into Abbeydale Road to the south.

Many globally acclaimed artists have pieces here, but Sheffield is particularly the main base of Phlegm, whose unique dreamlike creations are in murals all over the city.

Phlegm is a massive draw to the city for lovers of street art. In 2019, Phlegm held an exhibition of his work in Sheffield, which attracted over 12,000 people.

Located in the North of England, Manchester is home to some of the best street art in the UK.

Manchester has been my home for years, and if there is something I’ve always loved about it, it’s the culture and importance of music and art. It’s a lively city. People are amicable and love to go out. Street art in Manchester is a beautiful representation of Mancunian culture. It doesn’t only tell you a story; it tells you Manchester’s story!

Manchester played a crucial role during the industrial revolution. Some neighbourhoods, such as the Northern Quarter, still carry this industrial background. If you head there, you will find a lot of old warehouses. In recent years, they have become trendy spots for street artists.

As you walk around Manchester’s Northern Quarter, you will find a lot of murals, including ones from Harry Potter and Game of Thrones! Stevenson Square is particularly famous as we get to see new paintings showing up very often. We got Arya from Game of Thrones, David Bowie and more.

This spot quickly became Manchester’s most instagrammable spot, and every visitor loves it!

You will also find a lot of bees everywhere. The working bee is the symbol of Manchester. Mancunians are proud of their industrial background and love showing off the bee!

Bristol has a fascinating street art scene that changes continuously. Bristol’s most famous street artist is Banksy, who reportedly comes from the city and put it on the map with his thought-provoking creations.

You can see some key Banksy pieces in the city, including Well Hung Lover, Mild, Mild West and my favourite, The Girl with the Pierced Eardrum.

Banksy isn’t the only artist operating out of this vibrant city; Bedminster and Southville, particularly, are a hive of creativity, like the incredible portrait of Greta Thunberg by Jody Thomas, which I think captures her perfectly.

You can take specific walking tours in Bristol to learn more about the fantastic street art scene, which is one of the best things to do in Bristol with kids – they will love it!

Bristol is an exciting city to get under the skin of, with street art adding to its vibrancy. It is also easy to reach Bristol by coach from London, so the city and its attractions can be visited either as a day trip or as an overnight stay.

Bristol is important in the urban arts community. Each year, Upfest , Europe’s largest street art and graffiti festival, is held in the city.

Exploring the Glasgow Mural Trail was one of my favourite things to do in the city. Beautiful murals and street art are all over the main downtown area and beyond.

Walking around the city streets, you can see many murals, and there’s practically a new one around every corner. These paintings are not only colourful and artfully designed, but they’re also meaningful.

The Saint Mungo mural by Smug is one of the most famous paintings in Glasgow. You’ve likely seen it shared on social media – it was shared 1.5 million times a week after it debuted!

One of my favourite murals is Wind Power by Rogue-One (pictured). This one is on Mitchell Street of a woman blowing on a dandelion. All of the seeds that fly off the dandelion are tiny windmills. This mural celebrates Scotland’s move towards sustainable energy and becoming more eco-friendly.

While Glasgow has so much history and culture to explore, street art is a massive draw. It’s free and accessible, bringing splashes of colour and deep meanings to main streets and alleyways.

The next time you’re in Glasgow, discover the Glasgow Mural Trail for yourself!

Street Art in Belgium

Brussels is one of the artiest cities I’ve seen so far! If you ask me what was unique about this capital, street art is the first thing that comes to mind.

One thing that makes Belgian streets unique is the love of comics. Not only do they have a museum dedicated to Comics Art, but there are comic murals all over the city.

The first thing you notice as a first-timer is those long vertical strips on random buildings. You see them on every corner! It feels like Brussels tells a story, even if not all the characters are familiar to you. Walk west from the city centre to the Comic Strip Wall, and you’ll have a chance to see plenty of those murals on the way!

Another thing that comes to mind is local minority communities having a voice. For example, I stumbled upon a wall of art dedicated to LGBT culture.

This art was part of an urban project implemented a few years back and meant to dedicate eight walls around the city to different socially essential themes. Still so many left to find in this city of whimsical street art in Europe.

I’m recommending Ghent to everybody as the best alternative to Bruges . The vibrant city comes alive with events, lovely architecture and even graffiti and is a fabulous city to find street art in Europe.

The number one spot to admire the street art of Ghent is Graffiti Alley. The street’s official name is Werregarenstraatje, as it connects the streets of Onderstraat and Hoogpoort right in the centre of Ghent.

Artists are free to use the walls of the narrow alley as their canvas, so the murals change each week. I loved it. You can walk all along, watching for small details and observing how the style changes from one artist to another.

Anybody can spray paint in the Graffiti Alley, and you can often find artworks of famous Ghent resident artists, such as ROA, known for black-and-white-animals and Bué the Warrior with his cheerful, colourful art.

Of course, it’s not just about the Graffiti Alley when it comes to street art in Ghent.

There are many more locations with original murals or several street artworks. Once in Ghent, stop at the local information centre and pick up a copy of a map called “Sorry, Not Sorry Street Art Gent” with all locations marked.

Street Art in Denmark

Copenhagen, Denmark, is a beautiful city with unique and understated beauty. It’s a premier location for architecture blending traditional Nordic style with modern Danish style. One of the  Copenhagen attractions  that highlights its unique charm is Christiania’s street art.

Christiania is a self-proclaimed autonomous nation in Copenhagen. Known as Freetown Christiania, it’s a commune of 850-1000 people who have lived on the site of abandoned military barracks for generations.

The residents live a bit of a hippie lifestyle off the grid that includes selling marijuana on the main street, Pusher Street, and the city’s most beautiful street art.

I love visiting the streets and think the art is beautiful. I love how the creative use of the buildings is a part of the art. Additional elements are added to the murals to give dimension and creativity to brightly coloured street art.

Visitors to Copenhagen love to visit Christiania if they’ve heard of it. It’s still off the beaten path, but many tours and events take place in Christiania, which includes time to admire the fantastic artistry of Christiania’s street art scene.

Christiania comes alive at Christmas with an alternative Copenhagen Christmas market to stroll around and buy hand-crafted gifts.

Street Art in France

Paris is well known for its world-famous museums and Haussmannian architecture, but people interested in street and urban art will also have fun visiting.

In Paris, there are many areas with good street art, especially in the most popular districts of Paris. Our favourite, however, is the street art of Paris 13 – on the Seine’s left bank – well known for its Mural Program .

During the last few years, the major of the 13th Arrondissement, reported to be passionate about street art, has been actively promoting the Mural Program in Paris 13, inviting the most famous street artists around the world to participate in this artistic project.

National and international street artists have been decorating the tall and impersonal housing blocks that populate this district.

Today, colourful giant murals have invaded the most prominent avenues in Paris 13, enticing visitors looking for “out of the box” cultural adventures in Paris.

Amongst the murals, street art connoisseurs will discover works by OBEY  (US),  Inti (Chile),  Ethos  (Brazil),  ZED (Tunisia + Morocco), and  Jana & JS  (France-Germany).

France is represented by  Seth  Art,  Babs ,  Rero ,  SteW , and C215 .  

Street Art in Germany

Berlin is a city that brings together many artists. It has the largest concentration of street art in Europe; therefore, visiting Berlin’s street art scene is one of the many things to do in the city. There is also a lot of graffiti, with new ones appearing regularly.

While not everyone comes to Berlin for street art, it is still part of the city’s non-conformist vibe.

Many end up contemplating the different artworks all around the city, starting with the East Side Gallery or the Old Berlin Wall, where you can see the most street art in Berlin in one place.

Indeed, this old part of the Berlin Wall is an open-air gallery that gathers, over a distance of 1.3 km, a hundred murals made by international artists.

I prefer the nearby districts of Mitte and Kreuzberg. They might be your best bet for seeing Berlin’s most exciting street art.

There are murals around Kreuzberg, the most famous one probably being the Leviathan, by Italian artist Blu.

Street Art in Greece

One of my favourite places in Europe for its street art is Athens, Greece. The city has been home to street art forever. In older times, it was carved into buildings; during the war, it was graffiti, and now it’s art.

Athens street art took off in the 1990s and has boomed since the economic crisis. But its roots go deeper. Even the word graffiti stems from an old Greek term.

I was amazed at the sheer amount of it and its themes. While there is a range of subjects, from cats to politics, the two main ones that stand out are love and fantasy.

There’s a string of street art of a curly-haired woman throughout Plaka and neighbouring areas. I later learned that one man’s heartache had inspired these paintings after his girlfriend broke up with him.

Other incredible pieces in Athens have a hint of whimsy, like winged Greek Gods and the rabbit from Alice in Wonderland.

Some key areas in Athens where you can find street art are Anafiotika, Plaka, Psiri, Metaxourgeio, Gazi, and Exarchina.

There are also Athens street art tours , some led by the artists themselves, where you can see iconic pieces and hidden gems and learn about the artists behind them and their messages.

Street Art in Iceland

Reykjavík is the capital of Iceland and has a very new and developing street art scene  in Europe. In 2015 and 2016, a city-wide project called Wall Poetry saw international artists decorate the city with art depicting the work of local musicians.

This project was part of the annual Airwaves festival, which sees thousands of people visit the city.

This artwork is bold and whimsical, with cartoon characters filling whole walls.

Some shop fronts have been covered, and walkways and parking lots in the central area around Laugavegur Street and Grettisgata Street have bright and vibrant pieces, many of which depict the wildlife and landscapes of Iceland.

While these are not the main reasons for visiting, they are among the must-see sights in this small and compact city.

Around the docks of Reykjavik is an entirely different style of work, more subtle and understated. It is a photorealistic work by Guido Van Helten. 

These pieces are in greyscale and appear to look like portrait photographs. These couldn’t be further from the cartoons in the city’s centre.

Street Art in Italy

While not the main tourist draw, Rome has some excellent street art in many districts.

Usually, the collaboration between the local municipality and famous street artists, these colourful murals are part of projects revamping grey areas and otherwise relatively uneventful neighbourhoods.

Unless you are a fan of this contemporary art form, you probably won’t find it, especially if you are in Rome for a limited time.

The best street art in Rome is in cool neighbourhoods like Trastevere, Ostiense, and Testaccio, which are also quite popular because there are several things to see and do and many delicious restaurants. But the more daring travellers should venture out of the well-known areas and snap their best pictures of the cool murals in the working-class districts of Quadraro and Tor Marancia.

Even though I’m not an expert in the field, I have visited these neighbourhoods for their street art quite often, not only because there are so many murals that once is not enough to view them all, but because there are always some new ones.

Some well-known street artists that have contributed to sprucing up these areas are Blu, JB Rock, Sam3, Axel Void in Ostiense, Alice Pasquini and Roa in Testaccio, Diavù, Zelda Bomba, Gio Pistone, Agostino Iacurci, Dilkabear and many others in the Quadraro neighbourhood.

Street Art in the Netherlands

Amsterdam’s Nieuw-West is hardly a tourist mecca. Situated about 20 minutes west of the city’s bustling canal ring by public transport, the post-World War II district has been plagued by poverty, crime and unemployment.

When Ukrainian native Anna Stolyarova immigrated to the troubled neighbourhood in 1998, she couldn’t help but notice its bland, functional architecture and ubiquitous, identical apartment blocks—a stark contrast to the gabled canal mansions in Amsterdam’s historic centre.

In 2012, Stolyarova founded the Street Art Museum Amsterdam (SAMA) to engage her predominantly Turkish and Moroccan neighbours in social dialogue while re-branding Nieuw-West.

Conceived as “an eco-museum where art and stories come together,” SAMA has no gallery walls. Its growing collection of 200+ artworks by acclaimed street artists is spread over Nieuw-West’s streets and buildings.

In Glory , a SAMA-commissioned mural by street art icons El Pez from Barcelona and Danny Recall from Amsterdam, the milkmaid in Vermeer’s world-renowned painting appears with a cheeky bit of thigh.

Community meetings and focus groups for the project took far longer than the work itself, which was completed in just seven days, without projectors or stencils, using only spray cans.

Street Art in Norway

Street art in Oslo is everywhere, so you won’t need to look too hard to find some. The main neighbourhood known for its bohemian nature and street art culture is Grunnerloka . Here, you will find an eclectic range of murals daubed on the sides of disused buildings.

Staying with the theme of urban artwork, close to Grünerløkka is Tøyen. It’s a multi-cultural neighbourhood with blocks of flats that have been brightened up by using gigantic murals. If you love street art, then you have to add Tøyen to your Oslo itinerary . Also, the area has a few cute places to grab a bite to eat and a drink while you watch the world go by.

Lastly, stroll around Oslo Harbour to see many murals, from animals to abstract pieces. No matter where you are in Norway’s capital, you will have a fabulous time following the trail of urban artwork.

Tromso, high above the Arctic Circle, is not where I expected to find street art, so I was pleasantly surprised to see some incredible murals in the city. The street art, skateboarders, artisan coffee and vintage shops give Tromso a slight urban vibe, moving away from its traditional fishing community identity.

Tromsø’s street art encompasses a wide range of styles and themes. It includes everything from large murals depicting Arctic landscapes and wildlife to abstract graffiti and political messages. Many artists draw inspiration from the region’s natural beauty and social and cultural issues.

Some areas have more concentrated displays than others. The city centre, especially around Storgata, is a hotspot for street art. Additionally, areas like Grønnegata and Fjellheisen also feature notable pieces.

Stavanger is popular with many street artists, and works of art are everywhere. From giant murals to tiny pieces that can easily be missed, street art seems to be an integral part of the city.

With a mix of political statements, brightly coloured images and those that simply induce a smile, the art is exciting and thought-provoking.  

Guided tours and maps are available to help you find much of the artwork, but they aren’t essential. We wandered around and found plenty. Head away from the main areas into the side streets to see some of the best examples.  

My favourites were the less obvious pieces. I enjoyed finding the smaller ones, many drawn by British street artist JPS, and we had a fun few hours looking for them. Other artists in Stavanger are Evol, a German who stencils buildings onto electricity boxes. And French artists Ella and Pitr, whose work covers entire buildings.

Stavanger is a fantastic introduction to the world of street art in Europe, as there is something to appeal to everyone.

Street Art in Portugal

While Lisbon, one of Portugal’s most stunning locations , is known for its gorgeous architecture, cobbled streets, and old-world charm, many visitors don’t realise that the city is also a fabulous street art destination!

Admittedly, some parts of the city have somewhat unsightly graffiti and murals that aren’t pleasing to the eye. But, throughout the city, you will find other incredible murals and street art installations that are noteworthy and worth exploring.

One particular artist to watch out for is Artur Bordalo, aka Bordalo II. An artist who creates incredible street art sculptures entirely out of trash. His works are intended to spark a debate around consumerism and our constant obsession with consumption, hence his use of garbage to create these stunning pieces.

In Lisbon, in particular, you can find the ‘Two Pelicans’ in Chiado right next to the Santa Justa Elevator, ‘The Fox’ in Cais do Sodre, ‘The Lynx’ in Parque das Nacoes and ‘The Bee’ in the hip and happening LX Factory.

If you’re visiting Lisbon anytime soon, add these to your Lisbon Itinerary and explore the best street art in Europe!

While there are plenty of  art museums in Porto, the city’s best art pieces can be viewed for free on the streets.

Porto was the city that made me fall in love with street art. I’d always admired murals that I happened to pass by, but I’d never thought about who had made them, how, or why. Then, I joined a street art walking tour in Porto and learned all about the city’s murals and the artists. I was hooked!

Porto is a small city ; you can see great art by walking around the city centre. Two streets, in particular, worth seeking out are Rua de Miguel Bombarda and Rua da Madeira, the latter just behind the São Bento railway station. For more than a decade, from 2002 to 2013, Porto was run by a mayor who hated street art.

He created an “anti-graffiti” brigade that whitewashed any new artworks as soon as they’d been painted. When a new city government finally took over, they commissioned a massive mural by two of Porto’s most celebrated artists — Hazul and Mr Dheo.

You’ll find this mural right in front of the Trindade metro station. Other Portuguese artists of note to seek out include Bordalo II, Frederico Draw, and Vhils.

Street Art in Spain

The emergence of street art in the vibrant coastal town of Puerto de la Cruz in 2014 was spurred on by a growing global appreciation for urban art and a desire to revitalize public spaces.

International artists were invited to participate in the Puerto Street Art (PSA) initiative and create 15 murals. Since then, the annual Mueca Festival has continued to attract street artists to Puerto de la Cruz, and the number of murals adorning walls has grown.

Most street art can be found in the area known as La Ranilla, a once-bustling fishing neighbourhood. It is adorned with a kaleidoscope of captivating murals that add an extra layer of charm to this already picturesque destination. From colourful murals depicting local personalities, flora, and fauna to thought-provoking abstract pieces, each artwork tells a story and invites viewers to engage with their surroundings in new and meaningful ways.

As you wander the streets of La Ranilla, look all around you to spot these urban murals. From gable ends to front doors, this open-air gallery is delightful.

Valencia’s street art is sensational. It is mostly scattered around the El Carmen neighbourhood (but also in Ruzafa and El Cabanyal).

El Carmen is a part of the city’s old town district (Ciutat Vella), and the contrast between the traditional and the modern is fascinating and captivating.

I love Valencia’s colourful and artistic street art. I especially like that you can admire a magnificent giant mural and a minute later discover a tiny, quirky figure on the corner of the street.

One of the city’s most notable artists is Julieta XLF. Her Japanese-influenced, whimsical, colourful art is easy to recognise. It almost always features a girl with closed eyes and animals surrounding her. 

Another renowned Valencian artist is Escif, also known as the Spanish Banksy. He uses more neutral colours, and his art usually has a deeper meaning (though it’s not always easy to figure out).

Valencia  is a fabulous city because it has everything you could want. It has a great food scene, beautiful landmarks, enchanting streets, a relaxed vibe, and so much more, but its street art is one major thing that will put a smile on your face and make you fall in love with it.

Street Art in Sweden

Malmö is one of the most famous cities in Sweden when it comes to street art. There are several areas of the city where you can find murals. The best way to explore them is to bike around and follow the directions from a pre-made Google Maps route.

Some main areas with excellent murals include Holma, Davidshall, Möllevången and the Old Town. Phlegm and Smug One are two particular artists who have made famous murals in the city.

The murals are large; several were part of an open art project a few years ago.

I enjoyed the street art in Malmö very much. I find it almost at the same level as murals I have seen in New York and London. My favourite murals in Malmö are “Trollet” and “The last embrace before departure.”

Please Pin for Future Reference

If you are interested in street art, you may also like to read these posts:

17 Best Cities to See Street Art in Asia

10 Best Cities in Eastern Europe To See Street Art

12 Best Cities To See Street Art in South America

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Thursday 13th of October 2022

Hello Angie! Very nice work you have done on the street art! I would like to let you know that in Patras/Greece, we have been running an international mural festival for 6 years now. We already have 58 large-scale murals from artists from all over the world. Friendly, Κleomenis.

WhereAngieWanders

Saturday 15th of October 2022

Thank you so much for highlighting the Patras International Mural Festival to my readers and me. It certainly looks like a fabulous place to see some large-scale pieces of street art in Europe.

Brownboy travels

Wednesday 10th of February 2021

It’s very helpful thanks for sharing a great post

Renata Green

Friday 16th of October 2020

I love murals and streetart - however, I always admired it rather in Latin America where it has a strong political impact. Being based in Hamburg, I'm quite familiar with the street art in Berlin, but only recently I discovered art in public places in Brussels. Not only is there this grand comic book project, also, there is a work of art at every subway station. My plan for the future is to get off at every station to take a picture of the respective work. Only that right now, Brussels is a Corona-hotspot....oh dear, it's so frustrating!

Saturday 17th of October 2020

I would love to see the street art in person in South America - hopefully, one day I will get there. Europe is so full of inspiring street art.

Thursday 15th of October 2020

Oh, street art is always such a sweet surprise and so many times we can miss out because we're just not aware of where it is. Thanks Angie, for sharing all this detailed info. I look forward to searching for these in my travels.

Yukti Agrawal

Friday 10th of July 2020

I love street art and in every city, I do try to take some street art tour and explore some artistic corners of that place. I never knew that Sheffield in UK is heaven for street art lovers and here many street artists also emerge out. I loved your colorful post.

Saturday 11th of July 2020

Thank you Yukti. I love street art and try to find it in every location I visit. There are some amazing artists out there.

25 best street art cities in the world

Written by Maartje

Looking for the very best street art cities in the world? There are destinations known for their unique street art or hidden gems that have a lot of stunning murals to offer despite not being well-known for it. As avid fans of street art, we have visited many of these places. We appreciate the origins of street art as illegal graffiti used for political protest, which has now evolved into something cities take pride in. While some murals still hold political meaning, others are purely artistic. Although we enjoy visiting museums, we appreciate how street art is accessible to all and transforms cities into outdoor art galleries. To unveil the top street art destinations, we enlisted the help of leading travel bloggers to create the ultimate bucket list featuring the best street art cities around the world.

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#1 Colorful street alleys in Yangon, Myanmar

by Lee from The Travel Scribes

Discover the Hidden Gem of Street Art in Yangon, Myanmar

When it comes to vibrant street art, Yangon may not be the first city that springs to mind. As the former capital of magnificent Myanmar, this city has a thriving mural scene with a unique community-based twist.

While Yangon is still off the beaten tourist path, most visitors spend their days exploring temples, marveling at colonial architecture, or indulging in mouthwatering Shan noodles at local hawker stands. However, there is an undiscovered treasure that deserves the top spot on your itinerary: the relatively unknown world of street art.

Once dilapidated backstreets overflowing with garbage, Yangon’s street art alleys underwent a remarkable transformation thanks to the efforts of a local organization called Doh Eain. They turned one alley into a picturesque garden adorned with murals by talented local artists. The newfound safe space for children caught the attention of the media, resulting in further funding and the creation of eight alleys. Today, these alleys not only feature playground equipment and the delightful sound of children’s laughter but also showcase impressive, large-scale murals crafted by Danish, Polish, and local street artists like Nat Eain Hlaing and Kyi Aung Kyaw.

When exploring Yangon’s street art scene, make sure to visit the main alleys located on 29th and 42nd street in downtown Yangon. However, each alley holds its own charm and is well worth a visit. While immersing yourself in this vibrant art community, don’t forget to take a break and enjoy a cup of Cho Saint, a delectable Burmese tea with a milky twist, at the nearby Rangoon Tea House. The unforgettable flavors will undoubtedly leave you craving for more.

#2 Graffiti in Buenos Aires, Argentina

by Erin from Sol Salute

Buenos Aires: The Ultimate Street Art Destination

The street art in Buenos Aires  is world-renowned. When it comes to world-renowned street art, Buenos Aires takes the crown. This vibrant city, known for its lax regulations and thriving artistic culture, boasts a plethora of captivating murals that will leave you in awe. Immerse yourself in an open-air street art museum by exploring the blocks surrounding La Boca’s Usina del Arte museum. Here, you’ll encounter a myriad of stunning artwork, including a striking two-story depiction of a man peacefully asleep on the back of his horse. Another must-see is a ramshackle home adorned with a vivid blue sky and an enormous rainbow, creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle.

For a truly photogenic experience, venture into the alleyways of Palermo Soho, particularly Pasaje Russel and Pasaje Soria. These charming streets showcase some of the most captivating graffiti in the entire city. After exploring Soho, make your way to Villa Crespo, a residential neighborhood famous for its vibrant murals. One of the highlights here is “Karl Marx and his 9 Kittens” by the renowned artist Eversiempre, located at Serrano 982. You can either explore Palermo on your own or join a comprehensive with a 2-hour guided tour  to discover the hidden gems of the area.

Given the vastness of Buenos Aires, it is recommended to allocate at least 5 days to fully appreciate the city’s offerings (though you could easily extend your stay to two weeks or even a month without ever feeling bored!). To make the most of your visit, consider basing yourself in Palermo , where you’ll have easy access to the finest restaurants and an abundance of captivating street art. Prepare to be enchanted by the vibrant colors and creative expressions that make Buenos Aires a haven for street art enthusiasts from around the globe.

#3 Famous murals in Penang, Malaysia

by Angela from Where Angie Wanders

George Town in Penang is a must-visit destination for street art enthusiasts. This charming Malaysian town may be small in size, but it boasts an abundance of captivating urban artworks that should not be missed. Whether you’re seeking the best things to do in George Town  or simply want to immerse yourself in the vibrant street art scene, this place has it all.

One of the town’s standout features is the collection of street art pieces created by renowned Lithuanian artist, Ernest Zacharevic. Back in 2012, with official council approval, Zacharevic transformed the once barren walls of George Town into a captivating outdoor gallery. Some of his most famous works, such as “Girl on a bike,” “Boy on a motorbike,” and “Children on a Swing,” have become iconic and are frequently captured by visitors through their lenses. Additionally, you’ll come across numerous wall murals by other talented artists as you explore the town.

To make the most of your time and ensure you don’t miss any of the remarkable artworks, an online street-art trail is available. This convenient guide allows you to discover all the captivating pieces in a single day, making it ideal for those with limited time. However, if you have the opportunity to extend your stay, I highly recommend considering The Blue Mansion Heritage Hotel . This exceptional accommodation option perfectly complements the artistic ambiance of George Town, providing a memorable and immersive experience.

#4 Santiago de los Caballeros in the Dominican Republic

by Roshni from The Wanderlust Within

Santiago de los Caballeros: Exploring a Colorful Paradise for Street Art Enthusiasts

Discover the vibrant city of Santiago de los Caballeros, one of the most  beautiful places in the Dominican Republic . As the country’s second largest city, Santiago has undergone a remarkable transformation since 2017, thanks to the visionary initiative of the local authorities. With an invitation extended to talented artists, the Mayor of Santiago encouraged them to turn the buildings and walls of the Los Pepines neighborhood into captivating canvases. The result? A city reborn with an explosion of colorful murals and multicolored houses, creating an awe-inspiring artistic landscape.

For an unforgettable street art experience, don’t miss the enchanting streets of Calle Cuba and Calle 16 Agosto. These vibrant thoroughfares are adorned with an impressive display of murals, one after another, forming an immersive artistic journey. What sets Los Pepines apart is the genuine pride exhibited by homeowners and locals towards their neighborhood. They are eager to share the hidden gems and captivating corners of their beloved city, making every step of your exploration truly memorable.

Venturing through the Los Pepines neighborhood is easily achievable in just a few hours, making it an ideal day trip. To make the most of your visit, consider staying at the conveniently located Hodelpa Centro Plaza , where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Santiago de los Caballeros while being just a stone’s throw away from the artistic heart of the city.

#5 Street art in Athens, Greece

by Chrysoula from Athens And Beyond

If you’re looking to discover the vibrant street art scene in Athens, you’ve come to the right place! As one of the hottest street art cities in Europe, the Greek capital offers a wealth of artistic expression. From captivating sketches to thought-provoking murals, Athens boasts an abundance of street art waiting to be explored.

To make the most of your street art adventure in Athens, be sure to visit some of the best neighborhoods for an immersive experience. Psiri , Karamikos, Exarcheia, and the charming island-like area of Anafiotika on the Acropolis hillside are must-visit locations. Notable pieces to seek out include ‘Knowledge Speaks’ by Wild Drawing on the corner of Samou and Kostantinou Palaiologou, as well as ‘Hands’ by Pavlos Tsankonas at 20 Pireos Street.

Whether you choose to embark on a self-guided exploration or opt for an alternative tour , prepare to be amazed by the incredible talent showcased on the streets of Athens. What sets Athens apart is the ubiquitous nature of street art throughout the city. You can dedicate an entire afternoon to actively seeking out these captivating artworks, or simply stumble upon them organically as you navigate the city’s vibrant streets.

#6 The Sea Walls at Isla Cozumel in Mexico

Isla Cozumel in Mexico stands out as one of the largest islands in Yucatán and a highly popular destination among tourists and cruise ships. While many are drawn to its serene beaches and abundant snorkeling opportunities, it was the captivating Sea Walls that truly left an indelible mark on our visit.

These remarkable Sea Walls serve as a powerful medium for positive protest, raising awareness for the preservation of nature and the vitality of our oceans. Unlike any other coastal destination in the world, Isla Cozumel boasts an impressive array of ocean-themed street art adorning its walls. The privilege of hosting these magnificent murals has been bestowed upon Cozumel multiple times, testament to its significance.

For a comprehensive glimpse of the captivating artistry, the Sea Walls website provides an extensive catalog of 53 murals found in San Miguel. However, it’s virtually impossible to overlook these stunning artworks as you explore the town on foot or by car. With 53 awe-inspiring creations dispersed throughout the city, including towering two-story masterpieces, most of them are conveniently situated in the vibrant city center.

#7 Vibrant murals in Melaka, Malaysia

by Luke from The Coastal Campaign

Melaka , a captivating tourist destination in Malaysia, is conveniently located just a short drive away from Kuala Lumpur. While the city may appear bustling and tourist-oriented at first glance, a deeper exploration reveals a treasure trove of history and culture waiting to be uncovered.

One of the standout features of Melaka is its vibrant street art scene, which adds a splash of color and creativity to every corner of the city. Unlike other destinations, the captivating street art isn’t limited to a single street; instead, it can be found scattered throughout the entire city. As we strolled along the riverbanks in the city center, we were immediately captivated by the awe-inspiring street art. Around every corner, we were delighted to stumble upon more captivating artworks. Among our personal favorites is the vivid painting adorning the side of the Orangutan House—an esteemed local art gallery.

To make the most of your Melaka experience, we recommend allocating two days to explore this compact city fully. With a wide range of excellent accommodation options located in the city center, you’ll have convenient access to embark on your exploration. If you’re looking for the ultimate indulgence, we highly recommend Casa del Rio , boasting an incredible infinity pool that will take your breath away.

#8 Graffiti in Ghent, Belgium

by Veronika from Travel Geekery

Discover Ghent, one of the trendiest destinations in Belgium, renowned for its captivating street art scene. Situated midway between Brussels and the well-known Bruges , Ghent offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern urban lifestyle.

Read more:   best things to do in Ghent

Much like its famous counterpart, Ghent boasts picturesque water canals, breathtaking architecture, and an enchanting atmosphere. However, what sets this city apart is its vibrant street art culture, embraced by its contemporary and forward-thinking residents. To assist visitors in exploring this artistic treasure trove, the local tourism office has thoughtfully created the “Sorry, Not Sorry Street Art Gent” map, which can be obtained for free at the Ghent info center. Alternatively, you can embark on the thrilling  3-hour Urban Mountain Bike tour , showcasing a diverse range of captivating street art pieces.

For an authentic street art experience, Graffiti Alley located at Werregarenstraatje Street is a must-visit. This iconic alley serves as an open canvas for artistic self-expression, continuously transforming its appearance as new creations emerge.

While many of Ghent’s striking murals are found outside the city center, there are numerous hidden gems to be discovered within the heart of the city. Most of these captivating artworks are the result of regular street art festivals, showcasing the city’s commitment to artistic expression.

#9 Street art paradise Valparaiso in Chile

by Alya & Campbell from Stingy Nomads

Valparaiso: The Ultimate Street Art Destination in Chile

Explore the vibrant coastal city of Valparaiso, hailed as the art capital of Chile and a haven for street art enthusiasts. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Valparaiso’s stunning street art scene, where picturesque murals adorn houses and walls, while intricate mosaics embellish staircases and sidewalks. This South American gem boasts a kaleidoscope of colors, making it a must-visit destination for art lovers.

Valparaiso boasts three prominent neighborhoods that showcase an array of exceptional street art: Cerro Concepción, Cerro Bellavista, and Cerro Alegre. Notably, Cerro Bellavista houses the renowned open-air museum, Museum A Cielo Abierto. This extraordinary museum showcases an impressive collection of 20 murals crafted by talented local artists, both amateur and celebrated. The museum, open 24 hours a day and with no entrance fee, is a testament to Valparaiso’s thriving art community. For convenient access, take a ride on the historic Ascensor Espiritu Santo, a charming funicular.

Embark on a captivating journey through the winding streets of Cerro Concepción and Cerro Alegre, where you’ll encounter awe-inspiring works of art. Marvel at staircases transformed into vibrant rainbows or piano keys, mosaic masterpieces adorned with sunflowers, and walls that narrate the daily life of the city. Spend a delightful day exploring Valparaiso in search of street art treasures or join a guided tour  for a curated experience. For an ideal stay in the heart of Valparaiso’s street art neighborhood, Art Hostal Bellavista is a choice, providing a comfortable and immersive haven for art enthusiasts.

#10 Street artwork in Rotterdam, Netherlands

Our hometown, Rotterdam, is renowned worldwide for its modern architecture, but its vibrant street art scene often goes unnoticed by international travelers. Discovering the city’s captivating murals scattered throughout, particularly in the city center, is a delightful surprise.

One street that boasts the highest concentration of murals is Witte de With. It’s a hub of activity, featuring an array of enticing options for drinks, nightlife, restaurants, and bars . Notably, Lonely Planet has lauded the renowned Witte Aap as one of the world’s best bars. If you’re looking for accommodation in this lively area, both King Kong Hostel and the Capsule Hotel City Hub  offer excellent options. Among the artworks, Ramon Martins’ art nouveau style painting holds a special place in our hearts. However, the green wall adorned with white figures by Daan Botlek is even more famous, as it allows you to immerse yourself within the mural.

Another captivating area to explore street art is the Schieblok, conveniently situated near the central station. During the summer, this locale transforms into the perfect spot for afternoon drinks at the outdoor Biergarten or a delightful breakfast or lunch at the rooftop restaurant, Op het Dak! The yellow footbridge and the street art between the Schieblok and the central station make for incredibly picturesque and Instagram-worthy moments.

For those eager to embark on a self-guided tour to witness all the mesmerizing murals in Rotterdam, we recommend downloading the street art map online . It will serve as your comprehensive guide to uncovering the hidden gems of this remarkable street art city.

#11 Famous murals in Manchester, UK

by Pauline from BeeLoved City

If you’re a street art enthusiast, Manchester, England is the ultimate destination for you! This vibrant city boasts a plethora of captivating murals scattered throughout its streets. For an optimal street art experience, kick off your visit in the trendy Northern Quarter, a revitalized industrial district teeming with awe-inspiring urban artworks.

Begin your artistic journey at Stevenson Square, where you’ll encounter an ever-changing collection of breathtaking murals. While it’s difficult to predict the exact masterpieces on display, notable past creations include the iconic portraits of Arya Stark and David Bowie. As you continue strolling along Thomas Street, prepare to be amazed by an array of artistic wonders, including tributes to Harry Potter, popular Netflix shows, and the symbolic Manchester bee.

Don’t miss the vibrant gay village, particularly Canal Street, where you’ll find the renowned Ariana Grande portrait. This poignant artwork emerged in the aftermath of the tragic terrorist attack at the Manchester Arena.

With street art adorning every corner of Manchester and constant artistic evolution, the best approach to discovering these captivating murals is through leisurely exploration. Be sure to explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Northern Quarter, Ancoats, Gay Village, Deansgate, and Hulme, as they are renowned hotspots for urban art. For a comprehensive experience, consider allocating at least two days to fully immerse yourself in Manchester’s street art scene and uncover its finest gems.

#12 Off the beaten track Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

by Kamila from My Wanderlust

When it comes to exploring the world’s best cities for street art, Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina may not be the first destination that springs to mind. However, beneath its popular surface, where visitors flock to admire the iconic Old Bridge, lies a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Venture beyond the confines of the old town, and you’ll uncover the true essence of Mostar, characterized by a vibrant atmosphere and an awe-inspiring street art scene.

Mostar’s tumultuous history, marred by the devastating Balkan War in the 1990s, left a profound impact on the city. Today, remnants of that tragic era still linger, manifested in the numerous dilapidated buildings that bear witness to the past. However, these buildings have become the canvas for extraordinary murals, graffiti, and other captivating forms of street art. One prominent example is the renowned sniper tower, a former bank that served as a sniper position during the war. Both its interior and exterior are now adorned with mesmerizing murals.

Additionally, you’ll find an abundance of murals tracing the former front line along Alekse Šantića street and in proximity to the university. Furthermore, Mostar hosts an annual street art festival, ensuring a continuous influx of remarkable works adorning its walls for years to come. By visiting Mostar, you not only immerse yourself in its rich history but also bear witness to a thriving street art culture that adds a vibrant touch to the cityscape.

#13 Underrated street art city Belfast, UK

by Krystianna from Volumes & Voyages

Belfast: A Hidden Gem for Street Art Enthusiasts

Discover the vibrant street art scene of Belfast, an often overlooked gem in Northern Ireland, United Kingdom. Don’t let its size fool you – a 48-hour visit to Belfast is all you need to immerse yourself in this thriving artistic haven. Unveil the city’s rich history intertwined with its street art culture, making it an extraordinary destination for art lovers. To fully appreciate the political context behind most of the artwork, consider hiring a knowledgeable tour guide or embark on a self-guided walking tour.

For an art-filled experience, head to Cathedral Quarter, where captivating street art awaits at every turn. Be sure not to miss SMUG’s awe-inspiring mural and MTO’s impressive masterpiece, “The Son of Protagaros.” Another must-see is Starfighter’s renowned work, “Pandora’s Jar,” leaving a lasting impression on all who encounter it.

Planning your trip to Belfast? Opt for an affordable and comfortable stay by exploring Airbnb options. During my visit, I found a charming house conveniently located near Queen’s University, providing easy access to the city’s artistic wonders. Alternatively, consider the renowned Jury’s Inn Belfast  for a delightful accommodation experience.

#14 Art-filled staircases in São Paulo, Brazil

by Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan

When it comes to street art cities, São Paulo often gets overshadowed by its more famous counterpart, Rio de Janeiro. However, those who venture into this vibrant city are invariably captivated by its thriving street art scene.

To kickstart your exploration, head straight to Vila Madalena, the artistic hub of São Paulo. This neighborhood is home to one of São Paulo’s most popular attractions known as Beco do Batman or “Batman’s Alley.” This narrow pedestrian street boasts an awe-inspiring display of art, adorning every inch of the walls and even spilling onto the street itself. To make the most of your visit, aim to arrive early, preferably before 9 am, to beat the crowd of street vendors and ensure uninterrupted photo opportunities. For a comprehensive experience, consider embarking on a guided street art bike tour , covering a distance of approximately 20 kilometers.

While Beco do Batman is undoubtedly a highlight, allow yourself ample time, at least half a day, to fully immerse in the wonders of Vila Madalena. This neighborhood offers so much more beyond the famous alley. Be sure to explore the remarkable art-filled staircases nearby, such as the nearby Patapio staircase. For a more extended venture, make the effort to seek out the Bailarinas staircase, where captivating murals depicting graceful ballet dancers await, creating a truly enchanting sight.

#15 Freetown Christiania in Copenhagen, Denmark

by Derek from Everything Copenhagen

Copenhagen is a vibrant city bursting with beauty at every turn. One of the best  Copenhagen attractions   for art enthusiasts is Christiania. Located within the heart of Copenhagen, Christiana stands out as one of the world’s premier destinations for captivating street art.

This unique self-proclaimed autonomous nation, known as ‘Freetown Christiania,’ sets itself apart from anywhere else on the planet. Nestled on the grounds of a former Danish military barracks, this commune is home to approximately 1000 residents who have embraced a simple hippie lifestyle, completely disconnected from the conventional power grid. While renowned for its controversial reputation of marijuana sales on Pusher Street, Christiania entices visitors with its mesmerizing display of street art, making it a must-visit locale.

Christiania is a haven for street art enthusiasts, boasting an abundance of captivating murals adorning its buildings. These artistic masterpieces are meticulously crafted, incorporating innovative techniques and designs that transcend traditional boundaries. The street art in Christiania is not confined to mere paintings but extends beyond, incorporating additional elements to create a multidimensional experience. Recognized as a popular tourist destination for those in the know, Christiania continues to allure visitors seeking an offbeat experience. Whether joining  guided tours or exploring independently, immersing oneself in the enchanting street art of Christiania is a remarkable adventure not to be missed.

#16 Art watching from cable cars in La Paz, Bolivia

by Jeanine from Le Wild Explorer

Discover the vibrant allure of La Paz, one of South America’s most captivating cities. Known for its rich culture, awe-inspiring views, and incredible street art, this Bolivian gem offers a feast for the senses. Unveil the hidden wonders of La Paz’s street art scene by embarking on a journey to Cementerio General de La Paz, where astonishing murals adorn unexpected canvases. Contrary to expectations, the juxtaposition of a cemetery and street art yields breathtaking results, enhancing the serene ambiance of this remarkable place.

Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the kaleidoscope of colors that awaits in Chualluma, La Paz’s enchanting neighborhood. Every street and corner serves as a sprawling canvas, bursting with vibrant hues that are sure to captivate art enthusiasts. While exploring this vibrant neighborhood on foot is a must, ascending to greater heights reveals an even more extraordinary perspective. Ascend the aerial cable cars , affectionately known as Mi Teleférico, for a truly unforgettable experience, offering unparalleled vistas and the best way to navigate the city.

To fully savor the wonders of La Paz, it is recommended to allocate at least three days for exploration. With a myriad of activities both within the city and its surroundings, this timeframe allows you to delve deeper into the local treasures. For outdoor enthusiasts, La Paz serves as an ideal basecamp, providing easy access to breathtaking natural wonders and thrilling adventures.

#17 Political murals in Krakow, Poland

by Dagney from Cultura Obscura

Krakow, renowned for its vibrant street art scene, stands out as one of the top cities worldwide to immerse yourself in this expressive art form. Whether you have a full day or just an afternoon to spare, exploring the city’s extensive collection of captivating murals is a must.

Within Krakow, street art can be found scattered throughout, but several key areas showcase its true essence. Start your adventure in the City Centre, where impressive works await your discovery. Venture further to Kazimierz, the historic Jewish Quarter, where the streets come alive with thought-provoking masterpieces like “Judah” by Pil Peled and “For God’s Sake, Censorship is Everywhere” by Pikaso.

To witness a concentration of street art of Krakow in its fullest glory, head to Podgórze. This area boasts an array of enormous murals, often delving into political and controversial themes. Notably, you’ll encounter “Ding Dong Dumb” by Blu, an extraordinary piece created in 2011. Through its powerful imagery, this mural provides a thought-provoking commentary on the intricate relationship between the Polish people and the Catholic Church. Other notable works in Podgórze include Filip Kużniarz’s “Lem’s Robot” and a whimsical caricature depicting the iconic “My God, Help Me to Survive This Deadly Love” (or Fraternal Kiss) between Leonid Brezhnev and Erich Honecker.

#18 Legalised murals in Helsinki, Finland

by Alexander from Engineer On Tour

Discover the burgeoning street art scene in Helsinki , where creativity is taking its first captivating steps. Despite its relative freshness, Helsinki’s street art offers a unique experience, thanks to a combination of intriguing factors.

Previously forbidden, street art in Finland received a significant boost in 2008 when the laws changed, allowing artists to express themselves freely. However, there is a procedure artists must follow. City architects meticulously review and assess how murals integrate into the surrounding districts, ensuring a harmonious blend with the environment. This meticulous approval process results in exceptionally curated street art, setting Helsinki apart from other cities.

To immerse yourself in Helsinki’s street art, head to the vibrant districts of Kallio and Vallilla, where the largest concentration of captivating murals awaits. For an enhanced experience, utilize the detailed online map showcasing street art locations in the Helsinki Metropolitan area. You can also obtain a physical street art map from the tourist office, allowing you to navigate this urban art form with ease.

#19 Wall poems in Leiden, Netherlands

The historic Dutch city of Leiden may not be the obvious choice when it comes to vibrant street art destinations. Renowned for its museums, historical landmarks, and picturesque canals reminiscent of Amsterdam, Leiden isn’t typically associated with urban art scenes. However, Leiden’s street art scene offers a unique twist. Instead of colorful murals or political graffiti, the city showcases an abundance of poetry.

With over 120 wall poems, known as ‘muurgedichten’ in Dutch, adorning its walls, Leiden boasts a captivating display of artistic expression. These poems encompass a range of languages, including Chinese, Greek, and Arabic alphabets, alongside eight poems predating 1880. Although the website dedicated to these wall poems is available only in Dutch and English, it provides translations for most of the poems. For an immersive experience, the website offers interactive themed maps that allow you to embark on a self-guided walking tour. Alternatively, you can opt for the bike route, which provides an authentic Dutch experience in a country renowned for its love of cycling.

#20 Shoreditch area in London, United Kingdom

by Caroline from CK Travels

London is renowned for its incredible street art scene, with the most captivating pieces tucked away in the charming lanes and alleys of the vibrant and trendy Shoreditch neighborhood in East London. Showcasing a blend of internationally acclaimed artists and local street painters, this area boasts a plethora of vibrant and visually striking artwork, occupying a wide range of spaces. Exploring these streets will take you on an awe-inspiring journey that can easily span a few hours, and the best part is that you can embark on a self-guided tour, effortlessly navigating the area. Alternatively, if you prefer a more structured experience, there are numerous group walking tours  available, offering a deeper insight into the artists and their creations.

When it comes to the must-see highlights of Shoreditch’s street art , New Inn Yard takes the spotlight, showcasing the UK’s largest street mural named ‘Connectivity Matters.’ This incredible masterpiece is the result of a massive collaboration involving sixteen of the nation’s top street artists. In addition to this iconic piece, other notable street art hubs in the area include Hanbury Street, Ebor Street, Whitby Street, Fashion Street, and Chance Street.

#21 Graffiti tour in Bogota, Colombia

by Megan from Megan Starr

Bogota, Colombia: The Ultimate Destination for Street Art Enthusiasts

When it comes to the world’s top street art cities, Bogota undoubtedly claims its well-deserved spot. Nestled in South America, this vibrant metropolis has gained international recognition for its awe-inspiring murals and kaleidoscopic walls.

Surprisingly, it was only in the past decade that street art became legal in Colombia’s capital, catalyzed by the tragic death of a 16-year-old graffiti artist at the hands of the police. Since its legalization, Bogota has bloomed with an explosion of color and diverse messages adorning its urban canvas. Visitors can feast their eyes on thought-provoking expressions about climate change, Colombia’s tumultuous history with drugs, and poignant governmental protests, all elegantly displayed on the city’s facades.

To fully immerse yourself in Bogota’s street art scene, venture to the heart of artistic expression: La Candelaria . This enchanting district, replete with charming cafes and trendy establishments, serves as the epicenter of graffiti and street art. Embark on a free walking tour, although be prepared for bustling crowds, or opt for a more intimate experience with a private tour .

#22 Banksy’s home town Bristol, United Kingdom

by Lee and Stacey of One Trip at a Time

When it comes to street art, there are few cities that rival Bristol, the birthplace of the world-renowned artist, Banksy. Immerse yourself in this vibrant city and witness not only Banksy’s earliest and most iconic works but also a plethora of captivating street art pieces.

Among Banksy’s notable creations in Bristol are the thought-provoking “Well Hung Lover”, portraying a daring lover caught in the act, humorously hanging from a windowsill. Another masterpiece, “Mild Mild West”, showcases a teddy bear poised to throw a Molotov cocktail at the police, delivering a powerful message. Meanwhile, “Girl with the Pierced Eardrum” ingeniously incorporates the building’s alarm box as the girl’s earring. In addition to these gems, don’t miss Banksy’s “Paint Pot Angel” at the Bristol Museum: a striking statue of an angel drenched in pink paint.

To fully appreciate the rich tapestry of street art in Bristol, explore the city independently or join a guided tour led by knowledgeable experts. By keeping your eyes peeled and observing your surroundings, you’ll uncover an abundance of street art treasures adorning both prominent and hidden corners of Bristol’s streets.

#23 The 170 murals in Kyiv, Ukraine

by Alex from Lost With Purpose

Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, is a hidden gem for epic street art enthusiasts. Despite being an unexpected contender, Kyiv surprises visitors with its vibrant and diverse urban art scene.

Since 2014, a remarkable collaboration of 36 talented artists has adorned the city with an impressive collection of 170 modern street art pieces. However, Kyiv’s street art extends beyond the contemporary; venture into the outer neighborhoods and discover captivating Soviet murals that showcase the city’s rich history.

Kyiv’s street art scene is a captivating tapestry of creativity. You’ll encounter a wide range of styles, from mesmerizing abstracts to captivating compositions celebrating Ukraine’s Cossack heritage. Additionally, poignant memorials pay tribute to the individuals who lost their lives during the impactful 2014 Euromaidan movement.

Among the notable masterpieces, Renaissance stands tall at the end of Andriyivskyy Descent, serving as a powerful symbol of Ukraine’s rebirth following the 2014 revolution. Another significant piece, the Portrait of Serhiy Nigoyan, pays homage to the first protester who tragically lost his life during the same revolution and can be found near the iconic St. Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery. Lastly, don’t miss the enchanting River Crossing mural in Podil, depicting a deer assisting a man in crossing a river, evoking a sense of unity and cooperation.

Kyiv’s murals are scattered throughout the city, but the highest concentration can be found in the vibrant city center. With so much to explore, it’s recommended to dedicate a few days to fully immerse yourself in Kyiv’s street art scene. However, if time is limited, allow yourself 2-3 days to experience the most prominent and noteworthy pieces that will leave a lasting impression.

#24 Praga district in Warsaw, Poland

by Reshma from The Solo Globetrotter

Poland, with its rich artistic heritage, boasts an array of extraordinary talents. Among its cities, Warsaw stands out as a thriving hub for exceptional street art. When exploring your Warsaw itinerary , immerse yourself in the expressive world of wall art in the Praga district, a lively and hipster neighborhood. As you stroll through its streets, you’ll witness the profound admiration the Polish have for this art form. Situated on the eastern side of the Vistula river, Praga serves as a haven for the finest artists in Poland.

Once notorious for its high crime rates, Praga has undergone a remarkable transformation, now emerging as a top destination for street art enthusiasts and a must-visit attraction for tourists in Warsaw.

Embark on a self-guided adventure or join one of the guided tours to fully experience the captivating streets of Praga, a journey that typically spans half a day or slightly longer. Don’t miss the opportunity to admire renowned masterpieces such as the mesmerizing mechanical centaur located on Dolna 37 street, the striking goose on Brzeska 14a street, and the enchanting playground on Stalowa 41, created by the talented Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic.

#25 Outdoor art gallery Miami, United States

by Claire from Stoked To Travel

The Wynwood Arts District in Miami has transformed from a neglected and abandoned manufacturing neighborhood into the vibrant heart of the city’s art and design scene. Within a short span of less than a decade, local graffiti artists revitalized the abandoned warehouse district, turning it into a world-renowned outdoor art gallery bursting with colors. It undeniably stands out as one of the top destinations for experiencing street art around the globe. Exploring the district can be done independently or by joining a golf buggy guided tour , which conveniently showcases its highlights within an hour.

Miami’s Wynwood Arts District is also known as one of the city’s most dynamic and diverse neighborhoods, boasting over 70 indoor and outdoor museums, art galleries, and a plethora of trendy establishments for dining, drinking, and socializing. What sets Miami’s street art apart is its ever-changing nature, as new artists continuously contribute to the vibrant walls, ensuring a constant refreshment of the street art and murals. This creates an extraordinary street art exhibition that is unlike any other.

At the heart of the Arts District lies the renowned Wynwood Walls, which undergoes an art transformation every December, just before the arrival of Art Basel Miami Beach, one of the world’s premier art shows. This presents an incredible opportunity to explore Wynwood and immerse yourself in its captivating and colorful tapestry.

Getting to Wynwood is convenient from both Downtown Miami  and Miami Beach, as it’s just a quick Uber ride away or accessible via the public bus service. While staying in the vicinity of the Wynwood Arts District is an option, I recommend basing yourself in Downtown or Miami Beach for a wider range of accommodation choices and attractions. Whether you plan a full-day excursion to Wynwood or visit for a delightful dinner experience, indulging in excellent cuisine at KYU or the Wynwood Kitchen & Bar is highly recommended.

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Things to do in Moscow: how to visit Moscow | Unmissable, cool & unusual

• September 2, 2023

What are the best things to do in Moscow? What to do in Moscow? First, I will list the main places to visit by theme, passing by the must-sees, but also more unusual places in Moscow. Then, I will describe what to see in Moscow in one day and how to visit Moscow in 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 days. Let’s go!

Good to know. For more information, click on the places to open the dedicated blog posts.

Main places to visit in Moscow & best things to do in Moscow

I worked in Moscow and I loved this city for its dynamism and energy. We find there from time to time to see friends, remember good memories and enjoy this giant city! Then the time has come for us to share with you our practical guide.

TOP 5 must-see places in Moscow

• Moscow Red Square
• St. Basil’s Cathedral
• Cathedral of Christ the Savior
• Bolshoi Theatre

Places of cultural, historical and religious interest in Moscow

• Novodevichy Convent and cemetery
• Tretyakov Gallery
• Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts
• Kremlin Izmaïlovo (pseudo-historic place, recently built in the image of the old, one of the best things to do in Moscow for your Instagram account 😉 )
• Park and ancient village of Kolomenskoye

Visit Moscow of the Soviet era

• Moscow State University and Sparrows Hill
• VDNKh and the Museum of Astronautics, one of the key landmarks of the Soviet era in Moscow
• GULAG Museum
• Metro stations
• The Stalinist skyscrapers, scattered all over the city

Less touristy places in Moscow

• Gorky Park and the GARAGE museum
• The old Krasny Oktyabr factory
• Zaryadye Park
• Center for Contemporary Art, WINZAVOD
• Business center, Moscow City

Main districts of Moscow to visit

• Patriarch Ponds
• Tchistye Prudy
• Kuznetsky most
• Arbat Street

However, regardless of the length of your stay, whether you are going to visit Moscow in 4 days or in 2, you need a visa. The article Obtaining a tourist visa for Russia could then be useful in any case.

What to do and see in Moscow in one day?

List of things to see and do in Moscow in one day:

• Go to Red Square
• Visit St. Basil’s Cathedral
• See Kremlin walls (but not to visit)
• Visit Cathedral of Christ the Savior
• Discover Kuznetsky most districts and see Bolshoi Theatre building
• And if you have time at the end of the day: go to the Sparrows Hill or to the Moscow City for a beautiful view

Things to do in Moscow in 2 days

If you want to visit Moscow in 2 days, there are 2 purposes: do not miss the essential places of Moscow and optimize travel.

• First day: Red Square , Saint Basil’s Cathedral , Zariadye Park, Bolshoi Theatre , Kremlin
• Day 2: Cathedral of Christ the Savior, the former Krasny Oktyabr factory on Balchug Island, Gorky Park, Moscow State University (one of the Seven Sisters buildings ) and Sparrow Hill

As 2 days os really short, be sure to choose an accommodation in the best districts where to stay in Moscow .

Walking on Red Square in Moscow: one of the unmissable things to do in Moscow

Iconic place and one of the must-see places in Moscow and even in Russia! Besides, if there was only one place to visit in Moscow in 2 days, this place would then be Red Square, without hesitation. Therefore, starting the city tour with Red Square is ideal . Several buildings are on the square, but not all of them have to be visited. Check out my blog post about Moscow’s Red Square in detail to learn more and not miss anything.

Visiting Saint-Basil’s Cathedral inside

Even more emblematic than Moscow’s Red Square! Built in the middle of the 16th century under the orders of Tsar Ivan Le Terrible, this cathedral is one of the most beautiful monuments of Orthodox art, and definitely one of the unmissable places in Moscow. Visiting Saint-Basil’s Cathedral inside is one of the most beautiful things to do in Moscow!

• Visit estimate time : 1h30
• Entry ticket : 700 RUB. Tickets can be purchased on the cathedral’s official website 45 days before the tour.
• Audio guide (recommended): 500 RUB
• Opening hours : June to August 10 am-6pm; from November to April: 11 am-5pm; May, September, October 11 am-5pm. Cathedral closed on Wednesdays. Entrance is closed 45 minutes before closing.
• Find out more in the dedicated article: Saint Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow

Take a walk in Zariadye park: one of the coolest things to do in Moscow after visiting Red Square

Zaryadie Park is just a 10-minute walk from St. Basil’s Cathedral, so it’s easy to include in your itinerary if you’re going to visit Moscow in 2 days. From its heights, you can see the red walls of the Kremlin. But, the most impressive point of view is the platform which overlooks the Moskva river. A must see! And clearly one of the coolest things to do in Moscow!

• Open 24 hours a day
• Good to know! Park Zaryadye is also a place to visit in Moscow in winter. Find out more here: What to do in Moscow in winter?

See the Bolshoi Theatre and discover the Kuznetsky Most district

The Bolshoi Theatre is the most famous Russian theater in the world. The most economical way to see a presentation at the Bolshoi Theater is to take the tickets on the theater’s official website in advance, so here is our tutorial to help you: How to buy entrance tickets to the Bolshoi? In addition, several pedestrian or one-way streets

The Bolshoi Theater is the most famous Russian theater in the world. The most economical way to see a presentation at the Bolshoi Theater is to take the tickets on the theater’s official website in advance, so here is our tutorial to help you: How to buy tickets to the Bolshoi? In addition, several pedestrian or one-way streets are located north of the theater. It is therefore very pleasant to find them to leave the main axes of the megalopolis.

Visit the Moscow Kremlin

Visit Kremlin is on top of things to do in Moscow. A place of power for centuries, the Kremlin then shows us a whole different image when viewed from the inside. If you want to visit Moscow in 2 days, the Kremlin is certainly one of the must-see places in Moscow.

• Opening hours : Daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., except Thursday.
• See our blog post about visiting the Moscow Kremlin

Visit the Cathedral of Christ the Savior

This impressive Moscow Cathedral is the seat of the Russian Orthodox Church. It is a must see if you visit Moscow in 2 days and clearly one of the things to do in Moscow. The Cathedral of Christ the Savior was first built in 1883 in memory of Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s Grand Army. Then in 1931 Stalin ordered its destruction. It was then rebuilt again (identically) only in 2000.

• Where? Ulitsa Volkhonka 15. At the foot of the Kropotkinskaya metro station.
• Opening hours . Daily: 10: 00-17: 00, except Monday: 13: 00-17: 00
• Free entry (some closing restrictions, for example a short)

Good to know! In orthodox religious places, one must avoid excessively uncovered clothing. Women should cover their heads. After visiting the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, you can explore Bolotny Island and Gorky Park. This is one of the routes our guide to Moscow.

The old Krasny Oktyabr factory: one of the coolest things to do in Moscow

If you cross the Moskva River by a pedestrian bridge which is located just in front of the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, you will enjoy a beautiful view of the city and at the same time you can discover Balchug Island. Furthermore, if you want to visit Moscow in 2 days, you can include this island in your itinerary between the cathedral and Gorky park. Here is the old confectionery factory Krasny Oktyabr, which has gradually turned into a fashionable micro-district. There are then some elements of street art, cafes and restaurants and some Moscow bohemian side. At the end of the island you can see a gigantic 98-meter-high monument dedicated to the Russian reforming tsar Pierre The Great.

Good to know! You can find on this island are the trendiest nightclubs in Moscow. On weekends, there are taxi caps after midnight so there are so many people. On the other hand, if you go there in winter and during the day, the island is quite empty and less interesting to see.

Gorky Park is one of the TOP places to visit in Moscow, because it allows you to better understand the life of the locals and their rhythm. In fact, it’s a huge entertainment park. For example, in winter there is a giant ice rink and in summer – free dance or yoga lessons, sandy beaches for playing volleyball, an outdoor cinema. So, like the locals, have a Stakantchik (ice cream or cooked corn), and enjoy the atmosphere of the place: that’s one of the interesting things to do in Moscow to discover the city.

• Where? Krymsky Val 9. 20 minutes’ walk from Krasny Oktyabr, along the quays.

Sparrow Hill and Moscow State University

The Sparrow Hill, Vorobiovy Gori in Russian, is the highest point in Moscow. It is rather known to Russians, but less to travelers. A nice view on Moscow opens from the hill, and in particular on the Luzhniki Stadium. In addition, on the hill itself is the Moscow State University: an impressive skyscraper from the Soviet era.

• How to get there? By bus T7 (35 min) from Oktyaborskaya station, near Gorki Park. By metro (Vorobiovy Gorki station) + climb the hill on foot. On foot along the Moskva along the Gorky Park (1h30) + climb in funiculars.

Good to know! It is possible to cross the Moskva river by funicular. We actually tested it and it was pretty cool! That is one of our favorite things to do in Moscow!

What to do in Moscow in 3 days?

If you are going to visit Moscow in 3 days, it would be interesting to dive into the Soviet era which strongly marked the country and the city. After the Bolshevik Revolution, the capital was transferred from Saint Petersburg to Moscow, in order to mark the change of power. Moscow then became the world showcase for communist ideology. Here are the best things to do in Moscow for 3-day-trip!

VDNKh, visit Moscow of the Soviet era

VDNKh is a large exhibition center in the north of Moscow, where there are still several striking witnesses of the USSR. The most interesting are the Museum of Cosmonauts and the Statue of the Worker and the Kolkhozian , which will certainly impress you with its size!

GULAG History Museum

The explanations of the museum are very well done. We really have the feeling of going back in time. If you are going to visit Moscow in 3 days and you are interested in history and this subject in particular, I recommend this museum. Visit the GULAG History Museum is one of the most interesting things to do in Moscow.

Discover the Patriarche Pounds district

It’s a nice neighborhood in Moscow where you can come across rather affluent locals, but not necessarily very bling-bling. Take a walk in this area is really a cool thing to do in Moscow! In addition, the Ponds of Patriarch is one of the places of Bulgakov’s novel “Master and Margarita”. As this is an interesting area to see, we have included it in a walking tour of Moscow. The route ends at the Moscow Kremlin, which is very convenient, because you will be able to visit Moscow in 3 days by optimizing your trips.

What to visit in Moscow in 4 days: TOP things to do in Moscow in 4 days

If you want to visit Moscow in 3 days, you will already see a lot of things. On the other hand, if you stay one more day, you have plenty to do! The Novodevichy Convent, the Tchistie Proudy district and the Izmaylovo Kremlin are very good candidates for you, if you are going to visit Moscow in 4 days.

Visiting Novodevichy Convent in Moscow

The Novodevichy Convent is one of the most brilliant examples of Russian architecture, according to UNESCO. This beautiful complex was built in 1524 and today consists of the convent, but also of a cemetery whose status could be compared to that of Père-Lachaise in Paris. Visiting Novodevichy Convent is one of the great things to do in Moscow, if you want to go a little bit outside of the center!

Discovering Tchistye Proudy district

It’s one of the most popular areas of Moscow, with many cafes, restaurants and bars nearby. It is therefore a place to discover if you want to visit Moscow in 4 days. It is just as pleasant for a stroll as for the discovery of local life. For example, in winter the pond turns into an ice rink.

Visiting the Izmaylovo Kremlin, one of the coolest things to do in Moscow!

The Izmaylovo Kremlin is more of a tourist than a historic place. On the other hand, it is a pretty impressive place to discover, especially on weekends. Inside the Kremlin, there is a flea market where you can find a little bit of everything, but mostly good souvenirs to bring from Moscow. For example, chapka, traditional Russian scarves or matryoshka (Russian dolls). Add the Kremlin and the Izmaïlovo market to your itinerary if you are going to visit Moscow in 4 days, because it is a nice and very colorful place! Visiting the Izmailovo Kremlin is one of the things to do in Moscow, if you want to put colors in your Instagram account! 😉

In 4 days, we will have the opportunity to see several Moscow: Classic Moscow, Moscow of old Russia, Soviet Moscow and a little bit of the new Moscow. So what to visit in Moscow on the 5th day of travel?

What to visit in Moscow in 5 days?

Art lovers will be delighted to discover the Tretyakov Gallery and the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts, while others will prefer to stroll along Arbat Street, see the buildings of Moskva-City or visit Bunker 42.

Admiring Russian art at Tretyakov Gallery

Founded in 1856 by an industrialist and great lover of art, the gallery has grown over the decades, and then bequeathed to the state. Today the collection includes more than 140,000 pieces, 15,000 of which are paintings. Visiting the Tretyakov Gallery is one of the things to do in Moscow if you want to discover Russian art!

• Where? Pereoulok Lavrouchinski 10. A 5-minute walk from Tretiakovskaya station
• Opening hours. Open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. Thursday and Friday. Closed on Mondays.
• Entry tickets. 500 RUB.

Visiting the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts

The Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts presents the treasures of ancient Egypt, the paintings of Rembrandt and Cézanne, a fine collection of Impressionism.

• Where? Ulitsa Volkhonka 12
• Opening hours. Daily: 10: 00-20: 00, except Thursday: 11: 00-21: 00. Closed on Mondays. The boxes close an hour before closing.
• Entry tickets. The prices vary according to the collections from 300 to 750 RUB.

Walking on Arbat Street

All Russians know Rue Arbat. So, walking on Arbat street is one of the things to do in Moscow. However, after the years, little by little it became very touristy. This is a pedestrian street only. There are souvenir shops, restaurants and cafes there, but it is no longer the most authentic neighborhood in the city.

Seeing the buildings of Moskva-City (Moscow City)

Moskva-City is Moscow’s business center, much like Paris’s Defense district. The skyscrapers of Moskva-City are among the tallest in Europe: 373 meters high! Very nice place to see at dusk.

Good to know! You can admire a nice view of Moscow City from the docks of Tarasa Shevchenko. It’s especially beautiful in the evening with all the lights on.

Bunker 42, one of the most unusual things to do in Moscow

Bunker 42 is a secret military complex which was to be used by the Soviets in the event of a nuclear attack: a space of 7000 m² 65 meters underground!

• Where? 5 Kotelnitcheski Lane, 11.
• Prices. 2200 RUB per person
• Opening hours. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Restaurant inside. Original, but rather a tourist trap.

What to visit in Moscow in 6 days or more?

There are still so many places to see, because Moscow is a big megalopolis and there is always something exciting to do there. For example: the ancient Kolomenskoye village or the WINZAVOD contemporary art center .

If you are interested in history and want to see Russian cities on a rather “human scale”, it would certainly be interesting for you to discover the cities of the Golden Ring . For example, it is very easy to get to Sergey Posad from Moscow (less than 2 hours in train). Visiting the Golden Ring is one of the best things to do in Moscow if you are staying more than a 5-6 days.

There are still plenty of places to see in Moscow, however I did my best to list here the best things to do in Moscow, what to see in Moscow in one day, but also in 2, 3, 4 or 5 days in Moscow!

Moscow travel tips:

• Airport transfer: how to go to Moscow?
• Where to stay in Moscow (hotels, districts)?
• Tourist voucher for Russian visa
• Christmas and New Year in Moscow
• What is the best time to visit Moscow?

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Touropia Travel Experts

Discover the World

17 Top Tourist Attractions in Moscow

The capital of Russia is an incredible place to explore. Visitors to Moscow come away spellbound at all the amazing sights, impressed at the sheer size and grandeur of the city. Lying at the heart of Moscow, the Red Square and the Kremlin are just two of the must-see tourist attractions; they are the historical, political and spiritual heart of the city – and indeed Russia itself.

A fascinating city to wander around, stunning cathedrals, churches, and palaces lie side-by-side with bleak grey monuments and remains from the Soviet state. In addition to its plethora of historical and cultural tourist attractions, Moscow is home to world-class museums, theaters and art galleries.

Renowned for its performing arts, fantastic ballets and amazing circus acts, catching a show while in Moscow is a must. The wealth of brilliant restaurants, trendy bars, and lively nightlife means there is something for everyone to enjoy.

See also: Where to Stay in Moscow

17. Tsaritsyno Palace

Once the summer residence of Catherine the Great, the stunning Tsaritsyno Palace is now a museum-reserve. The architecture is magnificent and there is a lovely park surrounding it for visitors to explore.

Located in the south of Moscow, the palace was commissioned in 1775 and recent renovations mean its lavish interior looks better than ever before with its elegant halls and beautiful staircases.

The exhibits on display look at the life of the empress as well as the history of Tsaritsyno itself. The huge palace grounds are also home to some other delightful buildings with the elegant opera house and wonderful brickwork of the Small Palace being particularly impressive to gaze upon.

Starting out in 1935 as the ‘All-Union Agricultural Exhibition’, VDNKh has slowly morphed over the years into the fascinating open-air museum of today. Remarkably, over 400 buildings can now be found within its confines.

The huge park complex has numerous pavilions representing former Soviet republics on show, such as those of Armenia and Turkmenistan and the distinctive architecture of each of the buildings is always interesting to gaze upon. In addition to this there is the fascinating Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics which is dedicated to space exploration and the fun Moskvarium aquarium even offers you the chance to swim with dolphins.

With lots of eateries scattered about and numerous entertainment options such as horse-riding and zip-lining, there is something for everyone to enjoy; the Friendship of Nations fountain truly is wonderful.

15. Kremlin Armoury

One of the oldest museums in the city, the Kremlin Armoury has a wealth of treasures; highlights include the ornate Grand Siberian Railway egg, the historic Cap of Monomakh and the stunning Imperial Crown of Russia which often has a crowd of tourists around it, jostling to take a photo.

Once the royal armory, there are loads of fascinating objects on display. Perusing the many sabers, jewelry, armor and more is as interesting as it is educational and entertaining and the swords are so finely crafted that you’ll almost wish you could pick up one and wield if yourself.

Established in 1851, the museum is situated in the Moscow Kremlin.

14. GUM Department Store

Standing for ‘Main Universal Store’ in Russian, GUM is stunning. Its wonderful skylights and beautiful facades mean it doesn’t look out of place alongside its illustrious neighbors on Red Square.

With over 200 shops, boutiques and upmarket eateries inside, it is a shopaholic’s heaven and concerned partners will be glad to find more affordable options alongside luxury brands such as Dior and Prada.

The main department store in the city, GUM was opened in 1893. The stunning architecture makes it well worth a visit even if shopping isn’t your thing.

13. Moscow Metro

It’s not often that public transport looks like a work of art. So many stops on the Moscow Metro will astound visitors with their beauty and elegance.

Decked in marble and with frescoes covering the walls, the stations are amazing to gaze upon and are part of one of the longest metro systems in the world, with the first stations opened in 1935.

Using the metro is the quickest and easiest way to get around Moscow and braving the crowds of commuters is well worth it for the beauty all around you.

12. Arbat Street

An elegant yet lively street, Arbat is full of impressive architecture and was once a popular place to live for aristocrats, artists, and academics.

A historic place, it is down Arbat Street that Napoleon’s troops are said to have headed on their way to capture the Kremlin.

Nowadays, there are many cafes, restaurants, and shops, as well as various monuments and statues to former residents such as Alexander Pushkin who was reputed to be a lover of the Russian Empress due to his massive influence in court.

11. Novodevichy Convent

Drenched in history, the Novodevichy Convent is located in a striking building that was once a fortress. This captivating place is well worth visiting when in Moscow.

Founded in 1524, the convent houses four cathedrals; Smolensk Cathedral is the undoubted highlight due to its delightful 16th-century frescoes.

Wandering around the grounds is like stepping back in time. The Novodevichy Cemetery is where many famous leaders of the Soviet Union are buried, such as Yeltsin and Khrushchev.

10. Pushkin Museum

Despite its name, the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts actually has no connection at all to the famous poet other than that it was named in his honor after his death. A delight to visit, its extensive collection focuses on European art with masterpieces by Botticelli, Rembrandt, and van Gogh all featuring.

Sculptures, graphic art, paintings and more can be found in its beautiful galleries; various sections look at themes and epochs such as the Renaissance, the Dutch Golden Age, and Byzantine art.

Among the many highlights are the clownish characters which can be found in Cezanne’s Fastnacht (Mardi Gras) and the twirling ballerinas who look so elegant in Degas’ Blue Dancers. Picasso’s Young acrobat on a Ball is also well worth checking out for its interesting use of shapes and colors.

9. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This gorgeous Russian Orthodox cathedral is located on the banks of the Moskva River, just a stone’s throw away from the Kremlin.

The church as it stands today was consecrated in 2000, as the original church that stood here was destroyed on the command of Josef Stalin in 1931 due to the anti-religious campaign.

With its delightful golden dome, spires and dazzling white facades, the Christ the Savior Cathedral is stunning. The interior is just as captivating to wander around, with its beautifully tiled floors and impressive altar.

8. Lenin Mausoleum

Opened to the public in 1924, Lenin’s Mausoleum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Moscow. The red granite structure is located at the heart of the city in Red Square.

Lenin’s embalmed body lies in a glass sarcophagus; it is a somewhat eerie experience walking past the former leader of the Soviet Union but is well worth doing as you understandably can’t do it anywhere else in the world.

After visiting the mausoleum, head to the Kremlin wall right next to it for more graves of important communist figures such as Stalin and Brezhnev.

7. Tretyakov Gallery

Home to the most extensive and impressive collection of Russian fine art in the world, the State Tretyakov Gallery is definitely worth visiting when in Moscow for the wealth of amazing art pieces that it has on display.

Having started out as the private art collection of the Tretyakov brothers, there are now over 130,000 exhibits. Highlights include the iconic Theotokos of Vladimir which you will almost certainly recognise despite probably not knowing the name and Rublev’s Trinity which is considered to be one of highest achievements in Russian art.

An absolute must for art lovers, the State Tretyakov Gallery will delight visitors with all that is has to offer.

6. Kolomenskoye

Once a royal estate, Kolomenskoye is now a museum-reserve and lies a few kilometers outside of the city center. A captivating place to visit, there is a plethora of history on show and the site overlooks the Moskva River.

Consisting of four historical sites, there are extensive gardens for visitors to explore, as well as loads of interesting old buildings, the former village of Kolomenskoye itself and the impressive Palace of the Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich – once considered the Eighth Wonder of the World by contemporaries.

Among the many stunning sights, it is the brilliantly white Ascension Church that is the undoubted highlight – dating back to 1532.

5. Gorky Park

Lying alongside the Moskva River, the huge Gorky Park is a lovely place to visit. Its extensive gardens are home to numerous cultural institutions and visitors should definitely check out the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art and while the eclectic exhibits may not always feature such incredible sights as a balloon-covered rider on a zebra; they certainly always succeed in pushing back the boundaries of art.

Pop-up exhibitions and festivals can be found from time to time in the park itself and there is an open-air theatre and numerous eateries alongside a plethora of leisure activities.

Whether it’s cycling, table tennis or yoga that you are after or beach volleyball and rowing, Gorky Park certainly has it. In winter, there is a huge ice rink for visitors to enjoy.

4. Bolshoi Theatre

The Bolshoi Theatre is the main theater in the country. The amazing opera and ballet performances it has put on over the centuries go a long way in explaining Russia’s rich history of performing arts.

While the Bolshoi Ballet Company was established in 1776, the theater itself was opened in 1825. The glittering, six-tier auditorium is lavishly and decadently decorated; it is a fitting setting for the world-class performances that take place on its stage.

Spending a night watching a performance of such classics as The Nutcracker or Swan Lake at the Bolshoi Theatre is sure to be a memorable experience and the beauty all around you only adds to the sense of occasion.

3. Moscow Kremlin

This famously fortified complex is remarkably home to five palaces and four cathedrals and is the historic, political and spiritual center of the city. The Kremlin serves as the residence for the country’s president. It has been used as a fort, and this fact is made clear by its sheer size. The Kremlin’s outer walls were built in the late 1400s.

Under Ivan III, better known as Ivan the Great, the Kremlin became the center of a unified Russian state, and was extensively remodeled. Three of the Kremlin’s cathedrals date to his reign that lasted from 1462-1505. The Deposition Church and the Palace of Facets were also constructed during this time. The Ivan the Great Bell Tower was built in 1508. It is the tallest tower at the Kremlin with a height of 266 feet (81 meters).

Joseph Stalin removed many of the relics from the tsarist regimes. However, the Tsar Bell, the world’s largest bell, and the Tsar Cannon, the largest bombard by caliber in the world, are among the remaining items from that era. The Kremlin Armory is one of Moscow’s oldest museums as it was established more than 200 years ago. Its diamond collection is impressive.

The Kremlin’s gardens – Taynitsky, Grand Kremlin Public and Alexander – are beautiful. The Kremlin has also served as the religious center of the country, and there is a tremendous number of preserved churches and cathedrals here. The collections contained within the museums include more than 60,000 historical, cultural and artistic monuments. Those who enjoy the performing arts will want to consider attending a ballet or concert at the State Kremlin Palace. Completed in 1961, it is the only modern building in the Kremlin.

2. Red Square

Lying at the heart of Moscow, Red Square is the most important and impressive square in the city. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions due to its wealth of historical sights and cultural landmarks.

Drenched in history, the huge square is home to incredible sights such as the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral and Lenin’s Mausoleum, among others. Consequently, it is not to be missed when in Moscow as it really is home to the city’s most stunning monuments.

It is here that many important moments in Russian history took place; the former marketplace has hosted everything from Tsar’s coronations and public ceremonies to rock concerts and Soviet military parades. Wandering around the massive square is a humbling experience and undoubtedly one of the highlights the city has to offer.

1. Saint Basil’s Cathedral

Located in the impressive Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral is gorgeous; its delightful spires appear as if out of a fairytale. The most recognizable building in the country, the cathedral is very much a symbol of Russia. No visit to Moscow is complete without having taken in its unique and distinctive features.

Ivan the Terrible ordered the cathedral’s construction in the mid-16th century, and legend holds that Ivan put out the architect’s eyes so that he would be unable to build another cathedral more glorious than St. Basil’s. Designed to resemble the shape of a bonfire in full flame, the architecture is not only unique to the period in which it was built but to any subsequent period. For various reasons, both Napoleon and Stalin wanted to destroy the cathedral but fortunately did not succeed.

Known for its various colors, shapes and geometric patterns, St. Basil’s Cathedral houses nine different chapels that are all connected by a winding labyrinth of corridors and stairways. On the lower floor, St. Basil’s Chapel contains a silver casket bearing the body of St. Basil the Blessed.

Throughout the cathedral are many beautiful murals, frescoes, wooden icons and other art works and artifacts. Outside the cathedral is a lovely garden with the bronze Monument to Minin and Pozharsky, who rallied an all-volunteer Russian army against Polish invaders during a period of the late 16th century known as the Times of Troubles.

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Eclipse watch parties around St. Louis

ST. LOUIS—Where are you watching Monday’s solar eclipse? The St. Louis area will be receiving about 99% totality. While you won’t get to witness the sun’s corona like you would with 100% totality, there sky will still be putting on quite a show. 

If you are looking for somewhere to witness the celestial spectacle, here are a few options around St. Louis and in the area witnessing totality.

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Here's 5 things to know about viewing the eclipse around st. louis 12 missouri towns with over 3 minutes of eclipse totality small missouri towns expect thousands of visitors for april's solar eclipse where to get solar eclipse glasses around st. louis what you need to know abou the total solar eclipse, eckert’s farm: belleville, ill..

The farm says it will have an unobstructed view of the sky so you can take in the eclipse. The city will be in 99% totality. There will be celestial-themed refreshments and live music between 11 p.m. - 3 p.m. The event also will offer card readings, psychic medium encounters and more. A fee will be charged for some events. Learn more at eckerts.com .

Moonrise Hotel: St. Louis

The Delmar Loop location is hosting an Eclipse watch party on it’s rooftop under its “celestial canopy.” The event lasts from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will be themed music, specialty drinks, food to purchase and you will receive eclipse viewing glasses. Tickets cost $10. Learn more about the Moonrise Hotel event here .

City Museum: St. Louis

The rooftop of the City Museum will be open for people to gather and watch the eclipse. Access to the rooftop will be permitted on a first come, first served basis. You will need to purchase admission to the museum and rooftop access but that doesn’t guarantee access during the eclipse. Learn more about purchasing tickets here. 

Herald Square: Collinsville, Ill.

The viewing party will last from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. and there are many free activities planned courtesy of Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau. Families can expect the The Bubble Bus, fire performances, lawn games and more. There will also be specialty-flavored custard for sale from Uptown Scoops and Old Herald Brewery & Distillery is brewing a special beer and partnering with Big Muddy Brewery to create a special whiskey for the occasion. There will also be free eclipse glasses available. Learn more about the Herald Square viewing party here .

St. Louis Science Center: St. Louis

The St. Louis Science Center will be live streaming the total eclipse from noon until 3 p.m. The feed will be shared throughout the building and inside the James S. McDonnell Planetarium. There will also be partial viewing opportunities outside the planetarium and in the GROW Gallery. You can learn more information about the events planned here. 

McDonnell Center for Space Sciences: St. Louis

The event will be on Washington University in St. Louis’ campus and is free and open to the public. Those in attendance will be able to safely view the eclipse through a solar telescope. They will even have a special H-alpha telescope with filters to allow viewers to see textures on the sun’s surface. The event is from 12:00 p.m. - 3:15 p.m. on the steps of Brookings Hall. Learn more about the event here .

Cahokia Mounds: Collinsville

People will be able to enjoy about two hours of eclipse viewing from the Metro East location. The museum exhibits and gallery will remain closed for ongoing renovations but there is plenty of green space for attendees to enjoy the views. Check out the commemorative gear available and to learn more about the event.

In Totality

Perryville solarfest and watch party: perryville, mo..

A little more than an hour south of St. Louis, enjoy watching the eclipse in full totality. The fun kicks off April 6-8 with a three-day SolarFest featuring live entertainment, food vendors and even a parade. On Monday, there are several official viewing sites around town. You can find a list of the events here. 

Ste. Genevieve viewing party: Ste. Genevieve, Mo.

There are two days of events planned in this quaint Missouri town that can expect 2 minutes and 44 seconds of totality. Sunday will include music, dancing and food. On Monday, there will be tailgating allowed around the grounds of the Ste. Genevieve County Community Center. There will be a trolley running between downton and the community center from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. You can learn more here. 

VisitCape Solar Eclipse Watch Party: Cape Girardeau, Mo.

The Cape Girardeau Sportsplex is hosting a free public event to view the eclipse. There will be music, food, giveaways and kid-friendly activities. It will start at 10 a.m. and last until 2:30 p.m. Learn more here. 

Where to find street art around Europe

Know your Banksy from your Keith Haring? Want to see some of Europe’s prettiest cities? Our guide to street art around Europe has your name written all over it...

Our marvellous map of dazzling destinations doubles as a captivating canvas for some of Europe’s most epic art. But you don’t have to be moseying around museums and galleries to behold some of the best works – you can pound the pavements and soon clap eyes on slick street murals.

Here are a few of our Jet2CityBreak s that are a match for art aficionados...

In Malá Strana, you’ll find one of Europe’s most famous artistic tributes to an icon – the John Lennon Wall. It’s no longer just a homage to the former Beatle – following his passing in 1980, fans flocked to this patch in Prague to etch messages of peace in kaleidoscopic hues. So nowadays, although you might spy various tags and arty scrawls around the city, it’s this fantastic feature wall that stands proud as the must-see.

Edgy and a magnet for hipsters, Germany’s cool capital is, as you’d expect, a top pick for art-spotting. Urban graffiti is famously exhibited at the East Side Gallery, and you’ll be able to buy postcards of various works in souvenir shops. But of course, the most impressive outdoor paintings are across the still-standing remains of the Berlin Wall. Take a walk and see the curated murals in all their glory – some have been claimed by artists, though some haven’t.

While Vienna ’s well-known for its dominating palaces, spired churches and ornate statues, the art that spans the city’s districts brings a flavour of variety with it. The Danube Canal is considered the epicentre, and there’s everything from the realistic to the futuristic around lots of corners. So as Gustav Klimt’s most magnificent handiwork hangs at Belvedere, you’ll behold vivid demonstrations of genius on the streets.

The Triana and Vegueta districts are bold and brilliant, offering rows of houses and buildings all done up in vibrant pinks, oranges and greens. It’s a palette of pastels in various areas as well. So if you’re after a Spanish city with a twist, you can box off more than just tempting tapas and bonus beach vibes in Las Palmas . Whether they’re depicting dolphins immersed in ultra-blue seawater or abstract, blossoming flowers, the city’s walls are decorated!

A longstanding chic shopping mecca, Paris is arguably the style hub of Europe. But if you’re hoping to experience it in its realest form, grab a croissant on the go and head out on foot, because you’ll come across plenty of arty avenues. Something of an open-air gallery, the 13th arrondissement is home to huge paintings – and there’s one shouting out a French motto. Meanwhile, La Villette boasts multi-artist graffiti, and Vitry-sur-Seine is hailed the ‘street art town’.

Between the Renaissance remnants and general resplendence, Rome has always run a masterclass in European finery. Once you’ve flipped a coin into the Trevi Fountain and stood in awe of the Colosseum, be sure to take it easy around the lesser-trodden parts, takeaway espresso in hand. Piazza di Spagna, San Lorenzo, Ostiense... the list of where to look goes on, so have a good roam around.

While going with us to Iceland includes a Northern Lights tour, which could certainly be your highlight, Reykjavík evidently understood the good-looks assignment. Its streets are adorned with full wall displays in monochromes or bright pops of colour. But it’s Laugavegur Street that really steals the show. This is the road that leads up to Hallgrimskirkja with a rainbow painted along it. It can get busy but it’s worth snapping a photo!

Posted: 12th Apr 2024.

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25 Places to Visit in Moscow you Can’t Miss

25 Places to Visit in Moscow

Do you know what the most populous city in Europe is? Most people wouldn’t guess that it is actually Moscow. There are approximately 13 million people in the Moscow metro area, which amounts to approximately 1/10th of all Russians.

This former capitol of the Soviet Union is still the political and financial center of Russia. Just because it is a current business and government city, in no way means that it is boring and not worth a visit. Assuming the political tensions get solved, Moscow is a fascinating city you need to visit.

While lots of people can’t explain the nuances of Russian architecture, most can spot and appreciate it immediately. One of the best ways to see the historic sites is by taking a boat tour down the Moskva River that meanders through the city.

Overall, navigating the city isn’t difficult as there is phenomenal and cheap public transportation (roughly 30 rubles/35 cents per ride). You can also use a cheap Uber on the three ring roads that circle the city at various distances from the center.

Still wondering why you should visit this historic masterpiece of a city? Read on to see the top 25 things you need to see in Moscow.

The House with Animals

This former church is famous for the terracotta reliefs of animals that adorn the front of the building. It is a favorite of locals, and famous around the world. It was built in approximately 1900.

Resurrection Gate or Iberian Gate and Chapel

The Resurrection Gate is now one of the most common ways to enter Red Square. This gate is also the only standing part of the wall that was the entrance to to Kitai-Gorod, or Moscow’s historic central business district.

Book your tour: Moscow Kremlin Armory Chamber Entrance Ticket

St. Basils Cathedral

Probably the most famous of the Red Square attractions is St. Basil’s Cathedral. I don’t know if the legend is true or not, but supposedly Tsar Ivan IV poked the eyes of the architect out after completing it so nothing as pretty could be made again. What an awful boss!

Book your tour: Moscow: Saint Basil’s Cathedral and Red Square Private Tour

Book your tour: St.Basil’s Cathedral and Red Square: Private Tour and Ticket

The State Historical Museum

If you are like me then you can’t help but find all the twists and turns of Russian history fascinating. The State Historical Museum at Red Square is a fantastic place to learn and study the Russian Relics.

Book your tour: Kremlin, Red Square, and Metro Tour with Pick-Up

Moscow River Cruise

The Moskva River cuts directly through the heart of Moscow. Want to see it all but rest your feet? One of the best things to do in Moscow at night is float along on a dinner cruise . The lights of the city are so beautiful. Of course, dinner in included.

Book your tour: Night lights Moscow Cruise (with Dinner option)

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

This is one of the most unique things to do in Moscow. If you know that many American video games paint the Russians as the bad guys, then it’s probably not surprising to learn that you can find an entirely different variety of video games in Russia. This isn’t a recent phenomenon; even historically the video games were different. If you are a video game buff then this stop is for you!

Main Church of the Armed Forces in Park Patriot near Kubinka

This church attempts to commemorate the resurrection of Jesus Christ as well as Russian military leader. Yes, it’s an awkward amalgamation. It caused quite a controversy when there were plans to create murals of Vladimir Putin and Joseph Stalin to go along with the ones of Jesus Christ (those plans were scrapped).

Bunker 42 (Cold War Museum)

Tunnel at Bunker-42, anti-nuclear underground facility built in 1956 as command post of strategic nuclear forces of Soviet Union.

Americans weren’t the only ones afraid during the Cold War! You can now discover the most secret and secure Bunker of the USSR, Bunker 42. Also known as the Cold War Museum . This former military communication center is now a museum. I recommend this tour that will take you on a private two hour visit of Bunker 42.

If you aren’t interested in a guided tour you can book your tickets in advance here.

Get your tickets: Bunker 42 Admission Ticket and Cold War Tour

Tank Excursion and Bazooka Shooting in Moscow

For real – you can book this tour and actually ride in a tank and shoot off military grade weapons. While that’s not my cup of tea, I know tons of guys would absolutely love to shoot a bazooka!

Book your tour here .

Dormition Cathedral

This is another Russian Orthodox cathedral that is located inside the Moscow Kremlin. It is another famous landmark of Moscow. The inside is decorated with ancient frescoes.

The Cathedral of the icon of the Mother of God “Sign”

This cathedral is located in Zaryadye Park (adjacent to Red Square). It is also on the Moskva River. The Cathedral of the icon of the Mother of God “Sign” previously was a monastery.

Komsomolskaya Metro station 

So many of the metro stations are breathtaking works of art. The idea was to create something beautiful that all the regular people could enjoy, or if you are more cynical you could say it was to attempt to show off how well they were doing.

Book your tour: Moscow: Small Group Metro Tour

The Round houses at Dovzhenko Stree t

The Round houses at Dovzhenko Street look super cool and futuristic, except like many communist projects didn’t actually work that well. They were supposed to be something new and different from the standard “Soviet Blocks.”

There are a number of problems with this design. Supposedly the acoustics are awful making the apartments perpetually noisy. The inner circle becomes a wind chamber even when it’s not that windy. My favorite weakness is that the trapezoid shape of apartments is hard to decorate and even harder to do maintenance on.

Izmailovo District and Izmailovo Kremlin

This area has to be one of the coolest places to visit in Moscow. It features a park in the middle of Moscow that is over 3x the size of New York City’s Central Park. The Kremlin in Izmailovo is a complex located in the Eastern Administrative District of Moscow that is known as the center of culture and entertainment. The wooden buildings are in Russian architecture of the XVI-XVII centuries (not original).

Izmailovo Kremlin on Google Maps .

Tretyakov Gallery

For those that appreciate fine art this is where you have to go. The State Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow Russia is the best collection of Russian fine art in the world. The museum previously hosted worldwide chess tournaments (I can’t help be think of the Queen’s Gambit).

Book your tickets in advance here. Tickets cost about $13 per person.

Kolomenskoe Estate

This reconstruction of a former royal estate is just a few miles southeast of the Moscow city center. Supposedly really detailed historical plans survived, so the reconstruction and current museum is incredibly authentic. It was completed in 2010.

Old buildings of Arbat

Arbat is an old street, and was previously the “nicest place to live in Moscow. Even though it fell into disrepair, it’s location, it’s historical buildings, and the fact that it is a pedestrian street are quickly making it a top place to live again.

The Melnikov House

Located on Arbat street, the Famous house of architect Melnikov designed this house (and Lenin’s sarcophagus). Melnikov designed it at a time when private ownership was outlawed, but got around this restriction by saying it was an experimental design to maximize space. Even though others weren’t built, he was able to keep it.

The New Maiden Convent

The New Maiden Convent, built was built to resemble a mini-Kremlin. It stands out to me because this “convent” was the place where women who were no longer welcome in the royal court were banished to.

Monument to the Conquerors of Space at the Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics in the Cosmopark

The Americans may have made it to the moon first, but the Russian cosmonauts were first in a number of other achievements. This gigantic obelisk pays homage to their accomplishments.

Tsaritsyno Museum Reserve

This royal estate was founded by Catherine the Great. She was Russia’s longest serving female leader. It is now a gorgeous museum!

Stalinist Skyscraper tour

This group of seven skyscrapers are called the Seven Sisters. They were all made in the Stalinist style, and one was previously the tallest building in Europe. If you want to tour them all while learning about their history book here .

Cathedral of Christ the Savior

It’s ironic that a country that was so anti-religion for so long has so many great churches. The Cathedral for Christ the Savior was made to thank Jesus for saving Russia. If you are interested in visiting this and so many other cathedrals in Moscow I recommend this tour that will take you to The Cathedral of Christ the Savior many other popular churches in Moscow.

Cathedral of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God

This church on Red Square is reconstruction of what was previously there but ordered to be destroy by Joseph Stalin. It is a travesty thinking of all the beautiful things that Stalin destroyed to attempt to implement his vision.

Zaryade Park

Zaryadye Park is one of the main tourist attractions in Moscow. It is located directly next to the Kremlin, and offers truly amazing views. It is also famous for its “floating bridge” and the fact that there are so many unique features underneath it.

Church of Sign of Blessed Virgin in Dubrovitsy Znamenskaya

The Church of the Theotokos of the Sign (Dubrovitsy), or The Church of the Holy Sign of the Mother of God is located in a village amed Dubrovitsy about 20 miles south of Moscow. It is another Russian Orthodox church, but what makes this one unique is that we aren’t 100% sure who made it, or why is has a style that is completely different than other churches of the time.

The Church of Nicholas The Wonderworker

I love the unique style of the Russian Orthodox churches in Moscow. The golden onion domes stand out across the globe. This church dates back to 1657, though it has been partially destroyed a few times since then.

Moscow University

Moscow University is one of the Seven Sisters that are the “Stalin Skyscrapers.” Previously it was the tallest building in Europe. Though it has lost that title, it is still the tallest “educational building” in the world.

So what do you think? Next trip to Moscow?

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11 Best Places To Visit in downtown Memphis With Kids!

O ne of the top things to do in Memphis when you visit is to spend time downtown! Here you will find the famous Beale Street, parks, wall art, yummy restaurants, music, and ducks. Yes, ducks. Read on to find out how to spend a day in downtown Memphis Tennessee.

Getting Around Downtown Memphis

There are a variety of parking lots you can park in. They all have an app you can use to pay for parking or a kiosk in the parking lot, which isn’t crazy expensive.

We recommend getting the app so you can stay on top of how much time you have left. There are instructions at the parking lot about how to get the app.

We always parked at the lot right next to the Hard Rock Cafe on Beale Street.

Once parked, you can walk pretty much everywhere from here. But if you want to visit Mud Island or the Pyramid, you will have to drive there.

Beale Street

This is the main attraction in downtown Memphis. The famous Beale Street with its lights, bars, and stores. You may hear live music on Beale Street during the day but have a much better chance of hearing music if you come at night.

A Schwab on Beale Street

Stop into this famous general store that has been around since the 1800s for a fountain soda and to pick up your Memphis or Elive Memorabilia. We opted for a pair of Elvis sunglasses and some Memphis stickers.

The kids also tried the fountain soda. This was not your typical Sprite or Coke. But the kids still enjoyed their drinks. You can also get ice cream or a milkshake.

Beale Street Pictures

Grab a picture under one of the Beale Street signs. The one at the far end – the opposite end of where the Hard Rock Cafe is, is better since cars can’t drive on that part of the street, so you can get a picture right underneath the sign.

Elvis Presley statue – this spot is located kiddie corner from the Hard Rock Cafe.

Walk at Night

Come back at night to walk the street and listen to the live music coming out of the bars/restaurants. And to see the street lit up. We did this with our kids around 8/9 pm, and just walking up and down the street, we could hear the music.

It was a cool experience, and I am glad we went back at night to hear the music!

Peabody Ducks

Go at either 11 am or 5 pm to see the Peabody Ducks at the Peabody Hotel. At 11 am, they are bringing them down from the roof, on the elevator, and across the red carpet to the fountain in the lobby.

At 5 pm, they are bringing them from the fountain down the red carpet and on the elevator up to the top.

Both times you can see them walk the red carpet. But be prepared that it is normally packed! Get there early to get a good spot.

Keep your eyes peeled throughout town for a variety of beautiful murals on the walls.

Head to the riverfront for a walk or to check out the park. When we visited there was a lot of construction so hopefully soon that will be done.

If you want to get out for a walk, head to Mud Island, where you can walk the grounds. They have a large river display on the grounds you can walk through. There is also a large Memphis sign at the end of the Island.

Bass Pro Shop Pyramid

Check out the humongous Bass Pro Shop Pyramid store. Ride up the glass elevator to the top (there is a per-person fee) for a drink, food, or just an amazing view over the city.

Where To Eat In Downtown Memphis

There are so many good restaurants in Memphis ! Here are the ones we recommend you check out when in the downtown area.

This iconic downtown Memphis restaurant is located down a side street and in the basement. Yup. Don’t let that stop you. The second you turn the corner, you will smell the BBQ. From here, head down to the basement restaurant to enjoy a delicious meal of ribs!

They do have a kid’s menu, wine and beer, and vegetarian options. The Rendezvous is a must-stop while in downtown Memphis!

Blue City Cafe

Located right on Beale Street, don’t miss the Blues City Cafe . They have ribs, soul food, and a huge plate of pulled pork fries! Plus, a full bar.

After exploring downtown, head to the following locations:

Be sure to visit the National Civil Rights Museum and the Lorraine Motel, where Dr Martin Luther King Jr was shot. Eat at Central BBQ for our favorite ribs in Memphis.

Get Breakfast at The Arcade – the French toast and mimosas were on point! You can also get the famous Elive banana, peanut butter, and bacon sandwich here. Craig tried it – it wasn’t the best, but it was worth getting to try it! Find out more about visiting the Civil Rights Museum here !

Edge District

Visit Sun Studio to learn about the history of music in Memphis.

Other places to stop and eat:

Don’t miss Gus’s Chicken! You can get your order to go and bring it across the street to the Dominick Distillery for some delicious bourbon or cocktails! The Soul Museum or if you want to visiting Graceland is an experience (It is not located in downtown).

Memphis is a city full of history and delicious food. You can easily spend a day here or decide to stay for a full weekend.

Where To Stay:

Pea Body Hotel – If you are looking for a fancier, more upscale stay downtown, check out the Pea Body Hotel. This will also give you multiple chances to see the ducks!

Hampton Inn & Suites Memphis – Beale Street – Located in downtown Memphis, this Hampton Inn & Suites Memphis hotel is a great location and has amenities for all families.

SpringHill Suites Memphis Downtown – SpringHill Suites Memphis Downtown is another option when looking for a hotel in the city of Memphis. 

Vacation Rental

We stayed in a vacation rental that was 10 minutes outside of Beale Street. It worked well for our larger group. Here are a few vacation rentals to check out:

Harbor Town Home – This 3bd/2b townhome offers exceptional value and location.

Memphis Gated Condo – This gorgeous 2bd/2.5ba condo is located in the prime downtown Memphis location.

Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park – Memphis – Experience a little bit of country in the city. Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park in Memphis is a fun family location featuring campsites and cabin rentals. They have a nice playground on the property and an outdoor pool, and it is only 5 miles from downtown Memphis.

More Posts On Tennessee:

The Most Amazing Things To Do In Chattanooga With Kids

Tips for Visiting the Civil Rights Museum Memphis

6 Restaurants in Memphis You Don’t Want to Miss!

Tennessee Road Trip – 1 Week Itinerary For An Amazing Trip

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The post 11 Best Places To Visit in downtown Memphis With Kids! appeared first on Crazy Family Adventure .

How much of the eclipse will be visible in Florida? When will the peak time be?

The Great American Eclipse happens this afternoon .

Florida isn't in the path of totality, which means we won't see the moon completely block the sun, but we will see a partial eclipse where the moon blocks a certain percentage of the sun. How much depends on where you are in the state.

➤ Live updates: Eclipse day in Florida

Residents in the Panhandle will see a larger percentage of the sun covered than those farther south.

Here's your guide to what you'll be able to see and how much across Florida.

Will you be able to see the eclipse in Florida?

Yes, but ...

Thirteen states across the U.S. from Texas to Maine are in the path of totality.

Florida is not one of them.

In Florida, residents will see a partial eclipse where the moon doesn't completely block the sun but instead blocks only a percentage of it. How much depends on where you are in the state.

The farther north you are, the larger the percentage of the sun will be blocked by the moon.

How much of the eclipse will Florida see? Enter ZIP code for answers

As we've said earlier, how much of the sun will be blocked by the moon depends on where you are in the state.

Here's the maximum coverage from several locations around Florida:

• Pensacola: 76%
• Tallahassee: 70%
• Jacksonville: 64%
• Daytona Beach: 59%
• Melbourne: 54%
• Port St. Lucie: 51%
• West Palm Beach: 49%
• Naples: 50%
• Fort Myers: 52%
• Sarasota: 56%

Don't see your city mentioned? Enter your ZIP code to see:

• When the eclipse starts at your location
• What the maximum coverage will be
• What time maximum coverage will occur
• When the eclipse ends at your location
• Chances for clear skies based on historical averages for April 8

What is the peak time to see the eclipse in Florida?

The total eclipse will begin in Mexico at about 11:07 a.m. PDT, before crossing into Texas at 1:27 p.m. CDT. It will end in Maine at 3:35 p.m. EDT.

Roughly speaking, in Florida the peak of the partial eclipse will start about 1:55 p.m. CDT in Pensacola and at 3:02 p.m. EDT on Miami Beach.

Here's a look at the peak time around the state, which is the time the maximum coverage of the sun is expected:

• Pensacola: 1:55 p.m. CDT
• Tallahassee: 3 p.m. EDT
• Jacksonville: 3:05 p.m. EDT
• Daytona Beach: 3:04 p.m. EDT
• Melbourne: 3:04 p.m. EDT
• Port St. Lucie: 3:03 p.m. EDT
• West Palm Beach: 3:03 p.m. EDT
• Naples: 2:59 p.m. EDT
• Fort Myers: 2:59 p.m. EDT
• Sarasota: 2:59 p.m. EDT

Don't see your city mentioned? Click on any circle in the map to see:

• Time of peak coverage
• Maximum coverage percentage
• Chances of clear skies based on historical averages

Watch CBS News

Solar eclipse maps show 2024 totality path, peak times and how much of the eclipse people could see across the U.S.

By Aliza Chasan

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 5:00 AM EDT / CBS News

A total solar eclipse  crossed North America Monday with parts of 15 U.S. states within the path of totality. Maps show  where and when astronomy fans could see the big event  as skies darkened in the middle of the day Monday, April 8.

The total eclipse first appeared along Mexico's Pacific Coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT, then traveled across a swath of the U.S., from Texas to Maine, and into Canada.

About 31.6 million people live in the path of totality , the area where the moon fully blocked out the sun , according to NASA. The path ranged between 108 and 122 miles wide. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path of totality.

Solar eclipse path of totality map for 2024

The total solar eclipse started over the Pacific Ocean, and the first location in continental North America that experienced totality was Mexico's Pacific Coast, around 11:07 a.m. PDT, according to NASA. From there, the path continued into Texas, crossing more than a dozen states before the eclipse enters Canada in southern Ontario. The eclipse exited continental North America at around 5:16 p.m. NDT from Newfoundland, Canada.

The path of totality included portions of the following states:

• Pennsylvania
• New Hampshire

Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan also experienced the total solar eclipse.

Several major cities across the U.S. were included in the eclipse's path of totality, while many others saw a partial eclipse. These were some of the best major cities for eclipse viewing — though the weather was a factor :

• San Antonio, Texas (partially under the path)
• Austin, Texas
• Waco, Texas
• Dallas, Texas
• Little Rock, Arkansas
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Dayton, Ohio
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Buffalo, New York
• Rochester, New York
• Syracuse, New York
• Burlington, Vermont

Map of when the solar eclipse reached totality across its path

The eclipse began in the U.S. as a partial eclipse beginning at 12:06 p.m. CDT near Eagle Pass, Texas, before progressing to totality by about 1:27 p.m. CDT and then moving along its path to the northeast over the following few hours.

NASA shared times for several cities in the path of totality across the U.S. People could have also  checked their ZIP code on NASA's map  to see when the eclipse was to reach them if they were on, or near, the path of totality — or if they saw a partial eclipse instead.

How much of the eclipse did people see if they live outside the totality path?

While the April 8 eclipse covered a wide swath of the U.S., outside the path of totality observers may have spotted a partial eclipse, where the moon covers some, but not all, of the sun, according to NASA. The closer they were to the path of totality, the larger the portion of the sun that was hidden.

NASA allowed viewers to input a ZIP code and see how much of the sun was to be covered in their locations.

Could there be cloud cover be during the solar eclipse?

Some areas along the path of totality had a higher likelihood of cloud cover that could interfere with viewing the eclipse. Here is a map showing the historical trends in cloud cover this time of year. 

You could have checked the latest forecast for your location with our partners at The Weather Channel .

Where did the solar eclipse reach totality for the longest?

Eclipse viewers near Torreón, Mexico, got to experience totality for the longest. Totality there lasted 4 minutes, 28 seconds, according to NASA. 

Most places along the centerline of the path of totality saw a totality duration of between 3.5 and 4 minutes, according to NASA. Some places in the U.S. came close to the maximum; Kerrville, Texas, had a totality duration of 4 minutes, 24 seconds.

What is the path of totality for the 2044 solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse that will be visible from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

Astronomy fans in the U.S. will have far fewer opportunities to see the 2044 eclipse they had on April 8. NASA has not yet made maps available for the 2044 eclipse but, according to The Planetary Society , the path of totality will only touch three states.

The 2024 eclipse will start in Greenland, pass over Canada and end as the sun sets in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota, according to the Planetary Society.

Aliza Chasan is a digital producer at 60 Minutes and CBSNews.com. She has previously written for outlets including PIX11 News, The New York Daily News, Inside Edition and DNAinfo. Aliza covers trending news, often focusing on crime and politics.

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