Top cities to experience art and culture

Rome, Italy

While in Europe, you can't miss out on all that Rome has to offer in terms of history, architecture, culture and art. Start with the Sistine Chapel and then work your way through the city's numerous galleries, museums, basilicas, villas, gardens and other destinations.

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Paris, France

From ancient art to modern creations, Paris is home to a wide variety of museums that house some of the world's best art. Start with the Louvre, where you can see more than 35,000 works of art, including da Vinci's Mona Lisa and the famous Venus de Milo sculpture.

Jerusalem, Israel

In Jerusalem, you can see some of the famous biblical sites, soak up the spiritual surroundings and explore the area's history. On your first trip to the Holy Land, take a tour to learn about the marvels of the city.

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Berlin, GermanY

Berlin is home to many high-end art galleries. Start your vacation by visiting Museumsinsel -- Museum Island is a complex of five different museums that feature art and sculptures from ancient times to modern day. Also don't miss Gemäldegalerie, where you can see the works of many European masters, including Rembrandt and Botticelli.

Athens, Greece

While in Athens, you must visit the Acropolis and see the Parthenon. One of the wonders of the ancient world, a trip to the Parthenon is a spectacular experience. Also check out other major archeological sites, including the Theater of Herod Atticus, Ancient Agora and Keramiekos. Athens' National Archaeological Museum should also be on your itinerary, as well as The Temple Of Poseidon, Mount Lycabettus and the Agora-Athens Central Market.

Florence, Italy

We already mentioned Rome, but Florence is also a top destination for culture in Italy. Overflowing with art, you'll find some of the world's most historic pieces in the city's museum. Head to the Galleria dell' Accademia, home to the best known sculpture on the plant -- Michelangelo's David. The Galleria degli Uffizi (Uffizi Galleries) should also be on your list, highlighted with paintings from Raphael, Rembrandt, Michelangelo and many more.

New York City, New York

If you are staying stateside for your vacation, it goes without saying that New York City is a hot spot. From The Met and the Statue of Liberty to Ellis Island and MoMA, you'll need at least a week or two to scratch the surface of what the Big Apple has to offer. And of course, don't leave the city without visiting Central Park.

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Washington, DC

In the nation's capital, you can experience amazing museums and numerous monuments. Start at the Smithsonian Institution with its 19 museums, including the National Museum of Natural History and National Museum of American History. In addition to tourist spots such as the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial and the Vietman Veterans Memorial Wall, also check out Theodore Roosevelt Island and the Martin Luther King Jr National Memorial.

San Francisco, California

San Francisco offers more than the Golden Gate Bridge. This city is a major hub for art, music and culture. The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is a top destination, featuring many 20th century and modern pieces. The Asian Art Museum, De Young Museum and Exploratorium are also top spots. Of course San Francisco is also home to beautiful architecture, theatre, concerts, festivals, street fairs and much more.

No matter where you are heading on your vacation, you can save money on your trip by being flexible on your travel dates, vacationing in the off-season and staying at local hotels rather than chains.

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