Two Asian museums have been named among the most beautiful in the world for 2025
Talk about being beautiful inside and out – some museums are worth visiting as much for their stunning exteriors as for the fascinating objects they house.
Prix Versailles, a prestigious architectural award that recognises gorgeous airports, campuses, hotels, and other buildings worldwide, has released its 2025 list of the world's most beautiful museums. In this case, beauty is not just skin deep – these museums also demonstrate exceptional harmony with their environment and artefacts.
It's a short and sweet list of just seven museums, and two are from Asia. The first is Bali's Saka Museum, a cultural gem in Ayana Bali that opened in 2023. Prix Versailles highlights how its architectural design "embodies the Balinese philosophy of Giri Segara, the sacred balance between mountain and sea" with a sloping roof that visually connects sky and ocean. The beautiful reflecting pool invites visitors to pause for introspection, creating a fitting atmosphere for the museum's showcase of Balinese traditions in the past and present.
There's lots to check out here, including sensory installations fashioned around Bali's sacred Day of Silence, and a showcase that dives into subak, the island's UNESCO-listed irrigation and water temple systems.
Seoul's Audeum Audio Museum, the world's first dedicated audio museum, also made the list. For a spot dedicated to audio equipment, it's fitting that the museum itself is something of an instrument playing on all senses. Prix Versailles spotlights these sensory experiences: an array of vertical aluminium pipes forms a glittering, waterfall-like facade; the lobby is covered in cool, textured stone, bringing to mind a deep valley; while interior spaces are fitted with wood and filled with the fragrance of Alaskan cypress trees.
The Prix Versailles named five other museums, including Paris's Grand Palais and Riyadh's Diriyah Art Futures. Check out the full list below.
These are the most beautiful museums in the world for 2025, according to Prix Versailles:
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Time Out Dubai
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- Time Out Dubai
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Metro
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Regarded as one of the world's most important archaeological sites, Machu Picchu is UNESCO-protected and was chosen as one of the 'New Seven Wonders of the World' in a worldwide internet poll in 2007. Cut through the queues and get to the heart of it by joining a Mountain Lodges of Peru walking journey to this historic icon. The prestigious locally owned and operated Andean Lodge travel organisation offers a unique route paired with expert guides to facilitate the best possible experience, traversing uncrowded trails and traditional communities before reaching the jaw-dropping ruins themselves. For proximity to these ruins, the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo is your check-in of choice. Sitting in the shadows of the Lost City, the luxury lodge resembles a quaint Andean village with terraced hills, waterfalls, stone pathways and only 83 whitewashed suites tucked into the lush cloud forest. 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Wales Online
3 days ago
- Wales Online
Where to eat in Cardiff city centre near the Principality Stadium ahead of Oasis reunion gigs
Where to eat in Cardiff city centre near the Principality Stadium ahead of Oasis reunion gigs Just a stone's throw from Cardiff's Principality Stadium is a huge amount of places to eat - so if you're still to book for July 4 and 5 here are some suggestions Fat Hippo burger The countdown to Oasis kicking off their highly anticipated reunion tour in Cardiff has begun. With less than a month to go until the two gigs on Friday, July 4, and Saturday, July 5, at the Principality Stadium, you might be wondering where's near to the stadium, where you can book, or even where to grab a quick bite Excitement for the long-awaited reunion gigs is reaching fever pitch as fans plan where to stay, park and eat in the capital. But where should you go to fuel up before the show starts? With an electrifying set expected from the rock and roll icons, you'll need a big feed before you head to the Principality Stadium for a night of bopping and singing along. Cardiff has a vast array of restaurants, bars, and cafes to choose from, so we've narrowed down a few spots near the Principality Stadium for convenience, along with some indie eateries offering plated perfection and crafted cocktails to Michelin-approved spots. There's a bit of everything highlighted here. We also have everything you need to know about getting to the Principality Stadium for the Oasis 2025 concerts, here and if you still want to try to grab tickets, read here. From superstar gigs to cosy pubs, find out What's On in Wales by signing up to our newsletter here Here's where to eat before a big gig night out at the Principality Stadium, and if you haven't booked already, what are you waiting for? Go, go, go! Article continues below Westgate Street Perfectly positioned for pre-gig eats, Westgate Street has a selection of restaurants, pubs and bars where you can rock and roll straight into the Principality stadium after your dinner. Tidy. The Sorting Room Park Gate Hotel's Sorting Room Restaurant is a swish spot for pre-gig fine dining (Image: Wales Online ) Park Gate Hotel's Sorting Room Restaurant is a swish spot for pre-gig fine dining. Spoil yourself at this 2 AA Rosette Awarded and Michelin Guide-listed restaurant, housed inside the grand rooms of the old Post Office. On the Michelin Guide itself, The Sorting Room's profile reads: "Set within an impressive, modish hotel, this elegant, brasserie-style spot boasts leather banquettes, attentive staff and a wide-ranging menu of British dishes. Start with Welsh cold cuts or oak-smoked octopus and crispy pork, followed by Brecon lamb or beef Wellington – and don't miss the Taffy apple cider tatin, which is big enough for two to share. We particularly love the Lobster Thermador, served with a rich sauce accompanied by wild rice, spinach, and house fries. Check out our guide to The 50 best restaurants in Wales in 2025 here Bar 44 In the shadow of the Principality Stadium, Bar 44 is a local favourite for tasty tapas. Houses inside a former canal warehouse, the Bar is divided into four separate subterranean rooms with arched brick ceilings and stylish décor. Choose from a varied range of beautifully presented small plates, including cured loin of pure Ibérico pig, ex-dairy ox cheek in Rioja, slow-cooked shoulder of Ibérico pork, and roast caramelised Murcian peppers. Tiny Rebel Cardiff This red brick beauty is situated right across from the Stadium (Image: Mark Lewis ) This red brick beauty is situated right across from the Stadium and is perfectly positioned for pre-gig drinks and bar food. Chill out in hipster-fied surroundings, sipping one of their signature craft beers or ciders. Feast on a range of snacks and mains, including Jerk Chicken Fries, Rebel IPA Fish & Fries, burgers or Vegan Katsu Curry. Brew Dog Opened in 2014, this uber-cool Cardiff bar serves decent craft beers from an impressive 25 taps, featuring some of the world's best craft breweries alongside their own brews. Situated just over the road from the Stadium, BrewDog Cardiff is a perfect location for pints and bar food before the big gig. Food-wise, expect stacked burgers, including plant-based burgers from Redefine Meat, Korean BBQ wings and a range of sides and salads. Between Westgate and St Mary Street you'll find Quay Street home to Donald's Pies (freshmade pies with brilliant fillings) and taco kings, La Pantera - who create the most imaginative taco fillings such as their homage to the Big Mac - sometimes they have Strongbow Dark Fruits slushes on too. High Street and St Mary Street This is one of Cardiff's main drags and is chocka with boozers and restaurants. We can't possibly name them all, so here's a selection of notable chains and popular indies. Parallel Cardiff A fab place to eat (Image: WalesOnline/Rob Browne ) Brilliantly designed dishes and wicked flavour combos are executed expertly right in front of you if you're lucky enough to sit up at the Bar. There's an option for the chef's menu, featuring around 11 set dishes, which is great value for getting an overview of the talents and tastes on display. Alternatively, there is a regular menu with options such as rolled sirloin, lamb chop, and more. Or pop in for a glass of fizz and their fried chicken; it's totally worth it. Potted Pig Praised by critics and a dining spot for celebs, the popular Potted Pig has come a long way from being an abandoned cellar, once submerged in water. 'The Potted Pig is a gift to the city...' says Jay Rayner, and it's easy to see why with exposed brickwork and low lighting décor, whole suckling pigs and sharing meat feast platters. Typical menu offerings include Monkfish On The Bone, Pork Tenderloin, and Herb-Brined Kohlrabi with Truffle Purée. The Welsh House Cardiff Restaurant & Bar The Welsh House prides itself on its classy yet cosy interior, delicious food and focus on local, sustainable, Welsh produce and supporting Welsh produce whenever possible (Image: The Welsh House/Redefining Dining ) An independent regional restaurant and Bar serving the best Cymru has to offer. The concept focuses on "supporting local Welsh suppliers, sourcing predominantly Welsh produce, and creating core Welsh partnerships." Expect locally produced, fresh, and flavoursome dishes served in a comfortable and relaxed environment, with familiar Welsh dishes prepared well. Pendant lighting and an open kitchen allow you to catch glimpses of how your food will be prepared. The seating consists of tables and long booths, and there is also seating outside on High Street, complete with large plants and plant pots. Typical dishes include Gower Gold Beer-Battered Fish and Chips, Lamb Platter Sharer for Two, and Dry-Aged Welsh Steak. Tŷ Madeira Restaurant A Cardiff fave, Tŷ Madeira brings a slice of Portugal to the Diff' with generous portions of Portuguese eats. The family-run, award-winning spot is well known for its traditional Portuguese food, made with exceptional ingredients and utilising authentic recipes. Make sure to try the Caldeirada (traditional Portuguese fish broth) or Alentejana, comprising pork, potatoes, clams, chorizo cooked with peppers, garlic, onions and white wine. Both are incredible. Turtle Bay Another recognisable chain, Turtle Bay, is a go-to for Jerk chicken, one-pot meals, and Caymanas Rum Cake if you want a spicy feast before a big gig. (Image: Turtle Bay ) Another recognisable chain, Turtle Bay, is a go-to for Jerk chicken, one-pot meals, and Caymanas Rum Cake if you want a spicy feast before a big gig. Expect beachy décor, Caribbean-inspired food, 2-4-1 cocktails and a buzzing atmosphere at this centrally located restaurant. Pasture Set near Cardiff Castle, this grand steakhouse features an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs at work and dry-ageing cabinets displaying whole cuts of beef. Whilst the focus is superb on sharing steaks cooked over charcoal, their sides and starters don't let the side down, from short rib croquettes with gochujang aioli to four-cheese mac and cheese with bacon crumb. Order the awesome-looking (and tasting) Tomahawk, served on the bone. Connecting St Mary Street and The Hayes is Church Street, a hubub of burger places (Honest and Fat Hippo), ramen and rice joints (Pho), curry (Mowgli's) and Franco Manca for pizza, ripe for those wanted almost the shortest walk to the stadium. The Hayes This pedestrianised shopping hub is just a short hop from the Stadium and is home to several chains and indies. Gaucho Steak and Argentinian restaurant Gaucho is a popular spot (Image: Gaucho ) Argentinian steakhouse chain Gaucho serves up a solid lineup of classic Argentinian cuts, speciality steaks, and generous sharing options. The interiors are just as attention-grabbing, featuring an industrial-chic aesthetic with a stylish twist. Bronze framework and sleek metal features nod to the shared trading history of Argentina and Cardiff's Tiger Bay, while warm copper tones and fluffy pampas grass installations bring a softer touch. The star of the show? A striking island horseshoe bar, wrapped in blackened steel and bronze, with a dramatic rammed earth wall behind it, a homage to the layered rainbow mountains of the Andes. Giggling Squid This photogenic Thai restaurant, founded by husband and wife team Pranee and Andy Laurillard in 2002, is well known for its floral aesthetics and candy colour décor. Just five minutes from Cardiff Central, this cutesy restaurant is perfect for grabbing Thai eats after rolling straight off the train. There's a range of signature dishes on offer, from salt & pepper squid and hawker-style pork skewers to crowd-pleasing Sticky Chicken. The restaurant also offers a wide range of cocktails, including a mojito-style mango and chilli mosquito and a Thai espresso martini with coconut coffee liqueur. If you widen your search in The Hayes/St David's area you'll also find options like the fancy Ivy and Ivy Asia, Wagamama, The Banana Tree and Wahaca which are go-to options for many visiting the city for a big gig. Giovannis On The Hayes A true Cardiff institution, Giovanni's is a family-run restaurant that has been serving traditional Italian cuisine since 1983 (Image: WalesOnline/Rob Browne ) A true Cardiff institution, Giovanni's is a family-run restaurant that has been serving traditional Italian cuisine since 1983. The décor is charmingly retro, featuring faux-brickwork wallpaper and photos of Giovanni posing with various celebrities. Food-wise, expect warming plates of Homemade Italian meatballs, arancini, homemade pizzas and Penne. Miller & Carter Steak chain Miller & Carter is where you'll find 30-day-aged steaks, tender pan-seared scallops, succulent pork belly, and crispy duck and mango salads. Lush. Their popular steakhouse restaurants have been awarded 'The Masters of Steak' by the prestigious Craft Guild of Chefs for the way they rear cattle, age, and cook the steaks to perfection, which has led to this industry-leading award for Miller & Carter Cardiff Hayes. The Cardiff Townhouse Coppa Club , Cardiff Townhouse (Image: WalesOnline/Rob Browne ) Located on The Hayes in the former David Morgan department store, bougie Cardiff Townhouse is in a prime spot for dinner and drinks before heading to the Stadium. Billed as an all-day destination akin to a members' club, this hybrid restaurant/ bar/co-working/event space features a selection of light nibbles, small plates, steak, chicken, and fish dishes, as well as pizza and pasta. Caroline Street Cardiff's infamous 'Chippy Lane' is probably where you'll want to head after an exhilarating gig, rather than before. A massive tray of chips slathered in gravy always seems like a good idea after you've been rocking out at a huge gig. Here are some of the best-known spots for a late night chippy tea. Dorothy's Fish Bar - A classic Cardiff spot that has survived all the major changes on Caroline Street. This is where you come for late-night chicken curry and chips, and a battered sausage. Prepare to queue this place gets very busy. Albany Fish Bar - this popular haunt won the best chippy in Wales in 2024 and has a Caroline Streeet branch for late night cod and chips. Five Guys - feast on fresh burgers cooked to perfection at this well-known chain. which is also opposite popular Wingstop if chicken is your bag, and around the corner from Nando's. Our other favourite indies across the city Curado Bar Curado Bar (Image: Curado Bar / Instagram ) This lively city centre restaurant and bar, which took over the old Burger King site on the corner of Westgate Street in 2016 and has become a firm favourite. It serves a great selection of Spanish tapas and wines and is the perfect place for light eats before rocking out. Curado Bar also expanded its presence in the capital with a new venue selling sherry and vermouth. Called Vermut - the Catalan for vermouth, a fortified wine - it's the latest expansion from award-winning Spanish deli Ultracomida and is definitely worth visiting as well. Asador 44 This Spanish restaurant specialises in sharing cuts of meat and whole fish cooked over charcoal. Run by siblings Tom and Owen Morgan, the Spanish grill is a must-visit in the city. It is delicious and transports diners to the southern coast of Spain, consistently receiving glowing reviews. Their ruby-red Spanish ex-dairy sirloin steak is a thing of beauty, and it's all the more delicious when accompanied by one of their extensive selection of Spanish wines, sherries, cocktails, and beers. There's also, as expected, a great range of Spanish wines, beers, cocktails and sherries - understandable as one of the brothers is a sherry master in his own right. It's also the second Welsh restaurant featured in 'Remarkable Places to Eat ' on More4. Bacareto Bacareto's secret terrace on Church Street (Image: Bacareto Instagram ) Inspired by the laid-back bàcaris of Venice, Bacareto brings small plates, good wine and relaxed vibes to Cardiff. This informal bar and café is a fresh addition to the city's food scene, serving tasty tapas-style dishes alongside cocktails, beers and spritzes. If the sun's out on the day of a gig, head upstairs; there's a hidden rooftop terrace perfect for soaking up the rays with a crostini in one hand and a cold spritz in the other. Nighthawks Not only does Nighthawks specialise in amazing wine, and the odd cocktail, but they also offer delicious cheese toasties, nibbles and charcuterie platters. This independent wine bar is the place to go for enjoying a nice glass of white, red, or rosé if you want a chilled atmosphere before a noisy gig. Cafe Citta Seafood linguine at Cafe Citta in Cardiff (Image: Instagram/Bwyta ) Article continues below This tiny and buzzy city centre Italian restaurant is one of just a couple of independents on a street that's otherwise dominated by chains. If you give one of the big brands a miss, then you'll be rewarded with a delicious meal of hearty seasonal Italian cooking. Try the linguine Citta with sun-blushed tomatoes, ricotta cheese, cream, roasted pine nuts, chilli and rocket.
