The June Culture Guide

New York 

What to see: New York-based artist Julien Ceccaldi's first US solo exhibition features a large-scale painting that transforms MoMA PS1's galleries into a distorted scene of digital power and hyperconsumerism. Combining animation techniques with Renaissance methods like trompe l'oeil, his work draws from 1990s anime, manga, and autobiographical comics.

Where to stay: The Fifth Avenue Hotel offers a whimsical blend of Gilded Age glamour and contemporary design, tucked into a historic mansion in NoMad. From jewel-box guest rooms to the dramatic vaulted ceilings of Café Carmellini, every detail feels transportive.

Where to eat: Teruko, debuting at the acclaimed Hotel Chelsea this month is inspired by former resident and abstract painter Teruko Yokoi. Adorned with a display of Yokoi's original paintings, the menu features exciting dishes such as Smoked Kampachi and Grilled Ozaki Wagyu.

London 

Where to visit: Discover the profound artistic dialogue between Vincent van Gogh and Anselm Kiefer (June 28- October 26) in this groundbreaking exhibition at the Royal Academy of Arts. Featuring pieces by both artists, including new works by Kiefer never shown before.

What to see: Immerse yourself in the London Design Biennale (June 5 – June 29) at Somerset House, where design meets innovation on a global stage. The Biennale gathers over 40 countries showcasing cutting-edge installations, interactive exhibits and visionary projects that explore the role of design in shaping our future cities, cultures, and communities. This year’s theme, “Resonance,” highlights how design can connect people, ideas, and environments in unexpected and meaningful ways.  

Where to stay: The Ned is a stylish hotel housed in a historic banking hall just a short stroll from Somerset House. Its blend of Art Deco grandeur and contemporary luxury makes it an ideal base for exploring London’s creative heart.

Copenhagen 

What to see: The Copenhagen Photo Festival, from June 12–22, turns the Danish capital into an open-air gallery, with contemporary photography exhibitions installed across urban parks, industrial spaces, and along the harbor front. This year’s theme explores our interconnected world through bold, conceptual works from international artists, like photographer Martin Carr, the festival’s honoree. 

Where to stay: Villa Copenhagen blends century-old grandeur with eco-conscious design in the former Danish Post Office headquarters. Expect terrazzo floors, Scandi-chic rooms, and a rooftop pool heated with surplus energy. 

Where to eat: At Alouette, hidden in a former pencil factory, Michelin-starred New Nordic cuisine gets a bold twist—think langoustine with fermented chili or juniper-glazed duck in a minimalist, art-forward space. 

Tokyo 

What to do: Celebrate Japan’s rainy season in style at the Hydrangea Festival (Ajisai Matsuri), taking place through June across the city’s temples and gardens. Meigetsuin Temple in Kamakura becomes a sea of blue and purple blooms, offering a quiet, almost dreamlike escape from the city’s pulse. 

Where to shop: With over 250 vendors at each fair, the Oedo Antique Market offers an extensive treasure hunt for collectors and casual browsers alike. Visitors can discover vintage clothing, accessories, antique household goods, and unique finds.

Where to stay: Aman Tokyo is a sky-high sanctuary set above the Otemachi Tower, offering sweeping views of the Imperial Palace gardens, a serene onsen-style spa, and minimalist suites inspired by traditional Japanese ryokan. 

Shanghai 

What to see:  Experience ...de la vallée at the Power Station of Art, running through June 29. This immersive exhibition by French artist Fabrice Hyber featur sover 70 works, ranging from the 1990s to today. The exhibition also includes more than 20 new pieces crafted specifically for the occasion. Hyber, known for his multidisciplinary approach, transforms the gallery into a dynamic space that reflects his lifelong project: cultivating a forest in western France. 

Where to eat:  Indulge in a culinary experience at Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet, a multisensory restaurant that combines avant-garde cuisine with immersive technology, creating a dining experience that is both innovative and unforgettable.