http://www.mahoodsculpture.com/famous-sculptures-at-the-louvre/
Five Things to see When in Paris
Paris has become a city synonymous with romance; it is a magical place rich in art and culture with a colourful history. Whether visiting Paris for just the day, a weekend or much longer, you will find no shortage of wonderful things to see and do. From London, it is easy to get to Paris via EuroStar, ferry or plane. Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport is very modern with high glass walls; you almost get a 360 degree view of the planes taking off and landing – quite spectacular! It is Europe’s second busiest passenger airport. Shuttles ferry passengers between the three gigantic airport terminals.
Getting into the city of Paris is easy, with one of Europe’s most modern high speed trains, luxury limousines and a vast array of taxis all available from the airport. Paris is a popular weekend break destination due to it’s close proximity to major international transport links, as well as being only a ten minute train journey to Disneyland. Once in the city itself it’s easy to get around using the public transport system. You can travel on the Metro (underground network), trams or the buses. There are also taxis, car hires and private car services available.
Before beginning to explore this most fabulously romantic of cities, a brief word of warning about hiring a car while on holiday, if this is your preferred option. Always make sure to read the rental agreement fully so that you know exactly what you will be covered for in the event of an accident, this includes any excess charges which you may be liable for. Most specialist insurance products such as gap insurance, car warranties and breakdown insurance should already be taken care of by the hire car company so you won’t need to worry about those things. Always clarify details of what to do and who to call if you do break down, and make sure the cover provides 24-hour call-outs. There are extra insurance products which you may be offered – such as key insurance or windscreen cover – which will cost you more but may give you added peace of mind. Be sure that you are fully aware of what you are signing, especially as you are in a foreign country.
Like any other city, Paris also has its dangers; take care when travelling on public transport, for example, that your personal items are secure. If you use basic common sense and remember not to carry all you cash or valuables around with you, then you can avoid any stress through lost belongings. You should secure your travel documents – including travel insurance details – along with any valuables, in your hotel before taking to the city streets for a sightseeing excursion. Once you have the basics covered, you are ready to begin exploring. Among all the fabulous things you could see and do when visiting Paris, below is a selection of the most popular.
Eiffel Tower- The Eiffel Tower is one of the most recognised monuments in the world. You cannot compare a photograph, though, to actually seeing it in person. The architecture and its sheer size will amaze you. For the view of a lifetime, take the elevator right to the top. The first floor has displays depicting the history of the tower. You can dine at the Altitude 95 restaurant on the first floor. If you are looking for a more upscale dining experience then visit the Michelin-starred Jules Verne restaurant on the second floor. A visit to the Eiffel Tower is an essential part of every Paris visit.
Centre Pompidou- If you love modern art and architecture you have to visit the Centre Pompidou. It is more than a mere museum. It is a place dedicated to the display and exploration of modern art and contemporary conceptualisations. This includes theatre, music, literature and film. President Georges Pompidou was the inspiration behind the museum. He envisioned a cultural centre focused entirely on contemporary creations. The building itself is one of the most distinctive architectural designs around and was designed by Renzo Piano.
Exhibits at the Pompidou are always changing so you get a new experience each time you visit. You can purchase a book on just about any type of art form imaginable from one of the three bookshops. You can also buy souvenirs from the gift shop which is more of a design boutique full of fun and funky items. Panoramic views of Paris can be enjoyed whilst dining at George’s, on level six. On leaving the museum and the centre there is still plenty to see. Street art and sculptures can be found in abundance on the pavements outside the building. This place is truly a memorable experience.
Louvre Museum- The Louvre Museum is probably the world’s most famous art museum. Leonardo da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa” is kept here. The Louvre, Europe’s oldest museum, was founded in 1793. The museum has a vast and diverse range of exhibits from Egyptian artifacts to Islamic Art.
You would need weeks to explore this fascinating place in its entirety. It is housed in the Louvre Palace which was the former seat of the French Royalty. A staggering 35,000 pieces of artwork are housed in eight different thematic areas. Among many more, you can see works of art by da Vinci and Rubens in the permanent collections. Particular movements or artists may also be represented in one of the temporary exhibits.
Arc de Triomphe- A climb to the top of the Arc de Triomphe will give you an excellent view of Paris. The Arc de Triomphe is a little over 50 metres high! It was Napoleon Bonaparte who is responsible for this monument’s construction – now a favourite scenic viewpoint with Paris’s visitors. Commissioned in 1806, it was Napoleon’s monument to his own military genius and to the greatness of his army. It has become a symbol representative of all things triumphant in Paris. The famous landmark hosts Bastille Day celebrations, as well as marking the finish line of the Tour de France. Both the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the eternal flame are also located at this historical site, where you can pay your respects to the fallen and unidentified dead of two world wars.
A word of warning though – to get to the top takes some energy and hard work. There are 280 steps that you will have to climb to reach the top, but it is well worth it for the view. As one of France’s most recognisable symbols and architectural icons, this monument is well worth a visit.
Musée d’Orsay- The Musée d’Orsay has one of the largest collections of sculptures, paintings, and art pieces produced between 1848 and 1914. You will find many early modern period artworks showcased at this museum. It has works by Monet, Degas, Ingres and Van Gogh. Everything from neoclassicism, impressionism and art nouveau is covered in the permanent collections here. Here you can enjoy and explore the beginnings of modern art.
The city of Paris is inviting and romantic. You will be sure to find something to please you in Paris, whether that be the history, art, architecture or pure romanticism. Many visitors to Paris will want to return to once again sample its beauty and ambiance. The city and surrounding areas can easily be explored via public transport or car hire options. Paris has so much to delight the visitor that you might not want to leave it behind!
This short city guide was brought to you by the UK’s leading gap insurance and car warranty specialists – the Click4Group.
“Inside the Louvre” Steveandkat’s photos around Paris, France