While some websites say there are 73 official Museums in Paris, Wikipedia lists it at 130. I have been to more than 70, and the number is growing weekly. I have a great appreciation for all types of art and think I have some alternatives to the major destinations to share with you. Whether exploring the everchanging Street Art scene or venturing to a gallery, there is no lacking in culture in Paris.
While the Louvre is a full day commitment when there is wine to be tasted and cheese to be consumed, it is the largest Museum in the world. It is filled with stories, and mysteries and even controversy. The I.M. Pei glass and metal pyramid at the entrance has become the symbol to this great home of the most well known masterpieces in the world. It is not well known that there exists another Louvre in Dubai giving you the opportunity to book a vacation where the temperatures encourage you to enjoy the air conditioning.
The main attractions in the Paris Louvre are easy enough to find; but after a few hours, you might feel like you’re cramming for an exam instead of enjoying the art. 15,000 visit each day and everyone wants a glimpse of the most prized possessions.
Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa is protected by guards, bulletproof glass and a bar keeping you at a respectable distance. While she is the art world’s Queen, with many interesting stories, her tale is just one in a city filled with famous art. If you have been to Paris before and spent time in the Louvre, you may want to explore alternate museums.
In my humble opinion Musée d’Orsay is a more manageable museum with a cool history and setting. In 1977 the old train station was converted to house the largest collection of Impressionist painting in the world, including Van Gogh’s The Starry Night and several other artists you will easily recognize. You can easily tackle this beautiful structure in a couple hours allowing for more French fun.
What is an art lover to see after tackling the mammoths of the museum world? I happen to know the perfect spot or two for you, we just need to get to know each other a little. Playing Cards, Sewers, Bones and more can be found easily. Small spots with private gardens like the Rodin Museum, modern architectural spaces like the Picasso Museum and L’ Orangerieto sit in the middle of the Monet Water Lilies, all are enjoyable options. Why not try something different?
A visit the Louis Vuitton Foundation in the famous Frank Gehry building will surely offer you a chance to see some of the worlds most important artists of the 20th and 21st century. Not a fan of Modern Art? The Musée du Quai Branlyfeatures the indigenous art and cultures of Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas. While I didn’t think this would be very interesting to me, I found myself completely surprised and in love with this mesmerizing architecturally designed museum and it’s gardens that often host an interesting view of its neighbor the Eiffel Tower.
While the Musée du Luxembourg has a secret Angelina for Hot Chocolate, it also offers a wonderful garden with marionette shows for the kids and the famous Medici Fountain perfect for sharing a sweet kiss. The Centre George Pompidou has one of the best views at their rooftop restaurant after discovering the controversial art that Paris is famous for.
King Tut is on his way to Paris for an exhibition this spring and that’s not all. Paris is always the main stop for the biggest touring art shows. The exhibitions are all special and unique; and It is the stories and facts about the art and Quartiers they are located in make each visit a more enjoyable expedition.
Keep a few things in mind, some museums closed Monday and others on Tuesdays. They alternate so there is always a good alternate option. A museum pass can be purchased for consecutive days of museum visits in order to save you money. The Louvre is open until 10pm on Fridays making it the best way to avoid crowds.
I hope to make your trip to Paris even more enjoyable by matching the museums that cater to your passions. Surprise your loved ones with a customized experience that will be cherished. After all it is the precious memories that we keep forever, even when the photos get put away!
Winter special: Secure your tour date before March 1st and get 30% off.
