Known for its stunning views of the Eiffel Tower and its diverse range of attractions, this square offers a memorable experience with its architectural beauty, cultural landmarks, and recreational opportunities.

The centerpiece of Place du Trocadéro is the Trocadéro Gardens, a meticulously landscaped park adorned with fountains, statues, and lush greenery. It serves as a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike, providing a serene atmosphere to relax, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the picturesque surroundings.

Another highlight is the Trocadéro Palace (a.k.a. the Palais de Chaillot), which houses the Musée de l'Homme (Museum of Mankind) and the Cité de l'Architecture et du Patrimoine (Museum of Architecture and Heritage), offering fascinating exhibits that delve into human anthropology and the evolution of architecture for an enriching educational experience.

As one of the best vantage points in the city, the square is strategically located across the Seine River from the iconic Eiffel Tower, allowing visitors to capture stunning photographs and admire the tower's intricate ironwork from a unique perspective. Whether during the day when it sparkles in the sunlight or at night when it is illuminated, the view from Place du Trocadéro never fails to captivate.

For those seeking entertainment, the area surrounding the square boasts a vibrant atmosphere with an array of restaurants, cafes, and shops. Visitors can indulge in a delicious meal while taking in the view, sip on a coffee at a sidewalk café, or explore the boutiques and galleries in the vicinity.

Additionally, Place du Trocadéro serves as a venue for various events and festivals throughout the year. From live music performances to cultural celebrations, there is often something happening in the square that adds to its lively and dynamic character.

Why You Should Visit:
Whether you're interested in history, art, photography, or simply enjoying the ambiance of a vibrant square, Place du Trocadéro is sure to be a memorable part of any trip to Paris.

Equally grand from whatever angle you look at it, whether just walking past or watching it from a distance, day or night, the Eiffel Tower lives up to its iconic status easily. The wrought-iron lattice structure on the Field of Mars in Paris was designed by engineer Gustave Eiffel and built between 1887 and 1889. Known locally as the "Iron Lady," it was the centerpiece of the 1889 World's Fair, celebrating the centennial of the French Revolution.

Illuminated by gas lamps at night, the tower was a major attraction from the very beginning, although not to everyone's taste. Before its construction even started, a group of prominent French artists and intellectuals, including writer Guy de Maupassant, condemned the tower as a "monstrous" and "useless" structure that would overshadow Paris' landmarks. By 1918, however, it had become an iconic symbol of Paris – and France – and since then has been one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world.

Standing at 330 meters (or 1,083 feet), the Eiffel Tower is the tallest structure in Paris. It has three levels for visitors, with restaurants on the first and second. The top level, at 276 meters (or 906 feet), offers the highest public observation deck in the European Union. Visitors can ascend via stairs or lift, with 600 steps required to reach the second level. The third level, typically accessed by lift, features a private apartment once used by Gustave Eiffel, where he hosted honorable guests like Thomas Edison.

In recognition of their contribution to the construction, the tower is engraved with the names of 72 French scientists, engineers, and mathematicians.

Unlike other high risers, the Eiffel Tower is there for visitors only. In Paris, where tall buildings are still in short supply, the bird's eye view from the top of the tower is truly unique and indeed breathtaking. In 2022, the tower welcomed nearly six million visitors, becoming the most visited paid monument globally.

The Eiffel Tower is painted in three shades: darker at the bottom, getting progressively lighter towards the top to complement the Parisian sky. Originally reddish brown, it changed the color to bronze, known as "Eiffel Tower Brown," in 1968. In what is expected to be a temporary change, the Eiffel Tower was painted gold in commemoration of the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.

Tip:
Remember to bring along some warm clothes, because it can get much colder up there, especially when it's windy.
During the day, if it's hot, bring an umbrella, too, to get some shade, and lots of water.

The Rodin Museum in Paris, established in 1919, is dedicated to the works of French sculptor Auguste Rodin. It is situated in the elegant 18th-century mansion called Hôtel Biron, which the sculptor used as his workshop from 1908. Rodin bequeathed his comprehensive collection of sculptures, alongside notable paintings by Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, and Pierre-Auguste Renoir to the French State under the condition that his workshop be transformed into a museum showcasing his artistry.

The museum is home to over 6,600 sculptures, including prominent pieces like The Thinker, The Kiss, and The Gates of Hell, many of which are displayed within its extensive garden. The outside garden itself, spanning over three hectares, is an integral part of the museum experience and features a variety of Rodin’s famous sculptures set against a backdrop of natural scenery. Just behind the museum, there's a casual restaurant and a small lake, plus an open area with benches, a café, and an ice-cream parlor.

Renowned for his unique ability to mold clay, Rodin went down in history not only as a sculptor but also as a painter, engraver, and collector. Attesting to this are 8,000 drawings that reflect a range of styles from landscape observations to fantastical works influenced by literary figures like Dante and Baudelaire. The collection also encompasses 7,000 old photographs that Rodin himself collected, showcasing his deep interest in photography as both a science and an art. These photographs serve as a historical archive of Rodin’s creative process and personal interests.

Additionally, the museum honors Camille Claudel, Rodin’s student, collaborator, and lover, with a dedicated room displaying her works, including The Mature Age and The Waltz, among others, capturing their tumultuous relationship and her artistic journey.

Rodin’s legacy is further highlighted through his vast collection of ancient and Eastern art, accumulated over the last two decades of his life, displayed amidst his own creations, signifying his appreciation and inspiration drawn from global art traditions.

While celebrating Rodin’s artistic contributions, the museum also engages with contemporary art through temporary exhibitions, hosting works by modern artists and organizing events that connect the historical with the contemporary.

The entrance fee is reasonable and not likely to break anyone's bank, so you can go and appreciate art from a whole new perspective while enjoying the Parisian weather.

Tip:
Do stop in the entry garden to pose for cheesy photos of yourself looking pensive next to the massive statue of The Thinker!

Regular Hours:
Wednesday-Monday: 10 am-5 pm
Closed Tuesdays, 4th of July, Thanksgiving, and Christmas

Garden Bar Hours:
Thursday–Sunday: 3–8 pm (July 5–August 25); Saturday, Sunday: 3–8 pm (September 8–29);
Closed July 25, August 31–September 2, September 7

One of the world's most renowned art museums, the Orsay is housed in a former railway station, showcasing an exceptional collection of artworks primarily from the 19th and early 20th centuries – from Impressionist and Post-Impressionist to opulent Art Nouveau pieces.

With its prime location on the Left Bank of the Seine River, the Orsay also offers breathtaking panoramic views of Paris, including stunning vistas of famous landmarks such as the Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Eiffel Tower from its upper floors.

The museum building itself is an architectural marvel, blending historic charm with modern elements. Originally built as the Gare d'Orsay in the late 19th century, the station was transformed into a museum in 1986. Its grandeur and unique layout provide an ideal setting for the remarkable artworks on display.

The permanent collection features an extensive array of masterpieces by celebrated artists, such as Vincent van Gogh's "Starry Night Over the Rhône", Édouard Manet's "Olympia", Pierre-Auguste Renoir's "Bal du moulin de la Galette", and Paul Cézanne's "Apples and Oranges". These, along with countless others, offer an immersive journey through the revolutionary movements that shaped the art world during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

In addition to its renowned painting collection, the museum also boasts an impressive assortment of sculptures, decorative arts, and photography. Visitors can appreciate the exquisite craftsmanship of Art Nouveau furniture, delicate sculptures by Auguste Rodin, and the innovative photographic works of pioneers such as Eugène Atget.

Beyond the artistic treasures, the Musée d'Orsay offers a variety of amenities to enhance the experience, from the several cafes and restaurants to the museum shop, which provides an opportunity to bring home a piece of art through a wide selection of books, prints, and unique souvenirs.

Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history lover, or simply seeking an enriching cultural experience, a visit to the Orsay is essential.

Why You Should Visit:
For a smaller, more intimate venue and beautiful artwork by the masters, this is the perfect destination!
Not only houses paintings and sculpture but also displays decorative furnishings that would have only graced a palace!

Tip:
The secret pleasure here is the gorgeous 5th-floor restaurant under the huge clock and with one of the best views of Paris. Excellent value for money.

The Louvre Museum, or simply the Louvre, is perhaps the most famous art museum in the world. Originally built as a fortress in the late 12th century, under King Philip II, it later transitioned into a royal residence under King Francis I, in 1546. The Louvre’s current palace structure developed through multiple expansions, although it ceased being a royal residence in 1682 when Louis XIV moved his household to Versailles.

In 1692, the Louvre became home to the Academy of Inscriptions and Fine Writing and the Royal Academy of Painting and Sculpture, which held public exhibitions, or “salons,” marking its early transformation into a public cultural space. During the French Revolution, it was formally established as a museum by the National Assembly, with an initial exhibition of 537 works, mostly from royal and church collections. Following its brief closure due to structural concerns, the Louvre reopened and rapidly expanded its collection under Napoleon Bonaparte, who renamed it Napoleon Museum. Though many seized artworks had to be returned after Napoleon's fall, subsequent monarchs continued to add to the collection, and acquisitions continued through donations and bequests during the Third Republic (between 1870 and 1940).

Today, the Louvre’s collection comprises approximately 500,000 objects housed in over 72,000 square meters of space, with 35,000 pieces displayed at any given time. Divided into eight departments-ranging from Egyptian and Near Eastern Antiquities to Paintings and Islamic Art-the museum showcases everything from sculptures and ornamental works of art to paintings and archaeological artifacts from around the globe. Key masterpieces here include the "Venus de Milo," the "Winged Victory of Samothrace," "The Raft of the Medusa," and, famously, Leonardo da Vinci's "Mona Lisa." For many, the chance to see the Mona Lisa is the main reason for visiting.

Beyond the high-profile pieces, the Louvre's lesser-visited Sully and Richelieu wings reveal the full extent of its treasures. The Richelieu wing is particularly celebrated for its elegant design, glass-covered courtyards, and grand architecture. Its centerpiece is the Napoleon III apartments, adorned with immense chandeliers, red velvet, intricate moldings, and lavish gilded decor-a testament to the opulence that impresses all who enter.

With almost 9 million visitors in 2023, the Louvre remains the most-visited museum globally, surpassing even the Vatican Museums. For those planning to visit, advance ticket purchases are essential, and using the quieter Lions Gate helps ease entry. For a more serene experience, Friday afternoons, when the museum stays open late, are ideal. Once inside, a map is crucial for navigating the expansive galleries, allowing visitors to prioritize the exhibits that resonate most.

Despite its name suggesting newness, New Bridge is the oldest surviving bridge over the Seine in Paris. Located at the western end of the City Island, this historic overpass marks the early heart of the French capital. Built in two parts-one with five arches connecting the left bank to City Island, and the other with seven arches linking the island to the right bank-the bridge offers a unique view of the island’s expanded tip, now home to the Square du Vert-Galant, a park named for Henry IV, also known as the "Green Gallant."

Named "New" to distinguish it from the older bridges existing at the time, traditionally lined with houses on both sides, New Bridge became a cultural and architectural landmark for its open design, which allowed unbroken views of the Louvre. Construction began in 1578, under Henry III, and was completed in 1606, under Henry IV, producing the first stone bridge free from houses, with paved walkways for pedestrian safety and angled spans for resilience. An equestrian statue of Henry IV, destroyed during the French Revolution and restored in 1818, commemorates his legacy.

Another distinctive element of the bridge was the semicircular bastions jutting out above the piers. These were made to allow people to step aside so as not to get wet or soiled in mud by passing carriages. Later on, they served as popular gathering spots and, at one point, even functioned as trading areas for street vendors and even tooth-pullers. Now that the tooth-pullers are gone, these bastions are primarily occupied by tourists and enamored couples seeking to immerse themselves in the city's romantic ambiance.

New Bridge's decorative features include 381 mascarons - Renaissance-style stone masks with high relief - on the outer edges of the bridge, close to the cornice. In the 1850s, they were replaced with copies. On closer examination, it becomes apparent that each mascaron is unique, with its distinct and rather unconventional expression; some appear to be contorted in grimaces or otherworldly visages.

Between 1712 and 1719, a large pump house was built on the bridge. Decorated with an image of the Samaritan woman at the well, it was aptly called the Samaritan. Years later, it inspired the eponymous department store “La Samaritaine,” established in the area in 1869.

Tip:
Ardent bridge enthusiasts seeking a unique perspective of New Bridge should consider embarking on a River Seine cruise with the "Vedettes du Pont-Neuf" company, conveniently located nearby. Their cruise offers excellent value for money, and you can even obtain a discount voucher from most tourist information offices in Paris.

The Luxembourg Gardens embody everything that is charming, unique, and enchanting about Parisian parks. Its groomed trees, ironed-and-pressed walkways, and sculpted flower beds, not to mention the immaculate emerald lawns, are meant for admiring, not necessarily for lounging. As you wander along the tree- and bench-lined paths, you'll find a peaceful haven from the bustle of the surrounding neighborhoods: the Quartier Latin, St-Germain-des-Prés, and Montparnasse. During the winter months, the garden's austere beauty is captivating, but it truly comes alive in spring, as blooming beds of daffodils, tulips, and hyacinths emerge, and children nudge wooden sailboats across the circular pool. The park's northern boundary is graced by the Palais du Luxembourg, which houses the Sénat (Senate), one of two chambers of the Parliament.

The gardens were originally inspired by Queen Marie de Medici, who longed for the Boboli Gardens of her native Florence. The recently restored Fontaine de Medicis, a favorite spot in summer for contemplative readers, honors her memory. Meanwhile, Les Marionettes du Théâtre du Luxembourg is another timeless attraction, where classic guignols (marionette shows) can be enjoyed on weekend mornings and afternoons, as well as Wednesday afternoons. The park also boasts a merry-go-round, swings, and pony rides. On summer afternoons, the bandstand on the eastern side of the park hosts free concerts.

As you meander through the paths, you might be surprised to come across a familiar sight: one of the original (miniature) casts of the Statue of Liberty was installed in the gardens in 1906. There are over 100 other statues to admire as well. Don't miss the rotating photography exhibits hanging on the perimeter fence near the entrance on Boulevard St-Michel. And if you want to burn off some calories, there's a well-maintained trail around the perimeter that is popular among joggers.

Tip:
To ensure park rules are observed, gendarmes regularly patrol the grounds; guidelines posted on entry gates should be followed.

The Panthéon of Paris, originally conceived as a church dedicated to Saint Genevieve, has evolved significantly since its inception. Constructed between 1758 and 1790, it was intended by King Louis XV to house the relics of Paris's patron saint. The structure stands on a historically rich site, previously home to Roman monuments, and underwent numerous transformations, most notably during the French Revolution when it was repurposed as a secular mausoleum.

The Panthéon was designed to combine the lightness of Gothic cathedrals with the classical grandeur admired in Italian architecture. The architecture of the Panthéon is a striking example of early Neoclassicism, dominated by a triple dome, each layer serving both aesthetic and structural purposes. The middle dome features a painted ceiling, while the outer stone-built dome, completed in 1790, was designed to rival the domes of major basilicas in Rome and London. Initially topped with a cross, the dome has seen various symbols over the years, reflective of France's turbulent history.

Inside, the Panthéon hosts the Apotheosis of Saint Genevieve, surrounded by important figures from French royal history and Christianity. Its peristyle and façade mimic a Greek temple, adorned with Corinthian columns and a pediment that celebrates national gratitude towards illustrious figures, reinstated post-Revolution to honor France's great men and women.

The Panthéon also served as the site for Léon Foucault's famous demonstration of the Earth's rotation in 1851, using a pendulum suspended from the central dome-a copy of which remains on display today.

Throughout its history, the Panthéon's role has shifted between religious and national significance. During its time as the revolutionary "Temple of the Nation", it housed the remains of prominent French figures such as Voltaire and Rousseau. Declared a mausoleum for "National Heroes" in the 19th century, other notables like Victor Hugo and Marie Curie found their final resting place here. More recent additions included French resistance heroes, recognizing their roles in World War II.

Today, the Panthéon is a monument to France's past but also a symbol of its enduring values, reflecting the nation's historical journey and its commitment to honoring those who have shaped its cultural and political landscape.

While the Eiffel Tower is an instantly recognizable symbol of France, the Notre-Dame Cathedral is an unmistakable symbol of Paris. Notre-Dame de Paris, or "Our Lady of Paris," is a medieval Catholic church renowned for its French Gothic appearance. Among other features, this cathedral showcases period architectural innovations such as the rib vault and flying buttress, as well as large rose windows and rich sculptural decoration. Notre-Dame’s architectural and historical significance is underscored by its vast pipe organs, iconic bells, and its role in hosting significant ceremonies like Napoleon’s coronation, the celebration of the Liberation of Paris in 1944, and the funerals of presidents Charles de Gaulle and François Mitterrand.

Before Notre-Dame, a temple to Jupiter and later a cathedral dedicated to Saint Étienne occupied the site. Construction of Notre-Dame began in 1163 and concluded in 1260, incorporating architectural advancements in four major stages, with additions in the 13th century enhancing stability and light. At the time of its construction, it was the most ambitious cathedral project ever undertaken in France, its vaults rising over 33 meters and holding a national height record for several decades.

In 1431, Notre-Dame saw the coronation of King Henry VI, and during the French Revolution, suffered vandalism when it was repurposed as a warehouse. In the 19th century, Victor Hugo’s novel, The Hunchback of Notre-Dame, spurred its restoration, largely preserving Notre-Dame’s legacy.

Amid the Second World War, upon the Fall of France, there were fears that the German invaders might destroy the freshly renovated stained glass of the rose window. As a result, the lion's portion of it was hidden and re-installed only after the war.

In 2019, a fire severely damaged the cathedral's oak roof and spire. Firefighters saved much of the building, including the world's biggest 13th-century glass window and other artifacts and relics which were temporarily removed for safety. Though many decorations have been removed over time, the cathedral retains Gothic, Baroque, and 19th-century sculptures, altarpieces, and revered relics, including the Crown of Thorns and fragments from the True Cross.

As a symbol of Paris and France, Notre-Dame is renowned for its traditional Lent sermons since the 1830s and attracts annually around 12 million visitors.

Marché aux fleurs, also known as the Flower Market, was named for Queen Elizabeth II after a state visit in 2014 and is renowned for its stunning floral displays and vibrant atmosphere. Located on the Île de la Cité, in the 4th arrondissement, this bustling market street offers an array of colorful blooms, potted plants, and exotic flowers. The market is open daily and provides visitors with the opportunity to purchase fresh flowers, plants, and floral arrangements to brighten up their homes or gift to loved ones.

The market's history dates back to the early 1800s, and has been a popular destination for locals and tourists alike ever since. Its winding pathways and narrow alleyways are lined with a wide range of colorful flowers, including roses, lilies, sunflowers, and many other exotic species. Visitors can explore the market's stalls and find everything from cut flowers and potted plants to small trees and cacti.

In addition to the flowers, the market also boasts a collection of antique shops, gift stores, and art galleries. Visitors can browse the quaint boutiques and pick up unique souvenirs, such as handcrafted pottery, jewelry, and paintings. There are also numerous cafes and restaurants in the area, where visitors can enjoy a leisurely meal or a cup of coffee while taking in the bustling street scene.

In 1659, a private mansion was erected in the charming neighborhood of Marais, originally intended for a salt-tax farmer. Today, it is hailed as the most remarkable historical residence in the entire district, embodying the fusion of Italian Baroque and neoclassical elements, commonly referred to as the "Mazarin" style. Adorned with intricately sculpted cupids and sphinxes, lavish stucco and stone embellishments, Corinthian pilasters and a grand central staircase, the edifice exudes an air of refined aesthetics, beckoning visitors to ascend its steps.

The City of Paris acquired the mansion in 1968, deeming it worthy not only of preservation, but also of a meticulous transformation, whereby a modernist internal structure ingeniously utilizes ramps and mezzanines to create a diverse array of spaces – a fitting backdrop for the museum's extensive collection. With over 5,000 works of art encompassing paintings, sculptures, drawings, ceramics, prints, engravings, and personal notebooks, this treasure trove offers a captivating exploration of the legacy of Picasso-the revered pioneer of Modernism. Additionally, the mansion preserves tens of thousands of invaluable archival pieces from the artist's personal repository, including an extensive photographic archive, intimate personal papers, correspondence, and manuscripts.

Immerse yourself in these, and when you emerge, filled with newfound inspiration, let the enchantment of the mansion's confines guide you as you venture further into the labyrinthine laneways of Marais, ready to uncover even more hidden gems.

Galeries Lafayette boasts a breathtaking neo-Byzantine stained-glass domed ceiling dating back to 1912, with opulent gilded balconies that steal the show. To behold this grand centerpiece, simply make your way to the center of the main store, surrounded by perfumes and cosmetics, and look up. Alternatively, ascend the escalators to the 7th-floor rooftop for a panoramic view over the back of Opéra Garnier.

If shopping isn't your cup of tea, visit the first-floor Galerie des Galeries, a free art gallery dedicated to fashion, applied arts, and design. And when you need a break, indulge in one of the restaurants, which include a rooftop bar and restaurant in the main store offering some of the city's most magnificent panoramic views.

On your way down, the top floor of the main store is an excellent spot to pick up interesting Parisian souvenirs. Across the street at Galeries Maison, the gourmet food hall boasts one of the city's finest selections of delicacies and several restaurants, such as the elegant Maison de la Truffe lunch bar. YC Café Yann Couvreur's popular teatime features classic madeleines filled with pistachio or lemon. Bar Kaspia, a luxurious eatery located beneath the main building's famous dome, specializes in caviar and seafood. And don't forget to check out Duclot La Cave on the first floor of Galeries Maison/Gourmet, displaying 2,500 bottles of wine from France and around the world.

One simply must spend a few hours concocting their very own scent at the perfumer's workshop located in the Musée du Parfum, for Paris is the quintessential perfume capital.

More a display room than an actual museum, the small exhibit is housed on the upper floor of Fragonard's boutique on Rue Scribe. It is a treasure trove of decorative objects associated with perfume, featuring crystal bottles, gloves, and various trinkets. The boutique is a perfect destination to purchase gifts, including body lotion infused with royal jelly, an array of soaps, and, of course, fragrances.

Those with a deep passion for fragrances can further indulge their senses by visiting the Théâtre Musée des Capucines-Fragonard, an additional, nearby mini-museum located at 39 bd. des Capucines.

Centermost of all the Paris city parks, the Tuileries Garden forms part of the triumphal axis (the so-called "Grand Axe") stretching from La Défense plaza all the way to the Louvre. The garden is almost totally flat and has a circular fountain in the middle, which is most popular in summer.

Originally, this Italian Renaissance-style garden was created for Queen Catherine de Médici, who in the 16th century began construction of a palace just outside the western walls of the capital. The garden took the name of the tile factories (called "tuileries") that it replaced. First opened to the public in 1667, it became fully accessible only after the French Revolution.

In 1789, following the fall of the Bastille, King Louis XVI and his wife, Marie Antoinette, moved into the Tuileries Palace as a publicity stunt to get "closer to the people". Sadly, this stunt eventually produced the undesired effect and resulted in the royal family being locked up in the palace under house arrest. Three years later, the palace came under attack in what proved to be the defining moment of the Revolution. The French monarchy was abolished, and quite radically so, with the help of the then newly-invented guillotine installed in the nearby Concorde Square. The last words of the king rising to the scaffold were: "Gentlemen, I am innocent of everything of which I am accused. I hope that my blood may cement the good fortune of the French."

In the 19th century, Napoleon merged the Tuileries with the Louvre in a bid to create one huge super-palace complex. The project was barely completed when the bloody uprising of the Paris Commune in 1871 saw the former royal Tuileries Palace set on fire and completely destroyed. But the palace garden survived and to date retains the general outline of its original master plan.

In the 1990s, the landscape was renewed as part of the Grand Louvre project. Now free to access, the park is an oasis of calm amid the bustle of Paris. At visitors' disposal are a good number of green chairs to sit on and enjoy ice cream or drinks, plus a pond with small rented boats, from which one can enjoy a marvelous view of the Eiffel Tower or simply unwind to the chirp of the local birds.

Situated in the picturesque Tuileries Gardens near the Place de la Concorde, l'Orangerie is celebrated worldwide for its remarkable collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces; a cultural treasure that attracts art aficionados and tourists from across the globe.

Originally constructed in the 19th century as an orangery for growing citrus trees, the building was later repurposed into an art museum in 1927. Following extensive renovations in the 2000s, it reopened its doors in 2006 with a renewed focus on showcasing its extraordinary collection.

One of the museum's main highlights is the breathtaking exhibition of Claude Monet's iconic Water Lilies (Nymphéas) series. These immersive and expansive canvases were specifically crafted by Monet to be displayed in the museum's oval-shaped rooms. The intention behind these works was to create a serene and soothing ambiance, where the stress of the outside world could be momentarily transcended through the vibrant colors and delicate brushwork. Illuminated by the gentle natural light that filters through the ceiling, the painted water lily garden envelops visitors in a distinct and enchanting atmosphere, perfectly capturing Monet's original vision. The experience is particularly captivating during mid-morning on sunny days. Visitors are encouraged to start their viewing journey from the center of the room, gradually approaching the canvases to appreciate the intricate brushstrokes up close.

Beyond Monet's Water Lilies, the Musée de l'Orangerie houses an impressive collection of artworks by other renowned painters. The lower level features the Jean Walter and Paul Guillaume Collection, which includes captivating pieces by notable artists such as Renoir, Cézanne, Modigliani, Matisse, Picasso, and Rousseau, thus offering a comprehensive overview of the artistic movements that revolutionized the art world during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

With its central location, captivating collection, and tranquil atmosphere, the Musée de l'Orangerie is an absolute must-visit for those eager to explore the beauty and richness of Impressionist art in the heart of Paris.

Tip:
Within the museum grounds, you may find a small, well-stocked gift shop offering a diverse selection of items. Additionally, a small self-service café is available, perfect for those seeking a quick snack or a cup of coffee to rejuvenate.
For a convenient and efficient experience, it is worth considering purchasing a combined ticket for the Musée de l'Orangerie and the Musée d'Orsay. This cost-effective option not only provides access to both museums but also allows you to bypass the lines when entering the latter, saving valuable time during your visit.

By far the most popular avenue in France, Champs-Élysées is a household name and has been described as the "most beautiful avenue in the whole world". Stretching for about two kilometers from Concorde Square to Charles de Gaulle Square, this major thoroughfare boasts exuberant shopping, luxurious dining, and world-class entertainment, not to mention some of the top photographic panoramas of the French capital.

Once a farmland, the area was made into a promenade in 1667, when it was designed as an extension of the Tuileries Garden. Originally called the "Grand Promenade," this wide boulevard lined with elm trees adopted its current name in 1709. The name “Champs-Élysées” is the French for the Elysian Fields, the resting place for dead heroes and blessed souls in Greek mythology.

Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, the avenue saw significant expansions and renovations, becoming increasingly fashionable, flanked by noble properties such as the Élysée Palace, currently serving as the official residence of the Presidents of France. The Triumphal Arch, commissioned by Napoleon and finished in the 1830s, added grandeur to the area. During Napoleon III’s reign, it was redesigned in an English garden style, introducing winding paths and chestnut trees, while the Universal Expositions of 1855 and 1900 further transformed it, giving rise to the Grand and Small Palaces, now housing a bunch of art galleries.

Throughout French history, the avenue also has been a symbolic site of military parades celebrating victories like that in the First World War, in 1919, and the liberation of Paris in 1944. Once a year, it also sees the finish of the annual Tour de France cycling race.

As a staple destination for foodies, the avenue offers a choice of gourmet eateries fit to spoil even the most discerning gluttons. Among the places particularly noteworthy are: bistro Atelier Renault; Flora Danica – the Danish brasserie, renowned for its caviar; Fouquet's restaurant – aged over 100 years; the famous Ladurée tea room; as well as L'Alsace Bistro specializing, just as the name suggests, in the Alsace regional cuisine and open 24 hours a day.

Those craving entertainment will find it here, too, in rich supply. Cinema Gaumont, France's #1 screen for movie premiers; the world-famous cabaret Lido; the bar and club Montecristo; Le Queen nightclub with some of the top DJs in town, plus the Marigny Theatre are just some of the local entertainment options to consider.

Whatever the season, day or night, Champs-Élysées never fails to impress. And if you come around Christmas, you'll be in for a special treat!