Paris Museums and Art in Paris

When deciding on traveling to and visiting Paris, experiencing the art in Paris includes visiting the Paris museums, numerous sculptures and monuments throughout the city, and enjoying the magnificent architecture. To experience France in its finest, a trip to Paris is a must for every traveler.

When planning your trip to Paris, an inexpensive way to visit of the Paris monuments and museums is to purchase a "Museums and Monuments Card". This card is valid for unlimited visits, priority access to some, to approximately 70 different locations. The "Museums and Monuments Card" may be purchased at the reception office in many of the Paris train stations, the Eiffel Tower, major Metro stations and many of the 70 locations that participate with the "Museums and Monuments Card" program.

Be aware that it is common practice for Parisians to visit the art in Paris, both museums and monuments on the weekend. All locations are less crowded during the week affording a more leisurely visit at each location. Most generally, Sunday fees to visit Paris museums and monuments are half-price and sometimes free. During the week, most private art galleries are free. Art in Paris exists in the architecture as well. Viewing of the Parisian architecture is free and provides a grandiose experience within itself.

The Musée du Louvre is a must for all visitors to Paris who want to experience one of the world's greatest art museums. Everyone who saw "The DaVinci Code" got a wonderful glimpse of the Louvre. Art works from such individuals as Picasso, Van Gogh, and da Vinci may be seen on the tour of the Louvre along with many others. The Louvre, which originally was built as a royal fortress for Phillip II in the 12^th century has evolved and been built on to for the past four centuries. To tour this Paris museum completely, be prepared to spend a minimum of one week.

The Salon Chopin is a small art museum in Paris that is dedicated to the composer, Chopin. Individuals interested in classical music will appreciate the artifacts accumulated and displayed in honor of this great composure. Tours are limited to only Thursdays for this museum.

The Musee Rodin houses the art of Rodin. This Paris museum is dedicated entirely to the magnificent life of Rodin including his art work from marble, bronze, plaster, terracotta, wax, paintings, ceramics, sculptures, and drawings. An area within the Musee Rodin displays artwork that Rodin himself collected. These pieces include work by Monet, Renoir, Van Gogh and several others.

A unique Paris museum is housed in a former train station. Musee d'Orsay is much smaller than the Louvre which provides a place for individuals to visit and enjoy the art of Paris if they prefer a smaller, cozier environment. The artwork displayed at Musee d'Orsay focuses on the French Impressionists.

An excellent article available that supplies interactive maps is located on About.com. Viator.com offers information on 135 different activities and attractions to visit while in Paris. Such activities as bus tours, concerts, shows, museums, etc. are available along with their pricing. This site also provides the opportunity to check out dates to see what activities will be open during your visit.

Turn to your travel agent to find the most economical flight and room package available during the time you are planning to visit Paris. The art in Paris including the Paris museums are open to the public year round. Travel and hotel costs will depend on what time of the year your vacation is planned, whether you are taking a tour package or going on your own, and the duration of your stay. Shop around, both through your travel agent and on the Internet to find the best deal.

Art in Paris involves more than just the Paris museums. Be adventurous and tour the many monuments, local establishments, enjoy the architecture, and tour the countryside. Even though English is spoken in France, take along a French/English dictionary to help decipher the many French words that you will inevitably encounter. Whether traveling for business or pleasure to Paris, enjoy all the wonderful art in Paris along with the Paris art museums and monuments.