Paris is a world-famous city that attracts millions of tourists every year. It’s home to many iconic attractions that will leave you breathless and awe-struck.
The city also has a rich cultural history with numerous museums that house paintings by some of the most famous painters in the world. Some of the best art museums in Paris include The Louvre Museum, Orsay Museum and Centre Pompidou.
The Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe is one of Paris’s most iconic landmarks. Commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1806 to honour his military victories, it’s a powerful symbol of France’s history and power.
As a reminder of France’s military past, the names of hundres of generals and battles are inscribed on the inner and outer surfaces of the Arch de Triomphe. Its base also houses the tomb of an unknown soldier from World War I, and every evening a flame is lit on it.
It’s not quite as high as the Eiffel Tower, but a visit to this Roman-inspired arch is well worth it for its stunning views over Paris and its famous avenues. A stairway of 284 steps leads to an observation deck, which has an exhibition about the building’s construction.
Notre Dame Cathedral
The Notre Dame Cathedral is one of Paris’ most famous landmarks, and a symbol of French culture. With a history stretching back over 850 years, it’s no surprise that it has played an important role in the country’s history and captured the imagination of people around the world.
Formed stage-by-stage over 182 years, the cathedral’s two Gothic square towers rise atop a steep hill on Ile de la Cite along the Seine River. It’s a sight that’s hard to miss, drawing an estimated 13 million visitors a year.
Despite the massive fire that swept through it last month, much of the main building, including its exterior walls and stained-glass windows, survived. Now, reconstruction is under way. The spire, which fell in the fire, will be restored using original materials such as oak trees cut from French forests and covered with lead. Hopefully, it will be completed in time for the cathedral’s 850th anniversary in 2023.
The Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is one of the most famous landmarks in Paris and a symbol of France. It was designed by Gustave Eiffel and constructed as part of the International Exposition held in Paris in 1889.
The tower is a technological masterpiece that has won world recognition for its form and daring construction. Its four lattice-girder piers taper inward, joining to create a tall vertical tower that is topped by a large observation deck.
For tourists, the tower is a great way to experience the beauty of Paris and see its most iconic monuments. However, be aware that the tower can get busy during the summer months (June to August), so it’s best to visit in the morning or early evening.
Tickets for the Eiffel Tower can be purchased online or in person at the ticket booth. Purchasing your ticket ahead of time is the best option as this will allow you to skip the line and access priority elevator security lanes.
The Louvre Museum
Located in the heart of Paris, the Louvre Museum is one of the city’s most popular attractions. It boasts a massive collection of paintings, sculptures and other artifacts from different times in history.
This museum traces art and civilization from ancient Egypt to Greece, Rome and the Italian Renaissance. As you explore the gallery corridors, you’ll encounter works ranging from sculpture to furniture and from paintings to jewelry.
The most famous piece of art at the Louvre is Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, an enigmatic Renaissance painting that has captivated visitors for nearly two centuries. Other masterpieces include Michelangelo’s Rebellious Slave and Winged Victory of Samothrace.
The Louvre was originally built as a fortress in the 12th century and was used as a royal palace until 1793 when it became a museum. Throughout the centuries, the museum underwent renovations and expanded its collection. Today, it houses almost half a million pieces of art and is the largest museum in the world.