Written by: TravelingProfessor
Tuesday, April 24, 2012 

Musée Carnavalet
Métro: St-Paul         Museum Pass:  Not Required    Closed:  Monday
The museum of the history of Paris.  The collection here is quite varied.  For instance, there are dioramas of the long-gone Bastille, paintings of the construction of the Statue of Liberty, and personal effects of Marie Antoinette.  Located in the Marais, it is an interesting exhibit.  1-1 ½ hours.  Website:  http://www.paris.fr/portail/Culture/Portal.lut?page_id=6468

Musée National du Moyen Age-Thermes et Hôtel de Cluny (Cluny Museum)
Métro:  Cluny La Sorbonne        Museum Pass: Yes        Closed:  Tuesday
This museum of medieval art is located in the heart of the Latin Quarter at the intersection of boulevards Saint-Germain and Saint-Michel.  It is on the site of ancient Gallo-Roman baths.  Contained within are unforgettable works of art from the Middle Ages.  This is one of my favorite hidden gems.  The artifacts and famous tapestries are impressive.  Have a take-out lunch in the beautiful gardens.  Don’t miss this one for a relaxing day.  1 ½ -2 hours.  Website: http://www.musee-moyenage.fr/ang

National Museum of Asian Art Guimet
Métro:  Iéna                    Museum Pass:  Yes        Closed:  Monday
For those who appreciate Asian art, this museum should be on the top of the list.  The collection is one of the most impressive outside of Asia.  Website: http://www.guimet.fr/-English-

Musée du Louvre
Métro: Louvre or Palais Royal Musée du Louvre         Museum Pass:  Yes       Closed:  Tuesday
This is the most acclaimed museum in the world. Its masterpieces include Mona Lisa, the Code of Hammurabi, The Crowning of Napoleon, Napoleon’s Apartments, Winged Victory of Samothrace (Nike), Venus de Milo, Vermeer’s “The Lacemaker” and more.  The Louvre has an unparalleled collection of items covering the full spectrum of art through the ages.  The opening and closing scenes of the motion picture “The Da Vinci Code” were filmed here.  No doubt an extraordinary museum, but the great pieces get lost with within its massive space. Go at night – less crowds.  Only 2-3 hours are needed to visit with careful planning. Check out the marvelous sculptures.  Open late on Wednesday and Friday.  Museum  website: http://www.louvre.fr/llv/commun/home.jsp?bmLocale=en

Musée Marmottan
Métro: Muette            Museum Pass: No        Closed:  Monday
A museum containing some fabulous works of Impressionists, especially Monet.  The best kept secret in Paris.  A comprehensive collection of Monet’s paintings are displayed here in a relaxing atmosphere, quite different from what is found at the Orsay.  Impressionist art lovers should not miss this museum.  A little bit out of the way.  No photos.  About 90 minutes to 2 hours. Website: http://www.marmottan.com/uk

Musée de l'Orangerie
Métro:  Concorde            Museum Pass:  Yes        Closed:  Tuesday
Located in the Tuileries Gardens, near Place de la Concorde.  On permanent display are Monet’s Nympheas (Water Lilies).  Many other works of art from a variety of artists are housed here. The video presentations are excellent.  After many years of renovation, l’Orangerie has re-opened and it is a triumph.  It is designed to display Monet’s wide paintings and the special exhibits downstairs are enchanting.  Website:  http://www.musee-orangerie.fr

Centre Pompidou - Musée National d’Art Moderne
Métro:  Rambuteau or Châtelet Les Halles        Museum Pass:  Yes    Closed: Tuesday
The Pompidou has an extensive collection of modern (20th century) art.  Despite its popularity, Parisians have mixed feelings regarding this museum.  The museum itself is a building that is inside-out.  For me, one short visit was enough. Open until 9 every night.  2 hours.  Website: http://www.centrepompidou.fr

Musée Rodin
Métro: Varrene     Museum Pass: Yes        Closed: Monday
This is the former residence of the famous sculptor.  It is surrounded by serene gardens.  Now it is the home of “The Thinker” along with other remarkable sculptures and works of art.  Enjoy a “croque madame” at the Café du Musée on the corner.  Combine with a trip to Napoleon’s Tomb and the Military Museum.  1 1/2  hours.  Website:  http://www.musee-rodin.fr/welcome.htm

Musée d'Orsay
Métro: Solférino                Museum Pass: Yes        Closed:  Monday
This grand museum is located in a former railroad station on the left bank.  The building is a work of art in itself.  In my opinion, this museum is more enjoyable than the Louvre.  Start at the top floor to be treated to the greatest collection of Impressionist paintings in the world.  The sculptures are magnificent.  Keep an eye out for a few surprises too.  Have lunch in the restaurant in the museum.  Crowded on weekends.  I recommend spending two half-days here.  Open late Thursday.  Website: http://www.musee-orsay.fr/en

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