ATTRACTIONS
Places we like to visit in and around Paris
It's not hard to find things to do and places to see in Paris. But what if you want to do things that are a little less expected? As a travel blogger and Paris expert, I felt it was my duty to share some of our favorite places to go whether it be a museum, interesting architecture, or a cool cemetery.
Rodin Museum
77 Rue de Varenne, 75007 Paris
This museum is one of my favorites because it's small, which makes it easier to appreciate what you are looking at. Also, it has a great outdoor exhibit and garden. Even thought we went in the fall when it was rainy and slightly cold, it was still beautiful and green. However, I would recommend seeing this museum in the spring or summer.
Musée d'Orsay
1 Rue de la Légion d'Honneur, 75007 Paris
This museum has to be one of the most gorgeous in the city. Located in a former train station, they have integrated the museum beautifully in a modern way without taking away from the original architectural details. Not only do they display some of the best impressionistic work, but there are many examples of art nouveau furniture as well. And of course, one of the best things about this museum is the café with a see-through clock and roof top boardwalk looking out to the Seine.
Musée Nissim de Camondo
63 Rue de Monceau, 75008 Paris
This is a beautiful example of a former Parisian mansion which butts up against the posh Parc Monceau. Another bonus to visiting this museum is the restaurant just next door called 'Le Camondo'. Delicious food with a modern and rich interior.
Palais Garnier (Paris Opera)
8 Rue Scribe, 75009 Paris
If you come to Paris, this is a must-see. You must enter at the side of the building where you will go through security and pay for tickets. Save time by using the automatic ticket distributor. Your visit begins in the lower floor, which details almost look like an ornate grotto and then opens up into the main mezzanine space. It is everything you would hope and imagine it to be.
Atelier des Lumières
38 Rue Saint-Maur, 75011 Paris
In the 11th distric of Paris, there is a wonderful light show museum that features different artists. Currently, the Klimt exhibit has been there, I believe for over a year. They play animations of his artwork projected onto the walls and play music at the same time. It is truly an immersive and interactive experience. If you're looking for something very unique, this will do the trick.
Musée des Arts Forains
53 Avenue des Terroirs de France, 75012 Paris
Located within the Pavillions de Bercy, you will find this hidden jewel of a museum featuring vintage and antique carnival rides and games. This place is unlike anything I've ever seen before. You will receive a guided tour and can even go on some of the rides! But, make sure to book your tickets online in advance as there are no walk-ins!
Cité de l'Architecture et du Patrimoine
1 Place du Trocadéro et du 11 Novembre, 75116 Paris
If you are a lover of history and architecture, this museum will be really enjoyable for you. On display since 1882, you will be able to see sculptures and actual pieces of buildings from various historical sites around France. The way they have arranged it makes you feel as if you are standing in different cathedrals! In one of the galleries, there are large windows that provide a view onto the Eiffel Tower. It's also a smaller museum, so not stressful at all to go through. Make sure to check out the book store (which the French called Librarie) on your way out.
Musée de Montmartre
12 Rue Cortot, 75018 Paris
A museum showing the work of artists that lived and worked in Montmartre. After buying your ticket in the gift shop, you will enter a courtyard that almost makes you think you are no longer in Paris, with stretches of green grass, patches of flowers, and a little greenhouse style café. As I was there in February, they were still selling vin chaud (hot spiced wine), a nice touch to the welcoming ambiance. A stone staircase leads to a terrassed garden providing a softened view of the Paris skyline. The museum itself houses many beautiful works of art from the post-impressionism era.
Disneyland Paris
Boulevard de Parc, 77700 Coupvray
About an hour outside of Paris
Disneyland Paris is a nice day trip outside of Paris. Obviously it's best in the summer, but I really enjoyed it right before Christmas, as they had all of their decorations up. Downside is that a lot of rides are closed at that time of year. So, if you want to maximize the rides, go in the summer!
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