House of Treasure and other Paris, France Things to Do Tips

This art museum is one of my two favorites (the other being the Musee d'Orsay) in the world. The Musee Rodin in its entirety can be seen in one day and its atmosphere is truly enchanting. The bulk of Rodin's work can be found throughout the spacious home that was once his. His larger pieces such as The Thinker and The Gates of Hell are in the gardens. The museum is well done and you learn quite a bit about the sculpteur and his techniques. Information cards are generally written in French and English, but there are some pieces that are in only French. An audio tour is available in a variety of languages, so this might be the best option. Part of the charm of this museum is that Rodin's work is housed in his home and his gardens, which he donated shortly before his death to France. The house itself is beautiful and offers some extraordinary views of the gardens. These gardens are maintained well and are perfect for strolling. If you are lucky, you can stroll through the gardens viewing some of Rodin's works while listening to a music group since the museum invites various groups to perform in the gardens - the last time I was there, I listened to a children's choir while enjoying the gardens. This museum is well worth seeing while in Paris, even if your time there is short.

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Directions: Line 13 : Varennes
Website: http://www.musee-rodin.fr/

It's quite difficult to decide what is the most wonderful part about this museum - the artwork or the facility. The Impressionist exhibit is wonderful showing artists such as Monet, Renoir, and Degas. Don't ignore the lower levels of the museum, though; there are some wonderful sculptures as well as Rodin's plaster of The Gates of Hell. The facility itself is a former train station (Gare d'Orsay) that the French decided to keep instead of tearing down - a wise choice in my humble opinion! The grandeur of the large clock is one part of the museum that is awe-inspiring in itself. Give yourself some time to explore this museum in its entirety, instead of skipping to the Impressionists as the bulk of its visitors do - which should tell you all about the exhibit - a veritable feast for the eyes that anyone can appreciate. I highly recommend this museum, too, even with a short stay in Paris.

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Directions: Métro: line 12, Solférino station; RER: line C, Musée d'Orsay station
Website: http://www.musee-orsay.fr/

The view at the top of the towers was absolutely worth fighting vertigo (around and around and around . . . . ) I believe that this view is the best of Paris. Not only do you see the magnificent gargoyles up close, but you have the opportunity to look over Paris's rooftops at the city. As you walk around, you will also have an excellent view of the back of this magnificent cathedral - a view only possible from here. Those who brave the 200+ step climb also have the opportunity to see the big bell. While up there, be sure to look for the "proof" that the Hunchback really did exist! ;-)

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Address: Place du parvis de Notre Dame , 75004
Directions: M?tro: Cit?; RER: Ch?telet-Les Halles, Saint Michel-Notre Dame