The Louvre, Art Tours for Everyone

But what if you’re not fairly one of those people who can name the painter of a masterpiece from ten metres away? What if you cannot tell a Manet from a Monet, or perhaps a Rubens from a Reuben sandwich? Don’t worry, it’s no reason to remain huddled up in embarrassment inside those avant-garde boutique hotels – Paris is one of those places that’s good to a crash course in art history, art appreciation, and just plain art!This attractive city is a treasure chest of masterpieces. For reasons unknown, apparently the Muses have made it their hq – almost everything is inspired. From the stylish shops to the boutique hotels, Paris seems to be an establishment that culturally promotes the development of a keen sensation of aesthetics in all people. If you’d like to soak up most of this kind of culture, there are a few spots you might start, and top of the list is the Louvre!

Even if you’re not artistically inclined, the earth’s greatest and most visited museum is most likely somewhere on the top of your list of places to visit – after considering one of those stylish boutique hotels. Paris’ popular archive of works of art from all around the world is practically a city within a city. Even a whole weekend within the Louvre would not be enough to totally appreciate and soak up the collections housed within its famous walls.In reality, it is simply as simple (and quite understandable) to get as dazed within the Louvre as it is to get lost in those trendy side streets if you happen to go on a wrong turn in the city. The Louvre is in a constant state of flux, as well as if you have been in the museum before, chances are that you will find new additions on a return visit.

Get started with a healthy breakfast first at one of those stylish cafes around your boutique hotels – Paris’s gem of a museum will take up all day long (or more) and you will need the energy! While there are locations to get refreshments, like the Richelieu, Denon or Mollien cafes nearby, a quaint sidewalk café is, well, more Parisian. Now you’re prepared for the some 35,000 artwork and artefacts on show! Off you go!Keep in mind that the Louvre has eight departments housing art collections over 3 wings: Denon, Sully and Richelieu. You could start by entering the atrium beneath the glass pyramid where each wing has its own entrance, then pass inside from one to another.Be sure you go into the glass-roofed sculpture courts on the ground floor of Richelieu, with French sculpture below and Italian Renaissance pieces in the Denon wing. You should then perhaps move on to the Grand Galerie and Salle de la Joconde – where the Mona Lisa awaits. From here, carry on wherever the urge and your feet care to take you – for as long as you’ve got the time and energy until the walk back to your cosy boutique hotels. Paris’ art experience at the Louvre will leave you feeling enlightened yourself and you may even feel like coming back the next day!