subject: The Star Attractions Of Paris [print this page] Paris is a city of star attractions, from sky-scraping landmarks to hidden gems that tourists happily stumble across. However, there are a number of attractions in the French capital that are firmly on the must-see list of every tourist after having achieved international acclaim.
The Louvre
With its iconic glass pyramids and an art collection that is out of this world, the Louvre is not just the most famous gallery in France, it is one of the best known in the world. As the globes most-visited museum, it holds a selection of thousands of classic and modern masterpieces, including the Mona Lisa Da Vincis most famous work.
After walking through the picturesque carousel gardens, visitors descend into one of the glass pyramids and up into the massive museum, where they can browse more than 35,000 pieces of artwork.
The Orsay Museum
When it comes to the museums and galleries of France, the Orsay Museum is another must-see. Housed in what was once a Victorian train station, the gallery has a number of spectacular works of art on display, including Auguste CLesingers Woman Bitten by a Snake, which famously caused waves in 1840s Paris by showing a woman apparently in the throes of passion.
Other highlights of the Orsays collection include pieces by Delacroix, Manet, Gauguin, Cezanne, Renoir, Van Gogh, Sisley and Monet. However, it is not just the art within the building that visitors appreciate, but the museum building itself.
The Arc de Triomphe
The world-famous Arc de Triomphe is near the top of most tourists sightseeing itineraries. Visitors can climb up a spiral staircase to the top for a spectacular view of Paris, or walk below the arches, which are etched with Frances military memories.
Napoleon ordered the arch to be built in 1809 in order to celebrate the triumph of the Republican armies. However, it was not to be completed until 1836, as the military leaders empire began to crumble.
Underneath the Arc, visitors will find the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, from World War I. This is a fitting and moving tribute to the soldiers who died in the first and second world wars.
Palace of Versailles
Encompassing around 2,143 windows, 1,252 fireplaces and 67 staircases, the Palace of Versailles is one of the vastest and decadent castles in the whole world. Set in stunning acres of greenery, visitors will be blown away by the sheer size of the opulent castle, which unsurprisingly features on UNESCOs World Heritage List.
Whats more, it was here that one of the most important events in French history took place. It was here that the raging masses made their stand against King Louis XVI, forcing the Royal Family away from their decadent lives. For this reason the Palace of Versailles is also known as the cradle of liberty.
Notre Dame Cathedral
The ancient Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the most iconic buildings to grace the Parisian skyline. The gothic construction was begun around 1160, and it was finished in just 40 years, with various other additions being made over the years.
Visitors will delight in ascending the stairs to the top of the cathedral for an amazing view of central Paris. It features beautiful monuments to a number of saints, as well as a famous gigantic stained glass window.
Opera De Paris Palais Garnier
For high culture and opulence, people visiting Paris are advised to take a trip to the Paris Opera, which is currently residing in its 13th home, the Palais Garnier.
Built between 1860 and 1875, the stunning building was designed by the architect Charles Garnier. Upon entering the building, guests are commonly stunned by its grand staircase, which is built from different coloured marble.
