No matter how long we end up staying in Paris there are some things that for me are essential as part of the visit. Most of these are tourist hot-spots, but they are worthy of the admiration and the crowds. With a Paris city-pass and some tips from travel blogs we can weave our way through without too many lines.
The Louvre - It is a childhood dream to walk through these halls soaking in art from across the centuries. Dwell with Nike and Venus de Milo, be absorbed by the enormity of a Delacroix or two, ponder at Mona Lisa's smirk, there are endless options and I cannot wait to dive in.
Monmartre - A late afternoon and sunset from Sacre Couer is the stuff postcards are made of, the inspiration of a generation of painters and poets. Let's wander a bit, find a local restaurant and join the migration up the steps to get one of the best views of Paris.
Rodin Museum - I did not go to this last time, but would like to see this carefully curated home and museum and walk through the garden to take a little time with The Thinker among others.
Notre Dame - I don't think this will happen in 2022, all the dates for reopening of the cathedral project 2024 or later. This church is a very special space for me as I had a sacred experience when I visited in 2015. I would like to revisit, sit, pray, contemplate and be silent for a while.
St. Chapelle- The former private chapel of the kings of France - it is simply stunning that a structure so light and graceful has survived intact since the 1300's. The stained glass windows are breathtaking and I may need a massage afterwards from looking up for hours.
Musee D'Orsay - I missed this museum on my last trip and want to make this a priority this trip. Perhaps I was spoiled by the Art Institute's Impressionist collection that I didn't feel so deeply compelled to visit - but it would be a shame to miss it twice. Not only for the paintings but also for the historic setting in which they live and the manner in which they are displayed.
Palais Garnier- It would be spectacular to spend time in this glamorous space, perhaps the ballet will be performing at the time that we are there and we can get all dressed up and watch ballet at the epicenter of where it was created and is perpetuated.
Musée de l'Orangerie - A smaller museum compared to the blockbusters nearby, but it has the most dramatic Monet exhibit in the world that was fully commissioned by the artist - the painting and the space in which it is displayed.
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