Paris has always been renowned as a city of the arts, captivating art enthusiasts from around the globe. It competes annually with other top destinations like Bangkok for the title of the most popular place to visit. While many travelers flock to Paris for its rich art scene, it's essential to explore why the city holds such allure for art lovers.
The iconic Louvre museum undoubtedly contributes to Paris' artistic fame, housing an impressive collection of over 38,000 works of art, including the world-renowned masterpiece, the Mona Lisa. However, Paris has so much more to offer than just the Louvre. With an astounding number of approximately 130 museums and art galleries, it's impossible to experience all of them during a vacation. Some art enthusiasts have even relocated to Paris to fully immerse themselves in its artistic splendor.
Contrary to popular belief, the Louvre's collection doesn't make it the city's largest art repository. That distinction belongs to the Pompidou Center, boasting an astonishing 120,000 pieces of art, making it the largest collection in Europe. Besides its remarkable art, visitors are drawn to the center's captivating contemporary architecture. Notably, the Pompidou Center offers free access to its permanent collection on the first Sunday of each month, attracting numerous art aficionados.
Among the multitude of options, some of the city's best museums and galleries include the MusΓ©e des Arts et MΓ©tiers, Europe's oldest science museum named after arts and crafts, and the MusΓ©e d'Orsay, the second most popular museum in Paris, renowned for its impressive collection of impressionist art. For those seeking more experimental and alternative art, the Pinault Collection at the Bourse de Commerce is a fascinating choice.
Beyond its art institutions, Paris itself is often considered a masterpiece. While it was once deemed unattractive, the city underwent a transformation in the 19th century when Napoleon commissioned Georges-Eugène Haussmann to redesign it. This led to the creation of beautiful architecture and wide open boulevards that have become the hallmark of Paris. Nowadays, the city itself is like a living museum, enchanting visitors with its charm and elegance.
For those considering a visit, Paris is an ideal vacation destination and an even more enchanting place to live in for a few months, if possible. The recent opening of Ukio's first apartment in Paris offers new accommodation options alongside traditional choices like hotels and hostels, making it easier than ever to rent an apartment for an extended stay. Once you've secured your accommodation, all that's left is to book your flight and immerse yourself in Paris' mesmerizing art scene. A trip to this artistic haven promises an unforgettable experience for every art enthusiast.