In Paris & Montmartre, discover Impressionist masterpieces and relive the brilliant Impressionist period
Paris makes an unmissable stop on any Impressionist adventure. In 1859, Claude Monet arrived in the French capital, which he described as ‘‘head-spinning Paris’’. Napoleon III had indeed ordered colossal works, directed by Baron Haussmann, to beautify the city. The transformations caused a great shake-up for the inhabitants’ lives and, in particular, their forms of recreation. Cafés with live music, dance halls, circuses, opera houses, parks and gardens, racecourses… all grew in number. The Impressionists enjoyed frequenting all these places. Manet, Monet, Degas, Renoir, Pissarro, Caillebotte… they were all passionate about the city and its exciting new life, offering them such a variety of themes to depict.Today, Paris boasts the largest collection of Impressionist paintings in the world, including an exceptional ensemble of works by Claude Monet. Paris is also packed with evocative places that recall Impressionist times, encouraging you to explore them. A trip up Montmartre’s hill is a must. History-filled squares, cafés and night spots still reflect the joie de vivre and liveliness of the Impressionist period!
What to see and do
in Paris & Montmartre
Interactive
map
Explore the Impressionist Paris Region thanks to our interactive map!
Inspiring
momentsLeaving either the Orsay or the Orangerie museum, prolong the Impressionist experience with a walk in the Jardin des Tuileries. This sumptuous formal French garden sums up Parisian life; tucked between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde, it fascinated Claude Monet and Pissarro in particular. From the Musée d’Orsay, cross the Seine via the Léopold Sédar Senghor Footbridge, offering a lovely way to walk to the Jardin des Tuileries, and from one museum to the other.
Take a seat in the Café Renoir at the Musée de Montmartre. Absorb the magical atmosphere of the place, appreciating its pretty gardens bathed in light, just around the corner from iconic Place du Tertre. Enjoy unrivalled views of the Clos Montmartre vineyard, and beyond, of the extensive plain stretching north of Paris, all providing pure moments of joy.
