More Art Appreciation

Ruin appreciation - Nick style

First thing today we went to see the Crypt below Notre Dame to see the foundations of Paris.

Train Station clocks (Mitchell kids in the middle)

Musee d Orsay

Then we went to Musee d'Orsay to see the impressionist paintings. Peter was blown away by their painting style, and the kids were impressed with the building (an old train station) and the art works.

     

Relaxing at the d'Orsay

Art appreciation Peter style

  

On the river bank we came across a shipping container that was also a food vendor. It was surrounded by areas constructed for children - hopscotch, table games and many other things. Peter enjoyed it very much - the best coffee in Paris apparently!

From the d'Orsay we headed to Musee Rodin to see the sculptures. Being off season many of the museums are being renovated - so the gardens were only partially open, but we were still able to go inside. We just couldn't see inside the museum. Nick was desperate to see 'The Thinker'.

Peek a boo !

Some sculptures do look better from the front

  The sculptures were amazing and the children enjoyed being able to have a play in the grounds. In many of the Paris parks it is forbidden to walk (or play( on the grass, so the Rodin museum was popular with the Mitchell kids as it had grass and a sand pit. For us - it was a chance to have a rest.

We caught the metro to Montparnasse Tower which is the tallest building in Paris. No waiting in line again - the benefits of travelling when it is not peak season. With sunset at 7pm we headed up with heaps of time to spare. Unfortunately, this meant it became a little boring for the kids.

Sunset in Paris

Following that stunning experience, we went on the Bateaux Mouches (boat cruise) on the seine. It was freezing - so the kids went in doors. The view was still great. Every hour on the hour the Eiffel Tower has twinkling - but it is hard to get the gorgeous effect of the lights in a photo.

 A lovely day although a late night.