Photo of the Entrance to the Louvre

Photo of the Entrance to the Louvre

For one night each year in mid-May, cities across Europe open up their museums until 1 a.m., free of charge.  This year, 192 Parisian museums and monuments will open their doors for Nuit des Musées on Saturday, May 14.  This is the perfect opportunity to explore some of France’s greatest treasures!  From the Louvre to the Musée D’Orsay, from the Crypt at Notre Dame to the Centre Pompidou, the Nuit des Musées will thrill night owls (and early birds smart enough to start the evening with a cappuccino) interested in all types of art, history, science and architecture.

In order to see the 35,000 pieces and artifacts on display in the former Palais du Louvre, in the 1st arrondissement of Paris, you will certainly need more than a single night.  However, the manifold delights found in the halls of the palace and beneath the Grand Pyramid entrance are well worth a visit on Nuit des Musées.  You will likely have to push through a crowd to view the Mona Lisa’s enigmatic smile, but many other famous and not-so-famous works await you in this most famous of museums.  From ancient Egyptian antiquities to Ingrès’s La Grand Odalisque, you will find artwork depicting every facet of the human experience and you will stroll away from your evening with the Louvre full of wonder.

For those history buffs who enjoy spooky ambience late at night, look no further than the Crypt at Notre Dame in the 4th arrondissement.  This is one of the largest archaeological crypts in all of Europe, and it provides an illuminating look back at life in “Paris” prior to Roman occupation—and earlier.  Until the mid 20th century, there was a maze of buildings in front of Notre Dame cathedral.  The city of Paris tore the buildings down, well aware that they would probably find remnants of early life in France beneath the building. The excavation uncovered incredible artifacts—parts of Roman ramparts, a system of heating using underground pipes, and medieval cellars, among other relics.   From this archeological treasure trove, it became clear that Paris has been inhabited since as long ago as the Paleolithic age.  Viewing the remains of the city as it was so long ago will be a night you will never forget.

Photo of the inside of the Musee Orsay

Photo of the inside of the Musee Orsay

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Nuit des Musées is a popular night for tourists and native Parisians, so it pays to plan ahead.  Decide before the big night what you most want to see.  Since peak hours are after dinner and from 10-11 p.m., you will probably want to start your evening early.  And since buses and cabs will be crowded at 1 a.m. (and the metro only runs until then), plan on a leisurely walk back to your Paris vacation rental.  It will give you a chance to digest the incredible sights you have taken in while avoiding the crush of other museum-goers.

Not sure where to start your search?  Check out these apartment rentals close to the Louvre and these vacation rentals close to Notre Dame.  They’ll be the perfect spot to enjoy a very late nightcap while you discuss your favorite exhibits:

This jazzy and modern 1 Bedroom Vacation Rental Les Halles – Paris (PA-3574) features a loft style bedroom with a french windows throughout and a gleaming modern kitchen. Any art lover will want to stay in this gorgeous apartment.

This majestic 2 Bedroom Vacation Rental – Opera – Le Louvre – Paris (PA-3231) will have you feeling royal!  With high ceilinged rooms decorated in lush red, a decadent bathroom tiled in mosaics, and an incredible view, you will perfectly prepared for your trip to the Louvre.

This cozy and modern 1 bedroom Vacation Rental in Le Marais – Paris (PA-3753) is the perfect retreat for the traveling art lover. The gorgeous hardwood floors, big library with plenty to read and three big double-glazed windows will make you feel at home.