Day 6 of Rick Steves
Today we went to the Museum d'Orsay and the Museum de l'Orangerie. Both have amazing art, however d'Orsay focuses on impressionism, whereas l'Orangerie focuses heavily on Monet's water lilies.
Museum d'Orsay
The d'Orsay is inside this beautiful old train station from the 19th century. The giant arched windows, the massive clock, and the iron framework make the whole place feel open and airy. It’s crazy to think that trains used to run through here, and now it’s home to some of the most famous paintings in the world.
The art itself was incredible. The museum is mostly known for its Impressionist and Post-Impressionist collections, so I got to see paintings by Monet, Van Gogh, Renoir, and Degas up close. On the right, I was able to see my favorite Renoir painting, so this was definitely a personal highlight for me
Museum l'orangerie
The paintings are in two oval-shaped rooms, designed so that they surround you. Natural light comes in from the ceiling, making the colors look soft and natural. Up close, the brushstrokes seem random, but when you step back, the whole scene comes together, like a peaceful reflection on a pond. It’s easy to just stand there and get lost in it.
Besides Monet, the museum also has paintings by Renoir, Cézanne, Picasso, and Matisse. It’s not overwhelming like other museums, which made it nice to just walk around and enjoy the art. I will say, however, that the room full of sand was a bit much, and I wouldn't call art.
I was lucky to get some souvenirs for family members, and more pins for my collection!!
Farewell Dinner
After our tours of the museums, we got some éclairs, which were so delicious, and then got dinner with our group for the last time. Our dessert was so good that I had to share!! We got matching scarves, and ended going to the Eiffel Tower one last time to celebrate our Parisian adventure.
