The Louvre was for centuries the site of the French court and is today one of the world's greatest art galleries. It is Paris' largest monument and dates back to 1200 when Pillippe-Auguste built it as a fortress to store his jewels and swords, but later demolished to be replaced by a palace built on the Paris site. Many sovereigns lived here, each adding to and enlarging the structure. During the French Revolution it was first opened to the public to display the former kings' art treasures. Access to the Louvre is gained from the Tuileries and the Three Musketeer's Cour Carre at the western end, the Pont du Carrousel, and the rue de Rivoli via passage Richelieu.

Paris' Louvre is one of a vast selection of attractions in Paris, and coupled with the sizzling Paris shopping is still only a fraction of the reason to visit. Book accommodation in one of the superlative Paris hotels before you miss your chance.