The European Travel Companion to Vermeer: Paris
last updated January 9, 2024
French Railway System
The French railway system is known for its efficiency, extensive network, and high-speed trains. SNCF (Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français) is the national state-owned railway company of France and a major player in the development and operation of the country's rail infrastructure. France is famous for its TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse), the high-speed train service that has been operational since the 1980s. These trains can reach speeds of up to 320 km/h (200 mph) and connect major cities across France and neighboring countries. The Eurostar service connects Paris with London via the Channel Tunnel. There are also other international train services connecting France with countries like Belgium, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Switzerland.
In addition to high-speed trains, there are regular intercity and regional trains that provide comprehensive coverage, connecting smaller towns and rural areas. Paris serves as a central hub for the French railway system, with several major train stations like Gare du Nord, Gare de Lyon, and Gare de l'Est, from where trains radiate out across the country and into other European nations.
Eurail
Eurail Passes are designed for non-European residents and citizens. They offer extensive rail travel across many countries in Europe. The pass allows unlimited train travel within and between participating countries for a certain number of travel days. Passes often includes additional benefits like discounts on ferries, buses, and hotels.
The Global Pass is the most comprehensive pass, allowing travel in up to thirty-three countries. One Country Pass is for unlimited travel within a single country. Select Pass allows travel between two, three, or four neighboring countries.
Flexibility passes offer flexibility, with options for consecutive day travel or a set number of travel days within a longer period.
While the pass covers the cost of train travel, some high-speed and overnight trains require reservations and may have additional fees. There are discounts for youth (usually under twenty-seven), seniors (over sixty), and sometimes for groups or families. Eurail Passes can be purchased online and planning ahead is essential to maximize their value. It is also important to understand the train systems in the countries you plan to visit and to make reservations where necessary. The pass must be activated before use and is typically valid for eleven months from the date of purchase. Activation can be done at a train station in Europe or online.
Getting Around Paris
Navigating around Paris, is made seamless by its comprehensive public transportation system. This network, intricately woven into the fabric of the city, provides an efficient and convenient way to explore Paris, including the journey to the iconic Louvre Museum.
The backbone of Parisian transport is the Métro, the city's extensive subway system, characterized by its reliability and reach. With sixteen lines crisscrossing the city and more than three hundred stations, the Métro connects virtually all corners of Paris, making it the preferred choice for many.Complementing these are the city’s buses, which provide a more scenic route through Paris and continue service into the night with the Noctilien night buses.
Getting to the Louvre
Getting to the Louvre is particularly straightforward. The most direct route is via the Métro, with the "Palais Royal–Musée du Louvre" station on Line 1 and 7 being the closest stop. Just a short stroll from the station, you will find yourself at the doorstep of the world's largest art museum. Alternatively, the RER's line B brings you to "Châtelet–Les Halles," from where the Louvre is a pleasant walk or a short Métro ride away. Several bus lines ( No. 21, 27, 39, 67, 68, 69, 72, 74, 85, 9) )also service the area around the Louvre, making it accessible from various points in the city.
When planning your visit to the Louvre, it is strongly advisable to purchase tickets online in advance to avoid the often long queues. For traveling by public transport, buying a carnet of tickets or a day pass offers both convenience and value, especially if you're planning multiple trips across the city in a day or the Paris Visite travel pass five days (€43.30) valid in Paris and Île-de-France region, using all of the public transport networks.
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The Lacemaker |
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The Astronomer |
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MUSEE DU LOUVRE
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