The Tuileries are handsome formal gardens that go from the Louvre down to the Place de la Concorde.
Wide, sandy paths are often framed by trees and there is much sculpture. From the right angle, one can see the magnificent Louvre.
There is even a mini-Arc de Triomphe called Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel. Built by Napoleon between 1806 and 1808, is once served as an entrance to the former Palais des Tuileries.
If you stand in the right spot, you can see how it lines up exactly with Cleopatra's Needle, the Arc du Triomphe and another spot farther down that I can't recall!
The gardens themselves were designed by Andre Le Notre in the 17th century. They include a summer ferris wheel, a carousel and much sculpture.
There are also many ponds.
This was my favorite.
The wee boats seem perfectly balanced, sailing on the pond with nary a tip-up.
Of course, if you don't have a boat of your own (and perhaps even if you do!), it's easy enough to get one.
When we visited the park was quieting down. There weren't a lot of customers.
We think the boats in the pond were "advertising."
And it was good advertising, too!
One of my fondest Paris memories will be watching these colorful, well-designed boats waft across the water.
Equally memorable, the vendor's colorful cart!
Like any park, Tuileries is a spot for games, and we enjoyed watching these men play boules.
It was off to a dinner to remember!
TIPS ON "PARKING":
1) No matter what you do in Paris, take advantage of one or more of the parks. There is tremendous "green space" in Paris and you can find a park or garden just about anywhere!
2) Consider a picnic. We found that sandwiches were easy to buy at the boulangerie, or just bring cheese and bread. In the evening, a bottle of wine is not out of the ordinary.
3) Beware of scams. There is one related to a gold ring -- a fellow will pick up a gold ring from the ground as you have passed and say, "Look! I found this gold ring. Is it yours?" Then he will try to get you to keep the ring as a "gift," then ask for money for it. Just walk. Don't even listen.
Paris In July
This post is part of Bookbath and Thyme for Tea's "Paris in July" party! It's also part of my "vacation post" drawing, which will conclude whenever I get through it all! Please link HERE to a marvelous of over 25 "Paris in July" participants!
