We had read about how the Louvre could sometimes get very crowded, especially around da Vinci's world famous Mona Lisa. Many visit the Louvre just to see her. We also read less than exciting reviews about how the experience was overrated; the painting was very small and must be viewed through protective Plexiglas.Braced for the worst we were pleasantly surprised. We arrived at the museum around 9:30 am, half-hour after it opened and fortunately, we were able to beat the crowds. The painting wasn't as small as some travel magazine reviewers had said. It was well worth the visit.
We spent the rest of morning strolling around visiting other Italian and French artwork from various periods.
After the Louvre, we headed up to the top of the Eiffel Tower. Built by Gustave Eiffel in 1889, it stands 1063 ft. and is 1665 steps to the top. When we arrived at the top (we took the elevator), intermittently, a cold gust of wind would blow right through us; it was exhilarating. The visibility was very good, we could see for miles. In the background of our photo from the top of the Tower you could see aerial views of the Louvre and Musee d'Orsay.
Trocadero from the top of the Eiffel Tower
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