Private VAN transfer from CDG airport to the colonnade of the Louvre in Paris

History and tour of the colonnade of the Louvre in Paris

The colonnade of the Louvre, forming the facade of the eastern part of the Louvre Palace, is situated in the 1st arrondissement of Paris. This facade, a masterpiece of French classicism, was designed by the renowned architect Claude Perrault. Its construction, which started in 1667, was completed in 1670. The structure features Corinthian style twin columns forming its substructure, surmounted by a small floor capped with a series of balusters. Although the facade is attributed to Louis Le Vau, Claude Perrault, and Charles Le Brun, it was Perrault who carried out the realization of the facade after Louis Le Vau’s death. However, the project remained unfinished for a time as attention shifted to the construction of the Palace of Versailles. The endeavor was revived during Louis XV’s reign, finalizing the wings begun under Louis XIV, and elevating the roof on the south, east, and north sides of the palace. To bestow a monumental appearance, the buildings in front of the colonnade were demolished. The embellishments, including the upper parts of columns and the elaborate ornaments, were crafted by sculptors Philip and Matthew Caffieri during Louis XIV’s era. The facade’s crowning and the triangular pediment were sculpted by Pierre François Frédéric Lemot and Cartellier between 1807 and 1808. In 1818, staircases at the ends of the colonnade wing were introduced. The innovative idea of constructing a ditch in front of the colonnade by Culture Minister André Malraux in 1963 was actualized in 1964 under Jean Marie Trouvelet’s guidance, with military engineering support, to enhance the palace’s vicinity. Following the ditch’s creation, the foundational structures were exposed, prompting restoration efforts and the construction of a bridge to span the newly formed gap. Today, the colonnade of the Louvre stands as a pivotal component of the Louvre Museum, nestled between the Saint-Germain l’Auxerrois Church and the Tuileries Gardens. The Louvre Palace, one of Europe’s largest, spans 135,000 square meters and hosts the world-renowned Louvre Museum. Its architectural evolution, a journey spanning several centuries, is deeply entwined with Paris’s history, drawing 8.9 million visitors in 2011 alone. Its development saw contributions from illustrious architects like Raymond du Temple, Dammartin Drouet, Pierre Lescot, Philibert Delorme, and Louis Le Vau, with significant reconstructions initiated post-1541 under Pierre Lescot’s vision. Accessible via the Palais Royal and Louvre metro stations, the colonnade is also well-connected by numerous bus routes, including numbers 21, 24, 27, 69, 72, and 95.

Discover the Surroundings of the Colonnade of the Louvre in Paris

The Colonnade of the Louvre, designed by Claude Perrault, is not only a masterpiece of classical architecture but also a gateway to exploring some of Paris’s most esteemed cultural treasures. Located at the heart of the 1st arrondissement, this iconic section of the Louvre Museum is surrounded by a wealth of attractions.

Steps away, the historic Palais Royal features beautiful gardens perfect for a leisurely stroll. These serene gardens are flanked by the Palais Royal’s arcades, filled with chic boutiques and cozy cafes where visitors can relax and enjoy the Parisian atmosphere. Across from the Louvre, the Tuileries Garden offers a splendid open space with meticulously manicured lawns, statues, and fountains, ideal for both relaxation and cultural exploration.

Art enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to the Musée d’Orsay across the Seine, accessible via the picturesque Pont Royal. This museum is renowned for housing an impressive collection of impressionist and post-impressionist masterpieces. Further enhancing the cultural landscape near the Louvre, the Place Vendôme, known for its luxurious jewelers and high-end boutiques, is just a short walk away.

For those looking to extend their journey or require a transfer to Parisian airports or train stations, convenient transport options are available throughout the area, ensuring easy access to wider Paris and beyond.

Transfer to the colonnade of the Louvre in Paris

Located at a strategic distance of 17.5 km from Orly Airport, 32.8 km from Charles de Gaulle Airport, and 88.3 km from Beauvais Airport, the colonnade of the Louvre represents a prime destination for visitors arriving in Paris. Choosing the best mode of transportation to this architectural marvel involves careful consideration of cost, convenience, luggage, and comfort. Taxis, while offering direct routes, may become costly, especially with fluctuating traffic conditions. Public transport, including the RER and metro, presents an affordable but potentially challenging option for those burdened by heavy luggage or the fatigue of long-haul flights, as it involves navigating stairs and transfers amidst crowded conditions.

The experiences of past travelers with various transportation modes to Paris have varied greatly, from the simplicity and directness of taxis to the more demanding nature of public transport and certain shuttle services, the latter occasionally marred by delays or no-shows. In light of such insights, shuttle services emerge as a particularly effective solution, striking a fine balance by offering direct routes to your destination without the high costs of taxis or the difficulties of navigating public transportation. Services like a shuttle from CDG to Paris cater to travelers with luggage, ensuring a comfortable and seamless experience. With competitive pricing and generally a more relaxed journey compared to public transport, shuttles address the primary concerns and challenges faced by travelers, making them an optimal choice for reaching the colonnade of the Louvre and other Parisian landmarks efficiently and stress-free.