“métro, Expo, Resto”

Break out of the mould of “métro, boulot, dodo” (a French expression that, translated literally, means “Métro, work, sleep”) and get ready for “Métro, expo, resto”, as Babylangues introduces you to a new way of exploring the Paris Métro system. Join us in our quest to discover the various stations dotted across the city. How did they get their name? What are the surrounding neighbourhoods like? What can be found nearby? Some many questions and Babylangues has all the answers!

Louvre-rivoli

Served by line 1 of the Parisian metro, Louvre-Rivoli is a bustling station on the northern side of the Seine, next to the world famous Louvre museum in the 1st arrondissement. It is one of the oldest stations of the Parisian metro having opened in 1900 under the name ‘Louvre’. However, in 1989, the station was renamed after a new entrance to the museum was constructed in the same year.

The metro is notable for being the first metro station to become culturally decorated when, in 1968, the platforms were filled with replicas of ancient art from the Louvre Museum. The aim of this decor is to reflect the style and stature of the famous museum. Although this station no longer provides access to the museum itself, visitors passing through on Paris transport can still admire the uniquely curated platforms.

Palais Royal-Musee du Louvre on the other hand is the Louvre Museum’s main metro station now, which is another must-see on your metro art tour. The unique Place Colette entrance is made from multi-coloured glass baubles and well worth a look.

Discover more metro stations HERE.

What Is There To Do Nearby? 

  • Louvre Museum

This world famous is one of the most visited sights in the world, welcoming around 9 million tourists each year. The museum is now predominantly accessible through the Palais Royal-Musee du Louvre (the next stop on line 1), which acts as the Museum’s main metro station. The Louvre is home to the iconic Mona Lisa portrait as well as thousands of other collections. You simply cannot come to Paris and not visit the Louvre!

  • Le Palais-Royal

The stunning Palais-Royal (originally named the Palais-Cardinal), is a former royal palace located next to the Louvre museum. The screened entrance court faces the Place du Palais-Royal, opposite the Louvre. Nowadays, the Palais-Royal is the seat of the Ministry of Culture and the Constitutional Council.

  • Forum des Halles

If you fancy a bit of shopping, be sure to check out the Forum des Halles, which is a five minute walk from the station. Having been renovated this year, the Forum is the second most visited shopping centre in France with 39 million visitors each year. The centre is home to a wide range of shops and other entertainment stores to cater for all tastes!

louvre museum