Ep 6. Highlights of Paris: Eiffel and Monet to Cr?me Brul

In the season 3 episode 6 of Rick Steves' Europe, entitled "Highlights of Paris: Eiffel and Monet to Cr?me Brul," viewers are transported to the city of love for a whirlwind tour of some of its most iconic landmarks. Rick takes us on a journey that begins with a stroll along the river Seine, with its beautifully preserved old buildings and bustling café culture.

Next, we're taken to the Eiffel Tower, a feat of engineering that continues to captivate tourists from all over the world. Rick explains the tower's history, from its controversial beginnings as part of the World Exposition of 1889, to its current status as one of the most recognizable monuments in the world. He also shares tips for visiting the tower, including where to find the best photo spots and how to bypass the notoriously long lines.

From there, we're transported to the Musée d'Orsay, a former train station turned art museum that houses some of the world's greatest Impressionist and Post-Impressionist works. Rick takes us on a tour of some of the most famous pieces by Monet, Van Gogh, and Renoir, and offers insights into the techniques these groundbreaking artists used to capture light and movement in their works. He also explains the museum's history, including its role in the Paris Commune of 1871 and its transformation into a museum in the 1980s.

We then visit the charming neighborhood of Montmartre, where artists like Picasso, Modigliani, and Toulouse-Lautrec once lived and worked. Rick takes us on a walking tour of the neighborhood's winding streets and hidden squares, pointing out places of historical and cultural interest along the way. We also get a glimpse of the famous Moulin Rouge, where the can-can dance was born and where visitors can still catch a cabaret show today.

Finally, we're treated to a taste of one of Paris's most famous (and delicious) desserts: crème brûlée. Rick takes us to a local patisserie where we learn about the history of this creamy, caramelized treat and watch as a skilled pastry chef shows us how to make it from scratch. We also learn about the role of dessert in French cuisine, and how it serves as a symbol of the country's love for pleasure and the finer things in life.

Throughout the episode, Rick's enthusiasm for Paris is infectious. He shares his knowledge and love for the city's rich cultural history and inspires viewers to explore its many charms for themselves. From towering landmarks to hidden gems, "Highlights of Paris: Eiffel and Monet to Cr?me Brulée" is a delightful journey through one of the world's most beloved cities.