Louvre Museum

Located along the banks of the Seine River, the Louvre Museum is a marvel that transcends time and space. The Louvre Museum boasts an unparalleled collection, from ancient civilizations to contemporary masterpieces, among which the most famous is Mona Lisa. In this guide, we’ll discover things you need to know before visiting the Louvre Museum to help you gain an unforgettable experience.

When Is the Louvre Museum Open?

Louvre Museum opening hours:

• Admission will be stopped 1 hour before closing time, and clearance will begin 30 minutes before closing time. The museum is closed on January 1, May 1, and December 25 (Christmas Day).
• From May 29, 2024 will be open until 21:00 every Wednesday and Friday evening.

*Notes:

• Opening hours at the Louvre Museum may vary by day; visitors are advised to confirm the schedule in advance (Louvre Museum, 2026, official website, https://www.louvre.fr/en/visit).
• For holidays or special exhibitions, check the museum’s official announcements to avoid unexpected closures (Louvre Museum, 2026, press release, https://www.louvre.fr/en/press).”

How to Go to the Louvre Museum?

Source: Louvre Museum official

Transportation to get to the Louvre Museum

Here is the address of the Louvre Museum: 75001 Paris, France. You can have several options to get to the Louvre Museum.

Choose the right entrance to the Louvre Museum

There are 4 entrances to the Louvre Museum - Pyramid, Carrousel, Richelieu and Porte des Lions, among which The Pyramid is the main entrance for individual visitors. From the table, you can check the differences between each entrance.

What Is the Best Time to Go to the Louvre Museum?

Visit the Louvre during off-peak season

The best time to visit the Louvre Museum is early mornings or late evenings on weekdays, especially on Wednesdays and Fridays, since it will be less crowded. Or you can consider visiting the Louvre Museum during the off-peak season such as late fall or winter for fewer crowds.

The Porte des Lions entrance has the least people to maximize your time and minimize queuing. Be sure not to take a large bag or helmet if you choose the Porte des Lions entrance because there are no lockers. The recommended sightseeing time is 0.5-1 day.

What to Eat at the Louvre Museum?

Enjoy a meal at the Louvre

The Louvre Museum has several restaurants, cafes and takeaway counters, where you can enjoy a meal or a snack. There are also picnic areas available if you prefer to bring your own food. Here are some recommendations.

What Are the Best Things to Do at the Louvre Museum?

A guided tour provides valuable insights of the Louvre

Take a guided tour

With over 35,000 works of art spanning thousands of years, the Louvre Museum offers a diverse collection to explore. Take your time with a guided tour, which can provide valuable insights. There are also some special exhibitions and temporary displays.

Participate in cultural events

The Louvre Museum regularly hosts cultural events, including lectures, workshops, film screenings, and concerts. Check the museum's calendar of events to enrich your visit.

Buy souvenirs

Check the museum's gift shops for unique souvenirs such as books, prints, or keepsakes, you'll find a variety of treasures to take home with you.

Explore the surrounding area

Take some time to explore the surrounding area, including the picturesque Tuileries Garden, the historic Palais Royal, and the vibrant streets of the 1st arrondissement. You can take a break in the cafés in the charming atmosphere.

How to Use a Map of the Louvre Museum?

Source: Louvre Museum official

The Louvre Museum is organized into 3 major wings: Richelieu, Sully, and Denon. Each of these wings encompasses multiple floors and rooms dedicated to various exhibitions and collections.

What Are the Must-See Exhibits at the Louvre Museum?

Louvre Museum’s most famous painting

1. Mona Lisa: It’s undoubtedly the most famous painting in the Louvre, Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece.
2. Venus de Milo: This ancient Greek sculpture of the goddess Aphrodite dates back to around 500-30 BC.
3. The Winged Victory of Samothrace: The Hellenistic sculpture of the goddess Nike is a stunning example of ancient Greek artistry.
4. Code of Hammurabi: The ancient Babylonian law code is one of the oldest deciphered writings.
5. Napoleon III Apartments: Explore the living quarters of Emperor Napoleon III and Empress Eugénie.

What Is the Louvre Museum Annual Pass?

Unlimited access to permanent collections and temporary exhibitions

You can become a member of the Société des Amis du Louvre so that you can visit the Louvre Museum as often as you like in one year. There are different annual membership packages. You can check the annual pass information in the table below.

*Price can change for different season

What Should You Know Before Visiting the Louvre?

Show respect for the artworks in Louvre

• Buy tickets in advance: Purchase your tickets online in advance to avoid long lines at the ticket counters.
• Security procedures & restrictions: There may be security checks upon entry to the museum, including bag inspections and metal detectors. Large bags, backpacks, helmets and bulky items are not permitted inside the museum.
• Take care of your children: Children are welcome at the Louvre Museum, and there are special family-friendly programs and activities available. However, it's important to take care of your children and respect the museum's regulations.
• Behave respectfully: Show respect for the artworks and other visitors by refraining from touching the exhibits, speaking loudly, or using flash photography. Follow the museum's guidelines for responsible behavior.

What Are the Other Attractions in Paris?

With notable medieval and Renaissance collections

The Louvre Museum ticket