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.
Entrance | Eligibility |
Pyramid | 1. Visitors need to buy tickets on-site (orange queue)2. Visitors with a ticket or Paris Museum Pass (green priority queue)3. Visitors with membership cards (Amis du Louvre, Carte Louvre Education et Formation, Ministère de la Pass Education, ICOM, etc.)4. Priority access (disabled visitors and staff members)Note: The Pyramid entrance has a tube lift for visitors with prams or disabled visitors with wheelchairs. |
Carrousel | All visitors. |
Richelieu | Groups and visitors with membership cards (Amis du Louvre, Carte Louvre Education et Formation, Ministère de la Culture, ICOM). |
Porte des Lions | There are no lockers here and the entrance is closed every Friday. |
Best time to go to the Louvre Museum
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?
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.
Restaurant/Cafe/Takeaway Counter | Highlight | Location |
Bistrot Benoit | Enjoy coffee and croissants or a meal in the pure Parisian Bistrot tradition | Level -2Under the Pyramid |
Paul | Take a lunch break with a classic ham sandwich, or enjoy a chocolate éclair | Level - 2Under the Pyramid |
Le Café Mollien | Enjoy salads, quiches, sweet and savoury snacks with stunning views of the Louvre, Tuileries gardens and the Carrousel du Louvre | Level 1Denon wing (next to the red French paintings rooms) |
Café Richelieu/Angelina | Enjoy famous hot chocolate and decadent pastries or other famous Mont Blanc dessert | Level 1Richelieu wing (near Napoleon III Apartments) |
Eric Kayser | Enjoy a break on the terrace shaded by centuries-old trees to savour traditional French sandwiches, pastries, salads and more | Jardin du Carrousel entrance (by the Arche du Carrousel) |
Things to do at the Louvre Museum
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.
Louvre Museum map
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.
Wing | Popular Exhibition | Floor/Room |
Richelieu | The Money Changer and his Wife | Level 2, Room 814 |
The Virgin of Jeanne d’Evreux | Level 1, Room 503 |
Statue of Ebih-II | Level 0, Room 234 |
The Marly Horses | Level -1, Room 102 |
Sully | The Bather | Level 2, Room 940 |
The Seated Scribe | Level 1, Room 635 |
The Venus de Milo | Level 0, Room 345 |
History of the Louvre | Level -1, Room 133 |
Denon | Mona Lisa | Level 1, Room 711 |
The Winged Victory of Samothrace | Level 1, Room 703 |
Statue of Marcellus | Level 0, Room 410 |
Cycladic idol | Level -1, Room 170 |
Louvre Museum must-see exhibits
- Mona Lisa: It’s undoubtedly the most famous painting in the Louvre, Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece.
- Venus de Milo: This ancient Greek sculpture of the goddess Aphrodite dates back to around 500-30 BC.
- The Winged Victory of Samothrace: The Hellenistic sculpture of the goddess Nike is a stunning example of ancient Greek artistry.
- Code of Hammurabi: The ancient Babylonian law code is one of the oldest deciphered writings.
- Napoleon III Apartments: Explore the living quarters of Emperor Napoleon III and Empress Eugénie.
Louvre Museum annual pass
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.
Type | Price |
Solo cardholder | From about US$86.18 |
Double cardholder | From about US$129.27 |
Visitors under the age of 26 | From about US$16.16 |
Visitors under 30 | From about US$37.70 |
Two visitors under the age of 26 | From about US$30.16 |
Two visitors under 30 | From about US$64.64 |
Add a family option (children) | Additional US$16.16 |
*Price can change for different season
Things you need to know before visiting the Louvre Museum
- 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.
Other attractions in Paris
Attraction | Opening Hours | Recommended Sightseeing Time | Ticket Info | Check Details |
Eiffel Tower | 09:15-23:45/00:45 | 1-3 hour | From US$67.68 | Check Now! |
Arc de Triomphe de l’Etoile | 10:00-22:30/23:00 | 1-2 hour | From US$17.23 | Check Now! |
Musee d'Orsay | Thursday:09:30-21:45Tuesday-Wednesday, Friday-Sunday:09:30-18:00 | 3-5 hour | From US$17.24 | Check Now! |
Seine River Cruise | 12:00-21:00 | 1-1.5 hour | From US$9.20 | Check Now! |
Avenue des Champs-Élysées | 24/7 | 1-3 hour | Free | Check Now! |
The Louvre Museum ticket
Type | Price | Buy Now! |
Adult Ticket(Aged 18 and over) | From US$26.38 | Buy Now! |
Teenager Ticket(Aged 17 and under) | From US$3.24 | Buy Now! |
FAQ about the Louvre Museum
Is it necessary to buy tickets in advance?
It’s recommended to buy tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons. Purchasing tickets online can help you skip the queuing and enter the museum more quickly.
Are there guided tours available in the Louvre Museum?
Yes, the Louvre Museum offers guided tours led by experts who can provide knowledge about the collections and history. Audio guides are also available for self-guided tours in multiple languages. You can rent an Audio Guide at the museum‘s ticket area for about US$5.39.
Can I take a photo inside the Louvre Museum?
Photography is permitted in most areas of the Louvre Museum, except in certain temporary exhibitions where photography restrictions may apply. However, selfie sticks, flash or lighting. the use of flash and tripods is generally prohibited.
Can I enter the Louvre Museum several times in one day with the same ticket?
No. Any exit is final.
Is there a locker available for storing my belongings?
Yes, the Louvre Museum provides a locker where visitors can securely store belongings. It’s recommended to avoid bringing large bags or helmets, as they may be subject to security checks.
