Beneath the glittering glass pyramid designed by architect I.M. Pei, the world’s most visited museum invites you into a labyrinth of art and history. The Louvre holds more than 35,000 works spanning 9,000 years—from Mesopotamian relics to masterpieces by da Vinci, Delacroix, and Michelangelo.
In this Louvre Museum travel guide, we’ll help you navigate its vast halls with confidence, ensuring your visit is as inspiring as the art itself.
Quick Facts
Nearest Metro Stop: Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre (Lines 1 & 7)
Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed Tuesdays)
Admission: €22 (book online in advance)
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon on weekdays
Website: www.louvre.fr
A Brief History of the Louvre
The Louvre began its life in the 12th century as a medieval fortress under King Philippe Auguste, built to protect Paris from outside invasion. Remnants of the original structure can still be seen today in the museum’s lower levels.
During the Renaissance, the fortress transformed into a royal palace, with French monarchs expanding and embellishing it into one of Europe’s great seats of power. Kings and queens lived here until Louis XIV moved the royal court to Versailles in 1682.
In 1793, amid the French Revolution, the Louvre officially opened as a public museum. Since then, it has expanded into the largest museum in the world, spanning 652,000 square feet of gallery space and housing some of humanity’s most treasured works of art.
The most recent transformation came in 1989, when architect I.M. Pei’s glass pyramid was unveiled. Initially criticized as a modern intrusion on the classical palace, it has since become one of Paris’s most recognizable and beloved landmarks.
Top Highlights to See at the Louvre
Mona Lisa
The museum’s star attraction, Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa draws millions each year. Expect crowds and short viewing time, but her enigmatic smile is worth the effort.
Venus de Milo
This ancient Greek sculpture, discovered on the island of Milos in 1820, captivates with its timeless beauty and air of mystery.
Winged Victory of Samothrace
Perched dramatically at the top of the Daru staircase, this marble figure of Nike, goddess of victory, feels alive with movement and power.
The Coronation of Napoleon
Jacques-Louis David’s monumental painting captures Napoleon crowning himself emperor, a theatrical moment frozen in vibrant detail.
Egyptian Antiquities
From sarcophagi to the imposing Great Sphinx, the Louvre’s Egyptian collection immerses you in one of the world’s most fascinating ancient civilizations.
Hidden Gem: Galerie d’Apollon
Often overlooked, this dazzling hall is adorned with gilded ceilings and showcases French crown jewels—a masterpiece of decorative art in itself.
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How to Plan Your Visit
Choose Your Entrance Wisely
The glass pyramid is iconic but often crowded. Instead, try the Carrousel entrance through the underground mall or, when open, the Lions’ Gate for a quieter entry.
Focus on One or Two Wings
The Louvre is massive—you won’t see it all in a day. Denon Wing is home to the Mona Lisa and Italian masterpieces. Sully holds antiquities, while Richelieu showcases French and Northern European art.
Use the Louvre App or Map
Its maze-like halls can overwhelm first-time visitors. Download the official app or grab a map to avoid wasting time retracing steps.
Tours vs. DIY
Guided tours streamline the experience, hitting highlights efficiently. Independent travelers may prefer to wander, discovering hidden corners at their own pace.
Tips for Beating the Crowds
Book Skip-the-Line Tickets
This is non-negotiable. Lines at the Pyramid entrance can stretch for hours, especially in peak season. Buying skip-the-line tickets online in advance saves you time and energy, ensuring you spend your day with the art rather than waiting outside.
Consider a Guided Tour
The Louvre is enormous—over 650,000 square feet of galleries—and it’s easy to get lost or overwhelmed. A guided tour not only includes skip-the-line access but also helps you navigate directly to the highlights and hidden gems, giving structure to your visit.
Visit at Off-Peak Times
Weekday mornings, late afternoons, or Wednesday and Friday evenings (when the museum is open until 9:45 PM) are the quietest times to go.
Plan Around the Season
Off-season visits from November to March mean lighter crowds, shorter lines, and a calmer pace in the galleries.
Where to Eat Near the Louvre
Le Fumoir
A chic brasserie across from the museum, perfect for cocktails and modern French plates.
Café Marly
Stylish dining inside the Louvre with pyramid views—pricier, but the setting is unmatched.
Au Vieux Comptoir
A cozy bistro a short walk away, offering hearty French comfort food and a welcoming atmosphere.
Experiences to Add On
Evening at the Louvre
Fewer crowds and a different atmosphere, perfect for savoring the museum’s grandeur at a slower pace.
Stroll the Tuileries Gardens
A relaxing way to unwind after hours indoors, with fountains, sculptures, and people-watching opportunities.
Seine River Cruise
Departing nearby, these cruises offer spectacular city views—especially at sunset.
Pair with Musée d’Orsay
Located just across the Seine, the Orsay offers an Impressionist counterpoint to the Louvre’s classical treasures.
FAQ
How long should I spend at the Louvre?
Plan for at least three hours. A full day allows for a deeper dive but can be exhausting.
Is the Louvre free on the first Sunday?
Yes, from October through March, admission is free on the first Sunday of each month.
Can you take photos inside the Louvre?
Yes, photography is allowed without flash. Tripods and selfie sticks are prohibited.
What’s the best entrance to avoid lines?
The Carrousel entrance via the underground shopping mall is generally faster than the Pyramid.
Your Best Louvre Experience Awaits
Visiting the Louvre is more than checking off the Mona Lisa—it’s about stepping into centuries of creativity and history. Whether you spend hours admiring world-famous icons or stumble upon lesser-known gems, the Louvre offers a journey through the very best of human imagination.
Let us design your custom travel guide and make your trip effortless, inspiring, and unforgettable.
Hi, I’m Jack Baumann – founder of Guidester. I’ve spent over 15 years living and traveling throughout Europe, and I created Guidester in 2014 to help others experience the best of what Europe has to offer. What started as a passion project has grown into a full-service travel concierge and tour company, designed to make your journey smoother, richer, and more meaningful.
Want to know more about my story? Click here to learn more about me.
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