All You Need to Know to Plan Your Visit to Louvre, Paris
Visiting the Louvre Museum Paris
The Louvre is one of the largest museums in the world and is visited by over 9 million people annually. More often than not, this results in crowded spaces with lots of people wanting to see the famous Mona Lisa, among other influential works of art. To make the most of your time there, you need to plan ahead. Here's everything you need to know about visiting the Louvre Museum in Paris.
Louvre Museum | Visitor Information At A Glance
- What are the Louvre opening hours?
The Louvre museum is open from 9 AM to 6 PM throughout the week, except on Tuesdays. - Where is the Louvre located?
Louvre Museum is located at Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France. Get directions. - How many entrances does the Louvre have?
The Louvre has four entrances: I.M. Pei Pyramid, Carrousel du Louvre, Passage Richelieu, and Porte des Lions. Currently, only I.M. Pei Pyramid and Passage Richelieu are open. - How many number visitors does the Louvre see per year?
The Louvre museum hosts approximately 10 million visitors annually.
What Are The Louvre Opening Hours?
Wednesday to Monday: 9 AM to 6 PM
Last Entry: 1 hour before closing. The rooms will be cleared 30 minutes before closing.
Closure: The Louvre Museum is closed on Tuesdays. It also remains closed on 1 January, 1 May and 25 December. It remains open on all other public holidays unless they fall on a Tuesday.
NOTE: The museum has temporarily suspend the Wednesday and Friday late-night openings, as well as the free late-night opening on the first Saturday of the month.
What's The Best time to Visit Louvre Museum?
The Louvre Museum is one of the largest and most visited museums in the world today. With a gallery space of 72,735 sq.m, the venue has about 35,000 permanent exhibits that are spread across eight departments. Apparently, it can take a person 200 days to see the entire museum if they only spend 30 seconds in front of an artwork. While it may not be possible to see everything in one day, it is always recommended that you plan your experience to cover as much as possible within a day.
The Louvre is busiest between June to September, but you can expect fewer visitors between January and April. Opt to visit on a weekday, instead of a weekend. Since the Louvre is closed on Tuesdays, Wednesdays see more visitors. The best days to visit the Louvre are Mondays and Thursdays. Opt to go during early hours so that you can explore as much of the museum as possible. However, evening hours are ideal for those who wish to witness the grand lighting showcased at the Louvre pyramid.
Where is Louvre Museum Located?
Address: Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France
The Louvre Museum is located within the grand Louvre Palace, which is situated on the right back of the Seine River.
Closest Landmark: Tuileries Garden (45 m)
Getting to the Louvre in Paris
By Metro
Closest Station: Palais-Royal / Musée du Louvre
Lines 1 & 7 will take you to Palais-Royal–Musée du Louvre, the closest metro station to the museum. You can find a ticket redemption center here. Line 14 will drop you at Pyramides, which is a 6-minute walk from the museum.
By Bus
Closest Stop: Louvre-Rivoli
Take the public bus service in Paris to get dropped directly in front of the Louvre Museum. It's comfortable, convenient, and saves excessive expenditure. Buses 21, 24, 27, 39, 48, 68, 69, 72, 81, and 95 will drop you close to the museum.
By RER
Closest Station: Châtelet-les Halles
You can reach Louvre by taking the Lines A, B, or D. The closest RER station to Louvre is Chatelet Les Halles, which is about 8 minutes away by foot.
By Car
If you decide to drive down underground parking is available on Avenue du Général Lemonier. Visitors with disabilities can enjoy a reduced car park rate, by going to the dedicated area for visitors with special needs under the Pyramid. If you take a taxi, the nearest drop-off area is at the Carrousel roundabout.
By Bicycle
Cycling is a great way to explore the city as you try to make you way to your destination. If you use Velib cycles the closest station near Louvre are No. 1015, 2 place A. Malraux; No. 1023, 165 rue Saint-Honoré; No. 1014, 5 rue de l’Echelle, and, No. 1013, 186 rue Saint-Honoré. Cycles can also be parked in front of the École du Louvre, near the Porte des Lions.
By Batobus
If you are in Paris, you would be remiss to miss out on the experience of going on a Seine River Cruise. This is a great way to sightsee Paris. The Bateaux Parisiens/ Batobus makes nine stops along the River Seine and the closest one to the Louvre is Quai François-Mitterrand.
How To Skip the Line at Louvre?
The Louvre Museum is visited by approximately 15,000 visitors each day. Considering its popularity, one can expect long lines in front of the museum. However, don’t let this discourage you, as there are ways for you to skip the line and enter the museum.
Book Your Tickets In Advance
Tickets to the Louvre museum sell out weeks in advance, so you need to prepare in advance to gain entry. You can purchase skip the line tickets, where you can select the date and time of your choice and reserve the slot based on your preference. This way is more convenient, less chaotic, and you get to begin your experience without having to wait in long queues.
Take a Guided Tour
By going on a guided tour you can skip the lines and enter the Louvre with an expert guide who will take you through the highlights of the venue, and to answer any questions you might have. Discover the highlights in a small group and learn about some of the most important artworks in history in an intimate manner. While this option is slightly more expensive, it is worth every penny.
Go Early
The Louvre museum opens at 9 AM every day except for Tuesdays, which is when you can expect the least crowd. Arrive at least 15 minutes early to avoid any delay, because once you miss the designated time slot, it can be difficult to access the venue. Enjoy priority access by reaching early and begin your experience by gaining direct entry into the museum.
Book Tickets To The Louvre
Combo: Eiffel Tower Summit Guided Tour + Louvre Museum Guaranteed Ticket
Know Before You Go To Louvre
There are four entrances that can be use to enter the museum:
- I.M. Pei Pyramid: This is the main entrance of the Louvre Museum near the iconic pyramid.
- Carrousel du Louvre: This entrance is often referred to as “the mall entrance to the Louvre”, and is an underground entrance.
- Passage Richelieu: If you have made a group booking or have an annual membership, this is the entrance you can take for fast track entry.
- Porte des Lions: This entrance is located in the internal part of the Louvre and attracts an average amount of visitors. It is closed on Fridays and closes by 5:15 PM on Wednesdays. Please note that it has been temporarily closed since 2019.
- Information desks: There are two desks located under the Pyramid. Visitors can ask staff members any questions they might have and pick up the museum map.
- Cloakroom: Self-service lockers can be availed free of charge. Refrain from bringing suitcases or large bags All items must be collected on the same day.
- Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available under the Pyramid and in the exhibition rooms. The connection lasts one hour but can be renewed as many times as needed.
- Phone Chargers: Phone charging lockers are available under the Pyramid.
- Toilets: They can be found in the welcome area under the Pyramid and throughout the museum. Most have a baby changing table.
- Lost & Found: Head to the Help Desk and a staff member will help you. If you have already left the museum, you can fill out a report to notify the Lost & Found team.
If you don't want to go on a guided tour but want a more enriching experience, get hold on the audio guide. You can explore the museum's collection and learn about the palace, the artworks and their history, with the help of the audio guide on New Nintendo 3DS.
The audio guide is available in 9 languages: English, French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, German, Japanese, Korean and Chinese. If you are feeling lost, don't worry. The audio guide uses geo-location to allow you to check which level and which part of the museum you are at. The audio guide also includes commentaries on the temporary exhibitions (in French & English only).
The audio guide can be rented for €5. One person can rent up to six audio guides.
If you prefer a self-guided tour but are unsure about where to begin, following one of the walking trails is your best best. You can choose the tour based on how much time you plan to spend in the museum and your areas of interest.
Masterpieces of the Louvre: View the most iconic paintings, sculptures, architectural elements and art objects at the Louvre.
JAY-Z and Beyoncé at the Louvre: View the artworks that inspired JAY-Z and Beyoncé’s first music video as a duo, “APES**T”, which was shot at the Louvre.
Journey Along the Nile: Experience life under the Pharaohs while viewing one of the largest ancient Egyptian art collections in the world!
Secret Treasures of the Richelieu Wing: View the lesser known masterpieces of the Louvre.
- Louvre Gift Shop: Find gifts, souvenirs, books about art, and more.
Located at Allée du Grand Louvre; Open from 10 AM to 6:30 PM - Salon Denon: Get hold of some souvenirs
Located at Denon wing - Level 1; Open from 9:30 AM. to 5:30 PM. - Denon Counter: Grab some guides that allow you to delve into the history of the Louvre.
Located at Denon Mezzanine, under the Pyramid; Open from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM - Hall Napoléon Counter: Pick up a souvenir or the official catalog of special exhibitions.
Located at Hall Napolean; Open during exhibitions, Wednesday to Monday from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Gift shops are closed on Tuesdays, 1 January, 1 May, and 25 December. You can also visit the Louvre online boutique.
You will find a varied selection of restaurants, cafes and takeaway counters at Louvre. While some have been temporarily closed due to the pandemic, rest assured that you will still be spoilt for choice.
In The Palace | Level 1
- Starbucks: Located at Richelieu Mezzanine, Under the Pyramid. Open daily, except Tuesdays, from 11 AM to 5.30 PM. Enjoy some coffee before you start your visit.
- Goguette: Located at Richelieu Mezzanine, Under the Pyramid. Open from 11 AM to 4.45 PM. Closed on Tuesdays. Enjoy fresh seasonal food as a family.
- Denon Takeaway Counters: Located at Denon Mezzanine, Under the Pyramid. Open from 9 AM to 5 PM. Recharge yourself with some beverages, sandwiches, or desserts. Take a look at the menu here.
- Le Cafe Mollien: Located at Denon wing; open from 9:45 AM to 4:45 PM. Enjoy spectacular views while having a snack.
In The Palace | Pyramid
- Paul: Located at Level 2, under the Pyramid. Open from 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM. You can grab a quick snack here.
- Bistrot Benoit: Located at Level 2, under The Pyramid. Open daily, except Tuesdays, from 11 AM to 5 PM (Lunch from 11 AM to 4 PM). Grab a snack or a meal at this restaurant.
- Cafe Marly: Located at 93 rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, opposite the Pyramid. Open daily from 8 AM to 1 AM. You can enjoy the stunning view of the Pyramid as you sip on cocktails and enjoy a meal.
In The Tuileries Gardens
- Cafe Des Marronniers: This Parisian brasserie is located at the southwest kiosk. Open from Wednesday to Sunday, 10 AM to 7 PM.
- Terrasse De Pomone: This eatery, located on the southeast kiosk, is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM.
- Pavillon des Tuileries: Enjoy some seasonal fare at the cafe located on the southwest kiosk. Open daily; on weekdays, from 10 AM to 5.30 PM and the weekend from 12 AM to 6 PM.
- Rosa Bonheur Creperie: Open from 8.30 AM; Rosa Bonheur serves delicacies from Brittany.
- Eric Kayser: This eatery, located by the Arche du Carrousel, is open on weekdays from 9 AM to 6 PM, and on weekends from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM.
- Petit Plisson Aux Tuileries: Located at the northeast kiosk. Open from Saturday to Wednesday, 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM.
Accesssiblity
Before Entering
- Entry is free for visitors with disability visitors and the person accompanying them. Priority access is granted at the reception area and museum entrances.
- Parking spaces are reserved for people with disabilities. To avail of this, visit the Help Desk located beneath the Pyramid. Your parking ticket must be stamped to benefit from reduced rates.
- Use the I.M. Pei Pyramid entrance. Use the escalator or lift to go to the reception area.
- To visit the Carrousel shopping center, enter from the car park or entrance at 99 rue de Rivoli. Take the lifts available to get to the underground shopping area. Continue for 50 meters toward the inverted pyramid, where you will find the security check you will have to pass through before entering the museum.
Inside the Museum
- Get hold of the museum map and find out anything you would need to know at the Information Desk beneath the Pyramid. You can also get hold of a pamphlet that will help you find quieter areas, benches and toilets.
- You can borrow folding chairs, wheelchairs, assistive listening devices, and other equipment you might need from the Help Desk.
- Visit the Petite Galerie, which is a great place for disabled visitors to be introduced to the museum collections.
- You can access a public accessibility register at the Help Desk, to get information all the services the museum provides.
- Take advantage of the recommended trail that has been designed by the Louvre.
- Borrow wheelchairs, folding chairs, and canes for free from the Help Desk. Canes with metal tips are not allowed in the museum
- Enquire at the Help Desk if you need museum staff to escort you from the Information Desk to the museum rooms.
- Ten spots are reserved for visitors in a wheelchair in the auditorium.
- There are 14 outlets are available for visitors with electric wheelchairs.
- Restrooms equipped to accommodate visitors with reduced mobility are available beneath the Pyramid and in the museum.
- If you need special-size equipment or have any queries, simply send an email to handicap@louvre.fr or call +33(0)1 40 20 53 17.
- Hearing loops have been installed beneath the Pyramid, at the Information Desk, automated ticketing machines, group reception area, the Help Desk, and in the Auditorium to aid visitors with assistive listening devices.
- If you opt to go on a self-guided tour, you can use the Louvre’s audio guide on Nintendo 3DS™ XL to make the tour more worthwhile. The audioguide has tours that have been adapted for visitors with a hearing impairment. If you require Hearing loops compatible with audio guides, they will are available upon request. The audio guide also includes tours in French Sign Language.
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- To have someone escort you from the nearest metro stop or Carrousel car park to the museum call +33(0)1 40 20 53 17 or send an email to handicap@louvre.fr.
- You can also have a staff escort you from the Pyramid to the museum rooms.
- Visit the Petite Galerie, space dedicated space for disabled visitors. Entirely accessible, the space is equipped with tactile ground surface indicators. You will also find a braille booklet that is lent free of charge. You can also get hold of a downloadable guided tour with audio descriptions on the Petite Galerie app.
- Explore the Pavillon de l’Horloge and learn about the history of the Louvre. You can use the hands-on devices available to get a feel for the space you are in.
- Tactile devices are available in the Department of Islamic Art collections.
- If you have light sensitivities, rest assured that the Louvre has chosen lighting that is optimal for all visitors. Additionally, they have provided a guide so you can locate rooms with natural light or the best artificial lighting.
- You can also use the pamphlet that has been designed based on crowd levels during normal museum attendance. It can help you locate quieter rooms, benches, restrooms, and lifts.
- Use the Louvre recommended adapted routes; the origins of the Louvre: the medieval Louvre; and the Khorsabad courtyard.
- For any information about services for visitors with special needs, simply enquire at the Help Desk.
- Borrow folding chairs and SensoryBags (kits containing material for people with sensory impairments such as noise-canceling headphones, eye bands, etc.) free of charge.
- You can also request the staff to escort you from the Information Desk to the museum.
Visiting With Family
If you are visiting the Louvre with your family, here are a few things to keep in mind to make the most of your visit.
Tips
- Waiting in a long line with kids is no fun. Skip the hassle and the lines by reserving skip the line tickets online and in advance.
- Make sure to take advantage of the discounted rates for children. Entry is free for children and European Union citizens under the age of 26.
- Arrive early so you can avoid the crowds. This will also allow the time to refresh, visit the lockers or even grab a bite before you get started.
- Make it a point to visit the Studio, located on the ground level of the Richelieu wing. You can take part in the activities held here. However, these activities are only available in French.
- Visiting the Louvre can overwhelming; please remember that it is impossible to view the entire museum in a day. In order to make the most, decide on which rooms you would like to visit. You can also rely on the walking trails.
- Touching the art is and running around the galleries are not allowed. Make sure your children are aware of the rules so that your visit is a pleasant one.
- Take a break so you don't break. Grab a bite to eat at any of the cafes or restaurants inside the Palace or enjoy a picnic in the Tuilleries Garden.
- Also, try to take advantage of the activities held in the gardens.
Facilities
These are some of the facilities that you can take advantage of so that visiting the Louvre with your family is made a more comfortable experience:
- Cloakroom: Stove your bags in the self-service lockers beneath the Pyramid. However, remember to travel light. Items exceeding 55 x 35 x 20 cm are not permitted inside.
- Strollers & Baby Carriers: Borrow a stroller or baby carrier from the visitor assistance area that is located beneath the Pyramid. Please carry a valid ID to avail of this. All equipment is disinfected between each use.
- Changing Tables: Washrooms are located throughout the museum. Most toilets are equipped with changing tables.
- Audioguide: Explore the Louvre with the New Nintendo 3DS audio guide, which can help make the visit a fruitful one for the whole family.
- Louvre Kids App: Designed for children between the ages of 7 to 11, the app is a great way for kids to discover the Louvre, its collections, and more. Learn more about the Louvre Kids app
Visiting as a Group
Whether on a self-guided or guided tour, if you are travelling as a group, here are some things to keep in mind.
- Book your slot in advance to ensure entry and avoid long wait times.
- Two entrances are reserved specifically for groups: the Richelieu passageway and the underground Carrousel entrance.
- Arrive at least 15 minutes early so you have the time to drop off your belongings and visit the restrooms before entering the exhibition rooms.
- There is a special reception area for groups available beneath the Pyramid, which can be used to either prepare for your visit or even take a break. They have large lockers that can hold the personal belongings of up to 25 visitors.
- If you need to borrow any equipment, such as wheelchairs, strollers, etc, you can simply ask for them at the Help Desk.
- Plan your itinerary ahead so you are not overwhelmed by the sheer size of the museum.
- Take a break every now and then. Use the seats available throughout the museum. If you feel the hunger pangs kicking in you can visit one of the cafes or takeaway counters in the museum.
Visitor Rules & Tips
- Visitors must go through security checks at the entrances.
- While visitors can store belongings in the lockers, suitcases and large bags (any items exceeding 55 x 35 x 20 cm) will not be allowed in the museum.
- Items left inside the locker have to be collected on the same day.
- Opting for an audio guide is recommended if you are not confident to read French as all the signs and descriptions in the museum are in French. Please note that the audio guides provided to visitors are disinfected before and after each use to ensure a safe experience.
- Wear comfortable clothing and most importantly, the right shoes as you might have to walk a lot throughout the day in the museum.
- Visitors are allowed to take photos and videos of the collections for their personal use. Use of selfie sticks, flash, or lighting is not allowed.
- Any equipment that you borrow from the museum must be returned and cannot leave the museum premises.
- Once you exit the Louvre, you will not be able to re-enter with the same ticket.
- You are not allowed to drink, eat, smoke, make noise, run or touch the artwork to ensure the safety of these works.
- Weapons and ammunition are not allowed inside.
- Tools, such as craft knives, screwdrivers, wrenches, hammers, pliers, and clippers are prohibited.
- You cannot bring blunt objects such as baseball bats.
- Excessively heavy, cumbersome, or foul-smelling items cannot be brought inside the museum.
- Explosive, flammable, or volatile substances as well as aerosol generators containing substances that could damage the artworks, buildings, and/or security equipment are prohibited.
- Any item that can neutralize individuals is not allowed.
- You cannot bring artwork or antiques into the Louvre.
- Excessive quantities of food or drink cannot be brought into the reception areas
- Animals, with the exception of guide dogs or assistance dogs, are not allowed.
- Curators, teachers of a class, and professional tour guides that have a permit are the only ones who are authorized to speak publicly in the exhibition rooms.
- At the Tuileries Gardens you are not allowed to use mono- or bicycles; walk or sit on the lawns; pick the plants; touch or climb the sculptures; walk your pet; feed the birds or remove the chairs from the premises.
Frequently Asked Questions: Visiting Louvre Museum in Paris
A. The Louvre is open from Wednesday to Monday, 9 AM to 6 PM. Louvre Museum remains closed on Tuesdays.
A. The best time to visit Louvre is on a weekday during the months between January and April. Visit during the early hours of a Monday or Thursday to avoid crowds.
A. To ensure maximum safety during Covid-19, it is mandatory to reserve a time slot before entering the museum.
A. It can take you days to explore the Louvre palace in its entirety. To visit the most famous masterpieces such as the Mona Lisa, the Winged Victory of Samothrace, The Raft of the Medusa, and more, head to the Denon wing. You will be able to explore the wing in an hour or two. If have the whole day, head to the Sully and Richelieu wings, as well.
A. Once you exit the Louvre, you will not be able to re-enter the museum with the same ticket.
A. Free admission will be granted to the Louvre museum for guests that are under the age of 18, EU residents under the age of 25, visitors with disabilities and the person accompanying them, and teachers of art and art history.
A.Yes, it is compulsory to wear masks for visitors above the age of 11 both inside the museum and throughout the Louvre and Tuileries grounds. Visitors must bring their own masks as they will not be provided at the venue.
A. Yes, usually, independent tour guides can accompany groups of a maximum of 25 people. But currently, guided tours now permit only groups of 10 due to COVID restrictions. Guests must follow social distancing protocol.
A. The Louvre is located at Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France.
A. Taking the metro or the bus would be the most convenient way to get to the Louvre Museum in Paris.
A. The Louvre Museum in Paris has 4 entrances: I.M. Pei Pyramid, Carrousel du Louvre, Passage Richelieu, and Porte des Lions
A. There is no mandatory dress code to be followed. However, It's going to be a long walk within the venue so ensure you carry plenty of water and wear comfortable shoes for an enjoyable visit. You can also borrow walking sticks and foldable chairs from the Museum Centre for free.
A. Prams are allowed inside the Louvre. You can also borrow a pram or a front baby carrier from the Help Desk under the Pyramid for the duration of your visit.
A. Yes, the Louvre organizes many activities for children such as workshops, storytelling sessions, and more at the Studio. However, these activities are conducted in French.
A. Yes, you are allowed to photos and videos of the permanent collections for personal use. However, use of selfie sticks, flash or lighting is not allowed.
A. Freehand lead pencil sketches on paper or light cardboard not exceeding 50 x 40 cm are permitted in the permanent collection and temporary exhibition galleries. However, you cannot obstruct the view or movement of other visitors.
A. Yes, Louvre Paris has a cloakroom that you can use free of charge to store your belongings for the duration of your visit.
A. No, helmets, suitcases, large bags, and any items exceeding 55 x 35 x 20 cm will not be allowed in the museum.
A. Yes, one can rent strollers or wheelchairs by asking a staff member at the Help Desk.
A. The museum has a vast collection, and to see everything you might need to plan your visit for multiple days. However, if you want to make the best of your first visit, plan ahead and go for the exhibits you want to see the most. You can even opt to use one of the walking trails recommended by the museum.
