15 Things to Know Before Visiting the Louvre in France
Heading to the Louvre during your next trip to France? There are some important things to know before you go. In this article, European travel enthsiast Emma Braby shares some important tips before you visit this iconic French landmark.
Last updated: April 11, 2024
9 min read
Contents
Welcome to my guide for anyone planning a visit to the iconic Louvre Museum in Paris! Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking to immerse yourself in culture, the Louvre is a must-see destination that leaves you in awe. I’ve visited this incredible art museum, and I share my top secrets, along with a few regrets, to help you plan your visit.
The Louvre is the most visited art museum in the world. Home to an impressive collection of over 35,000 artworks on display from ancient civilizations to the 19th century. Originally built as a fortress by King Philip II, it evolved over the centuries into the magnificent museum we know today.
Before embarking on your Louvre adventure, planning ahead and making the most of your visit is essential. In this Louvre guide, I cover everything you need to know to make it memorable and enjoyable. So, let’s dive into the enchanting world of the Louvre.
Prebook Your Ticket
Peak Season
Summer Months (June to August)
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Art Enthusiasts, History Lovers, Cultural Explorers, Museum-Goers
First and foremost, consider purchasing tickets in advance to skip the long lines to one of the world’s busiest museums. This means you can maximize your time exploring the museum’s treasures. Purchase your tickets online to ensure hassle-free entry and avoid the daunting lines.
Additionally, check the museum’s opening hours before your visit, as they may vary depending on the day of the week. I also recommend watching for special exhibitions that may enhance your experience even further while booking. Temporary exhibitions are included, but you may need to pre-book a timed slot.
By booking in advance, you also have the flexibility to choose your preferred date and time slot. Whether you’re an early bird or prefer a more leisurely start to your day, pre-booking ensures that your visit fits seamlessly into your schedule. So don’t wait until the last minute – secure your ticket ahead of time and set yourself up for a smooth and stress-free visit to the Louvre.
Consider a Guided Tour
Considering a guided tour when visiting the Louvre can enhance your experience and provide valuable insights you might not get alone. Expert guides can offer historical context, point out hidden gems, and help navigate the vast museum efficiently. Plus, guided tours often allow you to skip long lines.
Guides can also share fascinating stories behind the artworks, making them come alive in a way that guidebooks or audio guides sometimes can’t. Plus, having a knowledgeable guide by your side means you can ask questions and engage in meaningful discussions about what you’re seeing.
Not booking a guided tour is one of my Louvre regrets. I spend a lot of my time wandering and trying to navigate the Louvre labyrinth on my own. I lost count of the number of times I asked for directions. So, learn from my mistake and make your visit seamless and enjoyable.
Save Money With a Paris Museum Pass
If you plan to visit the Louvre and a few more Parisian attractions, you’ll want to consider purchasing a Paris Museum Pass. Three passes are available, either for two days, four days, or six days. With this pass, you can enter any of the included monuments and museums once.
This can save you lots of money because the more attractions you visit, the more you save. Other attractions include the Musee d’Orsay, the Arc de Triomphe, the Chateaux de Versailles, and many other Chateaux in the Paris region. Check out the Paris Museum Pass website for a detailed list of attractions.
Entry is Sometimes Free
Did you know that entry to the Louvre is sometimes free? This allows visitors to explore one of the world’s most famous museums without spending a dime. Entry is free for all visitors on the first Friday of the month after 6 p.m., except in July and August. Entry is also free on Bastille Day, the 14th of July, a national French holiday. Unless this day falls on a Tuesday when the museum is closed.
Every visitor under 18 can also enter for free, as can EU residents aged between 18 and 25. The Louvre’s website lists other times an individual can enter for free, such as those with disabilities, art teachers, and individuals on income support. Proof is required, and you must still prebook your ticket.
Taking advantage of free-entry opportunities can save you money during your visit to Paris. Allowing you to allocate your budget to other experiences. But keep in mind that free entry slots always attract larger crowds, so be sure to take this into account.
Go Early or Late
One of the best ways to experience the Louvre without feeling overwhelmed by crowds is to go early in the morning or late in the afternoon. By arriving before opening hours, you can beat the rush and have a more peaceful visit as you explore the museum’s incredible collection. Early birds are rewarded with shorter lines at popular attractions like the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo.
If waking up early isn’t your thing, consider visiting later in the day when many tourists venture off to see less-crowded attractions. The evening atmosphere can also be quite magical, with fewer people around, allowing you to soak in the art at your own pace. Each Friday, the museum remains open until 9.45 pm. Plus, you’ll have more space to appreciate the masterpieces without jostling for a good view.
Visit During Off-Peak Season
Visiting the Louvre during off-peak season can be a game-changer for your Parisian experience. The off-peak season typically is late fall or wintertime, when tourist numbers dwindle. Making it the perfect time to explore at a leisurely pace. Springtime is also a great time to visit. But if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, avoid the week of Valentine’s Day.
You’ll have more space to appreciate masterpieces up close and take that perfect Instagram shot without battling through a sea of selfie sticks. Wandering around the Louvre’s grand halls with fewer distractions allows for a more intimate connection with its treasures.
Find The Louvre’s Hidden Entrances
The iconic glass pyramid entrance was added in 1989. Since then, the pyramid has become one of the most recognizable symbols of the museum and the art world. You must see the glass pyramid on your visit to the Louvre. But once you’ve seen it, don’t join the crowds at this main entrance. Head off to the lesser-known entrances.
Sure, they might not be hidden entrances, but few tourists know about them. These entry points save you time and offer a more peaceful start to your museum adventure. There are three other entrances to consider.
The Porte des Lions entrance is located on the southern side of the museum near Pont Royal. It is closed every Friday, and there are no lockers at this entry point, so you will be redirected to the Pyramid entrance. Only those with pre-booked tickets can use this entrance unless this ticket office is open.
The Carrousel du Louvre entrance is conveniently connected to the underground metro. You can also access this entrance from 99 Rue de Rivoli. Look for the red canopy. The Richelieu entrance is also on Rue de Rivoli. But it can only be used by groups and those with membership cards, such as the Amis du Louvre or ICOM. This entrance closes every day after 5.30 pm.
Get Ready For Airport-Style Security
When visiting the Louvre, it’s important to remember that security is a top priority. The museum has strict security measures in place to ensure the safety of visitors and the priceless artworks housed within its walls. You’ll encounter security checkpoints at each entrance where your bags will be inspected. So, make sure to allow some extra time for this process.
Only small bags are permitted inside the museum. Any visitors with large rucksacks, luggage, or helmets must store them in the lockers. The lockers are free, but their use can consume your precious time.
Remember not to take sharp items, such as scissors or nail cutters, or other items, like hair spray. During a visit to another high-security attraction, I forgot to leave my embroidery kit at my hotel. Not only did I have to explain why I was carrying sharps, but I had to dump my favorite embroidery scissors, and I’ve still not gotten over it!
Additionally, surveillance cameras and officers throughout the museum monitor activity and ensure a safe environment for everyone. While these security measures may seem stringent, they are necessary to prevent protestors from vandalizing the pieces or wannabe thieves from stealing them.
Grab an Audio Guide and Bring Your Headphones
Exploring the Louvre can be overwhelming with its vast collection of artworks spanning thousands of years. To enhance your visit, consider grabbing an audio guide. The audio guide provides insightful commentary on key pieces, giving you a deeper appreciation for what you’re seeing.
It’s like having a personal tour guide right in your ear, sharing fascinating details and historical context. So, as you step foot in the museum, remember to grab yourself one. My top tip is to bring your headphones if you have them. I find many headphones that come with auto guides uncomfortable. And if you’re spending hours here, why not make it a better experience?
Don’t Try to See it All
When visiting the Louvre, it’s important to remember that trying to see everything in one visit is nearly impossible. The museum is massive, with over 35,000 artworks spanning 652,000 square feet. Instead of rushing through each exhibit, take your time to truly appreciate the art and artifacts that interest you the most.
It’s okay if you don’t see it all. You’ll have a more meaningful and enjoyable experience at the Louvre by narrowing down your focus. Enjoy the journey of discovery, and let yourself be captivated by what speaks to your soul. Plus, it gives you a reason to come back for another visit in the future!
Plan Your Must-Sees
Walking through the museum, you’ll encounter works by renowned artists like Michelangelo, Rembrandt, and Vermeer. The sheer magnitude of talent on display is awe-inspiring and offers a glimpse into different eras and artistic styles. Remember that quality often trumps quantity when it comes to experiencing art.
It’s also helpful to research specific artworks or collections you’re eager to see beforehand. Navigating the expansive museum can be overwhelming without a game plan. Don’t rush through your must-sees just to check them off a list. Take the time to appreciate your favorite pieces fully.
Whether you’re interested in seeing the iconic Mona Lisa or exploring ancient Egyptian artifacts, consider making a personalized itinerary based on your interests. Remember that some popular pieces may attract large crowds. So factor in extra time for waiting or find quieter viewing opportunities.
Pick up a Paper Map
Navigating the Louvre can be overwhelming with its vast size and countless artworks. While digital maps are convenient, consider picking up a paper map at the entrance for a more tactile experience. A paper map allows you to physically trace your route and get a better sense of the museum’s layout.
Plus, having a paper map handy ensures you won’t have to rely solely on your phone battery or internet connection while exploring the museum. Arguably, it is also helpful to have a digital map downloaded too. So, download one and make a mental note of where you want to go before you set foot in the Louvre.
Make Time For The Richelieu Wing
Many travel blogs tell you to skip the Richelieu Wing, but there are many reasons why I don’t think you should. This lesser-known section houses many masterpieces, stunning sculptures, intricate tapestries, and more. There’s something for every art enthusiast to admire.
As many people skip this wing, it offers a quieter and less crowded experience than other parts of the Louvre. The Grand Salon is opulent and features a chandelier weighing three tons. Stroll through the stunning Napoleon III Apartments and immerse yourself in opulent 19th-century French décor. The grandeur and elegance transport you back in time.
These small rooms, intimate and cozy, were the ‘petits appartements’ where the minister and his family resided. The ‘grands appartements,’ on the other hand, were for formal receptions. Some blogs tell you this is where Napoleon lived, but this is incorrect. It’s named for the style of decoration. Napoleon lived in the Palace de Tuileries, which no longer exists.
Take a Break and Enjoy Your Visit
Are you feeling a bit overwhelmed by the sheer size and scope of the Louvre? Don’t worry, it’s completely normal. With so much to see and take in, giving yourself a break during your visit is essential. Find a cozy spot to sit, relax, and recharge for a few minutes. Whether on one of the benches in the courtyard or at one of the 16 cafés and restaurants, taking a breather will help you appreciate your visit.
Another tip from me, avoid eating your dinner meal in the museum if you can. A lot of the options are sub-standard and overpriced. Sure, they’re ideal for refreshments throughout your visit. But find an authentic restaurant outside the museum.
Or beforehand, visit Angelina, also on Rue de Rivoli, not far from two of the alternative entrances. Treat yourself to one of the best hot chocolates and French pastries I’ve ever had.
Visit Musee Delacroix
After exploring the wonders of The Louvre, don’t forget to visit Musee Delacroix. Not only does it offer a well-rounded cultural experience during your time in Paris. But it is also included as part of your ticket to the Louvre. In all the excitement of the Louvre, most people don’t realize this! You must visit Musee Delacroix within 48 hours of first use.
This charming museum is dedicated to the works of Eugene Delacroix, one of France’s greatest painters. Located in the artist’s former apartment and studio, it offers a more intimate experience compared to the grandeur of the Louvre. Take your time to admire his masterpieces and gain insight into his creative process.
