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All You Need to Know to Plan Your Visit to Louvre, 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.

Visitor Information at a Glance

Visit Louvre, Paris
  • 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.
  • How many number visitors does the Louvre see per year?
    The Louvre Museum hosts approximately 10 million visitors annually.

The Louvre Opening Hours

Louvre Museum

Best Time to Visit Louvre Museum

Louvre Museum

Weekend vs Weekday

Choose weekdays over weekends for a more enjoyable visit to the Louvre. With the museum closed on Tuesdays, Wednesdays tend to be busier. For an optimal experience, consider Mondays and Thursdays as the ideal days to explore the renowned art collection.

Louvre Museum

Best Time in the Year

The Louvre experiences its peak crowds from June to September, making the period between January and April more favorable for visitors seeking a less crowded experience to explore the famed museum's extensive art collections.

Louvre Museum

Best Time in the Day

Consider visiting the Louvre during the early hours to maximize your exploration of the museum. Evening hours offer a captivating experience with the grand lighting display at the iconic Louvre Pyramid.

Where is Louvre Museum Located?

Getting to the Louvre in Paris

Visit Louvre by Metro

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.

Visit Louvre by Bus

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.

Visit Louvre by RER Train

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.

Visit Louvre by Car

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.

Visit Louvre by bicycle

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.

Visit Louvre, By Cruise

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.

visiting louvre 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.

skip the line louvre

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.

Visit Louvre, Skip the Line

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 Louvre Museum Tickets

Louvre Museum Reserved Access Tickets with Optional Audioguide
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Louvre Museum Skip-the-Line Guided Tour
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€58.50
Combo (Save 5%): Louvre Museum + Versailles Palace Tickets
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Louvre Museum Skip-the-Line Tickets & Seine River Cruise
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€40.85

Know Before You Visit Louvre Museum

Entrances
Facilities
Audio Guide
Visitor Trails
Gift Shop
Restuarants & Cafes
Visit Louvre, Entrances
Visit Louvre, Facilities
  • 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.
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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.

Visit Louvre, Gift Shop
  • 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.

Visit Louvre, Restaurant & Cafe

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.
Visit Louvre, Restaurant & Cafe

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.
Visit Louvre, Restaurant & Cafe

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

Facilities & Tips
Visitors with Physical Disabilities
Visitors with Hearing Impairments
Visitors with Visual Impairments
Visitors with Developmental and Learning Disabilities
Visit Louvre, Accessibility

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.
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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.
Visit Louvre
  • 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 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.
Visit Louvre, Accessibility
  • 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 for 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 be available upon request. The audio guide also includes tours in French Sign Language.
Visit Louvre, Accessibiliity
  • 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.
Visit Louvre, Accessibilty
  • 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-cancelling 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.

Visit Louvre with Family

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.
Visit Louvre with Family

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.

Visit Louvre, Group Visit
  • 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

Here are a few rules and regulations you are required to follow at the Louvre.

  • 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, except guide dogs or assistance dogs, are not allowed.
  • Curators, teachers of a class, and professional tour guides who 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.

All Your Questions About Visiting Louvre Museum in Paris Answered

What are the Louvre opening hours?

The Louvre is open from Wednesday to Monday, 9 am to 6 pm. Louvre Museum remains closed on Tuesdays.

What is the best time to visit Louvre?

The best time to visit the 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.

Can I enter anytime during the operating hours?

No, it is recommended to reserve a time slot before entering the museum.

How much time does it take to visit the Louvre?

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.

Can I enter the Louvre once I exit?

Once you exit the Louvre, you will not be able to re-enter the museum with the same ticket.

Who can enter the Louvre for free?

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.

Are group visits allowed?

Yes, usually, independent tour guides can accompany groups of a maximum of 25 people.

Where is the Louvre located in Paris?

The Louvre is located at Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France.

What is the best way to get to the Louvre?

Taking the metro or the bus would be the most convenient way to get to the Louvre Museum in Paris.

How many entrances are there at the Louvre?

The Louvre Museum in Paris has 4 entrances: I.M. Pei Pyramid, Carrousel du Louvre, Passage Richelieu, and Porte des Lions

Is there a dress code to be followed at the Louvre Museum?

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.

Are prams allowed in the Louvre Museum?

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.

Does Louvre conduct activities for children?

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.

Is photography permitted inside the Louvre?

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.

Can I draw in the exhibition rooms?

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.

Is there a cloakroom at the Louvre?

Yes, the Louvre Paris has a cloakroom that you can use free of charge to store your belongings for the duration of your visit.

Will my luggage allowed inside the museum?

No, helmets, suitcases, large bags, and any items exceeding 55 x 35 x 20 cm will not be allowed in the museum.

Are strollers/wheelchairs available at the museum?

Yes, one can rent strollers or wheelchairs by asking a staff member at the Help Desk.

Can I see everything in one visit?

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.