You've finally decided to fulfill your dream of visiting the Louvre Museum. As every art lover’s paradise, this visit is akin to a pilgrimage. With over 380,000 objects and around 35,000 artworks on display, the world’s art is safeguarded here as is valued at approximately $45.5 billion. Whether you're captivated by the glass pyramid entrance or you’re here to Madam Mona Lisa, read on for some invaluable tips that will make your day at the Louvre.
Recommended tickets to Louvre Museum
Handy tips for visiting the Louvre Museum in Paris
1. The most important tip: Buy tickets in advance
The Louvre Museum remains eternally crowded. To ensure a smooth experience, buy tickets in advance and opt for timed entry, helping you adhere to a set itinerary. You can purchase tickets at the museum entrance, but expect lengthy lines, especially during peak seasons from June to September. So ideally, secure your tickets at least two weeks prior to your visit. Most guided tours often come with priority access, so consider booking a tour if you want to skip the lines entirely.
2. Download the free map
Before you head out, check out a map and plot your must-see artworks. The Louvre's vast layout can be overwhelming, making it tricky to navigate quickly, especially if your favorite pieces are scattered across the museum. Maps are offered in 13 languages at the information desks under the Pyramid or can be downloaded directly from the museum's official website.
3. The app is quite useful too
Consider downloading the "My Visit to the Louvre" app (available for iPhone and Android). This handy tool helps you find specific artworks with a 3D itinerary through the museum. The app provides over 600 detailed descriptions of artworks and notable areas of the Louvre for free, with an option for audio commentaries at an additional cost. Available in seven languages, it’s packed with useful information. And if you forget to install it in advance, you can download it at the museum using the free "Louvre_Wifi_Gratuit" network.
4. Go for a night visit if you want to avoid the majority of crowd
For a more relaxed experience, visit the Louvre on Wednesday or Friday evening when it remains open until 9pm. Arrive after an early dinner to wander quieter galleries without the daytime crowds. Be aware that the last entry is an hour before closing, at 8pm, and the museum staff will start clearing the rooms around 8.45pm.
5. Choose the right entrance
Avoid the long lines in front of the Pyramid by using alternative entrances. Enter through the Carrousel du Louvre shopping center for a smoother arrival. Another less crowded option is the Passage Richelieu (particularly for visitors with pre-purchased tickets or guided tours) or the Porte des Lions entrance.
6. Opt for noise-canceling headphones for a serene experience
For a peaceful visit to the often bustling Louvre, bring along noise-canceling headphones if you're using the museum’s audio guide. The lively atmosphere inside can be full of chattering visitors and guides, which may distract from your experience. Noise-canceling headphones can greatly enhance your visit by blocking out ambient noise, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the art. If noise-canceling headphones aren't an option, even regular headphones playing calming music can be a good alternative during the busy times.
7. You don’t have to see everything!
Don’t stress about seeing every single artwork. With so much to explore, it’s impossible to cover it all even in several visits. If you tried to view each piece at the Louvre, it would take you two months non-stop! Instead, prioritize the collections that genuinely interest you and take photos of pieces that resonate. Knowing the 10 most famous paintings can be helpful, or read our guide on what to see in 2-3 hours.
8. If you are keen on seeing the Mona Lisa crowd-free
Eager to snap a photo of the Mona Lisa without crowds? Get your tickets right at the Louvre opening at 9am and be sure to line up at the Port des Lions entrance by 8:30am. About ten minutes before opening, they close the access gate leading to the street. Once you clear security, take the stairs immediately to the right and go up to the next floor. From there, it's a straight walk to room 711 where the Mona Lisa resides. Early in the morning, the room will be mostly empty, offering a rare chance for crowd-free pictures of this iconic masterpiece.
9. Prioritize Sully and Denon Wing
Start with the Sully Wing, where stunning Greek, Roman, and Etruscan art awaits. Next, explore the Denon Wing, home to majestic masterpieces from French, Spanish, and Italian artists. Save the Richelieu Wing for last; its tranquil apartments and gardens offer a peaceful conclusion, focusing on Eastern and Islamic art. This order ensures you experience the most visually stunning collections at your peak energy.
10. Engage the Little Art Enthusiasts with "Louvre Kids"
For families visiting the Louvre with children, you must know about the "Louvre Kids" initiative! Tailored guided tours like "Louvre Masterpieces Explained to Children" help young ones (starting from age 7) connect with iconic artworks such as the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Victory of Samothrace. These 1.5-hour tours make art both fun and educational, teaching kids to analyze, understand historical contexts, and appreciate the stories behind famous pieces. Alongside seasonal storytelling sessions and year-round activities, the museum offers workshops and free activities in the Studio. The entry for kids under 18 is free, you just need to collect the ‘Louvre passport’ at the information desk under the Pyramid.
