Louvre Museum, Paris - a large building with many arches and statues
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Musée du Louvre

4.7
·350k reviews·Paris, FR

Former historic palace housing a huge art collection, from Roman sculptures to da Vinci's "Mona Lisa." A must-visit for art lovers and history buffs a...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wed & Fri evenings (6-9 PM)

Significantly fewer crowds, especially for Mona Lisa

CrowdLow
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Louvre Museum, Paris - a large building with many arches and statues

Musée du Louvre

Best Time

Wed & Fri evenings (6-9 PM)

Significantly fewer crowds, especially for Mona Lisa Instagram

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Former historic palace housing a huge art collection, from Roman sculptures to da Vinci's "Mona Lisa." A must-visit for art lovers and history buffs alike.

4.7
(350k reviews)

"The secret entrances are a game-changer for avoiding the infamous lines and truly experiencing the Louvre's magic."

Vertical photo
TIP

🤫 Use Secret Entrances

Avoid the main pyramid line! Use the Carrousel du Louvre or Porte des Lions entrances .

🎟️ Pre-Book Timed Tickets

Essential for guaranteed entry and to skip the general admission line. Book directly on the official site .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mona Lisa (La Gioconda)

Mona Lisa (La Gioconda)

Denon Wing, Room 711

See Leonardo da Vinci's enigmatic masterpiece. Be prepared for crowds, but clever angles can get you a great shot.TikTok+1

Winged Victory of Samothrace

Winged Victory of Samothrace

Denon Wing, Daru Staircase

A breathtaking Hellenistic marble sculpture of Nike, the goddess of victory, dramatically positioned at the top of a grand staircase.TikTok

Venus de Milo

Venus de Milo

Sully Wing, Room 345

Admire this iconic ancient Greek marble statue, celebrated for its beauty and mysterious missing arms, a true classical marvel.

Napoleon's Apartments & Galerie d'Apollon

Napoleon's Apartments & Galerie d'Apollon

Richelieu Wing, 1st Floor

Step into opulent 19th-century decor, including the stunning Galerie d'Apollon with its gilded ceilings and royal jewels.TikTok+1

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds: Your Entry Strategy

The Louvre Museum is one of the world's most visited attractions, making crowds a major concern. Don't waste precious time in long lines at the main pyramid entrance. Savvy travelers and locals swear by using alternative entrances and pre-booking timed tickets to ensure a smooth entry and maximize your visit to this iconic art museum.TikTokReddit

Navigating the Vast Collection

With over 35,000 works of art, the Louvre's collection is immense. It's impossible to see everything in one visit. Prioritize what you want to see, grab a map, and plan your route to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Focus on key highlights like the Mona Lisa and Winged Victory, but also explore lesser-known gems.Reddit+1

Best Times

When
Wed & Fri evenings (6-9 PM)
Why
Significantly fewer crowds, especially for Mona Lisa Instagram
Crowd
Low
When
Early mornings (9 AM)
Why
First 20 mins can be quiet, beat the rush Reddit
Crowd
Medium
When
Lunch hour (12-1 PM)
Why
Slight dip in visitor numbers Reddit
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Replying to @talia🧿 ML hack for the HH people #historytok #history #louvre #louvremuseum #paris #monalisa #tipsandtricks
@hot.history
1.2M likes • 13.7M views

🤫 Use Secret Entrances

Avoid the main pyramid line! Use the Carrousel du Louvre or Porte des Lions entrances.TikTokInstagram

🎟️ Pre-Book Timed Tickets

Essential for guaranteed entry and to skip the general admission line. Book directly on the official site.InstagramReddit

Paris life hacks: Louvre Edition for beginners. This underground passage also connects to the metro station - Palais Royal–Musée du Louvre. #paris #europe #Summer #louvremuseum #louvre #LifeHack #trav...
@flipping_tourist
1M likes • 8.7M views
Did you know there’s a hidden entrance to the Louvre? 🤫 Most people line up outside on the main level without realizing the real entrance is actually downstairs! We love sharing little tips like t...
le__walk
1.3K likes • 96.7K views

🗺️ Grab a Museum Map

The Louvre is huge! Pick up a map at the info desk to navigate efficiently and find highlights.Reddit

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be walking for hours. Prioritize comfortable footwear for exploring the vast museum.Reddit

If the Louvre is on your bucket list, you need to pocket these tips!✍️ Buy a timed ticket ahead of your visit! The Louvre is the most visited museum in the world. If you don’t plan ahead, it’s likely...
explorewithtravelpass
819 likes • 51.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🤫 Use Secret Entrances

Avoid the main pyramid line! Use the Carrousel du Louvre or Porte des Lions entrances.TikTokInstagram

🎟️ Pre-Book Timed Tickets

Essential for guaranteed entry and to skip the general admission line. Book directly on the official site.InstagramReddit

🗺️ Grab a Museum Map

The Louvre is huge! Pick up a map at the info desk to navigate efficiently and find highlights.Reddit

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be walking for hours. Prioritize comfortable footwear for exploring the vast museum.Reddit

🎧 Bring Headphones

Noise-cancelling headphones can enhance your experience during busy times.Reddit

📸 Mona Lisa Photo Hack

Stand to the side of the main crowd for a clearer view and better photo opportunity.TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.7
(350k reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Louvre Museum is consistently praised as a world-class institution, offering an unparalleled collection of art and historical artifacts within a stunning former palace. Visitors are often awestruck by its grandeur and the iconic masterpieces it houses, though the sheer size and inevitable crowds can be challenging to navigate. Many find the experience unforgettable, especially with strategic planning.

"Definitely buy tickets in advance. If you are a student in the EU under 26, you can get in for free (you still need a reservation). Don't forget your student ID card!

The museum was very crowded, but that's to be expected. Don't expect you'll see the Mona Lisa up close. If you want to snap a quick photo of it, you can take one of the paths on the side, but you are not allowed to stop, so you have to do it while walking.

The rest of the most famous works were not as crowded, so you could get to the front row quickly. Just don't expect to get a picture without other visitors in the frame.

We had a reservation for 13:30 and ended up entering around an hour later. If you are a quick walker, that might be enough time, but it sadly wasn't enough for us.

The giftshop and the bookstore closes at 18:30. The staff was very helpful. If the line at the checkout is too long, there are more registers upstairs in the bookstore section."

Urša Pelicon

"Very elegant and classy collection of arts, though it definitely focus more in the arts side than, let's say, British Museum. Initially a fortress in Medieval Ages, now Louvre Museum still keeps some of its original wall and has some coffee, restaurants, library, bookshops and shopping centre inside it, a perfect mix between classical and modern values. The only minus point is that Exit route can be really confused at times."

Quang Hải Trương

"I visited the Louvre Museum at night and, although I didn’t take the tour inside, the experience was amazing. The exterior architecture is stunning, especially when lit up at night. Walking around the area feels magical, the pyramid, the courtyards, and the historical atmosphere make it absolutely worth visiting, even just from the outside. An iconic place that radiates art and history just by being near it."

Aank Sandoval

What People Like

Iconic masterpieces
Stunning architecture
Vast art collection

What People Dislike

Overwhelming crowds
Long lines
Difficult to navigate

Frequently Asked Questions

🎫 🗺️ Getting There & Entry

The Louvre Museum is centrally located in Paris and easily accessible. The most common way is via the Paris Metro, with the 'Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre' station (Lines 1 and 7) directly connecting to the underground Carrousel du Louvre entrance.TikTok You can also arrive by bus or walk from many central Paris locations. For those looking to avoid the main pyramid line, consider the Porte des Lions entrance or the Carrousel du Louvre entrance, which is often less crowded.TikTokInstagram

Yes, absolutely! This is a popular hack shared by many travelers. Instead of the main glass pyramid, use the Carrousel du Louvre entrance (accessible via the underground shopping mall or the Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre metro station) or the Porte des Lions entrance on the south side of the museum.TikTokInstagram+1 These alternative entrances often have significantly shorter queues, even with pre-booked Louvre tickets.TikTok

The Louvre Museum is generally open from 9 AM to 6 PM on most days. However, it extends its Louvre working hours until 9 PM on Wednesdays and Fridays, which are often recommended as the best times to visit for fewer crowds.Instagram+1 The museum is closed on Tuesdays, so plan your visit accordingly. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date Louvre visiting hours before your trip.

While all entrances can be used with a timed ticket, the alternative entrances like the Carrousel du Louvre or Porte des Lions are generally less congested than the main pyramid entrance, even for those with pre-purchased Louvre tickets.TikTok Having a timed admission slot is crucial for skipping the general admission line, regardless of which entrance you choose.Reddit

It's generally recommended to arrive about 15-20 minutes before your scheduled Louvre museum timing. This allows enough time to navigate to your chosen entrance and get through security without feeling rushed. Arriving too early might mean you have to wait, while arriving late could risk losing your entry slot.TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Always buy your Louvre tickets directly from the official Louvre Museum website. This ensures you get legitimate tickets and the correct timed admission slot. Avoid third-party resellers who might overcharge or offer misleading 'skip the line' claims, as timed entry is the standard 'skip the line' for the Louvre.Reddit

Yes, booking your Louvre tickets in advance is highly recommended, almost essential. The Louvre is the most visited museum globally, and timed entry slots sell out quickly, especially during peak season. Pre-booking guarantees your entry and significantly reduces waiting times.InstagramReddit

The Paris Museum Pass often includes access to the Louvre, allowing entry to multiple museums over a set number of days. While it offers convenience, you still need to book a timed entry slot for the Louvre even with the pass. Check if a combined ticket or the Paris Museum Pass aligns with your itinerary and other planned museum visits.

Standard adult admission for the Louvre Museum typically costs around €17-€22 when purchased online. Entry is free for visitors under 18, and for EU residents aged 18-25. Specific temporary exhibitions may have separate fees. Always check the official website for current pricing and any special offers.

Generally, once you exit the Louvre Museum, your ticket is no longer valid for re-entry on the same day. If you plan to spend a full day, make sure to utilize the cafes and restrooms inside the museum. Plan your visit to cover everything you want to see in one continuous go.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience & Navigation

To see the main highlights like the Mona Lisa, Winged Victory, and Venus de Milo, most visitors allocate 2-3 hours. This allows for focused viewing without feeling rushed. However, if you want to explore more of the vast Louvre collection, you could easily spend 4-5 hours or even longer.Reddit

Beyond the famous Mona Lisa painting in Louvre, don't miss the Winged Victory of Samothrace, Venus de Milo, and the Code of Hammurabi. TikTok creators also recommend exploring the opulent Napoleon's Apartments and the stunning Galerie d'Apollon for a different kind of artistic experience.TikTok The Louvre art collection is incredibly diverse, so grab a map and prioritize what interests you.Reddit

Yes, detailed Louvre maps are available at the information desks located at the entry level, usually near the pyramid. These maps are essential for navigating the museum's three main wings (Denon, Richelieu, and Sully) and locating specific artworks or exhibitions. Many Reddit users recommend grabbing one immediately upon entry.Reddit

The Louvre offers an official audio guide, often available on a Nintendo 3DS, which provides commentary on key artworks and helps with navigation. Many travelers find it helpful for understanding the history and context of the Louvre art collection, especially if you're not an art history expert.Reddit

To see the Mona Lisa with fewer people, aim for Wednesday or Friday evenings when the museum is open late.Instagram+1 Alternatively, try to be among the first visitors at 9 AM and head straight to the Denon Wing. Some TikTok users also suggest standing slightly to the side of the main viewing area for a better perspective and photo opportunity.TikTok

📸 📸 Photography & Souvenirs

Yes, photography without flash is generally permitted throughout the Louvre Museum for personal use. However, be mindful of other visitors and avoid blocking pathways. Flash photography, tripods, and selfie sticks are usually prohibited to protect the artworks and ensure a smooth flow of visitors.

While you can photograph the Mona Lisa, expect significant crowds around it. There's a barrier keeping visitors a certain distance from the painting. Be patient and respectful of others trying to get a view. Many TikTok creators share tips for getting a good shot despite the crowds, often involving standing slightly off-center.TikTok

The iconic Louvre Pyramid offers numerous photo opportunities. For classic shots, stand directly in front of it. For unique perspectives, try shooting from the underground Carrousel du Louvre looking up, or from the surrounding courtyards, especially at sunrise or sunset for beautiful lighting. The inverted pyramid inside the Carrousel is also a popular spot.

Yes, the Louvre has several gift shops. The main shop is located under the pyramid, offering a wide range of souvenirs, art books, reproductions, and gifts related to the Louvre collection. There are also smaller boutiques throughout the museum. While some Reddit users find the main gift shop underwhelming, the bookshop is often praised.Reddit

You can find a diverse array of souvenirs, from miniature replicas of famous sculptures like the Venus de Milo, to prints of masterpieces, art books, stationery, and even fashion accessories inspired by the museum's collections. Look for items featuring the Mona Lisa, the Louvre Pyramid, or specific historical periods represented in the museum.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting the Louvre with children requires a bit more planning to keep everyone engaged and prevent meltdowns. Reddit users suggest that 2-3 hours is often the maximum attention span for kids before they get tired.Reddit Focus on a few key highlights rather than trying to see everything. The Egyptian antiquities, with their mummies and sarcophagi, often captivate younger audiences. The grand scale of the museum itself, including the Louvre Pyramid, can also be exciting.

Plan for frequent breaks, utilize the museum's cafes for snacks, and consider bringing a small activity book or scavenger hunt to keep them entertained. Strollers are generally allowed and can be helpful for younger children. Remember to use the less crowded entrances to minimize stress upon arrival.

🚶‍♀️ First-Time Visitors

For your first visit to the Louvre, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by its sheer size and the density of its art. The best advice is to not try to see it all. Instead, identify 3-5 absolute must-sees (like the Mona Lisa, Winged Victory, and Venus de Milo) and plan your route around them using a museum map.Reddit Many Reddit users recommend heading straight to the Mona Lisa first thing in the morning to beat the initial rush.Reddit

Pre-book your Louvre tickets online for a timed entry slot and utilize the secret entrances to save time.InstagramReddit Consider downloading the official Louvre app or renting an audio guide to provide context for the artworks. Remember, the goal is to enjoy the experience, not to rush through every gallery. Allow yourself to wander and discover pieces that unexpectedly catch your eye.

🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Deep Divers

If you're an art enthusiast looking for a deeper dive into the Louvre's collection, plan for multiple visits or focus intensely on specific wings or periods. Instead of just the famous pieces, explore the extensive collections of Italian Renaissance paintings in the Denon Wing, the French paintings in the Richelieu Wing, or the ancient Greek and Roman sculptures in the Sully Wing. Reddit users suggest doing some pre-visit research on prominent artists or specific movements that interest you.Reddit

Consider purchasing a multi-day Paris Museum Pass if you plan to visit other museums. Take advantage of the late-night openings on Wednesdays and Fridays for a more contemplative experience with fewer crowds.Instagram Don't hesitate to use the official audio guide or even consider a specialized guided tour to gain expert insights into the Louvre art collection. Take photos of placards for later research, as suggested by some Reddit users, to continue your learning beyond the museum walls.Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Mastering Louvre Entry: The Secret Passages

The Louvre Museum's popularity means long lines are a common complaint, but savvy travelers know how to bypass the main queue at the iconic glass pyramid. The key lies in utilizing the museum's lesser-known entrances. The Carrousel du Louvre entrance, located underground via the shopping mall or directly from the Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre metro station, is a highly recommended alternative.TikTokInstagram+1 This entrance often has significantly shorter lines, even for those with pre-booked Louvre tickets. Another excellent option is the Porte des Lions entrance, situated on the south side of the museum, which many TikTok users have successfully used to enter with minimal wait times.TikTok

These secret entrances are a game-changer for your Louvre experience, allowing you to save valuable time and energy. Remember, even with these alternative entry points, having a timed admission ticket purchased in advance from the official Louvre website is absolutely essential. This ensures your entry and is the true 'skip the line' method, as third-party claims of special fast-track access are often misleading.Reddit Arrive about 15-20 minutes before your scheduled time to allow for security checks and navigation.TikTok

Beyond the Mona Lisa: Unveiling the Louvre's True Treasures

While the Mona Lisa is undoubtedly the Louvre's most famous resident, focusing solely on this single painting means missing out on an extraordinary world of art and history. Many visitors, including TikTok creators, emphasize that the Mona Lisa is a relatively small painting often surrounded by dense crowds, and the museum offers so much more.TikTok To truly appreciate the Louvre art collection, broaden your horizons.

Make sure to seek out the majestic Winged Victory of Samothrace, a Hellenistic masterpiece dramatically placed at the top of a grand staircase, and the classical beauty of the Venus de Milo. Don't overlook the opulent Napoleon's Apartments and the breathtaking Galerie d'Apollon, which showcase incredible decorative arts and royal splendor.TikTok+1 For those interested in ancient civilizations, the Egyptian antiquities and the Code of Hammurabi are also profound experiences. Grab a Louvre map upon entry and identify a few key areas or artworks that genuinely pique your interest to create a more fulfilling and less overwhelming visit.Reddit+1

Strategic Planning for Your Louvre Visit

Visiting the Louvre Museum requires a strategic approach to make the most of your time and avoid exhaustion. Given its immense size, it's impossible to see everything in one day, or even several.Reddit Most travelers find that 2-3 hours is sufficient to cover the major highlights without feeling rushed, though art enthusiasts could easily spend longer.Reddit Before you go, do some research on the Louvre collection and decide which wings or specific artworks are your top priorities. The museum is divided into three main wings – Denon, Richelieu, and Sully – each housing different collections.

Consider visiting during off-peak hours, such as Wednesday or Friday evenings when the museum is open until 9 PM, as these times are significantly less crowded.Instagram+1 Early mornings right at opening time (9 AM) can also offer a brief window of relative calm.Reddit Don't forget to wear comfortable shoes; you'll be doing a lot of walking.Reddit Utilizing the official Louvre audio guide or a mobile app can provide valuable context and help you navigate the vast space, transforming your visit from a simple walk-through into a deeper, more engaging experience.Reddit

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