The Ultimate Guide to Louvre Museum Tickets
If you’re planning a trip to Paris, the Louvre Museum is likely high on your must-visit list. Home to thousands of artworks, including the enigmatic Mona Lisa and the majestic Winged Victory of Samothrace, this iconic museum draws millions of visitors each year. But before you get swept away by visions of art and history, there’s one crucial detail to nail down: securing your tickets!
Navigating the ticketing process can be overwhelming with so many options available. In this ultimate guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Louvre Museum tickets, what types are available, how to avoid long lines, and insider tips for making the most of your visit.
Key Highlights
- The Louvre Museum is a world-renowned cultural hub featuring iconic works like the “Mona Lisa” and the “Venus de Milo.”
- Tickets grant access to both permanent collections and temporary exhibitions, allowing visitors to explore diverse artistic masterpieces.
- Flexible ticketing options, including time-slot bookings, can be accessed via the museum ticket office or online ticketing service.
- Free admission is granted under specific eligibility criteria, including age and residency conditions.
- The museum’s main entrance is the Pyramid, though alternate access points like Porte des Lions or Passage Richelieu are available during peak hours.
- Audio guides and guided tours enhance your visit, ensuring you won’t miss the rich history behind the artworks.
Why Visit the Louvre Museum?
The Louvre Museum, originally a royal palace, opened its doors as a museum in 1793 during the French Revolution. Over the centuries, it has grown into one of the largest and most visited museums in the world, attracting over 10 million visitors annually. It’s not just about the incredible art it houses, though. The museum itself is a historical marvel, with its blend of French Gothic, Renaissance, and modern architectural elements.
And then, of course, there’s the art. You probably already know about the Mona Lisa, but the Louvre is home to much more than just Da Vinci’s famous portrait. From ancient Egyptian relics to grand French paintings, the museum offers a deep dive into the history of human civilization. The Venus de Milo, The Winged Victory of Samothrace, and the Raft of the Medusa are just a few of the masterpieces you can expect to encounter.
Whether you’re an art lover or simply someone who wants to experience one of the most famous museums in the world, a visit to the Louvre is nothing short of magical. But before you head there, let’s talk about how to make the most of your experience—starting with how to get your tickets.
Types of Louvre Museum Tickets
There’s more than one way to secure entry into the Louvre, and each option has its benefits. Let’s break them down.
1. General Admission Ticket
This is the standard ticket for anyone who wants access to the Louvre’s permanent collections. It gives you entry to all the museum’s main exhibits, including the Mona Lisa, The Venus de Milo, and various French, Egyptian, and Greek collections. It’s the most straightforward ticket, and while it may involve waiting in line (especially during peak hours), it covers everything you’ll need to see the highlights.
Tip: Save time by booking your general admission ticket in advance on Viator.
Cost: Generally around €22 per adult, with discounts for certain groups.
Availability: Available year-round, though we highly recommend purchasing it in advance to avoid the sometimes-lengthy queues.
2. Timed Entry Tickets
If you’re looking to skip the stress of waiting in long lines and want to make the most of your time, timed entry tickets might be the way to go. These tickets allow you to enter the museum at a specific time slot, which can help manage crowd flow and make for a more enjoyable visit.
The main benefit of timed entry is that you’ll be entering at a specific time, reducing the chances of having to wait in a lengthy line. These tickets also tend to be a bit less stressful, as you won’t have to worry about missing your entry window.
Prefer a timed experience? Reserve your Louvre timed-entry ticket here.
Cost: Typically a bit more expensive than general admission tickets, but worth it for the convenience.
Availability: These tickets are often available during peak hours or for special exhibition days.
3. Skip-the-Line Tickets
For those who truly want to avoid the long wait altogether, skip-the-line tickets are the way to go. These are essentially the VIP pass to the Louvre. With skip-the-line tickets, you’ll have a separate entrance to bypass the general queue, ensuring that you can head straight to the art without wasting time.
The price for these tickets is higher, but if you’re traveling during the high season or have limited time, it could be worth the investment.
Recommended: Get skip-the-line access with these top-rated Viator tickets.
Cost: Expect to pay a premium (around €30 to €40 per adult) for the convenience of skipping the line.
Availability: You can book these tickets in advance online, especially during peak tourist season.
4. Guided Tours and Audio Guides
While the Louvre’s vastness can be overwhelming, a guided tour can help you navigate the museum like a pro. There are several options here:
- Group Tours: Join a group of fellow art lovers and explore the museum with an expert guide who will provide you with insights and historical context. Join a guided tour with fast-track entry.
- Private Tours: For a more personalized experience, you can book a private guide who will take you through the museum’s exhibits at your pace and answer any questions you may have. Book a private Louvre tour for a custom experience.
- Virtual Tours: If you’re not able to make it to Paris, or if you want to continue your learning from home, virtual tours are available, allowing you to explore the museum remotely.
If you’re not looking for a guided experience but still want some help understanding the art, an audio guide might be a great option. Available in multiple languages, these audio guides give you detailed information on specific pieces and collections, and they can be rented at the museum.
Cost: Group tours start around €20 per person, while private tours can range from €50 to €150 depending on the duration. Audio guides are typically around €5 to €10.
5. Special Exhibitions Tickets
In addition to its permanent collections, the Louvre regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, which feature rotating works of art or special themes. These exhibitions often require a separate ticket, so if you’re interested in one, be sure to check availability and purchase your ticket ahead of time.
Cost: These tickets usually cost around €15 to €20, depending on the exhibition.
Availability: Special exhibitions are typically listed on the Louvre website, and it’s recommended to book in advance as they can sell out.
6. Combination Tickets (Louvre + Other Museums or Attractions)
Want to get the most out of your Paris trip? Consider purchasing a combination ticket. These tickets bundle Louvre entry with access to other major attractions like the Musée d’Orsay, the Palace of Versailles, or even a Seine River cruise. Not only can you save money, but you’ll also streamline your visit to multiple sites with one simple purchase.
Cost: Prices vary depending on the attractions, but discounts are typically available for those who buy in advance.
How to Buy Tickets for the Louvre Museum
Now that we’ve covered the different types of tickets, let’s discuss where and how to buy them. You have several options to choose from:
Official Website
The easiest way to secure your tickets is directly through the Louvre’s official website. You can choose your desired ticket type, select a time slot (if applicable), and pay for your tickets all in one place. This is by far the most reliable and secure method, and you’ll be able to print your tickets or have them sent to your phone.
Tip: Book in advance, especially during peak seasons like summer or the holidays. This will help guarantee entry and save you from potential disappointment if tickets sell out.
Third-Party Sellers
If you’re looking for flexibility or a potential discount, third-party vendors like Tiqets, GetYourGuide, and Viator offer Louvre tickets as well. They sometimes offer deals or packages that can include tours or skip-the-line access, and they may even allow for same-day bookings. However, do keep in mind that service fees might apply.
Pros: Sometimes cheaper, more flexible, and additional perks like tours or skip-the-line options.
Cons: Less direct than booking through the official site, and sometimes you’ll pay a little more due to third-party markup.
At the Museum
Finally, you can buy tickets directly at the museum. However, this option usually comes with a downside—long lines. While it’s certainly possible to get tickets on the day of your visit, be prepared to spend a chunk of your time waiting, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Tip: If you choose to buy tickets at the museum, try to arrive early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the heaviest crowds.
Ticket Pricing and Discounts
Here’s a quick breakdown of ticket pricing for the Louvre:
- Adults: €17 for general admission.
- EU Residents (under 26): Free.
- Children (under 18): Free.
- Special Dates: Free entry on the first Saturday of each month and other selected dates.
In addition, there are discounted tickets for students, teachers, and those with certain disabilities.
Tips for Visiting the Louvre
- Best Time to Visit: To avoid the crowds, try visiting on weekdays, early in the morning, or during the off-season (e.g., winter).
- How Much Time to Allocate: Aim for at least 2-3 hours to see the highlights. If you’re an art enthusiast, you may want to allocate a full day.
- Museum Etiquette: No flash photography is allowed, and you’re not permitted to bring food or large bags inside. Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
- What to Bring: A small bag for essentials, your tickets, and a water bottle. Large bags and strollers aren’t permitted.
Conclusion
Visiting the Louvre Museum is an amazing experience. Having the right ticket can make your trip even better. This guide teaches you about the different ticket types and the best times to visit. You will get the important details you need to enjoy your time at the Louvre. Whether you want a skip-the-line pass, a guided tour, or a combo ticket with a river cruise, planning ahead ensures a smooth and enriching visit.. Feel free to share your thoughts or ask questions in the comments below. Your ideas can help other travelers improve their visit!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a ticket for the Louvre?
Tickets to the Louvre Museum begin at €22 for general entry. This ticket lets you see the permanent collections and temporary exhibitions. You can buy tickets at the museum ticket office. You can also use the online ticketing service. Additionally, you can get tickets at entrances such as Porte des Lions.
Is it better to buy tickets in advance for the Louvre?
Sure! Buying tickets ahead of time helps you lock in a spot for your chosen time. This way, you won’t have to worry about tickets running out on the day of your visit. Having a time-stamped reservation means you will wait less in line at last entry. It also frees you from worries about the withdrawal period or any changes in service.
What days are the Louvres free?
The Louvre Museum has free admission on the first Saturday evening of each month and on Bastille Day, which is July 14th. Also, if you are under 26 and from the EU, you can enter the museum for free all year. Make sure to plan your visit around this!
How long is the wait line at the Louvre?
The line at the Louvre changes depending on the entrance. The Pyramid, which is the main entrance, often has longer lines during busy times. Entrances like Porte des Lions allow faster access for membership card holders and dear visitors. Using a time-slot ticket can help reduce waiting and make entry easier.
