The Louvre
Paris’ epic collection of world famous artworks
France > Paris > The Louvre
The Louvre is less a museum and more a small city of art: over 35,000 works on display spread across a former royal palace beside the Seine in central Paris. Expect to feel a bit overwhelmed at first – that’s normal.
Most visitors enter via the glass pyramid in the Cour Napoléon, which leads down into the main Hall Napoléon. If you already have a timed ticket, you can usually move more quickly through security; buying in advance is strongly recommended, as same-day slots can sell out quick.
First-timers often head straight to three big names in the Denon Wing: the Mona Lisa, the Winged Victory of Samothrace at the top of the Daru staircase, and the vast Coronation of Napoleon.
They are impressive, but the experience is better if you combine them with quieter rooms nearby – for example, linger in the Italian Renaissance galleries after seeing Leonardo, or explore the Egyptian collection for a complete change of mood.
Because the Louvre is huge, it helps to decide in advance what you care about most: ancient Egypt, Greek sculpture, French painting, Islamic art or decorative arts. The museum’s own “visitor trails” give ready-made 1½–3-hour routes themed around highlights, families, or specific interests; they’re easy to follow and a good way to keep the visit manageable.
If you can, go for the first entry of the day or a Friday late opening. Crowds thin out, the palace feels calmer, and you get more time actually looking at the art rather than at the backs of other people’s phones.
Essential Information
Paris, IDF, 75001
Website: louvre.fr/en
Hours: Mon, Thur, Sat & Sun 9am-6pm, Wed & Fri 9am-9pm, closed 1 Jan, 1 May, 25 Dec
Tickets: €22.00, u18s & concessions free
Transport: Palais Royal - Musée du Louvre or Louvre - Rivoli, Paris Metro
More Paris
