Musée du Louvre

A fortress built around 1190 by Philippe Auguste, turned into a royal residence in the Renaissance then abandoned by Louis XIV for Versailles, the Louvre became a museum in 1793 when the Convention opened the royal collections to the public.

With 73,000 m² of galleries and some 35,000 works on display, it is the most visited museum in the world: the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, the Winged Victory of Samothrace, plus outstanding Egyptian and Mesopotamian departments. Pei's pyramid, inaugurated in 1989, reorganised access. Tip: enter via the Carrousel gallery or the Porte des Lions rather than the pyramid, and aim for opening time or Friday late night.

Frequently asked questions about Musée du Louvre

Where is Musée du Louvre located?

Musée du Louvre is located in the 1st arrondissement of Paris, in the Louvre area. It is easy to reach on foot from the main landmarks nearby and fits naturally into a Paris walking tour.

Is Musée du Louvre free to visit?

Indicative price: 22 €. Rates can change, so check the official website before your visit.

How long does a visit to Musée du Louvre take?

Plan around 180 minutes to enjoy Musée du Louvre at a relaxed pace — a little more in high season or if you want to take photos.

What are the opening hours of Musée du Louvre?

Mer–Lun · 9h – 18h (nocturne ven. jusqu'à 21h45) · Fermé le mardi. These hours are indicative — check public holidays and exceptional closures before you go.

Can you visit Musée du Louvre when it rains?

Yes, Musée du Louvre is largely sheltered, making it a good option for a rainy day in Paris.