No trip to Paris is complete without stepping into the Musée du Louvre—a global icon of art, history, and culture. Home to thousands of masterpieces, from ancient civilizations to the Renaissance and beyond, the Louvre isn’t just the largest museum in the world—it’s also one of the most fascinating.
Whether you're an art lover, a history buff, or simply curious, the Louvre offers an unforgettable journey through time, beauty, and creativity.
From Royal Palace to Cultural Powerhouse
Long before it became a museum, the Louvre was a royal residence. Originally built as a fortress in the 12th century, it was transformed into a palace by the 16th century and later opened as a public museum in 1793 during the French Revolution.
Today, the Louvre’s glass pyramid, designed by architect I.M. Pei and added in 1989, has become a symbol of modern Paris. It marks the main entrance and beautifully contrasts with the classical architecture that surrounds it.
Masterpieces You Can’t Miss
With over 35,000 works of art on display, the Louvre can be overwhelming—but a few pieces are absolute must-sees:
- The Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci: Arguably the most famous painting in the world, she’s smaller than you might expect, but always draws a crowd.
- The Venus de Milo: This ancient Greek sculpture, representing the goddess Aphrodite, is admired for its timeless beauty.
- The Winged Victory of Samothrace: Perched dramatically on a staircase, this Hellenistic sculpture captures movement and grace like few others.
- Liberty Leading the People by Delacroix: A powerful symbol of revolution and resistance in French history.
Beyond the icons, there’s so much more to explore—Egyptian mummies, Islamic art, medieval tapestries, and lesser-known gems that reward those who take their time.
Plan Your Visit Smartly
The Louvre is vast—it's nearly impossible to see everything in one visit. Before you go, decide what you want to focus on: maybe Renaissance paintings, ancient Egypt, or French sculpture. You can download the official Louvre app or grab a museum map to plan your route.
To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or on weekday evenings. Wednesday and Friday nights offer late openings, which are perfect for a quieter experience.
Accessibility and Tickets
The main entrance is through the glass pyramid in the Cour Napoléon. The closest Metro stop is Palais Royal–Musée du Louvre (Lines 1 and 7). Tickets can be purchased online in advance, and entry is free for EU residents under 26.
The museum is closed on Tuesdays, so plan accordingly!
Buy your tickets
- Louvre Museum: E-Ticket : from 22 EUR
- Louvre Museum: Dedicated Entry + Guided Tour : from 49 EUR
- Louvre Museum: Dedicated Entry + Small Group Guided Tour : from 100 EUR
