Paris: Louvre Museum Timed-Entrance Ticket

Must Do Experiences

• Stand in awe before Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa in the Salle des États

• Marvel at the graceful Venus de Milo sculpture in the Greek antiquities wing

• Explore the grand Galerie d'Apollon, a breathtaking gallery of royal jewels and treasures

• Wander through the Egyptian Antiquities collection featuring ancient sarcophagi and artifacts

Hidden Gems

• Visit the Islamic Art department, a hidden treasure trove often overlooked by first-time visitors

• Explore the quieter Decorative Arts galleries on the ground floor for a more peaceful experience

• Discover the lesser-known Paintings of Northern Europe in the Richelieu wing, where you can enjoy masterpieces by Vermeer and Rembrandt with far fewer crowds

What Makes it Special

• Skip-the-ticket-line entrance saves you up to 30 minutes of waiting in often lengthy queues

• Self-guided exploration at your own pace means you can linger at your favorite artworks without any rush

• Spanning eight departments and over 35,000 works of art, the Louvre offers an unparalleled journey through human history

• The museum's stunning architecture, from the iconic glass pyramid to the opulent palace halls, is an attraction in itself

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

Visit early in the morning right at opening time or in the late afternoon to avoid the largest crowds. The months of November through March are ideal for a quieter experience, while Wednesday and Friday evenings offer a magical atmosphere with extended hours and fewer visitors.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Flash photography is not permitted in most galleries, so rely on natural lighting and adjust your camera settings accordingly

• For the best Mona Lisa photos without the worst crowds, visit between 9 AM and 10 AM or after 4 PM

• Use a zoom lens or smartphone digital zoom to capture the Mona Lisa from a respectful distance while still getting a great shot

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

The Louvre is a place of reverence for art, so maintain a respectful volume and avoid running through the galleries French museum etiquette expects visitors to keep arms and legs clear of display cases and barriers It is considered polite to say bonjour when entering any shop or service counter during your visit

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Louvre Nights: Select evenings feature extended hours with live music and special programs throughout the museum

• Summer at the Louvre: During July and August, the museum offers special late-night openings and outdoor events in the courtyard

• Fridays after 6 PM: The museum stays open late on Fridays during the tourist season for a more relaxed and atmospheric experience

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Pickpocketing can be common in crowded areas around the Mona Lisa and main entrances, so keep your belongings secure and use a cross-body bag

• Stay aware of your surroundings in the busy galleries and keep valuables out of sight

• Keep your timed-entry ticket readily accessible as you may need to show it at security checkpoints