CityBuddy
Louvre Museum
Tickets: book ahead or walk in?
Timed entry slots sell out on peak days, so book ahead online.
How far ahead
A few days to a week in summer
Ticket release
Official tickets released online at louvre.fr, typically up to a month ahead
Timed entry
Yes
Typical price
EUR 22
Busiest
Mona Lisa hall, 9:00-11:00 and all day in summer
Quietest time
Friday late opening after 18:00
Skip-the-line ticket
Worth it
Best time to visit
Early morning on weekdays, when galleries are quieter and lines shorter; late evenings on days with extended opening offer fewer visitors and a calmer pace.
Budget tips
Standard timed-ticket admission applies; Paris Museum Pass covers entry, free admission is available for under 18s and EU residents under 26, and the museum offers free entry on the first Saturday evening of each month and on Bastille Day, so book online in advance to avoid queues.
Recommended for
Art lovers, History buffs, Architecture fans, Families with older children
Plan your visit
2-4 hours
About
Quick facts: Step inside to wander through a labyrinth of over 35,000 artworks, where every corner hides a masterpiece from ancient civilizations to contemporary art. The labyrinth's iconic glass pyramid floods the space with natural light, creating a stunning contrast between modern architecture and historic grandeur.
Highlights: Over 35,000 pieces of art are on display, but one quirky tradition involves a secret underground tunnel once used by kings for discreet comings and goings. A favorite oddity is the barely noticeable 'Idiot's Room', a tiny hidden chamber once meant for guards to keep watch without being seen, offering a ghostly glimpse into the palace's past.
Insider tips
- Arrive at opening and head straight to the Denon wing for the Mona Lisa to avoid the midday crush.
- Enter through the Carrousel du Louvre entrance to often skip the longest Pyramid security lines.
- Wear comfortable shoes and carry a charged phone, the museum is huge and the official map app helps navigate.
- No-flash photography is allowed in most galleries, avoid large backpacks or use the cloakroom to speed security.
Practical info
Closed on TuesdayOpen late until 21:00 on Wed and Fri
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