The Definitive Guide to the Museum’s Highlights and Secrets
Louvre Guide : The Louvre Museum in Paris is the world’s most visited art museum and a cultural icon that holds thousands of treasures spanning centuries of history. Whether you’re standing before the Mona Lisa, wandering through the Egyptian wing, or marveling at the grandeur of the glass pyramid, the Louvre offers something magical for everyone. This Louvre Guide will take you step by step through everything you need to know—its history, highlights, hidden masterpieces, ticketing, tours, family tips, and more—so you can make the most of your visit.
The History Guide to the Louvre Museum
The Louvre wasn’t always a museum. Its story is as fascinating as the art inside. The Louvre began as a 12th-century fortress, protecting Paris from invaders. Later, it became a royal residence, hosting kings and queens before transforming into the world’s most famous museum in 1793. Over centuries, expansions brought in masterpieces from every corner of the globe. In 1989, the glass pyramid by I. M. Pei gave the Louvre its modern identity—an iconic blend of past and present.The Glass Pyramid, designed by architect I. M. Pei, sparked controversy when unveiled but has since become a Paris icon. Its design symbolizes transparency and modernity, beautifully blending with the classic Renaissance architecture of the palace.
The Louvre’s Origins as a Fortress
The Louvre began life in the 12th century as a fortress built by King Philippe Auguste to defend Paris from invaders. Its medieval remnants can still be seen in the basement.
Louvre Palace to Museum Guide
In the 16th century, it was transformed into a royal palace, home to French monarchs until Louis XIV moved his court to Versailles. In 1793, during the French Revolution, the palace officially became a public museum.
Louvre Expansions and Modern Pyramid
Over centuries, the museum expanded with new wings and collections. In 1989, architect I. M. Pei’s glass pyramid became the museum’s main entrance, blending modern architecture with historical grandeur.
Visitor’s Guide to Planning a Louvre Trip
Planning ahead ensures your Louvre visit is smooth and enjoyable.
Opening Hours: The Louvre welcomes visitors daily from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with the exception of Tuesdays, when the museum remains closed. On Fridays, the museum stays open later, with extended hours until 9:45 p.m.
Ticket Prices: Admission fees depend on the type of ticket and access chosen. General entry tickets are priced from €22 for adults, while discounted rates are available for students and children. Some exhibitions may require an additional fee.
Best Times to Visit the Louvre
Early mornings and weekday evenings are the quietest. The Louvre is closed on Tuesdays, so plan accordingly.
Time Management Guide for the Louvre
You could spend weeks exploring, but for most visitors, 2–3 hours is enough to cover highlights. Art lovers may want a full day.
First-Time Louvre Visitor Guide
Don’t try to see it all. Pick a few sections or highlights, and allow time to simply wander. Download the map in advance to avoid getting lost.
Booking Ticket for the Louvre Museum
Buying the right ticket saves time and stress.
Online Ticket for the Louvre
Book tickets in advance on the official Louvre website. This guarantees entry and saves hours of waiting.
On-Site Ticket Purchase at the Louvre
Tickets are available at the museum, but lines can be very long, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Skip-the-Line Ticket for the Louvre
Consider a skip-the-line pass if you’re on a tight schedule. Some Louvre guided tours also include priority access.
Tour Guide vs Audio Guide at the Louvre
Which is better: hiring a licensed guide in Paris or exploring with an audio guide?
Licensed Tour Guide for the Louvre Experience
A professional guide brings art to life with stories, context, and hidden details. Great for first-time visitors.
Audio Guide for a Self-Guided Louvre Tour
The Louvre’s official audio guide is affordable, flexible, and lets you explore at your own pace.
Choosing Between Tour Guide and Audio Guide at the Louvre
If you want convenience, pick the audio guide. For a richer, more educational experience, go with a licensed guide.
The Louvre 3 Main Wings Guide
The Louvre Museum is divided into three main wings, each holding its own unique treasures. Here’s a breakdown to help you navigate:
The Denon Wing Louvre Guide (South Wing)
- The most popular wing, home to the Mona Lisa and Liberty Leading the People.
- Famous for Italian Renaissance art, French Romantic paintings, and masterpieces.
- The Winged Victory of Samothrace, The Raft of the Medusa, and Mona Lisa.
The Richelieu Wing Louvre Guide (North Wing)
- Known for sculptures, decorative arts, and royal apartments.
- Houses the Napoleon III Apartments, giving visitors a glimpse of imperial luxury.
- Rich in Northern European art, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer.
- The Lacemaker by Vermeer, Code of Hammurabi, and Napoleon Apartments.
The Sully Wing Louvre Guide (East Wing)
- The oldest part of the Louvre, built around the original medieval fortress.
- Perfect for history lovers—contains the Egyptian Antiquities.
- Also contains the foundations of the original Louvre fortress.
- Don’t miss: Venus de Milo, Great Sphinx of Tanis, and medieval artifacts.
- Highlight Guide to the Louvre’s Masterpieces
No Louvre Guide is complete without the Louvre museum’s most famous works.
Mona Lisa at the Louvre
Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece draws millions every year. Her mysterious smile is protected behind bulletproof glass in the Denon Wing.
Venus de Milo Sculpture in the Louvre
This ancient Greek statue of Aphrodite is admired for its elegance despite its missing arms. Together with the Mona Lisa and The Winged Victory of Samothrace, the Venus de Milo is one of the three most famous art pieces. Her name comes from the Greek island of Melos (now called Milos), where she was found in 1820 and acquired almost immediately by the Marquis de Rivière. He then presented her to King Louis XVIII, who donated her to the Louvre in March 1821.
Winged Victory of Samothrace
A stunning Hellenistic sculpture that seems to defy gravity, representing the goddess Nike. The Winged Victory of Samothrace, or the Niké of Samothrace is a votive monument originally discovered on the island of Samothrace in the northeastern Aegean Sea. It is a masterpiece of Greek sculpture from the Hellenistic era, dating from the beginning of the 2nd century BC (190 BC). It is composed of a statue representing the goddess Niké (Victory), whose head and arms are missing and its base is in the shape of a ship’s bow.
Great Sphinx of Tanis at the Louvre
This enormous Egyptian relic, dating back 4,000 years, towers in the Egyptian Antiquities wing. The Great Sphinx of Tanis is an ancient Egyptian pink granite sculpture of a sphinx. It was discovered in the ruins of the Temple of Amun-Ra in Tanis, Egypt’s capital during the 21st and the 22nd dynasties. It was created much earlier, but when exactly remains debated with hypotheses of the 4th Dynasty (26th century BC) or the 12th Dynasty.
Liberty Leading the People Painting in the Louvre
Delacroix’s revolutionary painting captures the spirit of freedom and has become a French national symbol. Liberty Leading the People (French: La Liberté guidant le peuple) is a painting of the Romantic era by the French artist Eugène Delacroix, commemorating the July Revolution of 1830 that toppled King Charles X.
Hidden Masterpieces Guide to the Louvre
Beyond the crowds, the Louvre hides treasures waiting to be discovered.
Sleeping Hermaphroditus Sculpture
This Roman sculpture surprises viewers when they see both masculine and feminine forms in one figure described as a good early Imperial Roman copy of a bronze original.
The Lacemaker by Vermeer
The Lacemaker is a painting by the Dutch artist Johannes Vermeer (1632–1675). A small but powerful painting that captures quiet concentration, showcasing Vermeer’s genius.
Psyche Revived by Cupid’s Kiss
It represents the god Cupid in the height of love and tenderness, immediately after awakening the lifeless Psyche with a kiss. Marble sculpture by Canova embodies rmythological drama.
Napoleon III Apartments
The apartments have been open to the public since 1993. Lavish 19th-century apartments filled with chandeliers, gilded furniture, and opulence.
The Code of Hammurabi
One of the oldest known legal systems in history, this ancient Babylonian law code provides a fascinating window into the world of early civilization.
The Apollo Gallery
Situated in the Richelieu Wing, it showcases the Crown Jewels of France, including the renowned Regent Diamond and Napoleon I’s coronation crown.
The Islamic Art Collection
Found in the Cour Visconti, this collection highlights stunning ceramics, textiles, and metalwork from heritage of the Middle East and North Africa.
Family Guide to the Louvre with Kids
The Louvre can be a magical adventure for children if planned right.
Family-Friendly Louvre for Children
Opt for family tours that make art interactive with games and storytelling.
Interactive Activities Guide for Kids at the Louvre
The museum offers workshops, scavenger hunts, and hands-on activities
Best Sections for Kids
Children are captivated by Egyptian mummies, Greek statues, and knights’ armor.
Architecture Guide to the Louvre and Glass Pyramid
The Louvre itself is a masterpiece of architecture.
I. M. Pei’s Design to the Louvre Pyramid
Unveiled in 1989, was initially controversial but is now an icon of Paris.
Symbolism of the Glass Pyramid
The pyramid represents modernity while echoing Egypt’s ancient past.
Blending Modern and Classical Louvre Architecture
The combination of a Renaissance palace with modern glass makes it unique.
Collection Guide to Must-See Louvre Sections
The Louvre holds over 35,000 artworks spread across eight departments.
Egyptian Antiquities
Discover mummies, sarcophagi, and hieroglyphics that bring ancient Egypt to life.
Greek, Etruscan, and Roman Collections
Marvel at statues, mosaics, and artifacts from classical civilizations.
Near Eastern Antiquities
Step into Mesopotamia with artifacts from the world’s earliest civilizations.
Decorative Arts Collection
This section showcases medieval jewels, furniture, and everyday objects of royalty.
Shopping Guide at the Louvre
- Museum gift shop: Art books, replicas, and unique souvenirs.
- Carrousel du Louvre: A shopping mall beneath the pyramid.
Accessibility at the Louvre
The Louvre is wheelchair-friendly with elevators, ramps, and free entry for visitors with disabilities and their companions. Wheelchairs and folding chairs are available upon request.
Practical Tips for Visiting
- Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll walk miles inside.
- Photography is allowed, but no flash near paintings.
- Expect airport-style security checks at entrances.
Louvre Guide: Your Complete Handbook to Discovering the Louvre’s Greatest Treasures
The Louvre Museum is more than just a gallery—it’s a journey through human history and creativity. From the Mona Lisa’s enigmatic smile to forgotten masterpieces tucked away in quiet corners, every visit feels like a discovery. Whether you’re going solo, with a guide, or with family, this Louvre Guide will help you make the most of your adventure.
FAQs
1. How long does the Louvre Guide recommend for a visit?
Around 2–3 hours for highlights, a full day for deeper exploration.
2. Can you visit the Louvre for free?
Yes, it’s free on the first Saturday of each month after 6 p.m.
3. Is the Louvre Guide suitable for kids?
Yes! With scavenger hunts, armor displays, and Egyptian mummies, kids love it.
4. What is the best entrance according to the Louvre Guide?
The Carrousel du Louvre entrance is less crowded than the main pyramid.
5. Do you need a tour guide for the Louvre?
Not required, but a guide enriches your visit with history and hidden insights.