When we arrive in Paris, the Louvre Museum is a must-see. Sitting along the Seine River, this former royal palace is now one of the world’s largest and most famous art museums. Its history dates back to the late 12th century, and today we can explore centuries of art and architecture under one roof.

From medieval foundations to I.M. Pei’s modern glass pyramid, the museum offers a mix of history and culture. Visiting here is more than sightseeing—it’s an immersive journey through time.

Tickets and Opening Hours

The Louvre is open every day except Tuesday, from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with late openings until 9:45 p.m. on Wednesdays and Fridays. Standard general tickets cost $20 USD if booked online, while children under 18 and EU residents under 26 can enter for free. Booking online is highly recommended to skip long lines. If we visit on the first Saturday of each month after 6 p.m., admission is free for all visitors.

Getting There and Transportation

The museum is easy to reach via public transport:

- Metro: Palais Royal–Musée du Louvre station (Line 1) is the closest.

- Bus: Lines 21, 24, 27, 39, 48, 68, 69, 72, 81, and 95 stop nearby.

- Bike: Paris has public bike rentals; docking stations are around the Louvre.

For transportation costs, a single metro or bus ticket is $2 USD, and a 10-ticket pack is $18 USD, which can save us money if we plan to use public transport multiple times. Parking near the Louvre is limited, so public transport is preferred. Walking along the Seine is also a scenic way to approach the museum.

Best Time to Visit

To avoid crowds, early mornings or late evenings during extended hours are ideal. Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends. The museum is busiest near the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo, so we can plan to visit these first or last. Lykkers, if we want a relaxed experience, it’s best to spend at least 3–4 hours exploring, or even a full day if we want to see more galleries in depth.

Exploring the Collections

The Louvre has seven main departments: Near Eastern Antiquities, Egyptian Antiquities, Greek, Etruscan, and Roman Antiquities, Sculptures, Decorative Arts, Paintings, and Prints and Drawings. Most works date before 1860, allowing us to trace the evolution of art over thousands of years. Highlights include:

- Mona Lisa – Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece.

- Venus de Milo – Ancient Greek sculpture.

- Winged Victory of Samothrace – Iconic Hellenistic statue.

Using the official map or Louvre app helps us navigate the museum efficiently, locate restrooms, and find cafes.

Dining Options and Pricing

Inside the Louvre, there are cafés and restaurants:

- Café Richelieu – sandwiches, salads, coffee: ~$10–$15 USD.

- Le Café Marly – full meals, French cuisine: ~$25–$40 USD.

- Angelina (near the museum) – desserts and tea: ~$15–$20 USD.

Lykkers, we can also bring a small snack to enjoy in the Tuileries Garden, which is a perfect outdoor break between galleries.

Accommodation Nearby

Hotels near the Louvre range widely:

- Budget options: ~$100 USD per night, e.g., Hotel Louvre Sainte Anne.

- Mid-range: ~$200–$300 USD, e.g., Novotel Paris Les Halles.

- Luxury: $400+ USD per night, e.g., Le Meurice, Ritz Paris.

Staying nearby makes early or late visits more convenient and lets us enjoy the area around the Seine and Palais Royal.

Tips for a Smooth Visit

- Wear comfortable shoes; the museum is huge.

- Use the Louvre app or printed map to plan your route.

- We can take photos in most galleries, but it’s important to follow the posted rules in each room.

- Combine the visit with nearby attractions like Pont des Arts or Palais Royal.

- Bring water and snacks, or use museum cafés for breaks.

Wrapping Up Our Louvre Journey

Lykkers, exploring the Louvre Museum is not just about visiting a famous landmark—it’s stepping into a world of history, art, and creativity. By planning our visit, choosing the best times, and exploring both popular and hidden treasures, we can fully enjoy everything the museum has to offer. Next time we roam Paris, let’s set aside several hours for the Louvre, immerse ourselves in its masterpieces, and bring home unforgettable memories from one of the world’s most incredible museums.