General Information
If you’re planning a trip to Paris, chances are, the iconic Louvre museum will be top on your list of places to visit. A world-renowned repository of over 35,000 priceless works of art, the Louvre is a must-see destination for visitors. But how much it costs to enter the Louvre museum? If you’re wondering, this article will answer all your questions and provide you with detailed information on ticket prices and options available.
At the basic level, it costs only €14 for a standard ticket to the Louvre museum. Of course, there are special groups of people and programs that you may be eligible for discounts such as senior citizens (over 65) and students, which cost €7. You can buy the tickets directly at the Louvre’s main ticketing office or online. You can also purchase discounted tickets at certain shops around the city.
The Louvre museum also offers a special type of ticket which is valid for a full-day pass. This gives you access to the permanent collection, the temporary exhibitions and the attractions inside the museum like the Napoleon III apartments. A day-long ticket is priced at €21, whereas a reduced-price ticket is €12.
Practical Considerations
The Louvre museum allows visitors to stay inside the museum as long as they want. But, since the museum is large and houses several attractions, it’s best to plan your visit ahead of time. It is recommended to purchase the tickets online in advance to avoid long queues and have a hassle-free experience.
Another practical consideration is the opening and closing times of the museum. As per the Louvre website, the museum is open from 9.00 am until 6.00 pm except for Tuesdays, when it stays open until 9.50 pm. It is also important to note that the Louvre museum is closed on certain national holidays and certain special occasions, so it is best to check the website before making any plans.
Group Entries
Group entries at the Louvre museum are also available, with a minimum of 25-member groups allowed. For these larger groups, the ticket prices can be discounted as much as €7 per person. That said, it is important to note that tickets must also be purchased in advance, so if you’re considering a group visit, it’s best to plan it in advance and purchase the tickets beforehand.
Moreover, guided tours can also be arranged in advance for groups of 25 or more people. Though the cost of the tour depends upon the size and duration of the tour, it can range from €45 to €70 per group with the group being required to meet certain requirements to be eligible for the discounted rates.
Reciprocity Agreements
The Louvre is part of the reciprocal agreement system for admissions in Paris. This means that any ticket purchased for the Louvre museum is also applicable at three other museums in the city — Musée d’Orsay, Musée Rodin and the Arc de Triomphe.
That said, it is important to note that the Louvre museum ticket is only valid for a single day and cannot be used on more than one day. For anyone who plans to visit all four museums as part of a single trip, it is recommended to purchase a ‘Paris Museum Pass’ which is valid for either two, four, or six days.
Gift Vouchers
The Louvre museum also offers gift vouchers for special occasions such as weddings, birthdays, or just to show your appreciation and love for someone. These vouchers are valid for entry to the museum, and are redeemable for three months from the date of purchase.
The vouchers can be purchased in the form of physical cards or as e-vouchers and are available at the Louvre museum’s gift shop, as well as online. However, it should be noted that these vouchers can only be used for a single entry and cannot be used for groups or special events like guided tours.
Optional Extras
For those looking to gain a more detailed understanding of the museum and its exhibitions, the Louvre has several optional extras, such as audio guides, virtual tours, and private guided tours, to choose from. The cost of these extras will vary depending on the service chosen.
For example, a private guided tour usually lasts two hours, and costs €100 per group – with each group comprising of up to six people. For the audio guides, prices start at €5 per device and come pre-loaded with recorded audio narratives and music that guide visitors through their journey. On the other hand, the virtual tours are free and include extensive HD videos of the Louvre’s permanent collections, along with specific information about the pieces.
Memberships
The Louvre museum also offers special membership packages to those looking to visit the museum several times. These packages include different levels of access – from the basic membership, which offers free entrance to the museum and exclusive discounts, to the VIP package, which includes private access to certain exhibits, as well as exclusive invitations to special delicacy tasting sessions and private guided tours.
The prices for these memberships range from €25 for the basic package, to €250 for the VIP package. The membership is valid for an entire year and also serves as a great way to explore the museum’s collection in detail multiple times.
Accommodation and Transport
In addition to the ticket costs, there are also some other expenses to consider when visiting the Louvre. Specifically, there are costs associated with accommodation and transport. Hotel accommodation in Paris can range from €100 to €300 per night, while the cost of transportation varies depending on where you’re travelling from and to.
For those looking for an affordable solution, Paris has an excellent public transport system. A ticket for the metro will cost around €1.70, and can be conveniently purchased from any station. Alternatively, visitors can also opt for a one-day tourist card, which gives them unlimited access to Paris’s public transportation for the day.
Admission Policies and Procedures
It is also important to note that some other policies and procedures might be enforced at the Louvre, such as security checks and bag searches. While the majority of people won’t be affected by this, it is worth being aware of these procedures to ensure a smooth visit.
In addition to that, the museum also has a strict no photography and filming policy inside the museum, as well as a no luggage and weapons policy. Visitors are expected to abide by these policies, and are reminded to remain respectful and courteous at all times.
Conclusion
The Louvre museum is one of the most impressive collections of artwork in the world. So, if you’re considering a visit, it is important to understand the various costs associated with it, from ticket prices to transportation and accommodation. Also, various special offers and discounts are usually available, and visitors are advised to do their research before booking. By doing this, visitors can ensure their trip to the Louvre museum is both memorable and budget-friendly.
