Introduction – The Louvre
The Louvre Museum is one of the world’s most iconic and visited sites. It houses one of the most impressive collections of art, including masterpieces such as the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. Not only is the Louvre a great source of cultural enrichment and education, it also has a significant historical importance and charm that many people from around the world come to appreciate. Therefore, when is the Louvre museum open?
Opening Hours
The Louvre is open every day except Tuesdays, the 1st of May, the 14th of July, the 1st of November and the 25th of December. On normal days the museum is open from 9:00am until 6:00pm. However, on Wednesdays and Fridays the Louvre is open until 9:45pm. Also, during the summertime the museum is open until 9:00pm on Saturdays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. On days where the museum is open late, the ticket office closes at 8:00pm. Therefore, it is important to factor this in when planning your visit.
Pre-booking Tickets
It is highly recommended to purchase tickets for the Louvre online before your visit to avoid waiting in long queues at the ticket office. Pre-booking tickets will give you priority access entering the museum from the priority entrance of the Pyramid. Tickets for the Louvre cost 17€ for adults, but are free for people under 25 from the EU as well as people with disabilities and their accompanying carer.
Monument Pass
The Monument Pass is a ticket for the Louvre that allows the holder to visit 7 Parisian monuments, including the Louvre, the Sainte-Chapelle, and the Conciergerie. It costs 48€ and it should be purchased at one of the registered ticket offices. This ticket allows the holder to visit the participating monuments without having to wait in the regular queue.
Mobile App
The Louvre has a mobile app which can be downloaded for iOS and Android. This app provides access to the Louvre’s collections, detailed guides and interactive maps. With this mobile app you can get an audio or video guide for 10€, which grants you access to ninety-minutes of audio commentary about the museum and its notable artworks. Moreover, the app provides real-time access to the museum so that visitors can plan their visit according to the crowds in each part of the museum.
Group Visits
Groups of 10 or more can reduce their entrance fee by booking in advance. Group visits can also be accompanied by an official guide from the Louvre, who offer guided tours and workshops. Getting a guided tour from an expert will provide an excellent experience, as they are likely to be aware of some details that would otherwise remain unnoticed.
Guided Tours & Workshops
The Louvre offers a wide range of guided tours and workshops for visitors, ranging from 1 hour guided tours of the collection, to 4 hour workshops that explore a particular period of art. These guided tours and workshops can be booked in advance, however, they are subject to availability. Guided tour and workshop prices range from 9€ to 28€. Booking through the official ticket office is recommended to avoid any other expenses.
Conclusion
The Louvre is open every day from 9am to 6pm, with extended opening hours on Wednesdays, Fridays and the summertime. Pre-booking, the Monument Pass and the mobile app all provide excellent options for visiting the Louvre in style. Groups will get a discounted entrance fee, and the museum also offers a wide range of guided tours and workshops.
