Louvre Museum travel guide

The Louvre Museum, known as Musée du Louvre in French, is a historic monument in Paris and a national treasure. Its roots trace back to the 12th century when it was built as a fortress by Philip II. After Louis XIV chose the Palace of Versailles as his household in 1682, the Louvre became a display place for the royal collection.

The museum opened its doors to the public in 1793, during the French Revolution, showcasing 537 paintings and the crown jewels. The collection grew under Napoleon and the museum was renamed the 'Napoleon Museum'. It reverted to its original name, Louvre, after his downfall.

The Louvre underwent significant expansions in the 19th century, notably with the addition of Napoleon III apartments and the installation of the glass Pyramid entrance in 1989. Today, it houses more than 380,000 objects and displays 35,000 works of art, becoming the world's largest and most visited art museum.

Discover Louvre Museum, a prime feature of Paris, in the vibrant Saint-Germain-l'Auxerrois. Louvre Museum is situated at Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France, just a short distance from Pont des Arts and Musée des Arts Décoratifs, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Louvre Museum, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Paris, a city in France rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Discover the best time to visit Paris to fully enjoy the seasonal charm of Louvre Museum. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Paris travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

Louvre Museum is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Paris, France. If you're flying in or planning to book a flight to Paris, Charles de Gaulle Airport is approximately 14 miles (22.6 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach Louvre Museum by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Paris, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Louvre Museum, which is located 0.7 miles (1.1 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Louvre Museum!

To truly enjoy your visit to Louvre Museum, joining a guided tour of this renowned museum in Paris is highly recommended. As one of France's most iconic attractions, Louvre Museum draws visitors from across the globe, often leading to long queues and limited availability.

Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience. With the biggest selection of tours and tickets in Paris, you’re sure to find an option that fits your schedule and preferences.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Louvre Museum starting at just 2.99 EUR below. Enjoy benefits like free cancellation and 24/7 customer support for added convenience.

The best time to explore Louvre Museum is during the off-peak tourist season, typically from October to March. During these months, the crowd levels are considerably lower, allowing you to enjoy the museum's marvelous exhibits without much hassle. The weather during this period is also cooler, making it more comfortable to wait in lines, especially if you plan on arriving early to beat the crowds. That being said, Wednesday and Friday evenings are a hidden gem as the museum stays open until 9:45 pm, allowing for a quieter, more romantic experience. Moreover, the museum hosts unique seasonal events and exhibitions that can enhance your visit. For instance, in the late fall, the museum often showcases special exhibits that coincide with the cultural season in Paris. Always check the museum's official website before your visit for the most current information and to plan your visit effectively. Regardless of the time of year, the world-renowned Louvre Museum offers a uniquely enriching experience.

If you're looking for an effortless way to explore Louvre Museum, perfectly planned travel packages to Paris make it easy and enjoyable, all while keeping costs manageable. With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Paris, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Louvre Museum.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic museum in France.

Upon arriving at Charles de Gaulle Airport, you’ll find 3 reputable rental car companies conveniently situated near the city of Paris.

Click 'See More' to unlock other affordable car rental options in Paris.

Choosing the right accommodation near Louvre Museum from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Paris can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Louvre Museum, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Louvre Museum, Paris boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From establishment to park, the top attractions in Paris offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Paris is Eiffel Tower, located at Champ de Mars, 5 Av. Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France. This well-known establishment enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Arc de Triomphe is worth seeing when you're in Paris. It's a popular museum that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Pl. Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, France.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Champ de Mars completes any trip to Paris. This park draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at 2 All. Adrienne Lecouvreur, 75007 Paris, France, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Paris below to discover even more incredible places to explore.