The Timeless Allure of the Louvre Museum
Discover the world’s largest art museum, the Louvre, home to famous masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and a treasure trove of history in Paris.
Nestled in the heart of Paris, the Louvre Museum stands as a beacon of art and history, attracting millions of visitors each year. Originally a royal palace, this magnificent structure dates back to the late 12th century and has been transformed into one of the largest and most visited museums in the world. With over 380,000 works of art, including masterpieces by renowned artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Delacroix, the Louvre offers a breathtaking journey through time and culture. As you wander through its grand halls, you'll encounter the enigmatic smile of the Mona Lisa, the striking beauty of the Venus de Milo, and the grandeur of the Winged Victory of Samothrace. Each piece tells a story, connecting you to the past and the artists who created them. The museum's layout is both vast and intricate, making it essential to plan your visit. Allocate ample time to explore the diverse collections that span from ancient civilizations to modern art. The Louvre is not just about the art; it’s also an architectural marvel. The juxtaposition of the historic palace with the modern glass pyramid entrance designed by I.M. Pei is a sight to behold. This landmark has become synonymous with the Louvre and offers a stunning contrast to the classical architecture of the museum. When planning your visit, consider the best times to go; weekdays and late evenings are typically less crowded, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the masterpieces without the hustle and bustle of peak tourist hours. With its rich history, extraordinary collections, and unparalleled beauty, the Louvre Museum promises an unforgettable experience for every visitor.
Local tips
- Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid long lines.
- Consider a guided tour to enhance your experience and learn about the art.
- Visit on Wednesday or Friday evenings when the museum is open later and less crowded.
- Take advantage of the free admission on the first Saturday of each month.
- Don’t forget to explore the beautiful gardens around the museum for a perfect photo opportunity.
A brief summary to Louvre Museum
- Paris, 75001, FR
- +33140205317
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving, the Louvre Museum is located at 75001 Paris. From central Île-de-France, take the A1 motorway towards Paris. Follow signs for the Paris center and exit at 'Louvre'. Note that parking near the museum can be limited and expensive, so consider using the underground parking at Carrousel du Louvre (entrance via Rue de Rivoli) which costs approximately €20 for 2 hours.
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Metro
To reach the Louvre Museum by Metro, take Line 1 (the yellow line) to Palais Royal - Musée du Louvre station. Upon exiting the station, follow signs for the Louvre Museum. The museum is directly accessible from the station via a short walk. A single Metro ticket costs about €1.90.
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Bus
For those preferring to take the bus, several lines stop near the Louvre Museum. You can take bus lines 21, 27, 39, 48, or 67, all of which have stops close to the museum. A single bus ticket costs €1.90, and the tickets can be used interchangeably on buses and the Metro.
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RER (Regional Express Network)
If you are coming from further away, you can take the RER C train to the Musée d'Orsay stop, then transfer to Metro Line 12 towards Mairie d'Issy, and change at Concorde station to Line 1 towards Château de Vincennes. Alight at Palais Royal - Musée du Louvre. This option may be more expensive, costing around €5 for a one-way ticket.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby or have arrived at one of the nearby stations, the Louvre Museum is also accessible on foot. Look for signs leading to the museum from major landmarks such as the Palais Royal or Place Vendôme, which are both within a 15-20 minute walking distance.
Attractions Nearby to Louvre Museum
- Cour Carrée
- Musée du Louvre - Département des Antiquités Orientales
- Krilata pobjeda Samotrake
- Victoire de Samothrace
- Galerie d'Apollon
- Louvre Pyramid
- Auditorium du Louvre - Michel Laclotte
- Musée du Louvre - Galerie des Antiquités
- Colonnade de Perrault
- Monument of Gaspard de Coligny of Châtillon
- Louis XIV sous les traits de Marcus Curtius (copie)
- Église Protestante
- Eglise Réformée de l'Oratoire du Louvre
- Protestant church of the Oratory of the Louvre
- Pont des Arts
Landmarks nearby to Louvre Museum
- Société des Amis du Louvre
- Tourism France Louvre
- Loi Monuments Historiques
- Au Bourdon d'or
- Jacques De Molay (Knight Templar) Memorial
- Equestrian Statue of Henri IV
- Jardin du Palais Royal
- Pont Neuf
- Statue of Joan of Arc Paris
- Statue of Louis XIV
- Rene Sahors birth place. Rene Sahors née ici.
- Grand Bassin Rond
- Tomb of Admiral de Grasse
- Pa_1487
- Place Furstemberg