The Louvre Museum, located in Paris, France, is one of the most famous museums in the world. It is home to thousands of works of art, including the iconic Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo. As one of the most visited attractions in the world, the Louvre welcomes millions of tourists every year. If you are planning a visit, knowing where the entrances are can save you time and help you navigate the museum more efficiently.
Main Entrance: The Pyramid Entrance
Location of the Pyramid Entrance
The main and most famous entrance to the Louvre Museum is through the glass pyramid in the Cour Napoléon courtyard. This is the central entrance and is easily recognizable due to its modern glass structure, which contrasts with the historic architecture of the Louvre Palace.
How to Access the Pyramid Entrance
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The pyramid entrance is open to all visitors, including those with tickets and those who need to purchase them.
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This entrance has security checkpoints where bags are checked before entry.
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It is often the busiest entrance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Best Time to Use the Pyramid Entrance
If you plan to enter through the glass pyramid, it is best to arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid long queues. The busiest times are usually between 10 AM and 3 PM, especially on weekends and holidays.
Alternative Entrances to the Louvre
Since the pyramid entrance can get crowded, the Louvre offers alternative entrances that may be faster, depending on the time of your visit.
1. Carrousel du Louvre Entrance (Mall Entrance)
Location
- This entrance is located at 99 Rue de Rivoli and provides access through an underground shopping mall, the Carrousel du Louvre.
Advantages
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It is less crowded than the pyramid entrance.
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Visitors can access it directly from the Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre Metro Station.
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There are shops and restaurants inside, making it a convenient place to explore before or after your visit.
2. Porte des Lions Entrance
Location
- The Porte des Lions entrance is located on the south side of the museum, near the Seine River.
Who Can Use It?
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This entrance is sometimes closed, so checking availability before visiting is recommended.
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It is ideal for visitors who want to see the Italian paintings section, including the Mona Lisa, as it provides a direct route to that gallery.
3. Passage Richelieu Entrance
Location
- This entrance is located on Rue de Rivoli, near the Palais Royal.
Who Can Use It?
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It is reserved for groups and visitors with memberships such as the Amis du Louvre.
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If you qualify to use this entrance, it is one of the quickest ways to enter the museum.
Tips for Entering the Louvre Efficiently
To make your visit smoother, here are some important tips:
1. Buy Tickets in Advance
Purchasing your tickets online before arriving can save you a lot of time. You can skip the ticket purchase lines and go straight to security.
2. Choose the Right Entrance
If the pyramid entrance is crowded, try using the Carrousel du Louvre entrance or check if Porte des Lions is open.
3. Visit During Off-Peak Hours
The Louvre is busiest in the middle of the day. If possible, visit early in the morning (before 10 AM) or later in the afternoon (after 4 PM).
4. Use Public Transportation
The Louvre is easily accessible by metro. The closest station is Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre (Lines 1 and 7), which connects directly to the underground mall entrance.
5. Travel Light
Large bags and suitcases are not allowed inside the museum, and there are security checks at all entrances. Bringing only essential items will help speed up your entry.
What to Expect After Entering the Louvre
Once you pass security, you will find yourself in the main lobby beneath the pyramid, known as the Hall Napoléon. Here, you can:
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Collect an audio guide or museum map to help navigate the exhibits.
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Visit the ticket counters if you need assistance.
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Head towards the Denon, Richelieu, or Sully wings, where the museum’s most famous artworks are displayed.
The Louvre Museum has multiple entrances, with the glass pyramid being the most well-known. However, for a faster and more convenient entry, visitors can also use the Carrousel du Louvre, Porte des Lions, or Passage Richelieu entrances. Planning ahead, arriving early, and knowing the best entrance to use can enhance your experience and allow you to enjoy the Louvre without unnecessary delays.