There is inside information on how and when to visit some of the world’s best museums. Before the onslaught of post-pandemic tourism, the priceless tip for the best way to approach the Vatican Museums was to go after lunch. Sure, you’d only have a couple of hours before closing time, but you could walk right up to the ticket office, no line at all. Similarly, the Prado in Madrid gets packed between 10am and 2pm. Go after 2pm, when many people are eating lunch, and you’ll have a much quieter experience of the Bosches, Titans, El Grecos, and Raphaels. But, what is the best time to visit the Louvre, the museum of all art museums?
Le Musée, as some locals call it: or the Louvre, was visited by nearly 9 million people in 2024. That’s almost 25,000 people per day and almost 2,800 people per hour during the museum’s nine hours of daily opening. Therefore, with these kinds of crowds, you need to be strategic when you’re going to the Louvre.
So… When Is The Best Time To Visit The Louvre?
The Afternoon?
The correct answer is, in fact, the afternoon. Why? The peak hours end at around 2:30 or 3pm, particularly on weekdays, when the museum is actually at its busiest. (Yes, the weekdays are generally busier than weekends!)
If you come on Monday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, the museum closes at 6pm. On Wednesday and Friday, it shuts at 9pm. So, now you know this, you can plan accordingly, and make the late afternoon slot your secret weapon.
What Time Exactly?
It turns out that the optimum option is to go during the last couple of hours before closing.
And, we would suggest that you do it with an expert local tour guide on our Closing Time Tour. Why? Let us count the ways… There are 35,000 works of art on display in the Louvre. If you had all day, you would not be able to cover the entire place. And even if you could, would you want to? You’d end up zombie-walking through the last few hours, not able to take in a thing.
With a local guide, you’ll be whisked to the greatest hits of the museum. Of course, the Mona Lisa, the leading lady of the Louvre. Then to Venus de Milo; the works of Michelangelo, Titian, Caravaggio, and Raphael. Plus, there is also room for discovering artists and works of art you’re not yet familiar with.
And so, the best time to visit the Louvre is 2.5 hours before it closes. Preferably with a guide to lead you around and maximise your visit of the world’s great art museum.
What About Early Bird Access?
If your schedule doesn’t allow for an afternoon or evening visit, then consider the early bird option. The Louvre swings open its doors at 9am every day (except for Tuesday when it is closed). So, it’s a good idea to get up early and be there at, say, 8:00-8.30ish am. Then when the doors open, you’ll be one of the first people waiting in line to gain first entry. And one of the first to be standing in front of the Mona Lisa, the world’s most iconic painting!
Pre-book To Save Time
Also, buy your ticket online in advance and you’ll even save yourself some more time and hassle.
As mentioned earlier, the museum is one of the most visited in the world. Therefore, the lines at the ticket counters can be long, especially during peak travel seasons. By purchasing your ticket ahead of time, you can secure your preferred entry slot and head straight to the security line. This means you will spend more time exploring masterpieces instead of waiting outside. It’s a simple step that helps make your visit smoother, more relaxed, and far more enjoyable.
FAQs – Best Time to Visit The Louvre
Why should you take a guided tour of the Louvre?
How many times are you going to visit the Louvre in your life? Once, maybe twice? So, why not get the most out of the experience by strolling the halls and galleries of the Louvre with a local expert. Guides will lead you around to the museum’s greatest hits and give you insider information that you’d never discover otherwise. On top of that, you’re supporting the local economy by giving work to a local. It’s a win-win.
What time does the tour start and how long does it last?
On Mondays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, the tour starts at 2:45 and lasts for two and a half hours. On Wednesdays and Fridays, the 2.5-hour tour starts at 5:45pm.
What is the best time of year to visit Paris?
Like a lot of large cities in Europe, April and October are always the optimum time to visit. This shoulder season period achieves a balance between affordability, fewer crowds, and access to museums, restaurants, and cafes. In summer, when travel and temperatures are at their peak, there will be more competition for tickets and tables. In winter, prices are more affordable and crowds will be smaller, but you’ll have to brave the cold weather.
Experience the magic of the Louvre at its quietest and most captivating.
As the daytime crowd fades and the galleries grow calmer, the museum takes on an entirely different atmosphere. Book your expert-led Closing Time Louvre tour and enjoy a rare opportunity to explore the museum’s iconic masterpieces with far fewer visitors around you. With a knowledgeable guide bringing the stories behind works to life, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the art and history that make the Louvre so extraordinary.
Reserve your spot today and see the Louvre the way few visitors ever do.
