The Louvre Museum: Top Tips, Must-Sees, & More

Have you ever wondered where the famous Mona Lisa painting was located? Yep, it’s hanging in most famous museum in the world: the Musée du Louvre.

While seeing the iconic Mona Lisa in person will be a highlight, there is SO much more to the Louvre Museum that makes it incredible.

What is the significance of the Louvre?

This historical landmark in Paris is the world’s largest art museum. The structure was originally built as the “Louvre Castle,” but in 1546, it was converted into the primary residence of the French Kings. Eventually, the castle expanded to form the present “Louvre Palace,” which is where the museum is located and what you would visit today.

What I find most interesting is that the Louvre was home to King Louis XIV before he chose the Palace of Versailles as his household. So, if you visit Versailles in addition to the Louvre, you will be seeing the two places that King Louis XIV considered home. Pretty neat!

What are the highlights?

Every inch of the Louvre Museum is breathtaking and could be considered a “highlight.” Here are are some of the can’t-miss sites:

• Louvre Pyramids. The largest and most beautiful glass pyramid is also the museum’s main entrance.
• Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel. This beautiful piece of architecture is across the street from the pyramids. I think it’s just as beautiful as the Arc de Triomphe on Champs-Élysées!
• Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci (Denon Wing, Room 711). You will definitely have to shift through the crowds to get a good look at the painting, which is behind bulletproof glass. It’s worth the fight!
• Venus de Milo (Sully Wing, Room 346). One of the most famous sculptors in the world.
• The Winged Victory of Samothrace (Denon Wing, Room 711). You can find the iconic sculptor at the top of the Daru staircase.
• Liberty Guiding the People by Delacroix (Denon Wing, Room 700). This painting depicts one of the famous events in French history.
• & more! There is an endless amount to see.

How much time do I need to visit?

We made the Louvre a quick stop during our time in Paris, and our only regret was not dedicating an entire day to the museum and the grounds. You can see some of the major highlights in a few hours, but we would suggest allotting a whole day. This gives you plenty of time to enjoy all that the Louvre has to offer.

You can also opt to book a tour of the Louvre. These are some of our favorite options…

Other recommendations:

• For a beautiful view and memorable snack, head to the The Café Mollien. It’s located on the 1st floor in the Denon wing, just steps away from the Mona Lisa. There are two reasons why I love this adorable cafe…the terrace with a stunning view overlooking the courtyard & pyramids, and the pyramid-shaped chocolate mousse dessert!
• Take time to stroll through the courtyard and photograph the pyramids from all angles.
• Arrive to museum as early as possible and head straight to the Mona Lisa. You might have less crowds to avoid if you get there at opening.
• If visiting in the summer, purchase a skip-the-line ticket in advance.
• Visit the courtyard at night to see the pyramids beautifully lit up.

As you can see, the Louvre Museum is one of Paris’ top attractions for obvious reasons. From the world-class art to the Parisian architecture, you will forever treasure your memories at the Louvre!

Address: Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France
Admission: click here for current prices
Website: https://www.louvre.fr/

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