Starting January 14, 2026, the Louvre’s non-European visitors will have to pay more to experience the world-famous French art museum.
According to the BBC, the Louvre’s board decided in late November to raise ticket prices for international visitors from outside the European Economic Area (EEA). The latter’s ticket price will increase by 45%, from €22 to €32 (about $37 at the time of this report).
The price change news comes over a month and a half after thieves pulled off a surprising, headline-making heist at the Louvre, escaping with eight pieces from the museum’s Napoleon-era jewelry collection.
What Else In There To Know About The Louvre’s Ticket Price Hike For Certain International Visitors?
The Louvre’s ticket price hike will apply to all those outside the European Union, Iceland, Norway, and Liechtenstein. Notably, free admission for all visitors will continue occurring “on the first Friday of the month after 6 p.m. (except in July and August).” Whether or not they pay for their ticket, visitors are highly encouraged to book their time slot in advance of arrival.
The Louvre says it welcomed 8.7 million visitors in 2024. Notably, 77% of those guests were reportedly from countries other than France – with many from the United States, China, and France’s neighbors. Earlier this year, workers at the acclaimed museum spontaneously went on strike over overtourism and their working conditions. The new tourist tax on non-EEA visitors will bring in up to €20 million annually to fund the museum’s modernization, per the BBC.
The most visited museum in the world, the Louvre is home to “The Big Three” artistic treasures – the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, and the Winged Victory. The institution boasts art from all over the world, revolving around an array of topics. Its bounty includes “Egyptian Antiquities,” religious artworks, historical relics, jewelry, and so much more. Additionally, the Louvre’s iconic and eye-catching Pyramid entrance – opened in 1989 – is one of France’s most unique and recognizable landmarks.
