The Louvre Museum in Paris, one of the world’s most renowned art institutions, is not open on Tuesdays for tourists. This closure applies throughout the year, regardless of season or special events. Tourists planning to visit the Louvre should be aware of this schedule to avoid disappointment and effectively plan their Paris itinerary. The museum’s Tuesday closure allows for essential maintenance, restoration work, and the installation of new exhibits.
Why Is the Louvre Closed on Tuesdays?
The Louvre Museum’s Tuesday closure serves several important purposes:
- Maintenance and cleaning
- Art restoration projects
- Installation of new exhibits
- Staff training and development
- Inventory and conservation work
This weekly break ensures that the museum can maintain its world-class standards and preserve its priceless collections for future generations.
What Are the Opening Hours for the Rest of the Week?
While the Louvre is closed on Tuesdays, it maintains a consistent schedule for the rest of the week:
| Day | Opening Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 9:00 – 18:00 |
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | 9:00 – 21:45 |
| Thursday | 9:00 – 18:00 |
| Friday | 9:00 – 21:45 |
| Saturday | 9:00 – 18:00 |
| Sunday | 9:00 – 18:00 |
Note: The museum is closed on January 1, May 1, and December 25.
Can Tourists Visit Any Part of the Louvre on Tuesdays?
Unfortunately, no areas of the Louvre are accessible to tourists on Tuesdays. This includes:
- All exhibition halls
- The Pyramid entrance
- The underground mall (Carrousel du Louvre)
- Museum shops and cafes
Even the exterior courtyards may have limited access due to maintenance work.
What Should Tourists Do Instead on Tuesdays in Paris?
With the Louvre closed, tourists have numerous alternative options to explore Paris on Tuesdays:
- Visit other museums:
- Musée d’Orsay
- Centre Pompidou
- Musée Rodin
- Explore iconic landmarks:
- Eiffel Tower
- Arc de Triomphe
- Notre-Dame Cathedral (exterior only due to ongoing restoration)
- Enjoy Parisian parks and gardens:
- Luxembourg Gardens
- Tuileries Garden
- Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
- Take a Seine River cruise
- Explore charming neighborhoods like Montmartre or Le Marais
How Can Tourists Plan Their Visit to the Louvre?
To make the most of your Louvre visit on other days:
- Purchase tickets in advance online to avoid long queues.
- Consider a guided tour for in-depth insights into the collections.
- Download the Louvre’s official app for navigation and audio guides.
- Plan your route through the museum based on your interests.
- Visit during extended hours on Wednesdays and Fridays for a less crowded experience.
Are There Any Exceptions to the Tuesday Closure?
The Louvre’s Tuesday closure is consistent throughout the year with very rare exceptions:
- Special exhibitions might occasionally allow limited access on Tuesdays.
- VIP or private tours are sometimes conducted on closed days.
- Researchers or scholars may be granted access for study purposes.
However, these exceptions do not apply to regular tourists, and it’s best to plan your visit on other days of the week.
What Are the Best Days to Visit the Louvre?
To optimize your Louvre experience:
- Wednesdays and Fridays: Extended evening hours until 21:45, often less crowded.
- Early mornings: Arrive at opening time (9:00) for fewer crowds.
- Off-season months: November to March (except holidays) tend to be less busy.
Avoid weekends and French school holidays if possible, as these are typically the busiest times.
How Can Tourists Make the Most of Their Louvre Visit?
To enhance your Louvre experience:
- Prioritize must-see artworks like the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory.
- Use the museum’s free Wi-Fi to access online resources and maps.
- Take breaks in the museum’s cafes or courtyards to avoid fatigue.
- Consider a multi-day pass if you want to explore the museum thoroughly.
- Check the Louvre’s official website for temporary exhibitions and events.
Remember, while the Louvre is closed on Tuesdays, Paris offers a wealth of other cultural experiences. Plan your itinerary accordingly to make the most of your time in the City of Light, ensuring you don’t miss out on the magnificent collections of the Louvre during its open days.
References:
1. Opening Hours – Louvre Museum (Paris) – Whichmuseum
2. Louvre Hours : Explore history and art at your own pace – Food Court Rivoli
3. Everything you need to know before visiting the museum – Louvre Official Website