Visiting the Louvre at night

louvre at night

Experience the Louvre Museum like never before—under the enchanting glow of evening lights. With cooler weather and fewer crowds, visiting the Louvre at night offers a magical atmosphere to explore its world-famous galleries. Open until 9pm every Wednesday and Friday, it’s the perfect opportunity for culture enthusiasts to discover or rediscover their favorite masterpieces in a whole new light.

What makes the Louvre magical at night?

The Louvre is a great place to visit at night for a variety of reasons. The low number of visitors is the main cause. You may not have all the galleries to yourself, but you will surely come close to it!
After the crowds have dissipated, the museum and its iconic glass pyramid are illuminated against the dark sky, creating a stunning contrast. The soft lighting reflects off the glass and the surrounding water, creating an almost ethereal atmosphere.
If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the pyramid reflecting in the water of the surrounding fountains, adding to the magical atmosphere. The night-time Louvre feels like a peaceful sanctuary where art, history, and architecture blend together.
As you approach the museum at night, the grand facades of the Louvre's wings look almost majestic under the lighting. The sculptures on the building’s exterior seem to come to life in the glow of the lights.

Your perfect night itinerary for the Louvre

Begin your visit with a refresher on the building's history, from its medieval remnants to its glass pyramids, which seem even all the more symbolic as they glint in the moonlight.

Proceed to the Greek art gallery, where you may view the Venus de Milo and Winged Victory, two world-renowned masterpieces.

Continue your nighttime exploration of the Louvre in the Italian art section, where you can take your time and see the best pieces by Da Vinci and Veronese up close.

Admire the Italian sculptures by Canova and Michelangelo after viewing well-known French paintings from the 19th century, such as Delacroix's Liberty Leading the People.

Handy guide while visiting the Louvre at night

The Louvre night hours are extended till 9pm on Wednesdays and Fridays, of both the days Wednesdays experience fewer crowds. You will experience a noticeable decrease even in summer.
If you are travelling during the winter, you can get a backpack to store your bulky jackets and coats in the locker room. You won't feel very cold because the galleries are well-heated inside.
The Louvre has several restaurants inside the museum, but except for Starbucks and The Comptoir du Louvre all the restaurants close by 6pm even on the days with extended Louvre night hours. Plan for your snacks or meals, especially if you are travelling with children.
Admission to the museum is free for all European Economic Area tourists under the age of 25 every day. Additionally, the museum is open to visitors under the age of 26 every Wednesday and Friday from 6 to 9 p.m., regardless of their nationality.
One excellent location to purchase souvenirs from the Louvre is the Book and Gift shop in the Allée du Grand Louvre. The store offers excellent casts, copies, and art reproductions of the pieces on exhibit at the museum. It is open Wednesday and Friday until 9 p.m.

Frequently asked questions about visiting the Louvre at night

What are the timings of the Louvre at night?

The Louvre night hours are extended till 9pm on Wednesdays and Fridays.

What are the best times to visit at night?

The Louvre tends to be quieter after 7pm as the daytime crowds thin out. If you want to avoid crowds, aim to visit around this time.

What is the best way to experience the Louvre at night?

To make the most of your visit, focus on specific galleries or collections that interest you, as navigating the entire museum can be overwhelming.

What can I see with my family and kids during the Louvre night tour?

While the Louvre can feel overwhelming due to its sheer size, a night tour allows you to experience the highlights in a more relaxed and less crowded atmosphere, making it a great option for families with kids.

Are there family-friendly activities during the night visit?

Some guided tours or special events might include hands-on activities like drawing workshops, scavenger hunts, or storytelling sessions designed to engage children with art.

Can I take photos in the museum at night?

Photography is generally allowed in most areas of the Louvre, but to protect the artworks, no flash photography is permitted.

What are the dining options at nighttime?

The Louvre has several restaurants inside the museum, but except for Starbucks and The Comptoir du Louvre all the restaurants close by 6pm even on the days with extended Louvre night hours.

Are there any special events or programs in the evenings?

Occasionally, the Louvre hosts special events such as evening tours, concerts, or talks. These events might require separate tickets or reservations.