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The World’s Most Visited Museum Tweaks Ticket Prices in 2026 Update.
The Louvre is the most visited museum in the world, drawing close to nine million visitors each year to see its most famous resident, the Mona Lisa, amongst other impressive paintings. Beginning in early 2026, however, some visitors will notice a significant change at the ticket counter, reflecting the museum’s efforts to improve its facilities for all visitors.
Beginning Jan. 14, 2026, travelers from outside the European Union—including visitors from the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom—will pay €32 (about $37.50) for general admission to the Louvre in Paris.
This represents a €10 increase from the current €22 entry fee. Visitors from the European Economic Area (EU member states plus Iceland, Norway, and Liechtenstein) will continue to pay €22. Those entering the museum with an official guide will pay a reduced rate of €28 ($32.80).
The pricing update follows a turbulent period for the museum, which has faced ongoing staff strikes affecting opening hours and access to some galleries, as well as the highly publicized theft of France’s crown jewels in October. Earlier this year, French President Emmanuel Macron also announced plans to modernize and transform the Louvre.
Officials say the new ticket structure aims to generate over $17.5 million annually, supporting upgrades such as improved visitor facilities and a new Mona Lisa gallery, and ensuring transparency about the changes.
The Louvre is not alone in adopting differentiated pricing.
The Palace of Versailles will introduce its own change on Jan. 14, offering a €3 discount to EEA nationals or residents on its €22 season tickets and €32 high-season tickets.
A Louvre spokesperson noted that institutions including Sainte-Chapelle, the Paris Opera, and the Château de Chambord are also considering similar models. This potential shift aims to promote wider access and shared cultural experiences across France’s museums and historic sites.
Visitors looking to avoid paying altogether still have options. The Louvre remains free on the first Friday of each month from 6 to 9 p.m. (excluding July and August) and on July 14, France’s national holiday, with reservations required through the museum’s website: ticket.louvre.fr. These options are available to ensure everyone can enjoy the museum’s collections.
Learn about the upcoming price increase at The World’s most visited museum, the Louvre, and what it means for international visitors starting January 2026.
Jessica is a freelance journalist on a quest to see and experience everything our gorgeous planet offers and share her experiences with her fellow travelers. Jessica has written for several world-class Travel Magazines.
