Planning a trip to Paris and dreaming of seeing the Mona Lisa? You might want to book your Louvre tickets sooner rather than later! Starting January 14, 2026, visitors from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) will face a significant price hike for entry into the world-renowned museum.
A Significant Price Jump for International Art Lovers
The Louvre’s board recently decided to increase ticket prices by a substantial 45% for those traveling from outside the EU, Iceland, Norway, and Liechtenstein. This means the current ticket price of €22 will jump to €32, which is approximately $37 USD. This change comes after a period of discussion and follows a notable jewelry heist earlier this year.
This new pricing structure specifically targets visitors from countries not included in the EEA. It’s a move aimed at generating additional revenue to support the museum’s operations and future plans.
Why the Increase? Funding Modernization and Addressing Overtourism
The Louvre, the most visited museum globally, welcomed around 8.7 million visitors in 2024, with a staggering 77% coming from international destinations. This influx, while great for tourism, also brings challenges like overtourism, which has previously led to worker strikes over working conditions.
According to the BBC, this new tourist tax is projected to bring in up to €20 million annually. This funding is earmarked for crucial modernization efforts within the museum. While the price is increasing for many, the museum will continue to offer free admission on the first Friday of each month after 6 p.m. (excluding July and August).
Planning Your Visit
Whether you’re paying the new price or taking advantage of the free admission nights, the Louvre strongly encourages all visitors to book their time slots in advance. This helps manage crowd flow and ensures a smoother experience for everyone eager to explore its vast collection, from the iconic ‘Big Three’ – the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory – to its extensive Egyptian Antiquities and historical relics.
Are you planning a trip to the Louvre soon? How do you feel about the upcoming ticket price increase for non-EEA visitors? Let us know in the comments!
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