Including my personal experience…
The Louvre Museum in Paris is like nowhere else. It’s more than a museum—it’s a walk-through of thousands of years of human imagination, culture and artistic achievement. From ancient artifacts to world famous paintings, the sheer number of works on display (over 35,000) can be overwhelming. If you’re wondering what to see at the Louvre Museum, you’re not alone. With so much to see, knowing where to start makes all the difference.
To help you get started, we’ve picked out the most famous and unmissable pieces. Knowing what to expect and what to skip can turn a quick visit into a memorable one. And if you don’t want to wait in long lines, it’s a good idea to book your tickets in advance through a trusted platform like Tickets for Paris. Then you’ll have more time to focus on the art.
Must-See Masterpieces at the Louvre Museum
When you’re at the Louvre, there are a few must-sees. The Mona Lisa is one of them. She may be small but her smile is huge and yes, she’s worth the wait. Right next to her is the Winged Victory of Samothrace. This powerful statue of the goddess Nike looks like she’s in mid-flight, full of energy and movement that still feels alive today. Then there’s the Venus de Milo—beautiful and timeless. Even without her arms she’s one of the most famous sculptures in the world.
Another highlight is Liberty Leading the People by Eugène Delacroix. Bold and emotional it captures the spirit of revolution like few other works do. And before you leave, step into the Galerie d’Apollon. The room itself is a work of art and that’s where you’ll find the French Crown Jewels.
These are just a few of the highlights but it’s a good place to start.
Planning Your Visit to the Louvre Museum
The Louvre is big, really big. Without any planning you’ll get lost. A little planning makes all the difference.
The museum is divided into three wings: Denon, Sully and Richelieu. Each has its own character and theme. If you’re short on time and wondering what to see at the Louvre in a few hours, focus on one or two wings. Denon has the Mona Lisa and many famous paintings. Sully has classical sculpture including the Venus de Milo. Richelieu has decorative arts and Napoleon III’s apartments.
Trying to see everything in one visit is impossible. So, think about what you want to see most and build your visit around that. With a rough plan in mind, you’ll enjoy yourself much more and won’t feel rushed or lost.
Buy Before You Go
The Louvre is one of the most visited museums in the world and tickets sell out, especially during holidays and summer. To avoid the queues or missing out altogether, it’s best to book in advance. Tickets for Paris have a few great options including skip the line and guided tours. Whether you want to go at your own pace or dive deeper with expert commentary there’s a ticket for you.
A Journey Through Art and Time
Visiting the Louvre is more than just ticking off a box, it’s stepping into a story that spans thousands of years. Every room, every sculpture, every painting has something to say about the people and cultures that shaped our world. With so much to see, take the time to plan your visit and know what to see at the Louvre Museum and turn a chaotic day into a day to remember. Go slow, stay curious and let the art speak to you.
Want to skip the lines and make the most of your day at the museum? Book your tickets in advance through Tickets for Paris and enjoy a stress-free visit from the get go.