The Louvre Museum in Paris will implement a significant two-tier pricing system, raising ticket prices by 45% for most visitors from outside the European Union starting in January. The standard ticket will increase from €22 to €32 for tourists from countries like the US, UK, and China.
The move is designed to generate millions of euros annually to fund a critical overhaul of the museum’s aging infrastructure and crowded galleries. This follows a damning official audit that highlighted inadequate security and maintenance issues, published shortly after a high-profile heist in October.
The price hike accelerates a plan previously suggested for 2026 and will help finance a series of major improvements. These include:
- Addressing Overcrowding: Creating a new, dedicated space for the Mona Lisa to alleviate the intense congestion in its current gallery.
- Renovations and Amenities: Upgrading aging structures and adding new facilities like toilets and restaurants.
- Security and Maintenance: Increasing investment in areas that have been historically underfunded compared to new art acquisitions.
The Louvre, the world’s most visited museum, relies heavily on international tourism, with over 10% of its visitors coming from the US alone. The new revenue is seen as essential for modernizing the institution and improving the experience for its nearly 9 million annual visitors.
By James Kisoo
