Louvre hikes ticket prices for most non-EU visitors by 45% to fund renovations

The Louvre in Paris has approved a notable ticket increase for most visitors outside the European Union, part of a broad drive to fund a major modernization. The plan targets security upgrades, expanded facilities, and better visitor flow as crowds continue to grow.

From January 14, non-EEA visitors will see an additional €10 tacked onto the standard entry price, effectively lifting many tickets higher. In practice, the price for non-EU guests will be €32 to enter, while groups with accredited guides will pay €28 next year.

Officials say the price hike could generate between €15 million and €20 million annually to support the museum's multi-year modernization program, including new restrooms, restaurants, and accessibility improvements.

The decision follows a dramatic October heist in which a four-member gang stole jewelry valued at about $102 million and fled within minutes, prompting questions about security and maintenance. An official audit soon after flagged gaps in security and aging infrastructure.

Crowding remains a persistent concern, with many visitors reporting crowded halls and long queues, particularly around the Mona Lisa in the Salle des États. In January, President Emmanuel Macron and the Louvre announced steps to improve visitor flow and hinted at higher fees for non-EU residents in 2026. Macron also indicated the Mona Lisa would move to a larger space to alleviate congestion.

Beyond security, the Louvre plans renovations across several areas and to add new amenities like restrooms and dining options, at a cost estimated in the hundreds of millions of euros. Earlier this month, a gallery displaying Greek ceramics was closed due to structural concerns.

An investigation found the museum had spent more on acquiring new artworks than on maintenance and restoration, highlighting long-standing tensions between collection growth and upkeep.

Macron's administration says the renovations aim to modernize the museum's infrastructure while preserving its world-renowned collections, with the ultimate goal of accommodating higher visitor numbers without sacrificing experience.

Key Takeaways

• Non-EU visitors will face a €32 entry fee, with an extra €10 from January 14; groups with accredited guides will be charged €28.
• The Louvre expects to raise €15–€20 million annually to support modernization, including facilities and accessibility upgrades.
• The move follows a high-profile security incident and a critical audit; improvements focus on security, maintenance, and capacity.
• Planned renovations include expanded amenities and a potential Mona Lisa relocation to ease crowding.

Expert comment

Expert opinion: Dr. Sofia Laurent, a museum finance analyst, notes the hike signals a shift toward self-funding major upgrades while acknowledging potential impacts on international visitors. She adds that transparent communication and upgraded visitor experiences will be key to sustaining growth.

Summary

The Louvre’s price increase reflects its broader modernization agenda and ongoing effort to manage crowding and maintenance needs. While higher fees will fund security upgrades and renovations, the policy may influence international tourism in the short term. Leaders emphasize balancing accessibility with preservation as crowds expand.

Key insight: The Louvre is financing sweeping modernization through higher prices for non-EU visitors, underscoring the challenge of balancing access with preservation. BBC News