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Louvre Opening Hours in Spring: What You Need to Know
The Louvre Museum in Paris operates on a consistent schedule during spring (March to May). Generally, the museum is open every day except Tuesdays. Standard hours are 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. On Wednesdays and Fridays, late-night openings extend until 9:45 PM. These hours apply from the first Wednesday of March through the end of May. However, always check the official website for any last-minute changes, especially around Easter or public holidays.
Spring 2025 Schedule: Detailed Breakdown
Spring brings longer days and more tourists. Here is the exact schedule for March, April, and May 2025 (subject to confirmation):
March 2025
From March 1 to March 31, the Louvre is open Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Closed on Tuesdays. Late openings on Wednesday and Friday until 9:45 PM.
April 2025
Same as March, but note that Easter Monday (April 21) is a public holiday in France. The museum is open on Easter Monday but may operate on a special schedule. Confirm closer to the date.
May 2025
Standard hours continue. May 1 (Labour Day) and May 8 (Victory in Europe Day) are public holidays. The museum is closed on May 1 and may have reduced hours on May 8. Check the official calendar.
When Is the Best Time to Visit the Louvre in Spring?
Spring is a popular season, so crowds are inevitable. To minimize wait times, aim for:
- Late openings on Wednesday or Friday – after 6:00 PM, the crowds thin out significantly.
- Early morning – arrive by 8:30 AM to be near the front of the line.
- Midweek days – Tuesday is closed, so Wednesday and Thursday are slightly less crowded than weekends.
Avoid the first week of spring break (mid-April) and Easter weekend if possible.
Public Holidays and Special Closures in Spring
Spring in France includes several public holidays that affect Louvre hours:
| Date | Holiday | Louvre Status |
|---|---|---|
| April 21, 2025 | Easter Monday | Open (check for reduced hours) |
| May 1, 2025 | Labour Day | Closed |
| May 8, 2025 | Victory in Europe Day | Open (may have reduced hours) |
Always verify on the official Louvre website before your visit.
How to Avoid Long Queues at the Louvre in Spring
Spring is peak season. Follow these tips to save time:
- Book a timed ticket online in advance – skip the ticket line.
- Enter through the Carrousel du Louvre – this underground entrance (99 Rue de Rivoli) often has shorter lines.
- Use the Porte des Lions entrance – a lesser-known side entrance open from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM (closed on Friday).
- Visit during late opening – from 6:00 PM to 9:45 PM on Wednesdays and Fridays, the museum is much quieter.
What to See at the Louvre in Spring: Highlights
With limited time, prioritize these masterpieces:
- Mona Lisa – in the Denon Wing, Room 711. Go early or late to avoid the crowd.
- Winged Victory of Samothrace – at the top of the Daru staircase.
- Venus de Milo – in the Sully Wing, Room 345.
- Liberty Leading the People – in the Denon Wing, Room 700.
Also, don’t miss the Napoleon III Apartments and the Cour Marly for a less crowded experience.
Practical Information for Your Spring Visit
Before you go, keep these details in mind:
- Address: Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris.
- Metro: Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre (lines 1 and 7).
- Admission: €22 for adults (online), free for under 18 and EU residents under 26.
- Audio guide: €5, available in multiple languages.
- Baggage: Large bags and suitcases are not allowed. Free lockers are available.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Visiting the Louvre in Spring
Many visitors make these errors:
- Not booking tickets online – you’ll waste hours in line.
- Arriving at peak times – 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM is the busiest.
- Trying to see everything – the Louvre is huge. Pick a few sections and enjoy them.
- Ignoring the late openings – they offer a more relaxed experience.
- Not checking for strikes or closures – French museums occasionally close due to labor actions. Check the official site on the day of your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Louvre Spring Hours
Is the Louvre open on Easter Monday?
Yes, the Louvre is typically open on Easter Monday, but with regular hours (9:00 AM – 6:00 PM). Confirm on the official website as the date approaches.
Does the Louvre have reduced hours in May due to holidays?
Yes, on May 1 the museum is closed. On May 8, it may open with reduced hours (often 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM but confirm).
What time does the Louvre close on Wednesday in spring?
On Wednesdays, the Louvre closes at 9:45 PM. The late opening starts at 6:00 PM.
Can I enter the Louvre after 6:00 PM on a Friday in spring?
Yes, Friday late openings are from 6:00 PM to 9:45 PM. Last entry is at 9:00 PM.
Is the Louvre less crowded on weekdays in spring?
Generally, weekdays are less crowded than weekends, but Tuesday is closed. Wednesday and Thursday are the best weekdays to visit.
Do I need a separate ticket for the late opening hours?
No, the same timed ticket is valid for late openings. However, you must select a time slot after 6:00 PM when booking online.
Final Tips for Enjoying the Louvre in Spring
Spring is a wonderful time to visit the Louvre, with pleasant weather and beautiful gardens. Plan ahead, book your tickets early, and use the insider tips above to make the most of your trip. Remember that the opening hours of the Louvre in spring are designed to accommodate visitors, but a little preparation goes a long way. Enjoy your cultural adventure in Paris!
Photo by Rad Pozniakov on Unsplash
Great guide! I’m planning a trip in late April. Is the museum open on Easter Monday, and do I need a separate ticket for the temporary exhibitions?
Thank you! Yes, the Louvre is open on Easter Monday (April 21, 2025), but it may operate on a special schedule, so confirm on the official website. For temporary exhibitions, you usually need a separate ticket or a combined ticket that includes access. Check the ticketing page for details.
Thanks for the tip about the Carrousel du Louvre entrance. Does that entrance also have security checks?
Yes, the Carrousel du Louvre entrance has security checks like all other entrances, but the line is often shorter than the main pyramid. It’s a great way to save time, especially during peak spring hours.