🥇BEST LOUVRE MUSEUM GUIDED TOUR (Tested by author)

Paris: Louvre Museum Masterpieces Tour with Reserved Access
4.6 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ +4682 reviews
✔️ Skip-the-Line Access
✔️ Expert Guidance
✔️ Must-See Masterpieces
✔️ Headsets Provided
✔️ Small Group Option
✔️ Mobile Voucher
✔️ Free cancellation
The Louvre Museum is one of the most iconic cultural landmarks in the world, housing masterpieces like the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory of Samothrace. With such a vast collection, navigating the Louvre can be overwhelming for first-time visitors. That’s why a guided tour is the perfect way to make the most of your visit, offering expert insights, fast-track entry, and a curated experience of the museum’s highlights.
In this guide, I’ve tested and reviewed the 5 best Louvre Museum guided tours to help you choose the right one for your visit. Whether you’re looking for a detailed exploration of the museum’s masterpieces, a small-group experience, or an audio guide to tour at your own pace, these options cater to different preferences and schedules. Let’s explore the top tours that will help you unlock the secrets of this world-renowned museum.
Table of Contents 📖
ToggleBest Louvre Museum Guided Tours
PROS:
✔️ Skip-the-Line Access: Avoid long queues with reserved tickets, saving valuable time for exploring the museum.
✔️ Expert Guidance: The professional guide provides deep insights into the history and significance of the artworks.
✔️ Must-See Masterpieces: The tour covers iconic pieces like the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory of Samothrace.
✔️ Headsets Provided: Ensures that you can hear the guide clearly, even in busy galleries.
✔️ Small Group Option: Semi-private tours offer a more personalized and intimate experience.
✔️ Free cancellation
CONS:
❌ Not Suitable for Mobility-Impaired Visitors: The tour involves a lot of walking and is not recommended for people with mobility issues.
Explore the world-famous Louvre Museum like never before with the Louvre Museum Masterpieces Tour, offering reserved access and expert guidance. This tour allows you to bypass long queues and dive straight into the treasures housed within the museum. Whether it’s gazing at Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa or admiring the grandeur of Venus de Milo, this experience ensures you see the Louvre’s most iconic artworks while learning their rich histories.
Features
- Reserved Access: Skip the long lines and enjoy a stress-free entry to the Louvre with pre-booked tickets.
- Expert Guide: Join a knowledgeable guide who will unveil fascinating details behind the Louvre’s masterpieces.
- Famous Artworks: Marvel at celebrated works like Mona Lisa, Winged Victory of Samothrace, and the Great Sphinx of Tanis.
- Small Groups: Choose between group or semi-private tours for a more intimate exploration of the museum.
- Historical Context: Gain insights into the Louvre’s history, including its time as the royal palace of Louis XIV.
What’s Included
- Reserved access to the Louvre Museum.
- Professional guide with deep knowledge of the Louvre’s collections.
- Headset to ensure you don’t miss any information.
- Entrance ticket included (€22).
- Access to must-see masterpieces, including sculptures, antiquities, and Renaissance paintings.
Pricing Options
- Group Tour (up to 24 participants): €65 to €77
- Semi-Private Tour (up to 12 participants): €109
Itinerary Highlights
Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel (near the Louvre) – Meeting point.
Louvre Pyramid – 30-minute photo stop and introduction to the Louvre’s architecture.
Louvre Museum – 2.5-hour guided tour through its extensive collections:
- Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci
- Venus de Milo
- Winged Victory of Samothrace
- The Great Sphinx of Tanis
- Michelangelo’s Dying Slave
- Apollo Gallery and Napoleon Apartments
Free Time (optional) – After the tour, explore the museum at your own pace.
Tips for the Tour
- Arrive Early: Make sure to meet your guide on time near the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel, as the meeting point is not at the Louvre entrance.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: The tour involves plenty of walking, so be prepared for a few hours on your feet.
- Bring Only Essentials: Large bags and strollers are not allowed inside the Louvre.
- Explore Further: After the guided portion, take advantage of your ticket to explore other galleries or revisit favorite artworks.
My Experience
The Louvre Masterpieces Tour exceeded my expectations. Our guide was engaging and knowledgeable, taking us through the museum’s highlights while sharing lesser-known stories about each piece. Seeing the Mona Lisa up close without long waits was a major highlight, and I particularly enjoyed learning about the Napoleon Apartments, which provided a glimpse into the museum’s history as a royal palace. The reserved access was invaluable, allowing us to avoid the crowds and focus on the stunning artwork. I highly recommend this tour for anyone wanting to make the most of their time at the Louvre.
PROS:
✔️ Skip-the-Line Access: Bypass the long ticket lines and start exploring the museum quickly.
✔️ Expert Guidance: The licensed guide provides valuable insights, highlighting both famous masterpieces and hidden gems.
✔️ Efficient Use of Time: The 2-hour tour is perfect for those with limited time, covering key works without feeling rushed.
✔️ See Iconic Masterpieces: Experience the most famous pieces in the Louvre, like the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory of Samothrace.
✔️ Optional Upgrades: Add a Musée d’Orsay tour or Seine River cruise for a more comprehensive Parisian experience.
✔️ Free cancellation
CONS:
❌ Limited Time: Although efficient, the 2-hour tour may feel too short for those wanting to explore the Louvre in-depth.
❌ Not Suitable for Mobility Impaired: The tour involves a lot of walking, and it’s not ideal for people with mobility issues or wheelchair users.
Exploring the Louvre can be overwhelming, but the 2-Hour Louvre Museum Guided Tour with Reserved Access makes it an enriching and efficient experience. With pre-reserved tickets and a knowledgeable guide, this tour ensures that you see the museum’s most iconic works, including the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and the Winged Victory of Samothrace, while skipping the ticket line. Whether you are short on time or looking for expert insights, this tour offers an immersive look at some of the greatest artistic masterpieces in the world.
Features
- Skip-the-Line Access: Avoid long queues with pre-reserved tickets, giving you more time to enjoy the Louvre’s treasures.
- Expert Guide: Learn fascinating stories and historical details about the museum’s most famous works from a licensed guide.
- Iconic Masterpieces: See world-renowned pieces like Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and the Winged Victory of Samothrace.
- Explore at Your Own Pace: After the tour, you can stay as long as you’d like in the museum to revisit collections or explore new sections.
- Upgrade Options: Enhance your experience by adding a Musée d’Orsay tour on Saturdays or a Seine River cruise to complement your visit.
What’s Included
- Guided tour of the Louvre Museum (2 hours).
- Licensed guide with in-depth knowledge of the Louvre’s collections.
- Pre-reserved Louvre ticket, ensuring fast access.
- Optional 1.5-hour Orsay Museum tour (on Saturdays).
- Optional Seine River cruise ticket (available any day).
Pricing Options
- Standard 2-Hour Louvre Tour: €60.48 (discounted from €84.00).
- Louvre and Musée d’Orsay Combo Tour: €150.00 (1.5-hour Orsay tour + 2-hour Louvre tour).
Itinerary Highlights
- Kiosque des Noctambules (near the Louvre) – Meeting point.
- Louvre Pyramid – Enter the museum via its iconic glass pyramid with reserved tickets.
- Louvre Museum – 2-hour guided tour covering:
- Mona Lisa
- Venus de Milo
- Winged Victory of Samothrace
- Ancient Greek relics
- Royal Collection paintings and prints
- Free Exploration – After the tour, stay as long as you like in the museum.
Tips for the Tour
- Arrive Early: Be punctual at the Kiosque des Noctambules meeting point to avoid missing your reserved spot.
- Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes for walking, as the tour involves exploring various wings of the museum.
- Explore More: After the guided tour, take time to explore other sections of the museum, such as the Medieval Louvre in the basement.
- Upgrade for More: Add the Orsay Museum tour or Seine River cruise for a more comprehensive Parisian art experience.
My Experience
The 2-Hour Louvre Museum Guided Tour provided an in-depth look at the Louvre’s most celebrated works. Our guide, Gabriella, was fantastic—her passion for the art and history of the Louvre was evident, and her insights added layers of understanding to each piece. Skipping the line was a huge time-saver, and seeing the Mona Lisa up close was a major highlight. I particularly enjoyed Gabriella’s introduction to lesser-known pieces, which gave a fuller appreciation of the museum’s vast collection. This tour is perfect for anyone who wants to explore the Louvre without feeling overwhelmed by its size.
PROS:
✔️ Small Group Experience: With a maximum of 6 participants, the tour is intimate and allows for personalized interaction with the guide.
✔️ Skip-the-Line Access: Avoid long queues and head straight into the museum, saving time and energy.
✔️ Expert Guide: A licensed guide provides detailed insights and historical context for the Louvre’s most famous works, enhancing your appreciation.
✔️ Covers Key Masterpieces: See the museum’s top highlights, including the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory of Samothrace.
✔️ Fast Entrance: With reserved access, you enter through the quickest available route, bypassing the busy main entrance.
✔️ Multi-Language Options: Tours are available in multiple languages, including Chinese, English, French, and Spanish.
✔️ Free cancellation
CONS:
❌ Not Suitable for Large Groups: If you’re traveling with a large group, this small-group format may not accommodate everyone.
❌ Mobility Challenges: Although the small group format allows for more flexibility, the tour is not fully accessible for those with mobility issues.
For an intimate and engaging exploration of the Louvre, the Louvre Museum Highlights Small-Group Guided Tour is a top choice. This 2-hour tour focuses on the museum’s must-see masterpieces, allowing you to experience the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and The Coronation of Napoleon without the stress of navigating the world’s largest museum on your own. Limited to small groups, this tour ensures a more personal experience with a licensed guide, making art and history come to life.
Features
- Small-Group Tour: Limited to just 6 participants, this tour offers an intimate, personal experience with a knowledgeable guide.
- Skip-the-Line Access: Bypass the long ticket queues and head straight into the Louvre with your pre-reserved ticket.
- Iconic Masterpieces: Admire world-renowned works like the Mona Lisa, Winged Victory of Samothrace, and the Coronation of Napoleon.
- Expert Guide: Learn hidden stories and interesting facts about the artworks, enhancing your appreciation of the Louvre’s treasures.
- Continue Exploring: After the guided portion, feel free to continue exploring the museum at your own pace.
What’s Included
- Louvre Museum entry ticket.
- Licensed guide with expertise in art and history.
- 2-hour guided tour of the Louvre’s highlights.
- Tips for exploring Paris after the tour.
Pricing Options
- Small Group Tour: €103.00 per person, for an intimate group of no more than 6 people.
- Private Tour: Available upon request for those seeking an even more exclusive experience.
Itinerary Highlights
- Meeting Point – Gather near the bronze equestrian statue of Louis XIV in front of the Louvre Pyramid.
- Louvre Museum – 2-hour guided tour covering:
- Mona Lisa
- Venus de Milo
- The Coronation of Napoleon
- Winged Victory of Samothrace
- Free Exploration – After the tour, stay to explore other galleries or revisit your favorite works on your own.
Tips for the Tour
- Arrive Early: Ensure you reach the meeting point with time to spare to avoid delays.
- Travel Light: Large bags and selfie sticks are not allowed inside the Louvre, so pack lightly.
- Plan More Time: After the guided tour, take time to explore more of the museum at your own pace.
- Private Tours: For a more tailored experience, consider booking a private tour, which can also be adapted for wheelchair access.
My Experience
The Louvre Museum Highlights Small-Group Guided Tour was the perfect way to navigate the overwhelming size of the Louvre. Our guide, Hamish, was exceptionally knowledgeable and made the experience both educational and fun. We skipped the long lines, and Hamish’s insights into the Mona Lisa and The Coronation of Napoleon added a new layer of understanding. The small group size allowed us to ask questions and interact more with the guide, making the tour feel personal and enriching. If you’re looking for a stress-free way to see the Louvre’s top pieces, this tour is a must!
PROS:
✔️ Exclusive access to the Mona Lisa without crowds.
✔️ Skip-the-line entry, saving you time and hassle.
✔️ Small group size for personalized interaction (maximum 6 participants at certain times).
✔️ Expert guide provides detailed explanations of major artworks.
✔️ Comprehensive coverage of the Louvre’s top masterpieces.
✔️ Clear headsets ensure you can hear the guide even in busier sections.
✔️ Free cancellation
CONS:
❌ Limited availability for the exclusive small-group tours (only at specific times).
❌ Not suitable for mobility-impaired visitors or those in wheelchairs due to the walking involved.
The Louvre Museum: Mona Lisa Without the Crowds Last Entry Tour is the ultimate way to experience one of the world’s most famous paintings in a peaceful, uncrowded setting. With this 3-hour guided tour, you get skip-the-line access to the Louvre’s most iconic works, accompanied by a knowledgeable art historian. This tour is ideal for those looking to avoid the busy crowds while learning in-depth stories about masterpieces like The Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Liberty Leading the People.
Features
- Mona Lisa Without Crowds: Visit the Mona Lisa at the quietest time of day, right before the museum closes, allowing you to appreciate the painting without the usual rush of visitors.
- Expert Art Historian: Your guide is a certified art historian, offering deep insights into famous works by artists like Da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael.
- Skip-the-Line Access: Bypass the long entry lines and head straight into the museum to maximize your time.
- Intimate Group: At select times, enjoy a small group tour with a maximum of six participants, creating a more personalized and exclusive experience.
- Comprehensive Tour: Discover masterpieces from different periods, from Classical Greek statues to Romantic paintings, as well as treasures like the Crown Jewels.
What’s Included
- Skip-the-line entry to the Louvre Museum.
- Local art historian guide.
- Use of headsets for clear audio during the tour.
- 3-hour guided exploration of the Louvre’s highlights.
Pricing Options
- Standard Group Tour: From €79.10 per person.
- Exclusive Small-Group Tour: Available at 2:45 PM and 6:30 PM with a maximum of 6 guests for a more intimate experience.
Itinerary Highlights
- Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel (near the Louvre) – Meeting point.
- Louvre Museum – Guided tour covering key artworks such as:
- Mona Lisa (with 20 minutes of dedicated time)
- Venus de Milo
- Winged Victory of Samothrace
- Liberty Leading the People
- Cupid & Psyche
- The Raft of Medusa
- Michelangelo’s Slaves
- Crown Jewels of the French Monarchy
- End of Tour – Free time to explore the Louvre on your own or revisit your favorite artworks.
Tips for the Tour
- Arrive Early: Arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes prior to the tour to avoid delays.
- Bring Comfortable Shoes: The tour involves moderate walking, so dress accordingly.
- Capture the Moment: Enjoy the rare opportunity to view the Mona Lisa without crowds, allowing you to take your time and snap that perfect photo.
- Explore More: After the guided tour, feel free to wander the museum and explore its lesser-known treasures.
- Exclusive Group Tour: If you prefer a smaller, more intimate group experience, book the 2:45 PM or 6:30 PM tour times.
My Experience
The Mona Lisa Without the Crowds Last Entry Tour was an extraordinary way to experience the Louvre. Our guide’s extensive knowledge of art history added so much depth to the visit, making each piece more meaningful. Visiting the Mona Lisa right before closing was the highlight—I was able to stand directly in front of it, take photos, and truly appreciate its beauty without the typical crowd. The small group size also allowed for a more personal connection with the guide and the art. This tour is perfect for those who want to see the Louvre’s best works while avoiding the usual hustle and bustle.
Best Audio-Guided Tour of the Louvre Museum
PROS:
✔️ In-Depth Commentary: The digital audio guide offers rich details about key artworks, enhancing the experience.
✔️ Easy-to-Use App: The audio guide app is user-friendly, making it simple to navigate the museum.
✔️ Affordable Option: At €24.90, it’s a budget-friendly way to explore the Louvre at your own pace.
✔️ Free cancellation
CONS:
❌ No Live Guide: Lacks the personal interaction and insights of a live guide-led tour.
❌ No Headphones Provided: You need to bring your own headphones to use with the audio guide app.
❌ Limited Interaction: While the app is informative, it doesn’t allow for interactive discussions or questions like a live guide would.
The Louvre Museum Ticket & Mona Lisa Digital Audio Guide is a perfect way to explore the iconic museum at your own pace. With a timed-entry ticket, you can skip long waits and dive straight into centuries of art, from ancient antiquities to modern masterpieces. The user-friendly digital audio guide offers insightful commentary on the Louvre’s most famous works, including the legendary Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci, allowing you to appreciate its history and cultural significance.
Features
- Timed-Entry Ticket: Avoid long lines and gain fast access to the Louvre with a pre-booked, timed-entry ticket.
- Digital Audio Guide: Explore the museum’s highlights, including the Mona Lisa, with detailed commentary that provides historical and artistic context.
- Flexible Exploration: The digital guide allows you to personalize your tour with thematic routes, giving you the freedom to explore according to your interests.
- Mona Lisa Insights: Gain a deeper understanding of da Vinci’s masterpiece with engaging, in-depth commentary focused on its symbolism and mystery.
- Hassle-Free App: The digital guide is easily accessible via an app, making it simple to navigate the museum and its artworks.
What’s Included
- Timed-entry ticket to the Louvre Museum.
- Digital audio guide app with detailed commentary on key artworks, including the Mona Lisa.
- Option to add a Seine River Cruise for an additional Parisian experience.
Pricing Options
- Louvre Museum Ticket + Digital Audio Guide: From €24.90 per person (discounted from €39.90).
- Louvre Museum Ticket + Digital Audio Guide + Seine River Cruise: Available as an optional upgrade.
Itinerary Highlights
- Timed-Entry to the Louvre Museum – Skip the lines and enter the Louvre at your designated time.
- Mona Lisa – Focus on Leonardo da Vinci’s iconic portrait with in-depth digital commentary.
- Explore Key Masterpieces – Discover treasures like the Venus de Milo, Winged Victory of Samothrace, and more.
- Custom Routes – Use the digital audio guide to create your own thematic journey through the Louvre’s vast collection.
Tips for the Tour
- Plan for Security: Be aware that you may need to wait for security checks, even with timed entry.
- Download the App in Advance: Make sure to download the digital audio guide app before your visit to ensure you can start exploring right away.
- Choose Off-Peak Times: To avoid crowds, consider visiting later in the day when the museum is quieter, especially on Fridays when it stays open until 8 PM.
- Upgrade Your Experience: Consider adding the Seine River Cruise option for a more complete Paris experience.
My Experience
Exploring the Louvre with the Mona Lisa Digital Audio Guide was both convenient and enriching. The timed-entry ticket saved a lot of time, allowing me to avoid the long lines at the entrance. The audio guide app provided detailed and engaging commentary, especially when it came to the Mona Lisa. Being able to take my time and focus on the artworks I was most interested in made the experience much more enjoyable. The app was easy to use, and I appreciated the flexibility to customize my own route through the museum. For art lovers or first-time visitors, this is a fantastic way to explore the Louvre’s treasures without feeling overwhelmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do Louvre guided tours typically last?
Most guided tours of the Louvre range from 2 to 3 hours. These tours generally focus on the museum’s most famous artworks, but some longer tours may offer more in-depth exploration.
Do I need to book Louvre Museum guided tours in advance?
Yes, it’s highly recommended to book your guided tour in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. This ensures that you have reserved access and can avoid long lines at the entrance.
What is included in a typical Louvre Museum guided tour?
- Most guided tours include skip-the-line entry, a licensed guide, and a detailed tour of the museum’s key highlights such as the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory of Samothrace. Some tours may also offer additional services, like audio guides or Seine River cruises.
What are the benefits of booking a guided tour instead of exploring on my own?
A guided tour helps you navigate the vast museum more efficiently. You’ll gain insights from an expert guide, avoid long waits with reserved entry, and ensure you see the museum’s most important pieces without missing anything.
Can I stay in the Louvre after the guided tour ends?
Yes, after most guided tours, you are free to explore the museum on your own. This allows you to revisit your favorite exhibits or discover other sections at your own pace.
Are Louvre guided tours suitable for children?
Yes, many tours are family-friendly, with options like kid-oriented audio guides or tours that focus on engaging, educational content for younger visitors. However, some tours may be more geared toward adults, so it’s best to check with the tour operator.
Are guided tours of the Louvre available in multiple languages?
Yes, many guided tours offer commentary in several languages, including English, French, Spanish, and Chinese. Be sure to check the specific tour details to see if your preferred language is available.