The Louvre’s board has approved a 45% price rise for most non-European visitors, a move that will take effect early next year. From 14 January, visitors from countries outside the European Economic Area will pay an extra €10 to enter, lifting the standard ticket to €32 for many international guests. Officials say the measure will generate millions of euros annually to fund a long-planned overhaul of the gallery.
The decision follows a high-profile October jewellery heist worth about $102 million and an official audit that criticised security systems and aging infrastructure. The Louvre has pledged major renovations—upgrades to restrooms and restaurants, improved crowd management, and the relocation of key works such as the Mona Lisa to a new space to ease bottlenecks.
The museum, which drew nearly 9 million visitors last year—more than 90% from abroad—says the reforms are essential to protect priceless art and modernize visitor experience. A Greek ceramics gallery closed recently due to structural concerns, underscoring the scale of maintenance needed. President Macron and the Louvre have signaled further adjustments, with hints of higher non-EU fees possible in 2026. The net effect could be a tighter, more efficient museum but at higher cost for international travelers.
