The Louvre - Don't do it!
My unpopular opinion on the world's most famous museum
I have a lot of feelings about the Louvre—so this is part one of a two-part Substack.
Today: the hate. Next post: the love.
After taking Gothic Art and Architecture, I followed it with Art of Ancient Civilizations—many of the works we studied were in the Louvre. So on my next trip to Paris, I had to go.
A rare photo of me, before that first Louvre visit—
After seeing those pieces, I went in search of the Mona Lisa.
All I remember is walking down miles and miles of corridors, following sign after sign—and never finding it.
A couple of years later, I decided to take advantage of the Louvre’s evening hours and finally see the Mona Lisa. Turns out only the Richelieu wing was open—and that’s not where the Mona Lisa is. I still remember making snarky comments about the paintings (as a 20-something does). And that’s when my intense dislike for the Louvre began.
After Covid and 25-ish years later (don’t do the math - I am NOT that old), I decided to give the Louvre another chance. I got timed entry tickets for the first slot of the day—and joined a couple hundred other people already in line for the same time.
Once inside where the museum was already teeming with people, I headed straight for the Mona Lisa.
There will be a line to see/selfie it.
And yes, it really is as small and underwhelming as everyone says.
At the front of the line—
Zoomed in—
But I finally did see it! ✔️
Next I tried to go see a few other things—but OMG, the layout.
You’re walking through a gallery, and suddenly it just… ends—even though the map says you’re only halfway down the building.
You have to retrace your steps.
Go down a floor.
Continue on that floor for a bit.
Then go back up to your original floor.
After this experience and the crowds of people in the building, I was done.
Where was the exit?
I’m glad I finally checked off the Mona Lisa from my bucket list.
But it’s going to be another 20 years before I go inside that building again.
Tips, if you still feel the need to go inside the Louvre:
If you see a video or article on “secret” or “hidden” Louvre entrances—just know that most people visiting Paris have seen those same tips.
Get your timed tickets for opening, line up at least 45 minutes early, and speed walk to the Mona Lisa.
Reading this back, I know it’s more negative than I usually write—but clearly I haven’t gotten over my Louvre experiences. 🤣
My next Substack, amusingly, will discuss my… love for the Louvre.
Traveling with Linda - Travel stories with a side of snark.