Overview

The Louvre is not only the most visited museum in the world, but arguably the most iconic. Located in the heart of Paris along the Seine, this former royal palace turned museum is an unparalleled repository of human creativity, housing over 35,000 works of art from prehistory to the 21st century. Its most famous resident, Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, draws millions each year, but the collection also includes the Venus de Milo, Winged Victory of Samothrace, and masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Delacroix, and more. The Louvre’s architecture is as legendary as its collection — from the classical palace to I.M. Pei’s striking glass pyramid, it reflects the museum’s evolution through time. Galleries are organised by civilisation and period, allowing visitors to explore everything from ancient Egyptian sarcophagi to Islamic art, Renaissance paintings, and French decorative arts. The museum’s sheer scale can be overwhelming, yet its layout encourages lingering, discovery, and quiet moments of awe. Beyond its treasures, the Louvre is deeply embedded in French history — once the seat of kings, it became a public museum during the French Revolution, symbolising a shift in power from monarchy to the people. Its continued expansion and dedication to accessibility keep it at the forefront of global culture. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned art lover, the Louvre offers a truly immersive experience that fuses art, architecture, and history on a scale like no other. To step into the Louvre is to embark on a journey through the most celebrated achievements of human civilisation — a place where time collapses, beauty transcends borders, and the past whispers its stories to all who wander its halls.

Curated by the World Travel Awards