The Glass Pyramid is undoubtedly iconic because it serves as the primary face of the museum. However, it is also frequently the worst place to enter the building. Most tourists see the massive pyramid and immediately join the long line snaking around the courtyard because they assume it is the only way inside.
This is simply not true. The building actually features multiple Louvre Museum entrances that are much more efficient. Choosing the correct door can easily save you thirty minutes of standing in the rain or the harsh Parisian sun.
1. The Iconic Pyramid Entrance (Main Gate)
While this is the most famous of the Louvre Museum entrances, it comes with several drawbacks. The primary advantage is the beautiful architecture and the dramatic escalator ride down into the lobby.
Conversely, this is almost always the longest line at the museum. Because the courtyard is completely exposed to the weather, you will have no protection from the elements while you wait. You should only use this entrance if the line looks unusually short or if you specifically want a classic photo opportunity.
2. The Carrousel du Louvre (Underground Entrance)
Located at 99 Rue de Rivoli, this is often the best choice for general admission. You enter by taking the escalators down into the shopping mall rather than standing in the courtyard.
The main benefit of this route is that the entire waiting area is covered and air-conditioned. Consequently, you stay protected from the rain and the summer heat. You also have easy access to food and bathrooms before you pass through security. You can even reach this spot directly from the “Palais Royal-Musée du Louvre” metro station without ever stepping outside.
3. Porte des Lions (The Secret Entrance)
This is a favorite among seasoned travelers because it often feels like a VIP experience for the price of a regular ticket. You can find this door in the southern wing near the Seine river by looking for the large lion statues.
The biggest advantage is that there is almost never a line at this location. Furthermore, it drops you right into the Arts of Africa and Asia section, which is very close to the Mona Lisa. However, you should be aware that this is one of the Louvre Museum entrances frequently closed due to staffing shortages. It also lacks a locker room, so you cannot enter with helmets or large bags.
4. Passage Richelieu (The Priority Entrance)
Located off the Rue de Rivoli, this entrance is situated directly opposite the Palais Royal metro station. While it offers virtually zero wait time, it is not available to everyone.
Access to the Passage Richelieu is restricted to specific groups. You can only use this door if you have a group reservation or a membership card such as the Amis du Louvre. If you have a standard individual ticket, this entrance will be useless for your visit.
Entrance Strategy for 2026
- Check Status: Always ask a guard or check the official website for the Porte des Lions status before walking there.
- Go Underground: If the secret door is closed, you should head directly to the Carrousel entrance to stay comfortable.
- Timing: You should only attempt the Pyramid entrance if you are visiting during the dead of winter or late on a Friday night.
Entering the museum should not be the most difficult part of your day in Paris. If you are smarter than the average tourist, you will go underground or seek out the lions. All of these Louvre Museum entrances eventually lead to the same central hub where you can begin your artistic journey.
You are now inside the museum without waiting in a long line. Your legs are fresh and your energy is high. Use this advantage to walk to the Richelieu or Sully wings. These areas house the most famous stone figures in the world. You should read our guide to The Best Statues in the Louvre Museum to find the Venus de Milo and other marble masterpieces before the crowds arrive.
