Louvre Museum

The Louvre Museum is an absolute must-visit spot for anyone touring Paris.
It originated as the Louvre Castle—built as a fortress in the 12th century—and later served as a royal palace during the reign of Francis I. However, after Louis XIV moved the royal residence to the Palace of Versailles, the Louvre was used to house the royal art collection; it did not officially open as a museum until 1793.
The Louvre boasts an immense collection of artworks, but what sets it apart is not just the sheer volume; it houses many pieces recognized even by those with little knowledge of art. Foremost among them is the world's most famous artwork: the "Mona Lisa". Many tourists visit specifically to see it, and despite the museum's vast size, clear signage guides visitors from the ticket office to the "Mona Lisa" gallery, ensuring you won't get lost. However, the gallery is often packed with crowds forming multiple lines; while photography is permitted, getting a good shot is extremely difficult—often requiring you to push your way forward just to capture an image.
Beyond the "Mona Lisa", the museum displays other globally renowned masterpieces such as "The Coronation of Napoleon", the "Winged Victory of Samothrace" (Nike of Samothrace), and the "Venus de Milo".
While most visitors enter through the iconic glass pyramid located above ground, this entrance is perpetually crowded with long lines. Waiting in the scorching sun can be grueling, so the underground entrance is a recommended alternative. It offers a smoother route directly from the metro station, is less crowded than the surface entrance, and spares you from waiting out in the heat.
Given the Louvre's vast size, seeing everything would take two or three days, so it is best to narrow down what you want to see before you go!