The Louvre will raise ticket prices for non-EU visitors by 45% starting January 14, 2026, with admission prices increasing from €22 (US$25) to €32 ($35). The museum says the increase could generate up to €20 million ($22 million) a year to fund long-delayed structural upgrades.
The decision follows October’s daylight theft, when a four-person gang stole €88 million ($96 million) in jewelry in seven minutes before fleeing on scooters. An investigation found security systems were inadequate, prompting renewed pressure for repairs and modernization.
French cultural authorities say other national institutions may adopt similar differentiated ticketing in 2026.
As one of the world’s most visited museums prepares for major changes, click through the following gallery to explore the Louvre’s defining moments—and some of its celebrity visitors.