Top Things to Do Near the Louvre Museum: A Visitor’s Guide

Visiting the Louvre museum is amazing. But if you want some extra adventure, try to explore the nearby area. There are many top things to do near the Louvre. With so many attractions, restaurants, and hidden spots, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

Paris is not just about the Louvre Museum or the Eiffel Tower. It is one of the most visited cities in the world. In 2023, Paris welcomed about 47.5 million visitors.

This guide lists the attractions near the Louvre Museum. It will make your trip unforgettable. From historic landmarks to charming cafés, you’ll discover everything during your museum visit. Say goodbye to confusion. A well-planned visit will maximize your time.

Why Explore Attractions Near the Louvre?

The Louvre Museum is in the heart of Paris. It is a must-visit place for art and history lovers. I remember my first time visiting the Louvre Museum. I explored the museum. But, after my visit, I realized I had missed many cool attractions near louvre museum.

The many must-visit places near the Louvre. It is the starting point of the rich culture and history of Paris. There are many historic gardens, cosy cafés, and luxury boutiques.

This vibrant area offers something for everyone, all within easy walking distance. Whether you’re looking to enjoy Parisian culture or discover hidden gems, spending time around the Louvre is an ideal way to make the most of your visit.

If you are visiting the Louvre, an entry ticket is needed to enter the museum. Book Your Louvre Museum Ticket Now.

Top Attractions Within Walking Distance of The Louvre

The Louvre’s neighborhood is home to some of Paris’s most iconic sites. Each place offers a unique taste of the city’s art, architecture, and culture. Here are some must-see spots paris which are located near the Louvre.

1. Palais Royal – A Blend of History and Modern Art

The Palais Royal is located right next to the Louvre Museum. Built in the 17th century, this palace was once the home of French royalty. It is just a short 5-minute walk from the Louvre.

The Palais Royal is a must-see place near the Louvre if you are interested in historic sites with a twist of modern art. Here are some highlights of the Palais Royal:

• Gardens: Enjoy a peaceful stroll through beautifully manicured gardens with fountains and flowers.
• Colonnes de Buren: A popular modern art installation featuring black and white striped columns.
• Historic Arcades: This area has boutique shops and charming cafés. It will give you a true Parisian experience.

Palais Royal is a combo of classic beauty with a modern touch.

Pro Tips: Paris is home to world-famous attractions. You can check other attractions that match your choice. Read Our Blog Paris Top Attractions Guides for 2024.

2. Tuileries Garden – Parisian Charm at Its Best

The Jardin des Tuileries is located just between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde. It’s one of Paris’s oldest and most beautiful gardens. The garden offers a peaceful atmosphere. It has around 3,000 trees and 100 sculptures. Explore the garden with your kids or family.

This park near the Louvre is best for a scenic walk or a leisurely break. You can take a rest, and watch the ponds and swans.

3. Place Vendôme – Best for Shopping

Everyone loves shopping during visits. If you are one of them, Place Vendôme is for you. It is one of the famous shopping streets near Louvre. The square is famous for its architecture and luxury boutiques.

Why visit Place Vendôme?

• Find luxury brands like Cartier, Chanel, and Dior.
• The square itself is a masterpiece. It has grand symmetry and ornate façades of 18th-century architecture.
• The Vendôme Column in the centre is for showing respect for Napoleon’s victories. So, it has historical significance also.

4. Musée de l’Orangerie – A Haven for Art Lovers

The Musée de l’Orangerie is an art museum located near the Louvre Museum. It is one of the best museums close to the Louvre. The place is for art enthusiasts, especially those who love Impressionism.

The museum is famous for water lily paintings by Claude Monet. Buy Musée de l’Orangerie Reserved Audio Guide Ticket for a better experience. Discover works by Cézanne, Renoir, and Picasso in the museum’s collection.

There is no better location to get an up-close look at the spirit of impressionism than Paris. Find the Top Impressionist Museum in Paris to Visit in 2024.

5. Seine River Walk and River Cruises – A Scenic Paris Experience

Paris is more beautiful from the water. A Seine River cruise lets you relax and enjoy the city’s views. You can choose a daytime cruise to see the landmarks in the sunlight. Or, take a romantic evening cruise when the city lights up. It’s a great way to see famous spots like Notre-Dame and the Eiffel Tower.

Ways to Enjoy the Seine River Near the Louvre:

• You can just walk and enjoy views of landmarks like Pont des Arts.
• Just sit on a bench or grassy area and enjoy a snack with a view.
• The most unique experiences near the Louvre are Seine River cruises. Book a 1-hour cruise trip and watch the city.

Many operators offer a combo tour option. Click to Book Your Louvre Museum And Seine River Cruise Tour Ticket.

Dining Options Near the Louvre Museum

There are many cafes and restaurants near the Louvre museum. They sell everything from coffee to lunch and dinner. Some of them are:

Cafés and Bistros-Coffee or Lunch

The museum area and its nearby areas have great cafés and bistros. These spots give you a taste of local culture. Here are some great cafés and bistros from my experience:

• Le Fumoir: I love this stylish and cozy café. If you love coffee, pastries, and light meals, this one is for you. The location is also just near the museum.
• Café Marly: This cozy café is in the Louvre Museum’s courtyard. It is a great spot for coffee or a light lunch. The café offers stunning views of the museum’s architecture.
• Le Comptoir du Louvre: If you are looking for a charming bistro near the museum, this one is for you. It serves traditional French dishes in a street-side setting.

Fine Dining Restaurants

For a luxurious dining experience, consider these fine dining options near the Louvre:

• Le Meurice: A Michelin-starred restaurant just a short walk from the Louvre Museum. It offers exquisite French cuisine by Alain Ducasse.
• L’Escargot Montorgueil: This restaurant is famous for its classic French fare. With good food, it also has an elegant atmosphere. Try this restaurant.
• Pierre Gagnaire: A three-star restaurant that offers a combo of good food and a good view.

Dining near the Louvre is more than a meal. It’s a cultural experience. It combines ambience, flavour, and classic Parisian style.

Shopping Near the Louvre

If you’re exploring the Louvre Museum, shopping is a must, right? Here is some news for you. The area around the Louvre offers various shopping experiences. From luxury boutiques to Parisian-style shopping malls.

Rue de Rivoli

A few steps from the Louvre, Rue de Rivoli is a crowded street known for its fashionable stores and lively environment. This street has shops selling antiques and clothes. It is a great spot to find unique treasures.

This popular Rue de Rivoli shopping street is a mix of international brands and local boutiques near Louvre Museum. It offers something in every type of style. You can explore stores like Zara and Mango.

In the street, there are different types of little shops. They sell handmade jewellery and vintage clothing. These spots are ideal for unique souvenirs from your trip to Paris.

Carrousel du Louvre

This is the nearest shopping centre located right under the Louvre Museum. The Carousel du Louvre is a hidden treasure for shoppers. This is an indoor shopping centre. It combines retail and art and also features high-value product stores. You will find luxury brands such as Lancel and Sephora at the Carousel.

Rue Saint-Honoré

Rue Saint-Honoré is one of the most famous shopping streets in Paris. It is home to some of the most luxurious fashion brands in the world. Rue Saint-Honoré is approximately 1 kilometre away from the Louvre Museum.

Unique Experiences and Hidden Gems Near the Louvre

Outside the iconic Louvre is a wonderful area. It is full of pleasant surprises. This lesser-known spot makes for a charming Parisian visit. You will have the best experience by roaming in the city’s artistic area.

Covered Passages

Paris’s enchanting covered passages near Louvre indicate a peek at the ancient period. You can find these historic gateways such as Galerie Vivienne and Passage Choiseul. A walk through these covered passages will feel like stepping back in time and a perfect escape from your busy life. These are real hidden gems in Paris.

Small Art Galleries

Since the Louvre holds masterpieces, the neighborhood is spotted with small art galleries near Louvre. It showcases local and waking artists. You will experience galleries like Galerie Maeght and Galerie Véro-Dodat displaying their modern works. This allows visitors to appreciate art in a quieter space. The gallery is a unique spot near the Louvre. 

The small gallery provides a refreshing contrast to the brilliance of the Louvre, you will find the depth of your cultural journey. Whether you are an art enthusiast or a curious traveller.

Musée de la Vie Romantique

Musée de la Vie Romantique museum is located in the former home of the French writer George Sand. It has a collection of her items and features 19th-century art and literature. 

The museum has a lovely garden where you can relax and enjoy a cup of tea. The distance of the Musée de la Vie Romantique from the Louvre is 4 km (2.5 miles).

Paris has many museums. Explore 5 Best Small Museums in Paris for your next visit.

Romantic Things to Do Near the Louvre Museum

• Pont des Arts (The Love Lock Bridge)
  • Get a short walk from the Louvre, and you will find the Pont des Arts. It is an iconic bridge that is a hot destination for couples. Couples attach love locks to the railings of the bridge. Attach a love lock and save your love!
• Nighttime Visit to the Louvre
  • If you want to explore the Louvre romantically, plan for a night visit to the Louvre. The museum sometimes stays open later in the summer. There are no crowds. It is a unique and romantic way to explore the art together.

Some operators have sightseeing night tour buses. I bought a package from Tours Travel Finder during my visit. Book your seat now.

Tips for Visiting Attractions Near the Louvre

Exploring attractions near the Louvre Museum can be a memorable experience that you may have with a bit of planning. Here are some Louvre travel tips to make your visit smoother.

Walking vs. Public Transport

Walking is ideal if you want to see the attractions close to the Louvre. It allows you to enjoy the beautiful Parisian streets and hidden spots along the way. If you want to visit other places nearby, then the Métro is a quick and suitable choice.

Book tickets in Advance

To save your time and the long lines, book attraction tickets online before you go. This tip ensures that you‘ll have more time to enjoy the sight.

Best Months for visiting Paris

April to June (Spring) is the best time to visit Paris. The weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Spring brings blooming flowers and outdoor activities in full swing. You will find fewer crowds compared to the summer months.

If you are traveling to Paris in August, learn about Things to Do there.

Use audio guides or guided tours

The guided tour will help you make the best use of your time. An expert guide can help you understand the history.

Visit during off-season

The Louvre is very famous for tourists. Try to visit during the off-season for a good experience. If you have no problem with the cold, try to visit during this time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the top things to do near the Louvre Museum?

Explore nearby attractions like the Jardin des Tuileries, Musée d’Orsay, and Pont des Arts.

Are there combined tickets for the Louvre and other attractions?

Yes, some platforms offer combined tickets. You can buy them for the Louvre and attractions like the Eiffel Tower or Seine River cruises.

Are there any free attractions near the Louvre?

Yes, there are free attractions near the Louvre. They include the Jardin des Tuileries and the Seine River. Also, some small art galleries and markets are free to explore.

Where can I shop near the Louvre Museum?

Rue de Rivoli and Carrousel du Louvre offer great shopping options close to the Louvre.

Conclusion

The Louvre Museum is a world-famous masterpiece. However, many attractions near the Louvre Museum are worth visiting. There are iconic landmarks, museums, gardens, restaurants, etc.

So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore. This guide will help you make unforgettable memories in the City of Light.