Louvre Museum Raises Entry Fees for Non-EU Visitors by 45% Following $102M Heist
The Louvre Museum in Paris has announced a substantial 45% ticket price increase for non-European Union visitors. Starting January 14, 2026, admission will rise from €22 to €32 ($37). This price hike follows the devastating heist in October, where thieves stole $102 million worth of historic jewelry in just seven minutes.
Among the stolen items were pieces belonging to Napoleon and Empress Josephine. The museum board approved the measure to help finance an urgent security overhaul and infrastructure renovations. Officials estimate the increase will generate an additional €15-20 million annually.
In 2024, the Louvre, which welcomed 8.7 million visitors, saw 77% of its guests coming from abroad. The demographics included Americans comprising 13% and Chinese visitors making up 6% of international attendance.
The price increase is part of President Emmanuel Macron’s “Nouvelle Renaissance” renovation plan. The plan includes:
- Installing 100 new security cameras
- Setting up anti-intrusion systems
- Creating a dedicated room for the Mona Lisa
Visitors from the European Economic Area, including Iceland, Norway, and Liechtenstein, remain exempt from the increase.