The Louvre

Here is some helpful information on how to "survive" the Louvre!

The Louvre Museum in Paris is immense, and one could spend a week exploring its exhibits. Unfortunately, most of us don't have that kind of time. Find out how to get the most out of one of the world's top art museums, the Louvre Museum.

Study the map before you enter and decide what you want to see. You will have to commit to a section before you buy your ticket. If you want to see the Louvre Museum's trademark piece, the Mona Lisa, buy a ticket for the permanent collections and temporary exhibitions (Richelieu, Sully and Denon).

To see the Mona Lisa, head straight for the 13th-15th century Italian paintings section (on the first floor). You can always work your way to other exhibits afterwards. Expect a crowd of people elbowing their way close to the painting.

Besides the Mona Lisa, prioritize what you'd like to see. The museum has a vast range of exhibits, ranging from fascinating Islamic art and Egyptian antiquities to sculptures and art prints. The paintings section includes extensive works from France, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands and England.

Be sure to hold on to your map of the exhibits. It will help you avoid getting lost in the maze-like corridors. Try to avoid getting sidetracked too much (although this is a fun place to wander). Or, if you don't have a priority of what to see, indulge in some aimless wandering. When it's time to leave, leave.

If you get hungry, don't despair. You needn't leave the museum. There are several restaurants in the museum and in the mall below it. They have a bit of a food-court-esque feel to some of them, but it is food. Just a bit on the low-quality, high price-tag side.