Do you need a separate ticket to see the Mona Lisa?
No. The Mona Lisa is part of the Louvre’s permanent collection, so a standard Louvre admission ticket includes access to Room 711 when it is open. There is no separate Mona Lisa ticket or add-on to book.
A guided tour may also include Louvre admission, but check the option details. For tours, 9:00 can be the meeting or tour start time rather than the museum-entry time.
What is the best time to visit the Louvre?
For visitors who want to see the Mona Lisa with fewer daytime crowds, the best time to visit the Louvre is the first 9:00 slot on a regular opening day. It limits the number of people who can already be inside, although security and entrance queues still affect when you reach the galleries.
If the Mona Lisa is your priority, make it your first gallery stop. It is displayed in the Salle des États with The Wedding Feast at Cana on the opposite wall.
Check official Louvre hours Read about the Salle des États Read the official photography rules
Your first 30 minutes in the Louvre
- 8:15–8:30Arrive near the entrance shown in your booking
- 9:00Enter after the required security check
- First stopFollow current museum signs towards the Mona Lisa
- AfterwardsSee The Wedding Feast at Cana and nearby Denon highlights
Entry ticket or guided tour?
Both can provide an early start, but the time and route mean different things.
| Feature | Entry tickets | Guided tours |
|---|---|---|
| Route control | Go to the Mona Lisa first | Follow the guide’s itinerary |
| Meaning of 9:00 | Museum entry time | Tour or meeting start time |
| Best for | An independent first-stop plan | Guided context and highlights |
| Admission | Included in the listed options | Included where shown on the option |
Mona Lisa tickets, photos and early-visit questions
Can you take pictures of the Mona Lisa in the Louvre?
Yes. The Louvre allows personal photos and videos in its permanent collections, including the Mona Lisa. Switch off the flash, and do not use extra lighting or a selfie stick. Follow any instructions given by museum staff.
How close can you get to the Mona Lisa?
You cannot walk up to the painting. The public queue ends at the front barrier, usually about 3–4 metres (10–13 feet) from the Mona Lisa, which is also protected by climate-controlled glass. The queue layout can change, so treat the distance as approximate.
What time does the Louvre open?
The Louvre normally opens at 9:00 and is closed on Tuesdays. Check the museum’s official hours for closures or exceptional changes.
What is the best time to visit the Louvre?
For the Mona Lisa with fewer daytime crowds, choose the first 9:00 slot and make the painting your first stop. It is the strongest practical daytime option, but queues and gallery conditions can still vary.
How early should I arrive?
Follow the arrival instructions on your booking and leave time for security. For a 9:00 option, being near the stated entrance around 8:15–8:30 is a practical target.
Does a 9:00 tour enter the museum at exactly 9:00?
Not always. For a guided tour, 9:00 may be the meeting or tour start time. Read the provider’s instructions before booking.
What if 9:00 is sold out?
Choose the earliest later time or check another date. Make the Mona Lisa your first stop after entry to keep the route focused.