Pyramide du Louvre
The glass pyramid in the Napoleon courtyard.
The story of the place
In 1981 François Mitterrand launched the Grand Louvre: the museum was cramped and its entrance could no longer cope. The Chinese-born American architect Ieoh Ming Pei, chosen in 1983, proposed digging beneath the Cour Napoléon and marking the entrance with a 21.6-metre glass pyramid. The project caused an uproar — too modern, too Egyptian in the middle of a royal palace. Inaugurated in 1988, it opened to the public in 1989 and has been the museum's main entrance ever since, as well as its symbol.
Getting there
Nearest metro station: Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre (1/7). The spot is in the 1st arrondissement of Paris. Open walking directions.
The light
Excellent golden hour (4/5): sunrise and sunset light is warm and very usable here.
Where to go after the shoot
A few addresses within a short walk, to make the moment last.
Tea room opened in 1903 facing the Tuileries, known for its thick hot chocolate; open daily from 8am.
Bar, restaurant and tea room facing the Louvre colonnade, open daily from 9am, five minutes from the pyramid.
Under the Louvre arcades, its terrace looks straight onto the Cour Napoléon and the pyramid; open daily from 8am to 2am.
Addresses checked in 07/2026. Places change — check opening hours before you head out.
Photo spots nearby
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Pyramide du Louvre?
Nearest metro station: Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre (1/7). The spot is in the 1st arrondissement of Paris.
When is the best time to photograph Pyramide du Louvre?
Excellent golden hour (4/5): sunrise and sunset light is warm and very usable here. At opening time or after dark to avoid the crowds.
Can I book a photographer for a shoot at Pyramide du Louvre?
Yes. SnapSpot Paris connects you with Paris-based photographers who know the location. A single session can cover several nearby spots — the photographer adapts the route to the light of the day. Colonnes de Buren, Square du Vert-Galant, Musée d'Orsay, Saint-Germain-des-Prés.