Overview
- The Louvre’s new rate for visitors who are neither nationals nor residents of the EEA takes effect today, while Versailles charges €22 to EEA nationals or residents and €25 to others.
- The Louvre projects €15–20 million in extra annual revenue and Versailles estimates about €9.3 million, with the government targeting roughly €20–30 million a year across sites.
- Some sites, including Chambord, Sainte‑Chapelle and the Conciergerie, have already introduced higher prices for non‑EEA visitors, and the Culture Ministry signals further rollouts such as the Opéra Garnier.
- The policy was backed by Culture Minister Rachida Dati after warnings about the Louvre’s condition and a high‑profile theft, prompting unions to argue the move undermines universality and equal access.
- With 8.7 million visitors in 2024, 69% from abroad, the Louvre will apply the €32 price by default unless visitors present proof of EEA nationality or residence.