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The Louvre: Through the Years of Transformation

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New tour1h 45minFree · tip-basedRun by Kateryna
The Louvre: Through the Years of Transformation

A tour about the Louvre’s evolution from a 12th-century fortress to a modern museum, revealing royal ambitions, secret symbols, hidden legends, notorious robberies, Nostradamus’ visit, notorious robberies… and why Picasso is connected.

This tour explores the history and architecture of the Louvre, from its origins as a 12th-century fortress under King Philip II, through its transformation into the residence of French kings, Renaissance renovations under Francis I and Henry II, to the grand facades built during Louis XIV’s reign and imperial modifications under Napoleon.

We will walk through the main courtyards — Cour Carrée, Cour Napoléon — and see the iconic Pavillon de l’Horloge and the East Colonnade. Along the way, we will uncover hidden signs, secret symbols, and legends left by the architects over centuries.

The tour includes intriguing stories: the visit of Nostradamus, the most famous Louvre robbery, mysterious symbols on the façades, and why Picasso is connected to the Louvre in the 20th century. You will see how the Louvre shaped the axis of Paris and how architectural styles changed over time — from medieval fortress to modern museum crowned by I.M. Pei’s glass pyramid.

Meeting point

We will meet on the steps in front of the Institut de France.

Before you go

Length
About 1h 45min
Languages
Italian, Russian, English
Usual start times
09:00, 12:30, 15:00 (Paris time)
Coming up
120 departures in 3 months, 20 this week

Questions about this tour

How much does this tour cost?

Nothing up front. You book for free and tip your guide at the end. Many travellers tip around €5 to €15 per person, depending on the length and quality of the tour.

How long does it take?

About 1h 45min.

Where does it start?

The meeting point is We will meet on the steps in front of the Institut de France.. The map on this page shows the exact spot.

What languages is it in?

Upcoming departures are in Italian, Russian and English. Pick your language in the calendar to see only those.

When does it run?

120 departures are listed in the next three months, 20 of them in the next 7 days, usually at 09:00, 12:30 and 15:00. Times are local to Paris.

Do I need to book?

Booking is a good idea: groups are limited and popular times fill up. Create a free Tripsora account, pick a day and time, and press Book to finish with the tour provider.

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