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Security Lines in Paris

Are the security lines at major tourist sites much longer than before the recent attacks in Paris? Can you still access the entrance to the Louve through the underground mall?

Posted by
993 posts

You can access there but better go early! We were there a few days ago and when we came out just after 11am the underground entrance line was like back past where the metro lets off... the whole length of the mall and turning a corner. Eeek.

Best to get tickets in advance for 9am. Get there before 9am at pyramid. They let us in before any groups or Paris Museum pass people... they held there line while we entered starting at 9am.

Kim

Posted by
2466 posts

It is always better not to bring any backpacks, tote bags or large purses when you go to a museum. Speeds up the line considerably, no matter which museum you go to.

Posted by
1172 posts

Security lines were quite long everywhere. The Eiffel tower for example had 2 security check points. We got there about 1 hour before our scheduled ticket time and I was happy that we did.
I agree with a previous poster who said to try and limit what you take. Bring a small bag/purse and only bring what you need.

Posted by
12172 posts

Last time I went to the Louvre (last September) you had to use the pyramid entrance if you were using a museum pass. I went a little over 1/2 hour before the doors opened and was first in line. I didn't carry anything other than a cell phone and was waived through security.

Posted by
8092 posts

You don't have to use the Pyramid if you have a museum pass. The special access security line is at the Pyramid for passholders but if the Carrousel line is shorter you just use that without showing the pass. You don't need tickets or whatever to access the lobby of the Louvre. No one really cares about tickets until you enter the museum wing so you can use any entrance for security. FWIW we used the Carrousel mid morning this May when we had tickets for the Vermeer exhibit and there was no line at all there; we just walked right up to the x-ray etc. It varies a lot. Since sites like this have publicized the Carrousel entrance, it is no longer a secret and so no longer the advantage it once was. The Richelieu entrance used to be for tour groups and pass holders but I think it is no longer used for pass holders.