The Louvre in Paris has given the go-ahead for an increase in ticket prices, moving from 22 to 32 euros ($25 to $37) for individuals not from Europe, starting in January. This adjustment is intended to fund renovations for the structure, the deterioration of which has been brought to light by the Oct. 19 crown jewels heist.
TL;DR
- The Louvre will increase ticket prices for non-Europeans from 22 to 32 euros starting January.
- This price hike aims to fund renovations and security upgrades following a recent heist.
- Other French landmarks like Versailles and Chateau de Chambord are also considering similar price increases.
- This practice of charging foreigners more is common globally for cultural site preservation.
This initiative arises as other significant cultural landmarks nationwide, such as the Palace of Versailles, contemplate comparable actions to generate additional funds required for expensive upkeep and restoration.
The adjustments to Louvre ticket sales are a component of a ten-year initiative aimed at updating the institution. The pressing need for these changes was underscored by security lapses that facilitated the theft valued at 88 million euros ($102 million).
On Friday, a person implicated in the Louvre heist was handed preliminary charges faces charges of organized theft and criminal conspiracy, according to the Paris prosecutor's office on Friday, indicating that all four individuals seen on camera pilfering the gems have been apprehended.
Starting January 14th, individuals not from European Union countries will face an additional charge of 10 euros ($12). This adjustment was sanctioned on Thursday by The Louvre's administrative council. Citizens of Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway, nations party to the European Economic Area accord, will be exempt from this price increase.
The Louvre welcomes many international visitors
In 2024, the Louvre welcomed 8.7 millions visitors, 77% of them foreigners. Top nationalities include people from the U.S. (13%), China (6%) and Britain (5%), who will be affected by the price hikes.
Earlier this month, Louvre director Laurence des Cars announced more than 20 emergency measures have started being implemented following the robbery. She said the Louvre’s latest overhaul in the 1980s is now technically obsolete.
The expense for the proposed “Louvre New Renaissance” initiative is projected to reach 800 million euros ($933 million) for upgrading facilities, alleviating congestion, and providing the famed Mona Lisa with its own exhibition space by 2031.
Certain individuals have contended that such a regulation might prove detrimental if it results in a decrease in visitor numbers. Nevertheless, other organizations view it as a possible remedy.
The head of the Chateau de Chambord, a remarkably notable castle in the Loire Valley, stated that additional funding is required to cover substantial restoration efforts at his establishment.
In January, the Chateau de Chambord intends to implement a 10-euro ($12) price hike, raising the admission fee to 30 euros ($35) for individuals not residing in the EU. These visitors constitute approximately 10% of the total tourist numbers, according to director Pierre Dubreuil, who spoke with the local station Ici Orléans. The additional revenue is earmarked to fund critical repairs necessary to prevent the 16th-century royal wing of François I, which is in a state of disrepair, from succumbing to structural failure. The projected expense for these renovations is 37 million euros ($43 million).
“Australians, people from New Zealand, Americans, when they come to see Chambord, sometimes that’s once in a lifetime,” Dubreuil said. “Paying 20 or 30 euros doesn’t change anything.”
Rachida Dati, the conservative Culture Minister, is advocating for this new regulation, which might be implemented at other significant cultural landmarks throughout France. The Palace of Versailles is contemplating a 3-euro ($3.5) increase for individuals not from The European Union.
Charging foreigners more in the U.S. And Africa
Many nations globally frequently impose additional charges on international guests, typically to boost income and cover the expenses associated with preserving historical locations.
This week, the National Park Service in the United States declared its intention to begin imposing fees on the vast numbers of international visitors who frequent U.S. Parks annually an extra $100 for access to several highly sought-after locations, such as Yellowstone and Grand Canyon.
The declaration of “America-first entry fee policies” arrives amidst widespread staff reductions and substantial budget cuts for national parks deal with the strain, as well as efforts to recover from recent government shutdown damage and considerable revenue losses stemming from uncollected fees during that period.
Britain has discussed charging tourists more but hasn't put it into practice, given that entry to the permanent exhibits at prominent museums and art spaces is complimentary.
This week, in its financial plan, the U.K. Administration revealed that municipalities across Britain would gain the authority to impose a “tourist tax” on individuals staying overnight, mirroring charges implemented in urban centers such as Paris and New York. These collected funds are intended to support essential services and public works within these cities.
It's a widespread approach throughout Africa to charge international tourists higher admission fees for prominent attractions compared to residents or those from neighboring countries.
Whether it’s a hike to see gorillas or a “Big 5” safari, international visitors to game parks and museums can expect to pay at least four or five times more than residents.
The income generated is recognized for its contribution to both regional economies and the conservation of animals. Kruger National Park in South Africa imposes a daily fee of $35 on international visitors, while South African citizens pay $8. Masai Mara, located in Kenya, levies a daily charge of $200 on non-residents, but only $24 for Kenyan residents.