The Best of the Louvre in Just 2 Hours: Don’t Miss These Masterpieces!

If you’re visiting the Louvre and only have two hours, it’s important to know what to see. This shortlist highlights the must-see pieces based on their fame, historical importance, and how well they show different styles and eras. I picked these items to give you a mix of world-famous masterpieces, unique art forms, and top visitor favorites. With this guide, you’ll get the best of the Louvre in a short visit without feeling overwhelmed.

Note: the Denon Wing holds many of the Louvre’s most popular and significant masterpieces that draw large crowds and represent major art movements. It makes sense to see multiple works from this wing if you have limited time.

1. Mona Lisa (La Joconde)

The Mona Lisa (French name "La Joconde") by Leonardo da Vinci is the Louvre’s most famous painting, drawing millions of visitors each year. Painted between 1503 and 1506, it portrays Lisa Gherardini, a woman from Florence, with her subtle, enigmatic smile that has sparked endless curiosity. Her eyes seem to follow you wherever you move. The portrait illustrates da Vinci’s masterful use of sfumato, a technique that blends colors smoothly for lifelike depth. Located in the Denon Wing, Room 711 - the crowd around her is usually big but seeing her up close is worth it for the experience