British tourists may soon pay more to visit iconic French attractions like the Louvre. France’s culture minister, Rachida Dati, has proposed a surcharge for non-EU visitors to fund restoration efforts on historic sites. The extra charge, expected to be around €5 (£4.17), could be added to popular sites such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, which was previously free to enter before its restoration began after the 2019 fire.
Dati emphasized the need for non-EU visitors to contribute to France’s heritage upkeep , explaining to Le Figaro, “The French people should not have to pay for everything on their own.” Ticket prices for the Louvre, currently €22, could rise to €30 for non-EU tourists, including Britons, with similar fees anticipated for Versailles and Musée d’Orsay.
This proposed levy, set to take effect by 2026, has sparked controversy. Louvre staff worry about enforcing the surcharge, as it requires verifying each visitor’s nationality. Critics, like Ariel Weil, mayor of Paris Centre, find it “morally shocking ” to charge entry to Notre Dame. However, Dati’s supporters argue that other iconic cathedrals, like London’s St. Paul’s, charge fees.
The move follows a trend across Europe to manage high visitor numbers while funding maintenance. Venice recently announced it will expand its €5 day-tripper fee to 59 days per year, aiming to reduce overcrowding in the city’s narrow canals and historic streets.
Planning a vacation in France? Make your trip more worthwhile by renting a car and driving around the beautiful country. Review our France driving guide to familiarize yourself with the country’s rules and regulations.
Aside from making a pitstop at France’s key attractions, you can also go on a scenic road trip or explore what the South of France has to offer.
