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At Sacré-Cœur Cathedral, visitors should take time to admire the stunning architecture, both inside and out. A visit to the dome offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Paris. You can also explore the crypt beneath the church, or simply enjoy the atmosphere at the Place du Tertre nearby, where artists display their works. Attending a mass or a concert in the church is a spiritually enriching experience as well.
The Sacre-Coeur Basilica, located on the Montmartre hill in Paris, is the second highest point in the city after the Eiffel Tower. Construction began in 1876 and was completed in 1919. Its pure white architecture is distinctive, combining Romanesque and Byzantine influences. Two equestrian statues flank the exterior: King Saint Louis of France and national heroine Joan of Arc. Inside, the Sacred Heart of Jesus is enshrined, and the decorations, primarily reliefs, murals, and mosaics, are magnificent and sanctifying. Beyond the basilica lies the renowned Place Montmartre, one of Paris's most artistic destinations, attracting many young artists to sketch.
Suitable for all seasons
About 1 hour
free
06:00-22:30 (Monday-Sunday, January 1st-December 31st)
08:30-20:00 (Summit) (Monday-Sunday, May 1st-September 30th)
09:00-17:00 (Summit) (October 1st - April 30th of the following year)
Sacré-Cœur Cathedral was built between 1875 and 1914 in a Romano-Byzantine style to honor the sacred heart of Jesus. The church holds great religious significance and is a symbol of hope and spiritual renewal. It stands on Montmartre hill, which was historically the center of Paris’ artistic community. The basilica is a place of pilgrimage and has become one of Paris’s most iconic landmarks.
Sacré-Cœur is located at the top of Montmartre in Paris. The closest metro station is Anvers (Line 2), from where you can either take the funicular or walk up the hill to the cathedral. Alternatively, the Abbesses metro station (Line 12) is also nearby, although it involves a steeper climb. Numerous buses also pass nearby.
The basilica is open to visitors daily from 6:00 AM to 10:30 PM. The best times to visit are early mornings or late evenings when the site is less crowded. Mass times can be particularly busy, so visiting in the afternoon is recommended for sightseeing.
Entry to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica is free. However, there is a charge for accessing the dome and the crypt. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online for a quicker entry. The cost for the dome is around €6, and the crypt costs €3.
For general entry to the basilica, no advance booking is necessary. However, to visit the dome or crypt, booking tickets online in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid long queues.
To fully explore the basilica and enjoy its surroundings, plan for about 1.5 to 2 hours. This includes time to visit the church, take in the views from the dome, explore the crypt, and stroll around the nearby Place du Tertre.
Inside Sacré-Cœur, the mosaic of Christ in Glory is a must-see, as is the grand altar and the beautiful stained-glass windows. The dome provides one of the best panoramic views of Paris, and the crypt offers a peaceful retreat with its religious art and statues.
Guided tours are available in several languages, including English, French, Spanish, and Italian. Audio guides are also offered in multiple languages and provide insight into the church’s history, art, and architecture.
The best viewpoint for photographs is from the top of the dome, offering panoramic views of Paris. Another great spot is in front of the basilica, where you can capture the church framed by the surrounding steps and the Montmartre neighborhood in the background.
Start by visiting the main basilica, where you can admire the grand architecture and artwork. Afterward, head up to the dome for the spectacular views of Paris, then visit the crypt. Lastly, take time to walk around the nearby Place du Tertre, a square filled with artists and cafés.
Sacré-Cœur Basilica does not offer night visits or light shows. However, the church is illuminated at night, providing a beautiful sight. Special religious ceremonies and concerts are occasionally held in the evenings, and mass is offered regularly throughout the day.
Sacré-Cœur can be very crowded, especially during weekends and holidays. The best times to visit are early mornings (before 9:00 AM) or late afternoons (after 5:00 PM) on weekdays, as these times tend to be less crowded.
There are toilets and a small shop inside the basilica. Nearby, you will find a variety of restaurants, cafés, and shops offering snacks and drinks. The area is well-equipped for tourists with rest areas and other facilities within walking distance.
The basilica is accessible for elderly visitors and families with children, though the climb to the dome may be challenging for those with limited mobility. Wheelchair access is available to the church, but the dome and crypt are not accessible for wheelchair users.
Both cash and card payments are accepted for purchases inside the basilica and at nearby shops. Mobile payments such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are also accepted at many locations around the basilica.
Nearby restaurants and cafés include Le Consulat, a historic café popular with artists, and Café des Deux Moulins, famous for its appearance in the movie *Amélie*. Many other cafés in the Place du Tertre offer outdoor seating with great views of the basilica.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at several cafés and restaurants around Montmartre. Halal food can also be found in the surrounding areas, though it is less common in the immediate vicinity of the basilica.
Several hotels are located near Sacré-Cœur, including Hotel Montmartre, Hotel 29 Lepic, and Le Relais Montmartre. These offer a range of options, from budget to mid-range accommodations, all within walking distance of the basilica.
Nearby attractions include the Moulin Rouge, the Musée de Montmartre, and the Place du Tertre, where artists gather. You can also visit the Musée Dalí or take a walk in the picturesque streets of Montmartre.
There are souvenir shops around Sacré-Cœur and Montmartre selling postcards, religious artifacts, paintings, and handmade items. The most common souvenirs include small replicas of the basilica, keychains, and local artwork.
After visiting Sacré-Cœur, you can take the metro from the Anvers or Abbesses stations, or walk to nearby areas such as Pigalle or the Opéra district. Taxis and buses are also available if you wish to explore other parts of Paris.
