Basilique de Saint-Denis

The basics

This 12th-century abbey and church are considered a bridge between Romanesque and Gothic architecture. They also house the tombs of all but three of France’s monarchs from the 10th to 18th centuries. Join a guided tour of the church for insights into its importance, or visit independently with a pre-purchased skip-the-line ticket or pass—the Paris Pass, Paris City Pass, Paris Museum Pass, and Panthéon & Basilique de Saint-Denis Multi-Pass all include Saint-Denis—to avoid delayed entrance.

Things to know before you go

• Its unique mix of Romanesque and Gothic elements and numerous royal tombs make the basilica an interesting stop for both architecture buffs and French history enthusiasts.
• Cover your shoulders and knees to avoid being refused entry to this and other historic Parisian churches.
• Bring your camera to capture the interiors and stained glass rose windows.
• The church is accessible to wheelchair users.

How to get there

The Basilica Cathedral of Saint-Denis is located in the Saint-Denis suburb of Paris, best reached by metro line 13 (the station is Basilique de Saint-Denis). The travel time is about 20 minutes from the city center. Alternatively, book a sightseeing tour of the city that includes transportation to skip the hassle of public transportation.

When to get there

One of the highlights of the church is its splendid stained glass windows, both tucked under the soaring Gothic arches of the nave and in the huge rose windows on the facade. Try to visit on a sunny day in the bright midday hours to fully experience (and photograph) their colors.

Saint-Denis’ most famous royal residents

In addition to the remains of Saint-Denis, the patron saint of France, the Basilica Cathedral of Saint-Denis is the final resting place for most of France’s royalty. The most prominent tombs belong to Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette, infamously beheaded in the French Revolution, and the mummified heart of their 10-year-old son Dauphin. Also entombed are Napoleon Bonaparte; Louis IX, the only French king to be canonized a saint; and Louis XIV, known as the sun king.

Ways to explore

Allow at least an hour to visit the Basilique de Saint-Denis. Entry is ticketed, and advance reservations are strongly recommended. You can opt for a self-guided visit, which allows you to explore the cathedral and its necropolis, with the option to add an audio guide (available in five languages) for an extra fee. Guided tours are available in both French and English, lasting approximately 90 minutes. There isn’t much else by way of attractions within Saint-Denis, but escaping the city center’s tourist track for the banlieues offers a different perspective on the French capital.

Accessibility

The basilica is wheelchair-accessible, and visitors with disabilities (plus one companion) enter for free.

Age limits

None; under-18s enter free

What to pack

Refillable water bottle, guidebook, camera

What to wear

There’s no official dress code, but it’s advisable to wear something modest as a sign of respect.

Not allowed

Large bags, food, photography for professional use

Amenities

Restrooms, baby-changing facilities

Address

The basilica is located around 9 kilometers (5.5 miles) from the center of Paris. It is reachable by both car and metro.

Driving

Take A1 from Porte de la Chapelle, then exit at Saint Denis, centre-ville. Follow signs for Saint-Denis. You can park at Indigo Parking, located just next to the monument. The center of Saint-Denis is pedestrian-only, so you won’t find any street parking there.

Public transportation

Take metro line 13 and get off at Basilique de Saint-Denis station. There’s no elevator, so anyone with difficulty climbing stairs should consider coming by rental car, rideshare, or taxi.

Best times to visit

Morning is quietest; the basilica starts to fill up around midday.

Best days to visit

Come on a sunny day, when the light filters through the basilica’s famous stained-glass windows. The basilica is closed to visitors during religious services, so avoid planning a trip during Sunday mass.

Best months to visit

Aim for the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. Avoid July and August, which coincide with peak tourist season, as many businesses close for vacation at the end of summer.

Special events

The basilica regularly hosts family-friendly events and activities, from history-themed concerts to art workshops. Check their official website for a full list of events.