Basilique du Sacré-Coeur

The Basics

There are several options for exploring the grand basilica. See it as part of a Paris city tour or on a walking tour of the atmospheric Montmartre neighborhood. You can also book a guided tour of the lavish interiors to see highlights such as the apse mosaic, the grand organ, and the crypt. Visitors can also climb the 234-step spiral staircase to the top of the dome for panoramic views of the entire city, including the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Access to the basilica is free, but you’ll have to pay an admission fee to visit the Dome.

• There are no official guided tours of the basilica as it is a place of silent prayer.

• There is a step-free entrance at the back of the basilica, and the church is wheelchair accessible except for the dome and the crypt.

How to Get There

The Basilique du Sacré-Coeur is located on Rue du Chevalier de la Barre in the Montmartre district of Paris. To get there by metro, take line 2 to Anvers station, then walk up Montmartre hill or ride the funicular.

When to Get There

The basilica is open daily all year round, but it can get crowded in peak season, so opt for an early morning visit to avoid the crowds. For budding photographers wanting to capture the views, the most flattering light happens just before sunset, although note that it can be busy at this time.

A Walking Tour of Montmartre

The Basilique du Sacré-Coeur is one of the most memorable sights of Montmartre, but the bohemian ‘village’ has plenty of other attractions. A walking tour means you can explore like a local, stopping by famous landmarks such as the Moulin Rouge and the Artists’ Square; follow in the footsteps of artists like van Gogh, Monet, and Picasso; and explore the many shops, galleries, restaurants, and cafés.

Ways to explore

Sacré-Coeur Basilica is an essential Paris landmark, though its hilltop location in Montmartre means you might have to do some climbing to get there (either that or take the Montmartre Funicular). Upon arrival, it’s worth lining up to visit for free, or pay a small donation to ascend all the way to the dome, going up 280 steps. Still, some of the most impressive views of Sacré-Coeur—and of Paris—are to be found outside on its terraces.

For an in-depth experience, visit Sacré-Coeur as part of a Montmartre walking tour, guided Paris sightseeing tour, or as part of a vintage sidecar trip.

Accessibility

The entrance to Sacré-Coeur is accessible to wheelchair users—an elevator is found in the back of the basilica—but there is no elevator to the dome.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Phone if you want to use the audio guide, small handheld bag, binoculars

What to wear

As in other working churches, be sure to wear respectful clothing, and cover your shoulders and knees.

Not allowed

Talking, taking photos in the nave, disturbing worshippers

Amenities

Gift shop, downloadable audio guide

Address

The Basilique du Sacré-Coeur stands on Montmartre Hill in Paris’ 18th arrondissement. The area is served by the Métro and a funicular, as well as local bus routes. Taxis and rideshare services, or tours with transit, also make getting there simple.

Driving

Owing to congested traffic and limited parking, driving to Sacré-Coeur is not recommended. Instead, it’s best to use taxis, rideshare services, or public transit.

Public transportation

To get to Sacré-Coeur, take Métro line 2 to Anvers, at the base of Montmartre Hill. From there, take the Montmartre Funicular up the hill—or walk, if you want the exercise.

Best times to visit

Sacré-Coeur can be very crowded with tourists, so if you can, arrive early in the morning when things are calmer. Another option is visiting at sunset to capture views over the city—just expect it to be very busy.

Best days to visit

The ever-popular basilica is open daily, and offers Mass multiple times a day. Generally, weekends—especially Sundays—are the busiest time at the church, so consider going on a weekday instead.

Best months to visit

Summer is the tourist high season in Paris, and when you can expect Sacré-Coeur to be the most crowded. For a more relaxed experience, try the spring or autumn shoulder seasons.

Special events

Visit in July to see the Lavagem do Sacré Coeur, an event with Brazilian roots, including a festive procession and ritual washing of the basilica. Don’t miss Bastille Day on July 14—Sacré-Coeur is a great place to watch the fireworks.