Eglise Saint-Louis de Fontainebleau
2 Rue de la Paroisse, Fontainebleau, France, 77300
Originally constructed in the 17th century, and remodeled during the Second French Empire in the 19th century, this church in Fontainebleau continues to serve as a house of worship to this day, with regular services for the local community.
The basics
While most Fontainebleau tours skip the Eglise Saint-Louis de Fontainebleau, it’s worth seeing if you have a bit of time to spend in the city. The interiors display a few gorgeous pieces of art, including a series of colorful stained-glass windows and a number of well-preserved oil paintings and religious sculptures. Make sure to look up—the ceiling is beautifully decorated, with a mix of intricate designs interspersed with subtle cherubin imagery.
Things to know before you go
The Eglise Saint-Louis is a worthwhile stop for fans of history and art.
You can take photos inside the church, but it’s not appropriate if Mass is taking place.
The church is wheelchair accessible, but wheelchair users may need assistance in some areas.
Admission is free, but donations are accepted (and customary if you light a candle).
How to get there
The Eglise Saint-Louis de Fontainebleau is situated in the heart of Fontainebleau, about an 8-minute walk from the Château de Fontainebleau. To get there from Paris, take a train from the Gare de Lyon station to the Fontainebleau-Avon station on the northern end of town. From the station, you can walk to the church (but it'll take about 30 minutes) or cut your journey down to 10 minutes by taking a bus or taxi.
When to get there
The church is open daily throughout the year, so you can usually just stop in at your leisure if you happen to be in town during the day. Mass typically takes place on Saturday evenings and twice on Sunday mornings, with additional services on certain holidays throughout the year.
Beyond Fontainebleau
While many visitors come to Fontainebleau to see the forest, the chateau, and perhaps some city center attractions—such as the Eglise Saint-Louis—there’s plenty more to do in the surrounding area. Popular places to visit near Fontainebleau include the Millet Studio Museum in nearby Barbizon—housed in the former studio of artist Jean-François Millet—and the Closeau Ecomuseum in Achères-la-Forêt, which preserves historic agricultural tools. The Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte in Maincy is also popular.
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