Sacred Heart, known in French as Sacré-Cœur, is the most important place of worship in Paris. It is an impressive Christian temple of grand dimensions with free entry, so you have no excuse not to explore its naves and artistic works.
It is located on the hill of Montmartre, a lively area at night that attracts a large number of tourists every day. An important tip: the best way to get there is by taking the funicular, which replaces the nearly 200 steps that people once had to climb on foot.
Also, you shouldn’t miss the fantastic viewpoint that offers an amazing panoramic view of the city of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower.
To enrich your visit to Paris, here are some highly recommended activities you might enjoy:
- Access to the Eiffel Tower Summit or Second Level
- Moulin Rouge Cabaret Ticket with Champagne
- Skip-the-Line Entry to the Louvre Museum
- Ticket to the Palace and Gardens of Versailles
Visit the Basilica of the Sacred Heart
As mentioned, entry is free, and anyone who wishes can come in to see the interior. When we visited, we took this guided tour, where the guide was very friendly and explained all the details of the temple and its history to us in Spanish.
The cathedral is striking, both for its size and its white stone façade in Byzantine style. Its light color comes from the specific type of rock used, rich in calcite, which prevents the pure white from degrading over time.
Construction of the Basilica of the Sacred Heart began in 1875 and was completed after the end of World War I. Notable features at the entrance include statues of Joan of Arc and King Louis IX, prominently displayed at the main gate of the basilica.
Above the main structure, you can see several large domes, with the tallest reaching 80 meters above the ground. Additionally, its massive bell, called “La Savoyarde,” is the largest in all of France, emphasizing the significance of Sacré-Cœur.
Visit the Dome
Even though entry to Sacré-Cœur is free, you can pay to access the observation deck at the top of the central dome, offering breathtaking views of Paris. Climbing the dome of Sacré-Cœur is highly recommended, as it allows you to capture impressive photos of the entire city.
From the Eiffel Tower to Montmartre, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of some of the city’s most iconic spots. However, keep in mind that there are many stairs to climb, so it may not be suitable for everyone, particularly the elderly and young children.
Take your time to photograph the incredible views from the top of Sacré-Cœur and savor the experience. There’s no rush to go back down, and the area doesn’t feel overcrowded, so make the most of your time on the dome before descending.
Visit the Crypt
You can also visit the crypt of the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris, which houses the remains of important ecclesiastical figures from the time the sacred site was built.
The crypt, located beneath the main nave of the basilica, consists of several rooms dedicated to saints, virgins, and significant religious events. One of the most noteworthy chapels within the crypt is the Chapel of Perpetual Adoration, where the Holy Sacrament is worshipped continuously.
The atmosphere in the crypt is serene, similar to that of other sacred underground spaces, offering a place for reflection and prayer. Art lovers will appreciate that the walls are adorned with religious frescoes and artwork.
Check out this video of the stunning surroundings:
The Montmartre District and Its Charm
If you plan to visit the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, I also highly recommend exploring the streets of the Montmartre neighborhood, where it is located. It is undoubtedly one of the city’s most captivating areas, situated on a hill in the 18th arrondissement, north of Paris.
Traditionally, this neighborhood has been filled with artists and writers who have set up numerous shops and studios, making it a must-see destination.
In Montmartre, you’ll also find the Place du Tertre, a lively square where artists sell their artwork, making it a perfect spot for visitors to admire these pieces. You can even commission a portrait or a caricature. The square is surrounded by cafés and restaurants, ideal for taking a break and enjoying the atmosphere.
For a more in-depth experience, consider exploring the nearby museums and hidden alleys. You’ll be surprised by the vibrant art and historical richness that Montmartre offers, from the works of famous painters like Picasso to the iconic Moulin Rouge.
Tickets for Sacré-Cœur in Paris
To visit the basilica, you have two options: you can enter on your own, purchasing a ticket to access the dome or crypt inside Sacré-Cœur, or book a guided tour, which I recommend reserving in advance online.
1. Admission Tickets for the Sacred Heart of Paris
A self-guided visit to the main area is free; you only need to pay if you wish to climb to the basilica’s dome or explore the crypt. Ticket prices are as follows:
- Combined Dome and Crypt Ticket: €8; 4-16 years: €5
- Dome Only: €6; 4-16 years: €4
- Crypt Only: €3; 4-16 years: €2
- Spanish Audio Guide: €4, available by booking at this link.
As you can see, Sacré-Cœur is quite affordable, making it well worth a visit.
2. Guided Tour with an Expert Guide
This option is recommended if you want to deeply understand the basilica’s history, significance, and interesting anecdotes. The guide will take you through the most notable areas, enriching your experience of this magnificent religious site.
We personally enjoyed this tour of the Basilica and Montmartre, which lasts 90 minutes and was truly fantastic.
The basilica is accessible for those with reduced mobility; you just need to head to Rue du Chevalier de la Barre at the rear. This access is open from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Opening Hours for the Sacred Heart of Paris
Basilica
The Sacré-Cœur is open daily from 6:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. (last entry for visitors is at around 10:15 p.m.).
Dome
Access to the basilica’s dome has varying hours depending on the season:
- June to September: 9:00 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.
- March to April: 9:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
- October to February: 10:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Note that the last entrance to the dome is half an hour before closing and that there is no elevator, so be prepared for a climb.
To avoid the crowds, it’s best to arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon. These are the quietest times, allowing you to enjoy the artworks and take photos without the hustle and bustle.
How to Get to Sacré-Cœur?
Getting to Sacré-Cœur in Paris is quite simple since it is in the Montmartre neighborhood, specifically on Parvis du Sacré-Cœur – 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018 Paris. There are several options, such as:
1. Paris Metro
The metro is a convenient and affordable way to reach Sacré-Cœur.
- Line 2: Get off at Anvers and walk about 10 minutes to the basilica. Keep in mind that the uphill climb is steep, so taking the funicular is recommended.
- Line 12: Get off at Abbesses. After climbing several flights of stairs, you can either walk to the basilica or take the funicular.
2. By Bus
Several bus lines drop you near Sacré-Cœur, offering another great way to avoid climbing the hill.
- Line 30: Get off at Anvers – Sacré-Cœur and you’re there.
- Line 31: Get off at Jules Joffrin and walk 15 minutes.
- Line 54: Get off at Pigalle – Chaptal and walk 10 minutes.
- Line 85: Get off at Anvers – Sacré-Cœur and you’ll see the basilica.
History of the Basilica of the Sacred Heart
Its history is rich with symbolism, closely tied to the political and religious events that have shaped France. The construction of the Basilica of Sacré-Cœur began as a project to restore faith among the residents of Paris after the hardships endured during the Franco-Prussian wars in the 19th century.
This conflict left France devastated (as they lost the war) and led to the infamous Paris Commune, an insurrection that deeply affected the nation. It was during this time of profound spiritual crisis that a group of devoted Catholics proposed the building of a basilica as an act of penance and hope.
The project was initiated by the Archbishop of Paris and supported by several of the city’s most influential figures. It was decided that the basilica would be built on the Montmartre hill, a historic and symbolic location, funded by contributions from the city’s residents and generous donations from the Parisian church.
The architect Paul Abadie was chosen to bring the basilica to life. He drew inspiration from Romanesque and Byzantine styles, crafting a distinctive building marked by its iconic white domes. The construction of Sacré-Cœur faced numerous delays, but these were overcome through the generous donations of thousands of Catholic believers.
Interestingly, the names of everyone who contributed financially to the construction are inscribed on the stones used to build the basilica, making it a monument to the faith and unity of the community. The construction was finally completed in 1919, shortly after the end of World War I, following many years of work and substantial financial investment.
Today, Sacré-Cœur remains a significant place of worship and pilgrimage, drawing thousands of visitors from around the world. People flock to the basilica not only to admire its grandeur and religious significance but also to enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views from its terrace, which have become a popular setting for romantic proposals and unforgettable photos.
The basilica stands as a testament to the resilience and spiritual rebirth of the people of Paris, symbolizing hope and faith through its enduring architectural beauty. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this iconic landmark and take in both its historical importance and its stunning cityscape views.