Sacré Coeur Basilica

Located on top of Butte Montmartre, the highest point in Paris, the magnificent Sacré Coeur is a spectacular sight that also provides visitors with some superb views of Paris

Sacré Coeur-Crown of Montmartre
Sacré Coeur-Crown of Montmartre cc licensed ( BY ND ) flickr photo by serrotoicram

The Sacré Coeur, the Basilica of the Sacréd Heart of Paris, is actually a Roman Catholic Church. It serves as a monument to both political and cultural parties. It is seen as a penance for the excesses of the second empire as well as an embodiment of conservative morals and order.

It was both dedicated to honour the 58,000 lives lost in the Franco-Prussian war and to "expiate the crimes of the Commune" (an uprising that ensued as a result of the war). The location for the Sacré Coeur was decided when the successor to the martyred Archbishop Georges Darboy, Guibert, had a vision which revealed that the Butte Montmartre was where the martyrs were.

The Sacré Coeur was designed by Paul Abadie, who passed away not long after the foundation stone was laid, when he won a competition that was entered by 77 other architects for the job. His work was completed by five other architects. There were many stumbling blocks that were placed in the path of the construction of the Sacré Coeur but it prevailed and the foundation stone was laid on 16 June 1875 with construction being completed in 1914 and dedicated in 1919 after World War 1.

The Sacré Coeur has played a major role in Catholicism and is still used as a place of worship today. It is possible to attend services and mass each day. It is quite remarkable that the entire construction was funded through donations made by various pilgrims and the faithful. The stone the Sacré Coeur is built of remains white, no matter how much weathering and pollution it is subjected to which the faithful relate to the purity of Christ.

It is worth noting that you will not be permitted to make use of any cameras or video recorders within the Basilica. You are also asked to remain silent so as not to disturb the faithful who come from around the world to pray in this majestic Cathedral.

Nearby attraction: District of Montmartre



Facts For Your Visit

Fee: No

Sacré Coeur Basilica Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays

  • Monday: 6:30 AM – 10:30 PM
  • Tuesday: 6:30 AM – 10:30 PM
  • Wednesday: 6:30 AM – 10:30 PM
  • Thursday: 6:30 AM – 10:30 PM
  • Friday: 6:30 AM – 10:30 PM
  • Saturday: 6:30 AM – 10:30 PM
  • Sunday: 6:30 AM – 10:30 PM

Address: 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018 Paris, France

Phone: 01 53 41 89 00

Official Website: Sacré Coeur Basilica

Sacré Coeur Basilica Reviews

Rated 4.7 out of 5 Star Rating

4 Star Rating I recently visited Basilique du Sacré-Cœur, and it was a beautiful and memorable experience. The basilica itself is stunning, with its bright white exterior and impressive architecture standing proudly at the top of Montmartre. It does get very crowded, especially during the day, so be prepared for the rush. I would highly recommend visiting early in the morning to truly enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and take in the views without too much crowd. One helpful tip: if you have a Navigo or any Paris travel pass, you can use it for the Montmartre funicular (cable car) to reach the top. It makes the climb much easier and saves your energy. The panoramic view of Paris from the top is absolutely worth it. Whether you’re visiting for the spiritual experience, the architecture, or the scenery, it’s definitely a must-visit spot in Paris. Highly recommended.
Aromal sathyan - a month ago

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5 Star Rating 📝 Review – Sacré-Cœur Basilica The visit to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica was a very beautiful experience, even though we stood in line for about 45 minutes. It was worth the wait. At one point, a group of four people tried to enter through the front, but they were politely invited to go and stand in line, which seemed fair and civilized to me. Once up, the view is spectacular. The panorama of Paris is impressive, especially from a height. It is a perfect place to take photos and admire the city in a peaceful atmosphere. There are many restaurants and terraces around the basilica, which makes the area even more attractive for tourists. The neighborhood has a bohemian and lively air. I also noticed some tourist trains with which you can take short tours around the church and through the Montmartre neighborhood. I thought it was an interesting idea for those who want to explore the area without walking much. In conclusion, the Sacré-Cœur Basilica is a place worth visiting, even if you have to wait in line. The view, the atmosphere and the surroundings make this an unforgettable experience.
Geo Nicolau - 2 months ago

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5 Star Rating One of the true landmarks of Paris and an absolute must-see. The basilica rises above the city like a quiet guardian, its white domes glowing against the sky and its French architecture simply breathtaking. What stayed with me most was the interior. I’ve always loved stained-glass windows, and here they felt almost magical. As soon as you step inside, you’re surrounded by tall pillars, soft marble tones, sculptures of saints, and the warm flicker of countless candles. We visited on a Sunday during mass, and the gentle rhythm of the prayers filled the space with a calm, almost timeless atmosphere. When you step back outside, Paris suddenly opens up beneath you. From the steps, the city stretches out like a painting, rooftops fading into the distance. People were sitting on the stairs, talking, laughing, and soaking in the view. The whole area felt alive, with small cafés and shops tucked into the surrounding streets. We also took the little tourist train that circles the hill. For about €12, it gave us a charming ride around the basilica and down toward the Moulin Rouge, adding a playful touch to the visit. A place where history, beauty, and everyday Parisian life meet—calm inside, vibrant outside, and unforgettable from every angle. Definitely worth the climb.
Eman AlShamlawi - 2 months ago

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5 Star Rating What an absolutely stunning location and edifice. We have plans to go back and visit with more time, but the architecture and the atmosphere, along with the view of the city were absolutely remarkable. The little shops surrounding the basilica were great, the shop owners were friendly and we found a good variety of gifts and souvenirs. We have definite plans to return to see both the interior and stained glass, as well as to climb the stairs to the top of the cupola.
Nicholas Sill - 2 months ago

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5 Star Rating What a beautiful church. I passed by twice, once during the day, and once at night. With the mild weather on Sunday there were alot of people in the afternoon, visiting, walking the stairs and taking photos. The line in the afternoon was longer than I was willing to wait. But by the evening there was light rain and I made it back for the end of 6pm mass. Very few people and stunning views of both Sacré-Coeur and the city. Lots of stairs so be ready for the hike. There are options to get to the top if you, friends or family have trouble walking the whole way. Strongly recommend a visit.
Stephanie Quinn - 2 months ago

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Directions

Metro / RER Line Nearest Station Walking Time
M2Anvers9 minutes (4 to the Funicular)
M12Abbesses11 minutes (5 to the Funicular)

How to get to Sacré Coeur Basilica by Metro / RER

By Metro: Exit at either Anvers Station on the M2 Line or Abbesses Station on the M12 Line. To get to the Funicular that goes up to the base of the Basilica go to Abbesses Station on the M12 line; exit to the left and follow Rue Yvonne le Tac east watching for the sign to the Funicular (5 minutes) or you can take the stairs (11 minutes). From Anvers Station on the M2 line follow the crowds heading north past all the little shops on Rue de Steinkerque and head up the stairs (9 minutes) or go left at Place St. Pierre and look for the sign to the Funicular (4 minutes).

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