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
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: NoSacré 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 out of 5![]()
Visiting Sacré-Cœur was another must-do on my Paris list. I started walking from Galeries Lafayette around 2:30 PM to get there. It’s a walkable distance if you enjoy walking, and it’s a great way to explore the heart of Paris. Be ready though—the roads are quite steep! You’ll find plenty of cafés along the way, but if you’re traveling from India on a budget, be prepared—coffee here is quite expensive. Paris, and France in general, can be pricey compared to many other European countries.
When you reach Sacré-Cœur, you’ll need to climb a long, steep staircase to get to the top. Once there, you can use an old-fashioned binocular to get a beautiful view of Paris. Many people sit on the wide steps to relax or take pictures, as you get a perfect view of the church’s front from there.
You can go inside if you want, but most people prefer to stay outside and enjoy the scenery. You’ll often see street performers and artists entertaining the crowd, and a few vendors selling souvenirs nearby.
It’s definitely a must-visit spot for anyone coming to Paris!
Visakh Ramachandran - in the last week
This is a beautiful trip you should do when in Paris. You shouldn't miss it, not only for the beauty of the Sacré-Coeur, but the view of the city is astonishing from there. True is that Notre Dame has the appeal, and it's also a beautiful church to know, but the Montmartre funicular is a tiny wonderful trip on its own. The lane to enter the church is not so heavy, and inside it's beautiful as well.
I'm not a believer, but these places make you feel something spiritual beyond your beliefs.
Then after being in the church, take the stairs downwards and go through the neighborhood, which is in itself very likable, and have an ice cream (Gelato), the way they do it there.
Carlos Eduardo Montealegre Gómez - 3 weeks ago
A wonderful church worth the hike up those stairs.
My family enjoyed the picturesque marvel that is Sacre Coeur. The walk up is challenging although you can take the funicular tram if you approach from the front (we didn't).
The entrance was to the left as you dace Sacré-Cœur after a brief security check we marvelled at the architecture and majesty of its beauty. The dome painting of Jesus and the sacred heart is spectacular and worth the trip.
There are no toilets though with the nearest on the right base (wasn't open when we went) or at the park on the left at the base of the funicular (automated).
Lots of nice shops near the base especially fabric shops too.
Dr Gandalf - in the last week
The Basilique du Sacré-Cœur is absolutely breathtaking! ⛪✨
One of the most peaceful and spiritually uplifting places I’ve ever visited. The view of Paris from the top is simply stunning — especially at sunset. Inside, the architecture and artwork are full of beauty and history.
It’s a perfect place to pause, reflect, and take in the charm of Paris. Highly recommended for anyone visiting the city — both for its sacred atmosphere and its incredible panoramic views. ❤️🇫🇷
Khawar bajwa - 2 weeks ago
The climb up the stairs to the top of Sacré-Cœur is absolutely worth every step! Yes, it’s a bit of a workout, but once you reach the top, the panoramic view of Paris is breathtaking — truly one of the best in the city.
The basilica itself is stunning, inside and out. Peaceful, majestic, and full of beautiful details. Despite the crowds, there's a real sense of calm once you're there.
Whether you're visiting for the architecture, the history, the view, or just the experience, Sacré-Cœur is a must-see in Paris. Don’t skip the stairs — the journey makes the destination even more special!
Ewest - a month ago
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Directions
| Metro / RER Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| M2 | Anvers | 9 minutes (4 to the Funicular) |
| M12 | Abbesses | 11 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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Photo Gallery
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Many people enjoying a gorgeous day on the slopes and stairs leading up to Sacré Coeur cc licensed photo by edwin.11 -
Photo Credit: Brian.Riggs - cc license via Flickr -
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Photo Credit: Drew de F Fawkes - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Janne Räkköläinen - cc license via Flickr -
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Photo Credit: marfis75 - cc license via Flickr

