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

5 Star Rating Sacré-Cœur in Montmartre is one of those spots you just can’t miss in Paris. The bright white basilica stands out against the city skyline, and the view from the top is worth the climb. Inside, the mosaic ceiling adds a touch of quiet beauty. It can get busy, so early mornings or late afternoons are best for fewer crowds. The historic vibe here feels intense—almost like a scene from a John Wick movie. The steps can be steep, so wear comfy shoes and be ready for some exercise. It’s a classic Paris experience that mixes history, architecture, and city views all in one place.
noel medina - a week ago

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5 Star Rating Beautiful and peaceful worth every step! This was my second time visiting and I still absolutely love it. The view from the top is breathtaking and the basilica itself is stunning inside and out. If you have trouble walking up stairs, don’t worry there’s a funicular (located on the side) that makes the climb much easier. Even though the line looked very long stretching all the way to the exit gate it only took about 5–10 minutes to get inside, so don’t let that scare you off! Definitely worth a visit if you’re in Paris.
Ade Lina - 4 weeks ago

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5 Star Rating The church sits on top of Montmartre Hill, the highest point in the city and is easy to see from many places in Paris. It was built in the late 1800s and finished in 1914. It was made to honor the people who died in a war and to show peace and hope. To enter the basilica, you can walk up many steps or take a small train called the funicular. Entrance to the church is freeThere is a bag check, security staff may look inside your bag for safety reasons. You are not allowed to take photos inside the church. Outside the basilica, many people come to see the amazing view. From the top of the hill, you can see all over Paris. It is a great spot for pictures, especially at sunset. Street performers often play music nearby, adding to the fun atmosphere. Close to the basilica, you might notice metal fences filled with "love locks." Couples put a lock on the fence and throw away the key to show their love is forever. However, Paris has removed many locks in the past to protect the city’s old buildings. The Sacré-Cœur is not just a church, but a special place for visitors and locals. It is beautiful, peaceful, and full of history and charm.
Ivan Tan - a month ago

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5 Star Rating Absolutely stunning place with one of the best views in Paris! The Sacré-Cœur Basilica is not only beautiful inside and out, but the entire experience of walking up through Montmartre to reach it is unforgettable. The white domes stand out against the sky, and the interior is peaceful and filled with incredible art and detail. Don’t miss the panoramic view from the steps — it’s perfect at sunset. It can get crowded, but the atmosphere is vibrant and lively. Definitely a must-visit spot if you're in Paris!
Forarzo - 2 weeks ago

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5 Star Rating First time in Paris, and of course, we couldn’t miss this must-see landmark. It’s truly impressive in its beauty. You can take the escalator up to the top if you don’t feel like walking. It’s a popular tourist spot, looks stunning against the city skyline, and offers a beautiful view over Paris.
Valentina Gorodetki - 2 weeks 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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