If you’re heading to Paris, you can’t skip the Basilica of the Sacred Heart (Sacré-Cœur). Trust me, it’s one of the most breathtaking spots in the city, and not just for the view – though that alone is worth the visit.
Perched at the highest point in Montmartre, the basilica stands out with its brilliant white domes, and the moment you step inside, you’ll see why it’s special. The atmosphere is peaceful and almost otherworldly, with the enormous golden Apse Mosaic of Christ glowing above you. Even if you’ve seen plenty of churches, this one has a unique energy that’s hard to describe.
But here’s the real secret: climb the dome. It’s about 300 steps, and yes, your legs will feel it, but once you’re up there, the panoramic view of Paris is unbeatable. You’ll see the city stretching out in every direction, and at sunset, it’s absolutely magical.
Basic Information
Opening Hours
- Basilica: Open daily from 6:30 AM to 10:30 PM. No reservation is needed, and entry is free.
- Dome:
- June–September: 9 AM–8:30 PM
- March–April: 9:30 AM–7 PM
- November–February: 10 PM–5:30 PM
- Crypt: Access may vary, and it is sometimes closed to the public, so it’s best to check on the day of your visit.
Ticket Price
- The Basilica: Free
- The Dome: €6
Mass Schedule
- Monday to Thursday: 7:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM, 6:30 PM
- Fridays: 7:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 6:30 PM, 3:00 PM, 10:00 PM
- Saturdays: 7:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 10:00 PM
- Sundays & Feast Days: 7:00 AM, 11:00 AM (Solemn Mass with choir), 6:00 PM, 10:00 PM
Best Times to Visit
- Early morning (before 9 AM) for a peaceful experience with fewer crowds.
- Evening (around sunset) for breathtaking views of Paris from the dome.
How to Get to Basilica of the Sacred Heart
The Basilica of the Sacred Heart (Sacré-Cœur) is located at the highest point in Paris, atop Montmartre Hill in the 18th arrondissement. The exact address is 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018 Paris, France.
Getting There by Metro
- Line 2 (Blue Line): Get off at the Anvers station. From here, it’s a short walk (about 5-10 minutes) to the base of the hill.
- Line 12 (Green Line): Get off at Abbesses station. From here, you’ll need to take the Montmartre Funicular or walk up the hill.
- The Funicular (A Cable Car): It’s located near the Abbesses station, a bit further down and takes you directly up the hill to the basilica’s entrance. The funicular runs from 6:00 AM to 12:30 AM.
Getting There by Bus
- Bus 40: Get off at the Stop: “Place du Tertre – Norvins” for the shortest walking distance to the basilica.
Getting There by Walking
- The walk from Place de Clichy is about 15-20 minutes.
- From Pigalle, it’s about a 10-minute walk, but you’ll pass through the vibrant Montmartre district, which is full of cafés, shops, and artistic history.
Top Things to See and Do at Basilica of the Sacred Heart
The Architecture: More Than Just a Pretty Facade
First thing’s first: the white travertine stone. The basilica’s exterior is made from this stone, which was chosen because of its unique ability to self-clean. Over time, the stone absorbs moisture and, as it evaporates, it brings impurities with it, keeping the basilica’s surface clean and bright. It’s why Sacré-Cœur shines like a beacon across Paris, especially on clear days.
As you approach the basilica, you’ll see two main domes. The larger one, standing 83 meters (272 feet) tall, is an impressive feat in Romanesque-Byzantine design. There’s also the bell tower (also referred to as the “Tour de la Basilique”), which has fewer visitors but offers a quiet view over Montmartre. But what’s most striking about the design is the white domed roof, which, from a distance, gives Sacré-Cœur that ethereal glow.
The facade itself is packed with meaning: you’ll find statues of saints, most notably St. Denis, the patron saint of France, along with reliefs depicting Christ and other religious themes, all rendered in intricate detail. It’s not just pretty decoration – these elements were designed to be meaningful symbols, offering you the story of faith, sacrifice, and redemption as soon as you step into view.
The Apse Mosaic: A Marvel of Scale and Gold
If you want to see scale and detail, head inside, and let your eyes travel up to the Apse Mosaic. It’s 480 square meters – yes, that’s almost half a football field in size – making it one of the largest in the world. Christ in Majesty dominates the scene, surrounded by angels and saints – a golden background that seems to shimmer and move with the light. This entire scene is composed of 750,000 pieces of tile, and it is jaw-droppingly beautiful.
What’s fascinating is the mosaic’s color palette: rather than relying on the bright reds and blues you might expect, the artists used more muted tones, giving it a soft, almost ethereal feel. The light from the basilica’s stained-glass windows interacts with the gold, giving it a living, glowing aura. For all the beauty in Sacré-Cœur, this mosaic encapsulates the power of Byzantine artistry in the heart of Paris.
Climbing the Dome: A Test of Endurance and Reward
Now, there’s a bit of a physical challenge if you want to go the extra mile and climb the 300 steps to the dome. It’s not easy, but it’s totally worth it. The view from the top is literally the best panoramic perspective you’ll get of Paris. From here, you can see the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, the Seine, and the entire city stretched out beneath you.
You’ll also see the Parisian suburbs in the distance, providing a sharp contrast to the clustered rooftops of Montmartre. On a clear day, the visibility stretches for miles, and the experience feels almost spiritual, looking down on a city with so much history beneath your feet.
The Interior: Intricacies Worth Noting
Stepping inside, the high altar is striking with its gold and marble combination. But it’s not just the size that’s remarkable. Look at the intricate details in the artwork and the sculptures that adorn the space. As you walk around the church, you’ll spot smaller works, each one contributing to the sacred atmosphere.
One of the hidden gems inside is the crypt. Most people rush past it, but it’s worth a visit. Here, you’ll find not only tombs but also relics connected to the history of the basilica. It’s an area for reflection, and Father François de Salignac de la Mothe-Fénelon, one of the key figures behind Sacré-Cœur’s creation, is buried here. It’s peaceful, often quieter than the rest of the basilica, so if you’re looking for a moment of solitude, it’s the place to be.
Mass and Perpetual Adoration
Sacré-Cœur is not only a tourist attraction but also an active place of worship. Daily Mass is held at the basilica, and visitors are welcome to attend, whether for spiritual reasons or simply to experience the church in its religious context. The Solemn Mass on Sundays is particularly beautiful, with the choir performing religious hymns in the background.
If you’re there in the evening, you can join the perpetual adoration, which has been held 24/7 since 1885. It’s a beautiful practice, and it’s a way to experience the continuous reverence and spiritual connection that defines Sacré-Cœur. People come here, literally, at all hours to pray, so it’s not just a church – it’s a living, breathing entity.
A Brief History of Basilica of the Sacred Heart
The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris (Sacré-Cœur), perched atop Montmartre Hill, is not only one of the most iconic landmarks in Paris but also a symbol of France’s spiritual resilience. Its history is deeply intertwined with both religious devotion and the turbulent events of the late 19th century.
The idea for the basilica was conceived after France’s defeat in the Franco-Prussian War (1870-1871) and the subsequent Paris Commune. Amidst the political and military turmoil, a strong sense of national repentance and spiritual renewal swept through France. In response to the defeat, the French bishops proposed the construction of a basilica dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus as a symbol of national healing and reconciliation. It was intended as a religious act of penance for the suffering caused by the war and the Commune.
In 1873, the French government officially approved the project, and construction began in 1875. The design, selected through a competition, was awarded to Paul Abadie, whose Romanesque-Byzantine style was chosen to create a structure that would stand as a monument of faith and patriotism. The basilica’s construction was funded through private donations, with support from devotees across the country, particularly after Pope Leo XIII declared the devotion to the Sacred Heart a key tenet of the Church.
Work on Sacré-Cœur was long and arduous, taking over 40 years to complete. The basilica was finally consecrated on October 16, 1919, after the end of World War I, symbolizing the nation’s recovery and the triumph of faith.
Not only a religious symbol, Sacré-Cœur is a tribute to the spiritual and moral resilience of the French people in the face of adversity. Its iconic white façade, constructed of travertine stone, continues to gleam over Paris.
Six Fun Facts about Basilica of the Sacred Heart
It Stands on an Ancient Pagan Worship Site: Long before the basilica was built, Montmartre was a spiritual place. The site was believed to have been a place of Druidic worship, and later, the Romans built temples to Mercury and Mars here. The name Montmartre itself is thought to mean “Mount of Mars” or “Mount of Martyrs,” referring to the martyrdom of Saint Denis, the first bishop of Paris, who was executed here.
The Dome is the Second-Highest Point in Paris: While the Eiffel Tower remains the tallest structure in Paris, the basilica’s dome stands at 83 meters (272 feet) and sits at an altitude of 213 meters (699 feet) above sea level, making it the second-highest point in the city. If you climb the 300 steps to the top, you get one of the most breathtaking views of Paris—sometimes even better than the Eiffel Tower itself!
Its Bells are Among the Heaviest in the World: The biggest bell in Sacré-Cœur, called “La Savoyarde,” weighs 19 tons and is one of the heaviest bells in the world. It was cast in Annecy and installed in 1895. The bell is so powerful that it can be heard from 10 kilometers (6 miles) away.
Montmartre’s Underground Water Reservoir Helps Support It: Montmartre is full of underground quarries, which made it a tricky spot for construction. To prevent the basilica from sinking, engineers built 83 supporting pillars and even discovered a natural water reservoir underneath. This underground water system is still in place today.
It Was Once Used as a Military Outpost: During World War II, the basilica played a strategic role. The Germans used its dome as an observation post, while the French Resistance later used it for communications. Bullet marks and war damage can still be seen on some of the nearby buildings.
Montmartre’s Artists Once Opposed It: Montmartre, known for its bohemian artists, wasn’t always happy about the basilica. Many local painters, writers, and intellectuals, such as Emile Zola and Guy de Maupassant, saw it as a symbol of oppression and called for it to be torn down. Of course, today, it’s one of the most visited landmarks in Paris.
Scams at Basilica of the Sacred Heart
The Friendship Bracelet Scam: As soon as you approach the steps or the area around the basilica, you might be approached by people offering to make you a free friendship bracelet (or insisting you let them). Once they’ve tied it around your wrist, they’ll demand a large sum of money for it, claiming that it was a “gift” and you must pay for it. Don’t fall for it – just walk away.
The “Volunteer” Scam: Some people might try to convince you that they are volunteers or workers at the basilica, asking for donations for various causes like “church repairs” or “helping the poor.” They often approach unsuspecting tourists with a polite, serious demeanor, but in reality, they’re simply after your money. The basilica doesn’t ask for donations in such an informal manner, so avoid handing out cash.
The Petition Scam: You might encounter people holding petitions, claiming to be collecting signatures for charitable causes or causes related to the basilica. After you sign, they’ll demand a donation in exchange for helping or being part of a good cause. Again, no legitimate organization operates in such a way, so don’t be pressured into giving anything.
The “Fake Guide” Scam: Some people may try to offer you a guided tour of the basilica or the surrounding Montmartre area for a fee. They may look official and claim to be experts, but they are often unlicensed and overcharge for a very basic tour. It’s always a good idea to check for official, verified guides if you want a proper tour.
The Fake Ticket Seller: Around the area, you might also encounter individuals offering “skip-the-line” tickets for the basilica. While there’s no fee for entry to Sacré-Cœur itself, they might try to sell you a phony ticket, claiming it will get you special access or let you skip lines (which don’t really exist). Be cautious, as there’s no need to pay for tickets.
Attractions Near Basilica of the Sacred Heart
Place du Tertre
- Distance: Directly adjacent to the basilica, just a 2-minute walk.
- Opening Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM (hours vary based on the season).
- Ticket: Free entry.
- Address: Place du Tertre, 75018 Paris, France.
- Highlights: A bustling square famous for its local artists, who set up their easels and offer portraits, sketches, and paintings. It’s the heart of Montmartre’s artistic history, with famous artists like Picasso and Van Gogh once living and working nearby.
Espace Dalí
- Distance: About a 4-minute walk from Sacré-Cœur.
- Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Ticket: €12 for adults, €8 for students and children.
- Address: 11 Rue Poulbot, 75018 Paris, France.
- Highlights: This museum is dedicated to the works of Salvador Dalí and features over 300 pieces of his art, including sculptures, drawings, and paintings. A must-see for lovers of Surrealism, this space captures Dalí’s whimsical and bizarre style.
Le Mur des Je T’aime (The Wall of Love)
- Distance: Around a 7-minute walk from Sacré-Cœur.
- Opening Hours: Always accessible (public space).
- Ticket: Free entry.
- Address: Square Jehan Rictus, Place des Abbesses, 75018 Paris, France.
- Highlights: A charming public art installation featuring the words “I love you” written in 311 languages. It’s a beautiful spot for a photo op and a unique expression of love and unity.
Musée de Montmartre
- Distance: About a 5-minute walk from Sacré-Cœur.
- Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, closed on Tuesdays.
- Ticket: €12 for adults, €8 for students, and €6 for children.
- Address: 12 Rue Cortot, 75018 Paris, France.
- Highlights: This museum offers a deep dive into Montmartre’s artistic history, showcasing the lives and works of famous artists like Renoir and Utrillo who were part of the vibrant Bohemian scene of the area. The museum also features the charming Gardens of Montmartre, which were once home to several artists.
The Square Louise Michel
- Distance: Right in front of Sacré-Cœur.
- Opening Hours: Open daily, all hours.
- Ticket: Free entry.
- Address: Place Saint-Pierre, 75018 Paris, France.
- Highlights: This park offers stunning views of Sacré-Cœur and is a great place to relax after a visit to the basilica. It’s also home to a statue of the “Goddess of Liberty” designed by Félix Nadar, a famous French photographer.
High-Rated Restaurants Near Basilica of the Sacred Heart
1. Le Consulat
- Distance to Basilica: Approximately 5 minutes’ walk (400 meters)
- Average Cost per Person: €20-40
- Address: 18 Rue Norvins, 75018 Paris, France
- Features: Le Consulat offers French cuisine with a focus on traditional Parisian dishes, such as duck confit and escargot. With a cozy atmosphere and outdoor seating, it’s a perfect spot for a relaxing meal after exploring the basilica.
2. La Maison Rose
- Distance to Basilica: Around 5-6 minutes’ walk (450 meters)
- Average Cost per Person: €25-45
- Address: 2 Rue de l’Abreuvoir, 75018 Paris, France
- Features: This iconic pink restaurant is one of the most photographed spots in Montmartre due to its picturesque charm. Known for its traditional French cuisine, La Maison Rose specializes in both classic French fare and Montmartre specialties. The charming interior and beautiful garden terrace create a relaxed dining atmosphere.
3. Le Refuge des Fondus
- Distance to Basilica: About 10 minutes’ walk (800 meters)
- Average Cost per Person: €25-35
- Address: 17 Rue des Trois Frères, 75018 Paris, France
- Features: Le Refuge des Fondus is famous for its cheese fondue and wine served in baby bottles – a fun and unusual touch. It offers a casual dining experience with hearty, rustic dishes. The atmosphere is lively and perfect for a relaxed evening with friends.
4. Le Relais de la Butte
- Distance to Basilica: Approximately 10-12 minutes’ walk (900 meters)
- Average Cost per Person: €30-50
- Address: 12 Rue Lamarck, 75018 Paris, France
- Features: Situated near the butte Montmartre, this classic French bistro offers a wonderful selection of traditional dishes such as boeuf bourguignon and coq au vin. Their desserts are a standout, so be sure to save room for something sweet.
5. Café des 2 Moulins
- Distance to Basilica: 12-15 minutes’ walk (1 km)
- Average Cost per Person: €20-30
- Address: 15 Rue Lepic, 75018 Paris, France
- Features: A quaint Parisian café that rose to fame after being featured in the film Amélie. It’s a charming spot where you can enjoy traditional French café food, from croissants and quiches to escargots and cheese platters. The restaurant is known for its affordable prices and its retro Parisian décor.
Top Five Hotels Nearby with Wonderful views of Paris
1. Terrass” Hotel by MH
- Distance to Basilica: Approximately 8 minutes’ walk (650 meters)
- Price Range per Room: €200-450 per night
- Address: 12-14 Rue Joseph de Maistre, 75018 Paris, France
- Features: Terrass” Hotel is an elegant boutique hotel offering stunning panoramic views of Paris from its rooftop terrace. Guests can enjoy beautifully furnished rooms, some with private terraces offering incredible vistas of the city.
2. Le Relais Montmartre
- Distance to Basilica: About 10 minutes’ walk (800 meters)
- Price Range per Room: €150-300 per night
- Address: 6 Rue Constance, 75018 Paris, France
- Features: While Le Relais Montmartre doesn’t have a rooftop terrace, certain rooms offer magnificent views of the Sacré-Cœur Basilica and the surrounding area. The hotel exudes a classic Parisian atmosphere and offers comfortable rooms, each thoughtfully designed for relaxation.
3. Hotel des Arts – Montmartre
- Distance to Basilica: About 7 minutes’ walk (550 meters)
- Price Range per Room: €130-250 per night
- Address: 5 Rue Tholozé, 75018 Paris, France
- Features: Some rooms come with views of the city and even the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. The hotel is known for its artistic décor, with each room featuring unique artwork from local artists. Guests can enjoy a relaxing stay in a cozy setting with easy access to café-lined streets, the basilica, and other Montmartre attractions.
4. Maison Souquet
- Distance to Basilica: About 12 minutes’ walk (1.5 kms)
- Price Range per Room: €400-700 per night
- Address: 10 Rue de Bruxelles, 75009 Paris, France
- Features: While it doesn’t have views of the Eiffel Tower, Maison Souquet offers panoramic views of Montmartre and beautifully designed rooms with rich, opulent decor inspired by the Belle Époque era. Guests can enjoy a private garden, a spa, and unique lounges.
5. Le Chat Noir Design Hotel
- Distance to Basilica: Around 12-15 minutes’ walk (1.5 kms)
- Price Range per Room: €130-250 per night
- Address: 68 Boulevard de Clichy, 75018 Paris, France
- Features: Le Chat Noir is a stylish and affordable hotel with a theater-inspired décor and a bohemian feel. The hotel is located close to Montmartre’s lively Place Pigalle, and although it doesn’t have a rooftop, some rooms have partial views of the Paris skyline and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica.