Basilica of Saint Denis Tickets

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Basilica Cathedral of Saint Denis






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Loved by 35 million+
Hupé bernard
FR

Hupé

France
Feb 2025
4/5
Everything was magnificent, except for the welcome at the entrance and checkouts ... Too bad, fortunately the wonders comforted us.
Barbaret Isabelle

Barbaret

Sep 2022
4/5
Tres belle page de notre histoire. Dommage que le site était en rénovation à cette période mais il faut bien le faire pour conserver notre patrimoine.
Nela

Nela

Apr 2025
4/5
The turbo pass is worthwhile for anyone who wants to get as much history as possible in Pais. You should prepare well, because most attractions still have to be reserved in advance. Clear homepage and good price performance.
Jaroslav

Jaroslav

Mar 2025
5/5
The Turbopass is not just called that, it says it all. You don't have to wait long at attractions or sights where others queue for hours. Instead, you walk past the queues in a relaxed manner (in turbo mode). I can only recommend the Turbopass to everyone.

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Basilica of Saint Denis | A gothic cathedral, a royal burial site

Much before goth core was a thing and Frankenstein became the official ambassador of everything Gothic, the Basilica of Saint Denis was constructed with its delicate tracery of the rose window and the majestic flying buttresses! As a pilgrimage site and the final resting place for French monarchs, the cathedral has played a pivotal role in French history and culture. Its soaring spires, stained glass windows, and biblical sculptures offer a glimpse into the grandeur and devotion of the Middle Ages.

Read on to know everything about the Basilica Cathedral of Saint Denis, its ticket options, how to plan your visit and more!

Why visit Basilica Cathedral of Saint Denis

Basilica of Saint-Denis exterior with Gothic architecture in Paris, France.
Basilica of Saint-Denis exterior with Gothic architecture in Paris, France.
Basilica of Saint-Denis exterior with Gothic architecture in Saint-Denis, France.
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The beginnings of everything Gothic

The Basilica of Saint Denis is the birthplace of Gothic architecture, the ancestor to others like Notre Dame, Westminster Abbey and Duomo di Milano. Under the direction of Abbot Suger, reconstruction began in the 12th century, as he aimed to create a space that embodied divine light and elevated spirituality, leading to architectural elements such as pointed arches, rib vaults, and flying buttresses.

A royal necropolis

Think of the Basilica of Saint Denis as a royal mausoleum, but with way more history. Serving as the final resting place for French monarchs from Clovis, the first king of the Franks, to Louis XVI, it houses the tombs of over 70 kings and queens, making it a significant site for understanding the lineage and history of French royalty!

Of art and spirituality

Want a slice of art all the while walking in a spiritual haven? The basilica is exactly where you will experience a meditative ambience, surrounded by creative treasures, like stunning stained-glass windows, intricate carvings, and exquisite sculptures– it’s a place of worship and reflection, regardless of your religious beliefs.

Things to know before booking your Basilica of Saint Denis tickets

  • As the Basilica is a popular religious spot in Paris, it is recommended that you book your tickets in advance (which are valid until 10 Aug, 2027) as on-site tickets tend to get sold out
  • You can get an audio guide for an additional fee of €3 on site,  but remember that it’s subject to availability.
  • You can enjoy free guided tours in French from Monday to Saturday at 11am and 3pm, and on Sundays at 12:30am and 3pm, and each tour lasts for 1.5 hours. There's no need to book in advance– you can simply register at the reception desk when you arrive as the tours are included with your ticket price.

Which ticket is the best for you

Exterior view of Basilica of Saint-Denis

Entry tickets

Duration: Flexible

Guide: Self-guided

  • With your Basilica of Saint Denis entry tickets, you can visit the basilica anytime during the opening hours and explore inside for as long as you like.
  • You will also get a complimentary leaflet that gives you more information about the cathedral and is available in 12 languages including French, English, German, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Japanese, Chinese, Russian, Polish, Czech and Dutch.

Tickets to Basilica of Saint-Denis

Saint-Denis Basilica exterior and Stade de France interior with guided tour access.

Combo tickets

Duration: Flexible

Guide: Guided, depending on the experience

  • Go for the combo tickets if you want to experience the two of the most popular attractions in Paris: the Basilica of Saint Denis and the Stade de France, at a pocket-friendly price. 
  • While these tickets get you access to the basilica on any day of your choice, you will also get a guided tour of the Stade de France in French or English (as per the option selected) on another day according to your itinerary. 

Combo: Saint-Denis Basilica Tickets + Stade de France Guided Tour with Behind-the-Scenes Access

Basilica Cathedral of Saint Denis highlights

Statue of Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette

Royal tombs

A graveyard like no other, the Basilica of Saint Denis is an edifice where many of the great French names were laid to rest. From Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette to Charlemagne, it keeps safe the remains of 43 kings, 32 queens, and numerous princes and princesses from the Merovingian, Carolingian, and Capetian dynasties, dating back to Dagobert I in 639 until Louis XVIII in 1824.

Basilica of Saint-Denis exterior with Gothic architecture and intricate stained glass windows in Paris, France.

The stained glass windows

A live kaleidoscope of colors, the glass windows serve not only as decorative elements but also as narrative devices, illustrating biblical stories and theological themes. For example, the Jesse Tree window depicts the genealogy of Jesus, connecting the Old Testament to the New Testament, while other windows portray significant figures such as Moses and allegories from the letters of St. Paul.

Crypt of the Bourbons in Basilica of Saint Denis, Paris, showcasing historic royal tombs.

Crypt of the Bourbons

The Crypt of the Bourbons is a lesser-known yet fascinating part of the Basilica– it contains the remains of several members of the Bourbon dynasty, characterized by its simplicity, with black marble tombs that contrast with the ornate architecture of the basilica. Did you know that after their execution, the remains of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette were eventually reburied here in 1817 by Louis XVIII?

Basilica of Saint-Denis exterior with Gothic architecture in Paris, France.

North Transept

Imagine an architectural transition from Romanesque to Gothic style– it’s the North Transept of the Basilica of Saint-Denis, a special part of the cathedral: think stunning rose windows, an intricate portal and tympanum, and innovative Gothic design elements! The rose window, dating back to the 13th century, features intricate designs and biblical imagery, such as the Tree of Jesse, while the facade's portal and tympanum, dating around 1160, depict the martyrdom of Saint Denis and his companions.

Interior of Basilica of Saint-Denis, showcasing Gothic architecture and stained glass windows.

Ambulatory

Picture this: a circular passage bathed in light with radiating chapels that look like a pathway to heaven. That’s the ambulatory of the basilica for you, called such as it allows pilgrims to circumambulate the relics of Saint Denis, encircling the choir. Suger's design incorporated elements that enabled the use of larger windows and a greater influx of light, which created a luminous and spiritual atmosphere, reflecting Suger's belief in light as a manifestation of the divine.

Plan Your Visit To Basilica Cathedral of Saint Denis

Basilica of Saint-Denis interior with stained glass windows, Paris, France.
  • April to September:
    Monday to Saturday: 10am - 6:15pm; Last access: 5:45pm
    Sunday: 12pm - 6:15pm; Last access: 5:45pm
  • October to March:
    Monday to Saturday: 10am - 5:15pm; Last access: 4:45pm
    Sunday: 12pm - 5:15pm; Last access: at 4:45pm
  • Closed on: January 1, May 1 and December 25; during religious services.
  • Note: Free entry on Heritage Day weekends and on the first Sunday of each month from November to March.

Address: 1 Rue de la Légion d'Honneur 93200 Saint-Denis, France

Find on Map

  • By bus: Lines 153, 253, 255, 350, and 356
    Nearest stop: La Légion d'Honneur, a 2 to 3 minute walk to the Cathedral.
  • By train: Lines RER D and Transilien H
    Nearest station: Saint-Denis, which is 5 to 10 minutes away from the Cathedral.
  • By metro: Line 13
    Nearest stop: Basilique de Saint-Denis, which is 10 to 15 minutes walk away from the Cathedral.
Basilica of Saint Denis
  • Toilets 
  • Baby-changing facilities
  • Audio guide at an additional cost
  • Information desk
Service dogs assisting tourists at a travel attraction.
  • Free entry to people with disabilities and their companions.
  • Wheelchair accessibility
  • Guide dogs allowed
  • Special parking facilities 
  • However, there are nine steps to enter the royal necropolis, 15 steps leading to the crypt, and another 15 steps to reach the upper choir, which is not accessible through ramps.
Saint-Denis Basilica exterior with intricate Gothic architecture, Paris, France.
  • The Basilica is a sacred space, so it is advisable to dress modestly. Avoid wearing revealing clothing such as shorts, tank tops, or anything that might be considered inappropriate.
  • While photography is allowed, flash photography and the use of tripods is prohibited. Moreover, professional photographers need permission from the authorities.
  • Eating and drinking are not permitted inside the Basilica.
  • The Cathedral is a place of quiet reflection and prayer. Please maintain a low volume to avoid disturbing others.
  • As the Basilica houses priceless works of art and historical architecture, refrain from touching or leaning on any objects.
  • You are allowed to carry cabin baggage with the maximum dimensions of 40x20x20 cm.
  • Smoking is not allowed inside the Basilica or on its grounds.
View of the historic Paris Pantheon under a clear blue sky, a must-visit landmark on a Paris city tour
  • Hôtel de la Marine: This historic building, once a royal residence, is now a museum and cultural center. It houses a collection of decorative arts and offers stunning views of the Place de la Concorde.
  • Pantheon: This neoclassical monument is a mausoleum for eminent French figures. Its interior is adorned with beautiful frescoes and sculptures, and the dome offers panoramic views of Paris.
  • Sainte-Chapelle: This Gothic masterpiece is famous for its stained glass windows, which depict scenes from the Bible. The chapel's interior is bathed in a kaleidoscope of colors, creating a truly breathtaking atmosphere.
  • Arc de Triomphe: This monumental arch stands at the western end of the Champs-Élysées. It commemorates the French victories during the Napoleonic Wars and offers stunning views of the city from its top.

Frequently Asked Questions about Basilica Cathedral of Saint Denis tickets

Can I visit the Basilica of Saint Denis multiple times with the same ticket?

No, the ticket allows for a single entry.

What does the Basilica of Saint Denis standard ticket include?

A standard ticket generally includes access to the main areas of the Basilica, including the crypt, the royal tombs, and the cathedral.

What are the free entry days for the Basilica of Saint Denis?

Free entry is available every first Sunday from November to March, and during European Heritage Days on the third weekend of September.

Are there any special events or exhibits at the Basilica of Saint Denis that require separate tickets?

Yes, the Basilica hosts special exhibitions or events that don’t require separate tickets.

How much do Basilica of Saint Denis tickets cost?

Tickets start at €11 for adults. Entry is free for visitors under 18 years, people with disabilities and the accompanying adult, jobseekers, EU nationals of 18-25 years of age, architecture students and people with a valid education pass.

Are there any accessibility concerns at the Basilica?

The Basilica has steps to access certain areas like the necropolis and crypt. It is not fully accessible for those with mobility issues, but guide dogs for the visually impaired are allowed.

What if there’s a funeral or special event during my visit?

Since the Basilica is an active church, some tours may be postponed or canceled due to funerals or special masses.

Can I purchase Basilica of Saint Denis tickets on the day of my visit?

Yes, you can purchase tickets at the venue, but it’s advised to book in advance to avoid queues and ensure availability.

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Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.