Sainte Chapelle

Sainte Chapelle opens from 9am to 7pm from April 1st to September 30th and from 9am to 5pm from October 1st to March 31.

Apr 1 TO Sep 30 Timings Days (Apr 1 TO Sep 30)	TIMINGS	Last Admission
Monday	09:00–19:00	18:30
Tuesday	09:00–19:00	18:30
Wednesday (Today)	09:00–19:00	18:30
Thursday	09:00–19:00	18:30
Friday	09:00–19:00	18:30
Saturday	09:00–19:00	18:30
Sunday	09:00–19:00	18:30

Oct 1 TO Dec 31 Timings Days (Oct 1 TO Dec 31)	TIMINGS	Last Admission
Monday	09:00–17:00	16:30
Tuesday	09:00–17:00	16:30
Wednesday	09:00–17:00	16:30
Thursday	09:00–17:00	16:30
Friday	09:00–17:00	16:30
Saturday	09:00–17:00	16:30
Sunday	09:00–17:00	16:30

Jan 1 TO Mar 31 Timings Days (Jan 1 TO Mar 31)	TIMINGS	Last Admission
Monday	09:00–17:00	16:30
Tuesday	09:00–17:00	16:30
Wednesday	09:00–17:00	16:30
Thursday	09:00–17:00	16:30
Friday	09:00–17:00	16:30
Saturday	09:00–17:00	16:30
Sunday	09:00–17:00	16:30

Sainte-Chapelle Hours: Know Before You Go

Last entry: 30 minutes before closing time

Closed on: January 1, May 1 and December 25

Exceptional closing: July 26, 2024

Early closing:

Sunday 24 December at 4pm
Sunday 1 January at 4pm

Best time to visit the Sainte Chapelle

Weekday vs Weekend

Weekdays, especially Tuesday to Thursday, tend to be less crowded compared to weekends. You’re less likely to face long lines at the entrance, especially if you arrive early in the day.
The chapel and surrounding Île de la Cité can feel more lively on weekends, with street performers and tourists adding a unique energy to the experience.

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

Pleasant

Crowded

Very Crowded

Closed

Peak season vs low season

Paris is buzzing with tourists during the peak season of April to October, which means you'll experience the full energy of the city. There are also more guided tours and cultural events happening in the area around Sainte-Chapelle.
Expect long lines, especially on weekends and holidays, and the chapel may feel more crowded inside during the peak season.
From November to March (low season), you’ll have more space to take in the magnificent stained glass windows and architecture without feeling rushed during the low season. With fewer crowds, the chapel offers more quiet which takes you into a spiritually reflective experience.

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Off Season

Moderate Season

Peak Season

How long should I spend at Sainte-Chapelle?

Sainte Chapelle interior with stained glass windows, Paris, France.

Quick visit (30-45 minutes)

Main focus: Admire the magnificent stained glass windows and take a few photos.
Key highlights: The biblical scenes depicted in the windows, the architecture of the chapel, and the overall grandeur of the interior are worth examining.

Sainte Chapelle stained glass windows in Paris showcasing intricate biblical scenes.

Moderate visit (1 hour)

Main focus: Take your time walking around the lower and upper chapels, soaking in the stained-glass details, and observing the Gothic architecture.
Key highlights: Spend time appreciating the historical context, the chapel’s role in French royalty, and the detailed design elements like the rose window.

Sainte Chapelle Paris exterior with intricate Gothic architecture and stained glass windows.

In-depth visit (1.5 - 2 hours)

Main focus: Explore the chapel more thoroughly, taking time to understand the symbolism in the stained glass and architectural details. You can also read more about its history, including its transformation from a royal chapel to a public monument.
Key highlights: Take in the entire design and artistry of Sainte-Chapelle, including both chapels, and consider taking a guided tour (either audio or with a guide) for deeper insights.

Plan your visit to Sainte-Chapelle

Frequently asked questions about Sainte-Chapelle hours

Does Sainte-Chapelle have special hours for religious ceremonies?

Yes, when there are religious ceremonies or services held at Sainte-Chapelle, the chapel might be closed to the public for short periods. For example, if there is a Mass or a special event, there may be changes to the usual operating hours.

Can I visit Sainte-Chapelle after dark?

Sainte-Chapelle is generally not open after dark for regular visits, except during special evening events or night tours. Occasionally, the chapel may host evening concerts, where you can experience the chapel’s beauty in a unique setting.

Does Sainte-Chapelle remain open during national holidays in France?

Sainte-Chapelle is generally open on most national holidays but closed on January 1st, May 1st, and December 25th.

What is the best time of day to visit Sainte-Chapelle for optimal lighting?

Late morning to early afternoon is ideal when sunlight enhances the vibrant colors of the stained glass windows.

Can I enter Sainte-Chapelle just before closing time?

Yes, visitors are allowed entry until about 30 minutes before closing,

Are extended hours available during peak tourist season?

Occasionally, Sainte-Chapelle offers extended hours in summer, especially during special events or high visitor demand.