Visiting the Sainte-Chapelle is one of the goals alluring visitors to France’s capital city. The truth is that this monument, as one of the most famous attractions in Paris, combines several reasons that make its visit worthwhile: its Rayonnant Gothic architecture, its massive, mediaeval stained glass, and the history of the Passion relics which were kept therein for centuries.
Stay with us in this tourist guide to the Sainte-Chapelle to discover everything about it and find out how to get your tickets, which events are held there, and what the best moment to get to know it is!
What to see in the Sainte-Chapelle
The best feature to see in the Sainte-Chapelle, a beautiful royal chapel erected in the 1200s by command of Louis IX of France in order to host the relics of the Passion, is undoubtedly its impressive, mediaeval stained glass.
Nevertheless, there is much more to admire in the indoors of the Sainte-Chapelle!
The impressive stained glass
The stained glass in the Sainte-Chapelle is a prime example of Rayonnant Gothic art in Europe. The original, mediaeval stained glass panes which are still preserved (since many of them were destroyed during a flood in the late 1600s, and also following the French Revolution) are fifteen, and they recount stories both from the New and also the Old Testament, as well as the transfer of the holy relics to Paris.
The upper and lower chapel
The Sainte-Chapelle is split into two, clearly different levels: the upper one for the royalty and their closest ones, and the lower one for the remaining nobility, soldiers, and the staff serving at the royal palace.
The upper chapel of the Sainte-Chapelle is the one hosting the largest and most stunning stained glass panes, many of which are original. Given that they cover almost all of the walls, it makes for a clear, magical, and luminous space. The lower chapel, restored during the 1800s, has much smaller stained glass panes, and it is devoted to Mary.
The Treasure of the Sainte-Chapelle
The treasure of the Sainte-Chapelle comprised the relics from the Passion of the Christ, which were kept there for centuries. They were namely the Crown of Thorns, the Spear of Longinus, fragments of the cross, and the Image of Edessa, among other minor items. Some of these, such as the Crown of Thorns, are kept today in Notre Dame Cathedral.
Do not leave without admiring its Gothic façade and the polychromos sculptures inside the chapel as well!
Useful information for your visit
We will now tell you about the opening hours to visit the Sainte-Chapelle and how to get your tickets, as well as some tips to avoid the crowds.
Visiting hours and admission fees
The visiting hours at the Sainte-Chapelle run from 09:00 to 19:00 from April to September, and up until 17:00 from October to March. It is open every day, except for January 1st, May 1st, and December 25th.
As for the admission fee to visit the Sainte-Chapelle, the individual fee costs 13 euros, and there is a combined entrance including the Conciergerie costing 20 euros. Visitors under eighteen years old and some other exceptions can visit free of charge, so make sure to check the official website!
You have to book your ticket online, choosing a time slot for your visit to the monument.
Accessibility and visitor services
Accessibility to the Sainte-Chapelle is conditioned by its proximity to the Palais de Justice, so a security check must be undergone. Additionally, it is forbidden to enter the monument with large backpacks or dangerous items.
Among the services offered to Sainte-Chapelle visitors, there is an option to adapt visits for the handicapped, although the building is perfectly furnished for wheelchairs.
How to avoid the crowds
The best time to visit the Sainte-Chapelle is early in the morning. The chapel is a relatively small venue, and it is highly sought after by tourists visiting Paris so, if you get there first, you will be able to visit it on your own.
If you want to skip the queues and crowds, our best advice is to book your tickets for the Sainte-Chapelle online and in advance!
Activities and special events
Out of all the cultural activities that can be enjoyed in Paris, attending a concert at the Sainte-Chapelle is one of the most romantic and interesting. Tag along to know which events will take place in the monument over the next few months!
Concerts at the Sainte-Chapelle
During marked dates, such as Christmas, classical music concerts are held at the Sainte-Chapelle, a unique experience for the visitor!
Stay up to date on the events, concerts, cultural activities and news about the Sainte-Chapelle on its official website.
Tips for travellers
Finally, let us share some tips on what to do in the vicinity of the Sainte-Chapelle, and where to eat in its surroundings.
What to do near the Sainte-Chapelle
There are plenty of landmarks to see next to the Sainte-Chapelle, both in the Cité island and also in its surroundings. You can’t miss out on monuments such as the Conciergerie or the wondrous Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum, or the Latin Quarter.
Where to eat and shop next to the Sainte-Chapelle
Should you be looking for restaurants and cafés close to the Sainte-Chapelle, note these venues down:
- Café Med – 77 Rue Saint-Louis en Île
- Bagel Baget Café – 91 Rue de la Verrerie
- Combo Restaurant – 29 Rue Dauphine
- Le Restaurant Vingt – 20 Rue Saint-Séverin
- Les Deux Colombes – 4 Rue de la Colombe
And, in order to buy some keepsakes, drop by Souvenirs Lagrange or Royal Souvenirs, in front of the Cité Island in Rue Lagrange!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Sainte-Chapelle
The best time to visit the Sainte-Chapelle is early in the morning.
Yes, you must book your tickets in advance and pick a time slot for your visit.
The Sainte-Chapelle is open from 09:00 to 19:00 from April to September, and up until 17:00 during the rest of the year.
The best thing to see at the Sainte-Chapelle is its original, mediaeval stained glass.
