Tickets to Basilica of Saint-Denis

About this experience

Basilica of Saint-Denis Tickets The Basilica of Saint-Denis holds the remarkable distinction of being the first Gothic cathedral ever built. Located just north of Paris, this former abbey became the blueprint for Gothic architecture across Europe when Abbot Suger revolutionised its design in the 12th century. You'll discover the innovative pointed arches, flying buttresses and luminous stained glass windows that transformed religious architecture forever. More than an architectural marvel, the Basilica serves as France's royal necropolis. Over 70 intricately carved tombs house 43 French kings and 32 queens, including Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette. Each sepulchre showcases Renaissance sculpture that tells the story of French dynastic history through centuries of prosperity and upheaval. The largest collection of funerary sculptures in France awaits your exploration. Highlights Marvel at the world's first Gothic architecture with revolutionary pointed arches and flying buttresses Explore over 70 royal tombs including Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette's final resting places Admire the elaborate rose windows and spacious choir that emphasise light and grandeur Discover the remarkable crypt with its medieval engineering and artistry View France's largest collection of funerary sculptures spanning centuries of royal history Study the luminous stained glass windows that influenced cathedral design across Europe Plan Your Visit to Basilica of Saint-Denis Entry is free on European Heritage Days and the first Sunday of each month from November to March. Visitors under 18 and EU residents aged 18 to 25 enter free with valid ID. A multilingual leaflet in 12 languages guides you through the basilica's historical significance. The basilica is accessible via public transport from central Paris. Plan to spend 1-2 hours exploring the nave, choir, crypt and royal tombs. Some areas require climbing steps due to the historical structure, so visitors with mobility concerns should plan accordingly. Large bags and luggage are prohibited for security reasons. Dress warmly in cooler months as the stone interiors retain a chill. While exploring Parisian religious architecture, consider visiting the Sainte-Chapelle with its stunning stained glass windows or take a guided walking tour of Paris to discover more architectural treasures throughout the city.

Highlights

• Step inside the Basilica of Saint-Denis, the birthplace of Gothic architecture, and explore its vast nave, stained-glass light, and centuries-old chapels
• Walk through the Royal Necropolis, where sculpted effigies and tombs tell the story of France’s kings, queens, and dynasties across a thousand years
• Your ticket lets you discover the basilica at your own pace with a multilingual leaflet that guides you through its most significant artworks and royal monuments
• If you’d like to go further, upgrade your visit with access to La Fabrique de la Flèche: an immersive workshop-site where medieval craftsmanship and modern techniques come together to rebuild the basilica’s historic north spire.

What is included

• Access to the Basilica of Saint-Denis Entry to the Royal Necropolis Entry to Fabrique de la Flèche (as per option selected) Free leaflet in 12 languages

Not included

• Transfers

Before you go

Free entry applies on European Heritage Days and the first Sunday of each month from November to March Children under 18 and EU residents aged 18 to 25 are eligible for free admission with valid ID A leaflet in 12 languages is provided to guide your visit Entry may be affected by religious services or special events as the basilica is an active church No luggage or large bags allowed inside the monument

Cancellation terms

Cannot be canceled or rescheduled