Discover the first example of Gothic architecture in the world: explore the magnificent Medieval Basilica of Saint-Denis located just outside of Paris.
Why Visit the Basilica of Saint-Denis?
Pointed arches, rib-vaulted ceilings and stunning stained glass windows... the characteristics of Gothic architecture follow a clear pattern: the Basilica of Saint-Denis. This Medieval abbey church, located on the outskirts of Paris, was the first building to be built in the architectural style that would spread over Western Europe between the 12th and 15th centuries.
This ticket will give you access to the Basilica of Saint-Denis so you can explore its awe-inspiring interior at your own pace, which houses the Royal necropolis. The cathedral is the final resting place of many of France's historic monarchs and their extravagant tombs are well worth a visit. Don't miss the funerary monuments of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette, the royals whose execution was one of the first events of the French Revolution.
In addition to the sculptural masterpieces in the Basilica of Saint-Denis, you'll be captivated by the spectacular stained glass windows, especially the rose window, and the colorful illumination of the cathedral, thanks to the light that shines through.
You can't miss seeing other gems in the Basilica of Saint-Denis, like the organ, choir, and the adjoining chapels. To complete your tour, we recommend visiting the Fabrique de la flèche, a place located at the foot of the monument, where you can discover all the secrets that took place during the construction of the Basilica.
Opening Hours
The Basilica of Saint-Denis is open at the following times:
- April 1 to September 30: Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 6:15 pm (final admission at 5:45 pm). Sundays from 12 pm to 6:15 pm (final admission at 5:45 pm).
- October 1 to March 31: Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 5:15 pm (final admission at 4:45 pm). Sundays from 12 pm to 5:15 pm (final admission at 4:45 pm).
Please note that the Royal Necropolis and the Fabrique de la Flèche are open Tuesday to Sunday.
Special Opening Hours
Please note the following dates with special opening hours in 2026:
- Friday, October 16: Open from 10 am to 11:30 a.m. and from 1:30 pm to 4:45 pm
- Saturday, October 17: Open from 10 am to 3:30 pm
- Tuesday, October 20: Open from 10 am to 1:45 pm and from 3:45 pm to 4:45 pm
- Sunday, October 25: Open from 12:30 pm to 4:45 pm
Partial Closures
Due to certain masses, concerts, and other events, the Basilica of Saint-Denis is closed on certain days of the year. You can check the dates of these events on the official website of the Basilica of Saint-Denis.
Please note the following dates with special opening hours in 2026:
- Wednesday, September 9, 2026: the Basilica of Saint-Denis will be closed from 11 am to 1 pm
- Saturday, September 12, 2026: open only from 12 pm to 5:45 pm.
Please note that on Monday, August 31 of 2026, the basilica will be closed from 10 am to 11:30 am.
Free Admission
Admission to the Basilica of Saint-Denis is free for the following individuals:
- Youth from the European Union between 18 and 25 years old.
- Children under 18 years old, regardless of their nationality.
Admission is also free for everyone on the first Sunday of the month between January 1 and March 31 and between November 1 and December 31. Similarly, the 3rd weekend of September is free.
To acquire the free admission mentioned above, you'll have to go to the site's ticket office and present a certifying document of your eligibility for a free ticket.
