You will soon be visiting St Denis Basilica, just outside Paris, and you want some info on it?
It’s not the most touristy place to visit in Paris, but it’s one of the most remarkable basilicas in our country in many ways! Let’s set off to discover this Gothic gem, which houses the tombs of some 74 kings and queens of France…
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VISITING ST DENIS BASILICA – PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Practical information before visiting St Denis Basilica
Opening hours: April 1 to September 30: 10 a.m. to 6:15 p.m. (Sunday 12 p.m. to 6:15 p.m.) and October 1 to March 31: 10 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. (Sunday 12 p.m. to 5:15 p.m.).
Admission: the basilica is free, but there is a charge to visit the museum (tombs, choir, gardens, etc.): €11 for adults, free with the Paris Museum Pass and for visitors under 26.
Book your ticket for the Basilica of Saint Denis!
How to get there by public transport? Basilique Saint Denis metro station (line 13) or Basilique Saint Denis tram stop (line T1). The basilica is located about 25 minutes north of Gare St Lazare on line 13.
Organize your time for visiting St Denis Basilica
Allow between 1 and 1.5 hours to visit the different areas of the Basilica of Saint Denis. More information on the basilica’s website.
Where to stay in Paris ?
Paris is, of course, brimming with accommodation options, from private apartments to hotel rooms, in all styles, conditions, and price ranges! However, I recommend staying in central Paris if you are visiting for two, three, or four days to save time during your stay!
Below is a selection of my favorite places to stay in Paris, based on the neighborhood you prefer and your budget!
Find your accommodation in Paris !
3 recommended accommodation for you in Paris
HÔTEL OFF PARIS SEINE
- Sleep on the Seine !
- With a pool
- From €150
HÔTEL DES ARTS MONTMARTRE
- Rated 9,6/10
- Quiet and with a view !
- From €180
HÔTEL JOSÉPHINE BONAPARTE
- In the heart of Paris
- In an old convent
- From €300
VISITING ST DENIS BASILICA, A GOTHIC MASTERPIECE
As soon as you arrive, you will see that the Basilica of Saint Denis is striking in its splendor, majesty, and immaculate whiteness. Its tall silhouette immediately catches the visitor’s eye. Magnificently renovated, it seems to stand in the middle of the recent buildings like a UFO. But despite appearances, this grand lady is 16 centuries old!
Your first question when you see the basilica will undoubtedly be about its unique tower. It originally had two, but only one remains. The second, adorned with a spire, was demolished in the 19th century following a haphazard reconstruction after it was damaged by lightning. A project is currently underway to restore its balance. It will be financed entirely by visitor entrance fees.
The inside of St Denis Basilica
Although the foundations of the Basilica of Saint Denis were laid in the 5th century, its current appearance dates back to the 12th century. It was consecrated in 1144, becoming one of the first masterpieces of Gothic art.
When you push open the heavy door of the Basilica, you will certainly be just as surprised as you were outside. The dimensions are truly impressive! The slender nave seems to stretch endlessly toward the sky, with its tall pillars adorned with small columns. It is also bathed in light, as the architects took care to remove anything superfluous to allow as much light as possible to enter. I also really liked the magnificent stained glass windows and the colorful rose windows that reflect off the stone in the sunlight.
The garden of Basilica of Saint Denis
Before discovering the necropolis of the kings of France, I suggest you explore another curiosity hidden outside the Basilica. At the rear of the chevet, the medieval garden of the basilica is a true haven of peace where medicinal plants grow alongside roses and aromatic herbs.
Unfortunately, it is not always open, but in summer you may be lucky enough to take a nap with a view of the basilica on one of the deckchairs provided! It is a perfect place for daydreaming and meditation.
VISITING ST DENIS BASILICA, THE NECROPOLIS OF THE KINGS OF FRANCE
The Basilica of Saint Denis is a must-see in the Paris suburbs, and not just for its magnificent architecture. It is best known as the necropolis of the kings of France! King Dagobert was the first to be buried there in the 7th century. Since then, 42 kings, 32 queens, and 63 princes and princesses have been laid to rest there! From Clovis to Hugh Capet, from Henry IV to Louis XIV, successive dynasties of French kings are now gathered together in the Basilica of Saint Denis.
Royal tombs and recumbent statues
Far from being macabre, the atmosphere is rather solemn. As we walk around, the entire history of France unfolds before our eyes. We step into a time machine, recalling snippets from history books, while some of the sovereigns remain unknown to non-historians.
The tombs lined up before us are superb masterpieces sculpted in honor of the illustrious people who rest there. They are also very different depending on their era. The immense Renaissance tombs stand alongside the more sober recumbent statues of the Middle Ages.
These tombs often tell us a lot about the lives of their owners, just like those in the Père Lachaise Cemetery in Paris. The collection of recumbent statues in the Basilica of Saint Denis, unique in Europe, is no exception to the rule. Each recumbent statue is worth a visit, as they all conceal amusing little details. Some bodies are accompanied by animals or little angels, while others strike surprising poses.
Find a map showing the exact location of each tomb on the Seine-Saint Denis Tourisme website.
The crypt of Basilique Saint Denis
Let’s venture into the bowels of the Basilica of Saint Denis to discover its crypt. It contains the remains of the first buildings that preceded the basilica, as well as the tombs of other kings and queens. This is where the Bourbon vault is located, including that of the last king buried in the Basilica of Saint Denis: Louis XVIII.
This is a very special place, as it is where the most famous kings are buried. We try to imagine these illustrious figures, whom we know only from history books, each of whom left their mark on the history of France.
Visiting St Denis Basilica is certainly not like any other visit, but it is well worth the detour. I hope this article has made you want to discover it for yourself!
VISITING ST DENIS BASILICA: WHAT TO DO IN THE AREA?
If you come visiting St Denis Basilica and want to make the most of the neighbourhood, here are some other nice spots to discover !
– Stade de France (15 minutes on foot, 15 minutes by metro (L13)): if you are a sports fan, you can discover the legendary Stade de France with a guided tour behind the scenes. More information here.
– Saint Ouen Flea Market (15 minutes by car, 20 minutes by metro (L13)): several flea markets have been located in the Saint Ouen neighborhood since 1920! It’s very pleasant to stroll through the different markets, trying to find that rare gem or simply out of curiosity. There’s something for every style and budget, as each market has its own specialty! The perfect place to spend an afternoon.
– Paris (25 minutes by metro (L13)): Find my must-see attractions in my 3 Days in Paris Itinerary by a French Girl
Read also :
11 Most Unique Museums in Paris : a Local’s Guide
The 9 Best Photo Spots in Paris
The Best Latin Quarter Self-guided Walking Tour
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