Sainte-Chapelle: Gothic Jewel

 

This small church stays an unmissable monument of Paris thanks to its history and wonderful windows. Long ago part of the kings palace, the Sainte-Chapelle had an unparallel destiny: it was built to welcome Jesus' relics, including the Crown of Thorns. 

 

Come and discover this jewel of gothic architecture before to decipher all the stories the stained-glass windows still tell us...

Standard duration: 1 hr to 1.5 hrs

Price: 250€ (up to 25 people)                        The location of hearing system is recommended beyond 8 people

Flat price. Tickets not included.                     Location: 2€/person for a half day

 

We will see together: the architecture, the decorations and, of course, the amazing stained-glass windows

 

Other tours in the same area: Notre DameConciergerie MuseumParis Islands, Latin Quarter

Please note there is a combined ticket for the Sainte-Chapelle and Conciergerie Museum


© Caroline Weber


From what age is the tour recommended?

Children are generally curious about middle-ages. From 7 years old, they start to place correctly time periods in their mind and they love to realize that stained-glass windows tell so many stories. After all, no suprise, they were intended to people of the past, most of them didn't receive the instruction to be able to read!

 

How long is the tour?

Though it is an incredible venue, the Sainte-Chapelle only has two rooms. It doesn't take more than 1 hr/1.5 hrs to enjoy it and ask as many questions as you want. This tour can easily be combined with the Conciergerie or another tour of the same area.

 

Is the Sainte-Chapelle still a church?

It is not. Very often, the chapels of kings palaces are considered as part of the monuments today and don't welcome masses any more. 

 

Is there a time we cannot visit the Sainte-Chapelle?

The Sainte-Chapelle is open every day of the year except on some public holidays (January 1, May 1, December 25). Note that the monument closes at 5pm from October to March. 

 

When is the best time to avoid the crowd?

Early in the morning. And honnestly, it is also the absolute best time to enjoy the stained-glass windows with the perfect light!

 

Is this visit wheelchair accesible ?

The Sainte-Chapelle is wheelchair accessible, except if there is a technical problem to open the outside doors of the top floor as we go through the Courthouse. Indeed sometimes the weather is so bad that it's not recommended. Don't worry, it doesn't happen very often!

 

Good to know

In winter, the Sainte-Chapelle is cold. Dress well if you don't want to freeze.

Staircases of the Sainte-Chapelle are narrow with pretty big steps. Please warn me if you have legs problems so we can take the elevator.

Reservations for groups are an obligation to visit this building with a guide, even for 2 people, which means a week is necessary to confirm the reservation and block the tour.

Luggages are not allowed! A cafe close to the Sainte-Chapelle provides this service if you don't have the choice.