The admission fee for the Basilique Saint-Denis in 2025 is €11 per person. Visitors can also choose a combined ticket for the Basilica of Saint-Denis and the Pantheon for €19, valid for two visits within three days. Entry is free for those under 18 years old, as well as for individuals aged 18–25 who are European Union nationals or regular non-European residents in France (with valid ID). Disabled visitors and their carers are also granted free admission. From April to September, the basilica operates between 10:00 and 18:00, and from October to March, between 10:00 and 17:00. We visited on 07 February 2025, and these details are accurate as of that date.
Originally established on the tomb of Saint Denis, the first bishop of Paris, this site gradually evolved from a modest 5th-century chapel into a grand abbey by the 7th century under King Dagobert I. In the 12th century, Abbot Suger transformed the Basilique Saint-Denis into one of the earliest examples of Gothic architecture, emphasizing pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and large stained-glass windows.
Basilica of Saint Denis
Basilica of Saint Denis details
Details from the Basilica of Saint Denis
Over the centuries, it became the royal necropolis for numerous French monarchs, their elaborate tombs and effigies symbolizing both political power and artistic refinement. The basilica endured periods of damage—most notably during the French Revolution—yet extensive 19th-century restorations, particularly under the supervision of architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc, helped preserve its historic grandeur. We recommend spending at least an hour exploring the crypt, the choir, and the royal tombs to fully appreciate the basilica’s role as a masterpiece of medieval design and a significant site in French royal history.
After touring the basilica, we suggest discovering the lively Saint-Denis neighborhood. A short stroll from the basilica, Le Mets du Roy offers a menu of traditional French dishes served in a welcoming atmosphere. For those looking to unwind or indulge in some shopping, the local market is a good spot to find fresh produce and regional products. We also encourage visitors to take advantage of the area’s cultural institutions, such as the Saint-Denis Museum of Art and History, to deepen their appreciation of this historic district. We believe combining the architectural marvel of the basilica with the surrounding community’s offerings creates a rewarding and well-rounded experience.