Whether you're a history buff on your first trip to Paris or a frequent visitor looking for a spot to reflect, Sainte-Chapelle means something different to everyone. Enjoy the atmospheric gleam of the chapel's stained-glass windows and discover lots of significant relics while you wander around.
Sainte-Chapelle is located on the medieval Icirc;le de la Cité, one of two tiny islands in the middle of Paris. You're bound to be around the area during your visit. Whatever your schedule, pop over and take a look at this impressive landmark.
Getting to Sainte-Chapelle by train
Paris is very well connected by train, with a super-fast and convenient Metro and RER rail network running throughout the day and night. The Île de la Cité, which sits at the centre of the city, is no exception.
You might like to visit Sainte-Chapelle and Notre Dame on the same day since they both sit on the Île de la Cité and are within a stone's throw of each other.
Which station is the closest to Sainte-Chapelle?
To get there, simply take the line 4 service to Cité, which is the only stop on the Île de la Cité itself. This is also the closest stop to the Notre Dame cathedral. Alternatively, you might like to take an RER B or C service to Gare De Saint-Michel Notre Dame, on the banks of the Seine. When you choose this stop, you can stroll along a beautiful bridge and enjoy some picturesque views of Paris as you approach Sainte-Chapelle.
The chapel is in fare zone 1, which is served by Metro and RER trains from all over the city. If you’re travelling from elsewhere in the city centre, your ticket will cost around €1.90. However, this can vary depending on where you board.
Because Paris trains run so frequently, you won’t need to worry too much about planning your journey. Simply head to your nearest station or stop, climb aboard, and be at your destination in a matter of minutes.
What to see at Sainte-Chapelle
There are lots of things to see at Sainte-Chappelle, from elements of the building’s architecture to some historical relics and interiors. Firstly, we must talk about the soaring stained-glass windows, one of the most notable features of the chapel.
The stained-glass windows at Sainte-Chapelle
There are 15 stained-glass windows at Sainte-Chapelle, which made the religious monument famous from the first moment they were revealed. The dazzling, colourful windows are enormous alongside the small chapel which they adorn, each one a 13th-century masterpiece and a significant historical artefact.
Visiting Sainte-Chapelle is like stepping inside the most beautiful kaleidoscope. We mean it. Almost every inch of the exterior wall is covered with intricate stained glass. Each window is around 15 metres high, while the lofty vaulted ceiling is decorated with a blue and gold starred pattern, adding to the magic of the space.
The stained-glass windows at Sainte-Chapelle are decorated with 1,113 scenes from the Old and New Testament. There’s also a portion made to depict the holy relics, which were once housed in the chapel, making their way to Paris. Glass is coloured in just five shades: blue, red, green, purple, and yellow.
To follow the story, start on the left wall with the Book of Genesis. Follow along to the Passion of the Christ at the centre, over what used to be a shrine holding the chapel’s relics. Then, carry on through to the Book of Esther and the Book of Kings on the right.
The last window is dedicated to Sainte-Chapelle’s relics. It shows their discovery, miracles they performed, and the French King victoriously bringing them back to Paris and to their final resting place inside the chapel.
The stained-glass windows inside Sainte-Chappelle include the following biblical books:
- Genesis
- Exodus
- Numbers
- The Book of Joshua
- The Book of Judges
- The Book of Isaiah and the Jesse Tree
- Saint John the Evangelist and the Childhood of Christ
- The Passion of Christ
- Saint John the Baptist and the Book of Daniel
- The Book of Ezekiel
- The Books of Jeremiah and Tobias
- The Books of Judith and Job
- The Book of Esther
- The Book of Kings
Did you know? Stained-glass windows were initially created to help worshipers understand stories from the bible. Most people in the Middle Ages, when stained-glass was developed, couldn’t read themselves, so this allowed some religious freedom and a greater understanding of stories.
Other interior art
As well as its one-of-a-kind stained-glass windows, Sainte-Chappelle boasts lots more decorative features to look out for when you visit. Elegant paintings cover many of the walls, ceilings, and floors inside the chapel. This kind of painted architecture is quite rare in the Gothic style since paint fades with time and is not often restored.
A lot of time and care went into the design of the upper chapel. This area was designed for the monarchy, close friends, and family, as well as the display of religious relics. Some sculpted decorations in the upper chapel include statues of the twelve apostles with delicate faces and a beautifully designed reliquary.
Sainte-Chapelle history and facts
Sainte-Chapelle, or ‘Holy Chapel’, was commissioned by King Louis IX. The king wanted to build a new home for some significant religious artefacts which he had purchased in 1239 from the Byzantine emperor Baldwin II. Let’s take a look at how King Louis came to buy these artefacts which inspired the construction of Sainte-Chapelle.
The religious relics
During the 13th century, France was a wealthy and powerful kingdom, with strong relationships with the Middle East, notably Constantinople. In 1237, the Franc Emperor of the East, Baldwin II, met some significant military expenses. To pay these off, the Emperor decided to sell the relics of the Passion of the Christ.
Enter, Louis IX! The French king bought the relics for a considerable sum of 135,000 livres. These included the Crown of Thorns, the Holy Lance, and a fragment of the True Cross. King Louis paid nearly three times the cost of Saint-Chapelle for these artefacts. It was both a religious and political purchase, letting the king affirm his religious devotion while supporting the Franc Empire financially.
The king’s artefacts had been kept in Saint-Nicolas chapel inside the royal palace. Still, a more suitable spot seemed necessary for pieces as monumental as these. The idea was to elevate the French kingdom to be the leader of Western Christianity.
Rapid construction and impressive architecture
Sainte-Chapelle was built in just seven years, between 1241 and 1248. The day after its completion, the upper chapel was consecrated by Eudes of Châteauroux.
The chapel is 36 metres long, 17 metres wide, and 42.5 metres tall, making it relatively small compared to other Gothic churches in Paris and Europe. With a two-story front, Saint-Chapelle has the typical vertical aesthetic of the style, which had been perfected in the 12th century. Some Gothic features to look out for include buttresses, a simple base, and extravagant details in the upper parts. The cedar spire was made in the 19th century but is an exact replica of its 15th-century predecessor.
Restaurants, bars, and shops near Saint-Chapelle
The Île de la Cité sits at the very heart of Paris, which means lots of the city’s best restaurants, cafés, and bars are just moments away. You can also find plenty of great shopping close to Sainte-Chapelle, so it’s easy to make the most of your visit.
The best restaurants in the arrondissement
The 1st arrondissement is unsurprisingly packed with excellent eateries. Whether you’re after a quick bite at lunchtime or a more indulgent dinner, you’ll have no trouble finding good food when you visit the home of Sainte-Chapelle.
yam’Tcha
This tiny, Michelin Starred French-Asian spot is unlike anywhere else in the city. Reservations can be tricky to bag. If you manage to get a table, get ready for a meal you won’t forget in a hurry.
Bistrot Victoires
This traditional bistro serves no-nonsense French food in a classic setting. Prices and portions are generous, which makes this spot popular among locals and tourists alike. Try the steak-frites or the plate of the day for an always-comforting treat.
Le Petit Bouillon Pharmond
You know you’re in Paris when you’re seated inside this 1st arrondissement spot with elegant Art Nouveau décor, a buzzy atmosphere, and excellent French food. Think deviled eggs, fresh fish or meat and vegetables, and an excellent tarte Tatin to finish. This is a perfect choice after a visit to the chapel.
Au Pied de Cochon
A Parisian institution since 1974, Au Pied de Cochon serves every part of pork. The old-style brasserie interiors and hearty food make this a great spot to visit in the evening, although we like it for lunch too.
The best bars in the 1st arrondissement
Fancy a quick drink after visiting Saint-Chapelle? A little wine or coffee is a great way to add some Parisian charm to your day, and there are lots of great spots in the area.
Le Garde Robe
This natural wine bar has a vibrant, locals' atmosphere. It’s a perfect place to forget you’re a tourist and enjoy some delicious wine while you’re at it. Take the advice of the owner and order a bottle to suit your taste and budget. They serve great food here too, from charcuterie to some big plates. You can’t go wrong.
Bar Hemmingway
Drinks at the Ritz? Of course! Bar Hemmingway is a sleek drinking den with great cocktails and everything else you’d expect on the menu. If you’re doing Paris on a budget, perhaps just take one drink here before moving to a more down-to-earth independent bar nearby.
The best shops in the 1st arrondissement
No trip to Paris would be complete without a little shopping. After all, the city is world-famous for its boutiques and glimmering retail centres. The 1st arrondissement is home to some of the best shopping around.
Stroll along Rue St. Honoré for a little designer shopping, or window shopping if you’re visiting on a budget. Rue Rivoli is home to lots more affordable spots, including brands you’ll recognise and some French chains. Stick around Les Halles for a wealth of independent spots and vintage gems. There’s something for everyone in the area, so let yourself wander and see what you can find.
Sainte-Chapelle opening times and prices
When you’re preparing for a visit to Sainte-Chapelle, you should book your ticket and timeslot online. This helps save lining up outside the monument and can give a little structure to your day exploring. When you book online, you’ll be sent an e-ticket which you can print or present on your phone on entry.
Standard opening hours are 09:00 to 17:00 throughout October to March, and 09:00 to 19:00 in the warmer months of April to September. It's always best to check online before you visit to avoid disappointment when you arrive.
How much does it cost to visit Sainte-Chapelle?
You’ll be able to figure out the cost of your visit when you book your ticket online, but here are the most recent ticket prices to help with your planning.
|
Adults |
Children (under 18) |
EU citizens (under 26) |
Disabled visitors |
|
|
Ticket |
€11.50 |
Free |
Free |
Free |
Whether you pop by during your time in central Paris or plan your day around a visit, we’re sure Sainte-Chapelle will leave a lasting impression. From its monumental stained-glass windows to its rich and significant history, this unique religious monument promises to enhance your trip.
Visiting Paris from further afield?
If you’re in another French city or even in another European country and are planning a trip to the City of Lights, why not consider taking the train to Paris? The most popular routes from other parts of France to Paris include Avignon to Paris(2h 41m), Bordeaux to Paris(2h 9m), Lyon to Paris (1h 55m), Marseille to Paris (3h 12m),Nice to Paris (5h 44m) and Strasbourg to Paris (2h 23m).
Some of the most popular international routes include London to Paris (2h 13m), Amsterdam to Paris (3h 12m), Brussels to Paris (1h 22m), Barcelona to Paris (6h 38m), Zurich to Paris (4h 6m), Munich to Paris (6h 37m) and Stuttgart to Paris (4h 13m).