Guided Tour Of Sacré-Coeur And Montmartre

Exploring the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica and the charming Montmartre district is a must-do experience for any visitor to Paris. Led by knowledgeable guides, this guided tour offers an immersive journey through the heart of the city’s artistic and cultural heritage. From the stunning Romanesque-Byzantine architecture to the panoramic city views from the dome, the tour promises to captivate both the first-time and seasoned traveler. But the real magic lies in discovering the vibrant streets, lively cafes, and the creative energy that have made Montmartre a beloved destination for centuries. Intrigued? Let’s dive deeper into what this guided adventure has in store.

Key Points

Offers a comprehensive guided tour of the iconic Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur and the Montmartre district, providing in-depth insights into the architecture and cultural heritage.
Allows visitors to climb the 300 steps up to the dome of the basilica, offering panoramic 360-degree views of the city of Paris.
Explores the captivating blend of Byzantine and Romanesque influences in the basilica’s architecture, showcasing its intricate mosaics, stained glass windows, and opulent decorations.
Provides a glimpse into the bohemian soul of Paris by strolling through the picturesque Place du Tertre and the charming streets of Montmartre.
Encourages visitors to further explore the vibrant neighborhood of Montmartre, with its wealth of charming cafes, boutiques, and artistic delights.

It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.

Tour Overview

This guided tour offers visitors an immersive experience at the iconic Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur and the charming neighborhood of Montmartre.

Guests will explore the basilica’s stunning Romanesque-Byzantine architecture, climb to the top of the dome for panoramic city views, and discover the artistic heritage of the Montmartre district.

Led by a knowledgeable guide, the tour provides an in-depth look at the history and significance of this beloved Parisian landmark.

Visitors will learn about the basilica’s construction, admire its stunning mosaics, and gain insights into the cultural traditions of the surrounding neighborhood.

Whether you’re a first-time or seasoned traveler, this guided experience promises to be a highlight of your Parisian adventure.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes an outside exploration of the Basilica of the Sacré Heart, a guided walk through Montmartre and the charming Place du Tertre, as well as access to climb the dome for panoramic city views. However, gratuities and transportation to and from the meeting point are not covered.

What’s Included	What’s Not Included
Outside tour of the Basilica of the Sacré Heart	Gratuities
Tour of Montmartre and Place du Tertre	Transportation to/from meeting point
Entrance to the Dome
Professional guide
Confirmation provided at booking

This guided tour offers a comprehensive experience of Montmartre’s iconic landmarks and stunning city vistas, while allowing you to explore at your own pace after the guided portion.

Meeting Point and End Location

The tour starts at the Carrousel de Saint-Pierre, located in Pl. Saint-Pierre, 75018 Paris, and ends at the iconic Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris, or Sacré-Cœur Basilica, on 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018 Paris.

This convenient meeting point is easily accessible by public transportation, making it a hassle-free start to your guided exploration of Montmartre.

After taking in the stunning views from the basilica’s dome, you’ll wrap up your tour right at the doorstep of this breathtaking religious landmark.

Whether you’re visiting Paris for the first time or returning to discover new corners of the city, this tour provides a seamless and enriching experience from start to finish.

Climb to the Dome

One of the highlights of the tour is the chance to climb 300 steps up to the dome of the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, offering panoramic views of the city of Paris. As you ascend, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking 360-degree perspective that stretches out across the rooftops and landmarks of the capital. It’s a truly awe-inspiring experience that’ll leave you feeling on top of the world.

Feelings	Adjectives	Emotions
Exhilarated	Panoramic	Awe-inspiring
Accomplished	Breathtaking	Rewarded
Captivated	360-degree	Elevated

Climbing the 300 steps is well worth the effort, as it allows you to fully learn about the grandeur and beauty of Paris from a unique vantage point atop the basilica’s iconic dome.

Basilica History and Architecture

Towering over the Montmartre neighborhood, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart boasts a captivating architectural design that blends Byzantine and Romanesque influences.

Its iconic white stone exterior, crowned by a magnificent dome, has become an instantly recognizable landmark of Paris. Visitors can’t help but be awed by the basilica’s sheer scale and grandeur as they approach this impressive religious site.

Inside, the basilica’s interior is just as breathtaking, with intricate mosaics, stained glass windows, and opulent decorations. Visitors will learn about the basilica’s fascinating history, which includes its construction in the late 19th century as an act of penance after the Franco-Prussian War.

The guide will share insights into the architectural symbolism and the role the Sacré-Cœur has played in French national identity.

Exploring Montmartre

After exploring the iconic Basilica of the Sacred Heart, visitors can venture out into the charming neighborhood of Montmartre.

This vibrant district, with its winding streets and artistic heritage, offers a glimpse into the bohemian soul of Paris.

Visitors can stroll through the picturesque Place du Tertre, where painters and street artists showcase their talents, or wander along the quaint alleys lined with local cafes and boutiques.

The tour provides the perfect opportunity to take in the unique atmosphere of Montmartre, soaking in the sights, sounds, and creative energy that have long inspired artists and writers.

With its hidden gems and lively ambiance, this enchanting neighborhood is a must-visit for anyone exploring the cultural heart of Paris.

After the Tour

Upon concluding the guided tour, visitors can venture off on their own to further explore the vibrant neighborhood of Montmartre.

With a wealth of charming cafes, boutiques, and artistic delights awaiting, there’s ample opportunity to take in the neighborhood’s captivating ambiance and uncover its hidden gems.

Stroll through the quaint streets, browse the work of local artists at the lively Place du Tertre, or indulge in a delectable French pastry at one of the cozy sidewalk cafes.

Montmartre’s enchanting atmosphere beckons visitors to linger, soak in the sights, and discover the unique character that has inspired countless artists and writers over the years.

Additional Information

Visitors receive confirmation upon booking the guided tour. The tour requires a minimum of 2 people per booking and regrettably isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Photography is prohibited inside the basilica, though scenic views abound from the dome’s 300-step climb. Travelers can easily access the tour meeting point via nearby public transportation.

The tour offers a unique and immersive experience:

Marvel at the basilica’s stunning Romanesque-Byzantine architecture
Climb to the dome for breathtaking panoramic views of Paris
Explore the historic Montmartre neighborhood and charming Place du Tertre
Learn fascinating insights about the basilica’s rich history from your guide
Savor the peaceful ambiance and spiritual significance of this iconic landmark

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos Inside the Basilica?

No, photography is not allowed inside the Basilica of the Sacré-Coeur. The tour guide will explain this rule at the start of the visit, so you won’t be able to take photos within the basilica itself.

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?

The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility issues, as it involves climbing 300 steps to the dome. The basilica itself isn’t wheelchair accessible either. Visitors should be prepared for a moderate level of physical activity during the tour.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

Unfortunately, the tour does not offer any discounts for students or seniors. However, the basilica itself has reduced admission fees for certain groups, so it’s worth checking if you qualify for those. The tour price remains the same for all participants.

How Long Does the Tour Typically Last?

The tour typically lasts around 2 hours. It includes an outside visit of the Basilica, a climb to the dome, and a stroll through the charming Montmartre neighborhood. The exact duration may vary depending on the pace of the group.

Can I Customize the Tour to Focus on Specific Areas?

Yes, the tour can be customized to focus on specific areas. Guests can discuss their interests with the guide, who can then adjust the itinerary to provide a more personalized experience. Additional fees may apply for customized tours.

Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby