Sainte-Chapelle: the Gothic stained glass of the Île de la Cité
By Rédaction My Sweet Paris · Published 29 October 2026
On the Île de la Cité, within the Palais de Justice, the Sainte-Chapelle is famous for its 13th-century stained glass. From October to March it opens every day from 9 am to 5 pm, and you need to book a visiting slot. From Hôtel Concortel, it is one metro change away.
Why is the Sainte-Chapelle so famous?
King Louis IX (Saint Louis) had it built to house the relics of the Passion, including the Crown of Thorns. It was consecrated on 26 April 1248. Its upper chapel is almost entirely glass: the windows tell 1,113 scenes from the Old and New Testaments, one of the largest 13th-century stained-glass ensembles in the world.
How does the visit work?
- You first enter the lower chapel, under a blue ceiling scattered with fleurs-de-lis.
- A spiral staircase leads to the upper chapel: come on a bright day, when the light makes the colours glow.
- A timed slot must be booked, even for visitors entitled to free entry; there is a security check at the entrance to the Palais de Justice.
- Next door, the Conciergerie can be visited with a combined ticket.
When to go and how to get there?
From October to March, the Sainte-Chapelle opens every day from 9 am to 5 pm (last entry 30 minutes before closing); it is closed on 1 January, 1 May and 25 December. Prices changed in 2026 and sources disagree, so check them on the official website when you book. Entry is free for under-18s and for EU residents aged 18 to 25. From the Concortel, take line 14 at Madeleine to Châtelet, then line 4 to Cité.
Find it on our illustrated map of Paris, then walk on to Notre-Dame, a few minutes away. More ideas in Discover Paris.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to book to visit the Sainte-Chapelle?
Yes, a timed slot is required, even for visitors entitled to free entry. Book on the monument’s official website.
What are the Sainte-Chapelle’s autumn opening hours?
From October to March, every day from 9 am to 5 pm, with last entry 30 minutes before closing.
How many scenes do the stained-glass windows show?
The upper chapel’s windows depict 1,113 scenes from the Old and New Testaments.
How do I get to the Sainte-Chapelle from the Madeleine?
Line 14 to Châtelet, then line 4 to Cité station, close to the entrance.
Practical information
- Sainte-Chapelle, boulevard du Palais, Île de la Cité, 75001 Paris — metro Cité (line 4).
- October to March: every day, 9 am – 5 pm (last entry 30 minutes before); closed on 1 January, 1 May and 25 December.
- Timed-slot booking required; check 2026 prices on the official website; free for under-18s and EU residents aged 18 to 25.
- From the hotel: line 14 (Madeleine → Châtelet), then line 4 to Cité.
Read next
Sources
- Paris je t’aime — Sainte-Chapelle — 29 October 2026
- Visit Paris Region — Les vitraux de la Sainte-Chapelle — 29 October 2026
- Come to Paris — History of the Sainte Chapelle in Paris — 29 October 2026
- Wikipedia — Sainte-Chapelle — 29 October 2026