VERDICT: We gave 5 out of 5 tickets and here’s why!
This guide forms part of our complete France Travel Guide, featuring scenic road trips, iconic destinations, practical travel advice and honest first-hand travel experiences from across France.
This article is also part of our 🚗 4-Day Paris Travel Guide series, exploring major attractions in Paris including; Arc de Triomphe, Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Galeries Lafayette, Notre Dame, Montmartre, Sacré-Cœur, and a River Cruise on the Seine. Beginning at Paris CDG and then to central Paris, our 4 days were packed with tours and adventures. Read the complete itinerary here.
Inspirational Day | Le Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre, Paris, France
WINTER EDITION
300 Steps or the Funicular?
I’m standing at the foot of Sacré-Cœur, looking straight up. It rises above Montmartre like a promise. White stone against a grey Paris sky. You feel small here, and that’s the point.
To the left, the funicular glides quietly up the hill and then, suddenly, you’re here. At the top, Paris opens wide. Rooftops, chimneys and one of the highest natural points in the city. But today, the real journey isn’t the view.
It’s inside. . .
You pass through the doors and everything changes. And then you see it, the enormous mosaic of Christ in glory, one of the largest in the world. Gold. Powerful. Watching over the entire space. The noise drops. Conversations soften. There’s a stillness here, not heavy, not intimidating, just calm. Safe.
The vast dome lifts your eyes upward. Light filters down softly.
The statues are immense. Saints carved in detail. Quiet strength in stone.
Construction Began In 1875
Construction began in 1875, after a turbulent period in France’s history. It was built as a symbol of hope. Of reflection. Of renewal. And more than a century later, people still come here for exactly that.
Near the entrance stands a statue of Pope John Paul II, now Saint Jean Paul II, a reminder that this place is still living history. Not just architecture. Not just art.
The organ towers at the back, one of France’s great instruments.
You can climb even higher to the dome itself, it’s 300 steps to one of the best panoramic views in Paris. But even if you don’t, you’ll leave changed.
Because Sacré-Cœur isn’t just something you see.
It’s something you feel.
Key Details:
⏱ Duration
2 hrs
📍 Locations
Montmartre, Paris, France
🎥Format
Discovery Travel Video
What You’ll See in This Video:
- Steps to the Sacre-Coeur
- The Funicular
- Paris Skyline
- Mosaic of Christ
- Dome and stunning architecture
- Saints carved in stone
- Stunning stained glass windows
- Multiple chapels
Filming Locations Featured:
This video features the Sacre-Coeur. The sanctuary was given the name ‘Sacré-Cœur’ meaning Sacred-Heart in English. This is a reference to the heart of Jesus, which is the representation of his divine love for humanity.
Chapter – Timestamps:
- 00:12 – First sighting of Sacre-Coeur
- 00:17 – The Funicular – easy way to get to the top
- 00:24 – 180 view of Paris skyline
- 00:33 – Mosaic of Christ
- 00:40 – Incredible Dome
- 01:05 – Saints carved in stone
- 01:10 – Stunning stained glass windows
- 01:34 – Saint Jean-Paul II
- 01:53 – Hand Carved Organ
- 02:09 – Golden Altar
- 02:21 – Selection of photographs
Travel Tips from This Journey:
Take underground walkway to avoid traffic. Ensure you get a pre-booked ticket for the Rooftop Views. Take your QR code right into the booth below the arch.
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