Paris Hotels Make a Great Base for Visiting Famous French Churches

Paris offers some of the most memorable sights imaginable, from beautiful bridges to romantic landmarks, like the Eiffel Tower and the famed Avenue des Champs-Élysée. It also boasts world-famous museums, charming restaurants and comfortable Paris hotels. No sightseeing trip to Paris is complete without visits to the city’s churches and cathedrals – widely considered some of the most beautiful buildings in the city.



Top Paris Churches



1. Notre Dame Cathedral

The gothic cathedral of Notre Dame, located in the heart of Paris, on an island called Ile de la Cite, is an instantly recognizable Parisian landmark. Immortalized by Victor Hugo in his 19th century work "The Hunchback of Notre Dame," the cathedral has one of the most famous bell towers in the world. After exploring the statues and stained glass windows in the cathedral, climb to the top where you can enjoy scenic views of Paris – and catch a glimpse of the cathedral’s famous gargoyles.



2. Sacre Coeur Basilica

Perched high above the city in the Montmarte quarter – an area famous for its artistic flair – the Sacre Coeur Basilica is one of the most recognizable churches in Paris. Built in the 20th century, on the site of an old Benedictine Abby, the Romano-Byzantine style of the church contrasts with the gothic style of Notre Dame and Saint Chapelle. Before heading back to one of the city’s convenient hotels, spend some time exploring the cobblestone streets and winding stairways of Montmarte.



3. Sainte-Chapelle

Just a stone’s throw from Notre Dame, also in the Ile de la Cite, sits the 13th century gothic cathedral Saint-Chapelle. Built by King Louis IX in the 13th century to house his collection of relics, the church fell into disrepair during the French Revolution. After its restoration in the 19th century, the church became a national historic monument. Saint-Chapelle’s vibrantly colored stained glass – made up of 15 panels and a large window – is one of the best examples of this type of glass in the world.



4. Cathedral Basilica of Saint Denis

Take a short trip to the suburb of Saint-Denis, located just north of the city, to visit this culturally significant cathedral. Although often over-looked due to its location, the cathedral is one of the oldest places of Christian worship in France. It served as a royal burial site from as early as the 5th century, and now houses the remains of 32 queens and 43 kings.



5. Saint-Sulpice



Saint-Sulpice enjoyed a resurgence of fame due to its appearance in the popular book, "The Da Vinci Code." The interior of the French classical cathedral was completed in the 17th century and its façade in the 18th century. In addition to a grand organ built by Cavaille-Col – one of the 20th century’s greatest organ builders – the church also displays several wall paintings by Eugene Delacroix.



After a busy day of cathedral sightseeing, you will be ready for some rest and relaxation at your hotel. Fortunately, you can find a wide array of Paris hotels, available at every price point, with amenities to suit every type of traveler.