Sainte-Chapelle is one of the most jaw-dropping interiors in Paris: a “wall of light” made of stained glass, built in the 13th century for King Louis IX (Saint Louis) to house major Passion relics (including the Crown of Thorns).
Because Sainte-Chapelle sits inside the Palais de Justice security perimeter, the visit is all about smart timing: book the right time slot, arrive early for security, and plan a short, focused route so you see the Upper Chapel at its best.

Why Sainte-Chapelle is worth it ✨

  • 🪟 The Upper Chapel is the main event: towering stained glass that makes the room feel almost unreal.
  • 👑 It was built as a royal reliquary-chapel in record time (under 7 years, per the official history page).
  • 📍 Location-wise it’s perfect: on Île de la Cité, easy to pair with Notre-Dame area, the Seine, and the Latin Quarter.

Sainte-Chapelle opening times ⏱️

Official opening schedule:

SeasonSainte-Chapelle opening hoursLast entry
1 April – 30 September9:00–19:0030 min before closing
1 October – 31 March9:00–17:0030 min before closing

Closed: 1 January, 1 May, 25 December (plus occasional exceptional closures—always check the official page before you go).

Sainte-Chapelle tickets and prices (2026) 🎟️

From 12 January 2026, the official prices are:

Individual tickets

  • Non-EEA nationals/residents: €22
  • EEA nationals/residents (regular resident for 4+ months): €16

Combined ticket (Sainte-Chapelle + Conciergerie)

  • Non-EEA: €30
  • EEA (regular resident for 4+ months): €23

Reductions / free categories (highlights)

The official list includes (among others): under 18, certain 18–25 categories, disabled visitors + one companion, and specific free days such as the first Sunday in Jan/Feb/Mar/Nov/Dec.

Time-slot rules (don’t miss your entry) ⚠️

Sainte-Chapelle is strict about timed entry:

  • You must have a ticket + time slot.
  • Each time slot is 30 minutes; if you book 10:00, you must enter by 10:30 at the latest.
  • Expect a second security check before entering the monument.

✅ Practical tip: arrive 30–45 minutes early in high season so security doesn’t eat your slot.

How to get to Sainte-Chapelle 🚇🚌🚶

Address: 10 boulevard du Palais, 75001 Paris (Île de la Cité).

Best metro / RER options (official)

  • Metro Line 4: Cité (closest classic stop)
  • RER B or C: Saint-Michel
  • Metro Lines 1, 7, 11, 14: Châtelet (then walk)

Bus lines (official)

21, 24, 27, 38, 58, 81, 85, 96

Easy walking combos 📍

  • From Notre-Dame area → 5–10 minutes on foot.
  • From Saint-Michel → quick walk across the island.

Visiting conditions and security (read this!) 🚨

Because Sainte-Chapelle is inside the Palais de Justice perimeter:

  • Police identity checks may happen around the site.
  • Security at the entrance can be stricter; on busy days, allow up to 30 minutes waiting time.
  • Large luggage and several items are forbidden (sharp objects, aerosols, glass bottles, bulky bags, scooters/skateboards/rollerblades, etc.). Confiscated items won’t be returned.
  • Strollers must be small + foldable for X-ray machines, and aren’t allowed in the Upper Chapel.

What to see inside Sainte-Chapelle ✅

1) Lower Chapel (5–10 minutes)

Quick, atmospheric, and a good “warm-up.”

2) Upper Chapel (20–40 minutes) 🪟✨

This is why you’re here. Plan to:

  • Step in, let your eyes adjust for a minute
  • Move slowly along the perimeter for the best glass angles
  • Spend extra time when sunlight is strong (midday is often spectacular)

Tips and common mistakes ✅⚠️

✅ Book the first slots of the day for the calmest experience.
⚠️ Don’t arrive “on time.” With security + timed entry, “on time” can mean “missed slot.”
✅ Bring minimal bags (think: phone + wallet + small water).
⚠️ Avoid bulky luggage—it can get you turned away.
✅ Pair it smartly: Sainte-Chapelle + Seine walk + Latin Quarter café = perfect half-day.

✈️ Airport connections (CDG / ORY → Sainte-Chapelle)

From CDG (Charles de Gaulle)

  • Take RER B into Paris; Paris Aéroport lists a €14 single ticket and operating hours from 4:50 to 23:50 (from CDG 2 TGV).
  • Get off at Saint-Michel – Notre-Dame area (then walk to Île de la Cité).

From ORY (Orly)

  • Use Metro Line 14 from/to Orly; Paris Aéroport notes you need the Ticket Paris Région <> Aéroports (€14) (or a Navigo pass all zones).
  • Connect toward central Paris (Châtelet / Saint-Michel area), then walk/metro to Cité.

FAQ

Do I need a timed ticket for Sainte-Chapelle?
Yes—official ticketing states you must have a ticket + time slot, and you must enter within the slot window.

What are Sainte-Chapelle opening hours?
Officially 9:00–19:00 (Apr–Sep) and 9:00–17:00 (Oct–Mar), last entry 30 minutes before closing.

Which metro stop is best for Sainte-Chapelle?
Cité (Line 4) is the classic closest stop; official access info also lists Saint-Michel (RER B/C) and Châtelet (Lines 1/7/11/14).

How much are tickets in 2026?
From 12 Jan 2026: €22 (non-EEA) or €16 (EEA resident) for an individual ticket; combined tickets cost more.

Conclusion

Sainte-Chapelle is a high-impact, low-time visit—if you do it right. Book a timed slot, arrive early for Palais de Justice security, travel light, and spend most of your time in the Upper Chapel when daylight is strong. The result is one of the most unforgettable stained-glass experiences in Europe.

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