VIBE

Though it looks like something out of Byzantine times, this striking, white basilica overlooking the city from the steep perch of Montmartre was actually only opened in the early 20th century, having been constructed as a guilt offering to the French people after the trauma of the Franco-Prussian war. It was largely financed by national subscription, so much of the building’s imagery is nationalistic (as a taster, the main door is flanked by statues of national heroes Joan of Arc and King (Saint) Louis IX). Highlights of the church include the Savoyard (a great bell which, at 19 tons, is one of the world’s heaviest), contemplative gardens and fountains behind the building, and views from the dome.

GO HERE WITH

Architecture buffs; photographers; friends; family

WHY WE LIKE IT

The climb to the top of the dome is exhausting but well worth it–it offers the second-highest view in all of Paris (with the Eiffel Tower being the first). We also like poking around the surrounding boho Montmartre neighborhood while we’re up here.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

The steep uphill climb to get here.

GOOD TO KNOW

No Métro stops come all the way to Sacré-Coeur, so you’ll need to use other forms of transportation to make the final leg of the journey. From the Jules Joffrin Métro stop, take the “Montmartobus” and get off at Place du Tertre; from the Pigalle Métro stop, take the “Montmartobus” and get off at Norvins; from the Anvers-Abbesses Métro stop, make the 20 minute uphill walk or take the funicular. For handicapped visitors, there’s an elevator that goes up the hill at 35, rue du Chevalier de la Barre.

CLOSEST COMPS

Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris (Paris); Westminster Cathedral (London)

Click here for our full-form mobile travel guide, The Purple Passport to Paris