by When it comes to Gothic-style cathedrals, France is hard to beat. There are a ton of them, and they’re all incredibly impressive in their way. Many of France’s great Gothic cathedrals can be found in the capital. Let’s look at some of the best Gothic Cathedrals in Paris!
Got a hankering for great Gothic cathedrals? So do Parisians! Check out this list of some of Paris’s most famous examples of Gothic and Romanesque architecture.
Table of Contents
- Best Gothic Cathedrals in Paris, France
- 1. Notre Dame Cathedral
- 2. Sainte Chapelle
- 3. Basilique du Sacre-Coeur
- 4. Saint-Denis Basilica
- 5. Saint-Germain l’Auxerrois
- 6. Sainte-Chapelle
- 7. Saint-Sulpice Church
- 8. Church of Saint-Eustache
- 9. Abbey of St. Germain des Prés
- 10. Church of Saint-Séverin
- 11. Church of Saint-Merri
- 12. Temple du Marais
- 13. Saint-Gervais-et-Saint-Protais
- 14. Sainte Clotilde Basilica
- 15. Saint-Étienne-du-Mont
- 17. Saint-Nicolas-des-Champs
- 18. Église Saint-Thomas-d’Aquin de Paris
- 19. Chapelle Notre-Dame de la Médaille Miraculeuse
- Chartres Cathedral
- Strasbourg Cathedral
- Beauvais Cathedral
- Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen
- Amiens Cathedral
- FAQ
- What is the best Gothic cathedral in France?
- What is the difference between a Gothic cathedral and a regular cathedral?
- What is the best time of year to visit Gothic cathedrals in France?
- Find Things to Do in Paris
- Find Accommodation
- Explore Paris With Our Guides & Reviews
Best Gothic Cathedrals in Paris, France
1. Notre Dame Cathedral
Notre Dame, or the Notre Dame de Paris, is probably the most famous cathedral in Paris, and for good reason. It’s massive, and the exterior is covered in intricate gargoyles and other carved details. The interior is impressive, with beautiful stained-glass windows and soaring ceilings.
Notre Dame is one of the oldest Gothic Churches Paris offers, founded in 1163. Notre Dame played an important role in developing Gothic architecture, which would shape some of the most iconic buildings in the world.
Today, Notre Dame is one of Paris’s most popular tourist attractions, drawing millions of visitors. So if you’re ever in the City of Light, be sure to add Notre Dame to your list of places to see.
On April 15, 2019, the world mourned the devastating fire that engulfed Notre Dame, one of Paris’s most iconic Gothic cathedrals. Made mostly of limestone, the flames consumed the cathedral’s walls and spire, causing extensive damage.
Fortunately, the firefighters’ quick response saved much of the interior, including many of the artworks and historical relics. The roof and spire collapsed, but the two main towers were spared.
Most of the funding will come from private donors, with many corporations and individuals donating millions of dollars to the cathedral’s current reconstruction.
The process of repairing and rebuilding Notre Dame will be long, and the restoration is expected to be completed by April 2024.
If you’re looking for a nearby hotel, consider the following options: The Hotel du Collectionneur is less than a kilometer from the Notre Dame de Paris.
The Hotel Paris Bastille Boutet—MGallery by Sofitel is located near the Marais district, and Le Meridien Etoile hotel is also near the Arc de Triomphe.
See Related: Tribal Act
2. Sainte Chapelle
Sainte Chapelle is much smaller than the Notre Dame Cathedral but is just as beautiful. This Gothic chapel was built in the 13th Century to house the Crown of Thorns.
It’s in Paris, on the Île de la Cité, next to the Palais de Justice. The Sainte Chapelle is well known for its incredible stained glass windows.
It has the largest area of stained glass of any building in the world. The chapel has three levels, each with stained glass windows. The stained glass on the lower level depicts scenes from the Old Testament.
The upper level has 15 large windows that depict scenes from the life of the professional carpenter and all-around good guy Jesus Christ. The Sainte Chapelle is a must-see for anyone visiting Paris.
See Related: Rue de Rivoli-Le Marias
3. Basilique du Sacre-Coeur
Basilique du Sacre-Coeur is slightly different from the other French Gothic cathedrals on this list as it’s a 19th-century basilica. However, it uses elements of the Gothic revival style, and the white exterior and massive dome are well worth seeing. The interior is pretty simple compared to others on this list, but the views from the top of the Basilica are incredible.
You can see all of Paris from up there, and it’s definitely worth the climb. If you’re looking for something slightly different, Basilique du Sacre-Coeur is worth a visit.
The Basilique du Sacre-Coeur is located nearby several hotels in Paris, France. These hotels include the Hotel Regina, the Hotel Franklin Roosevelt, and the Hotel Lancaster.
See Related: Winters in France: A Comprehensive Guide to the Season
4. Saint-Denis Basilica
Saint-Denis Basilica is technically located just outside Paris, but it’s worth the trip! It’s the burial place of many French kings and queens, and the Gothic exterior is impressive.
The interior is rather spartan compared to most cathedrals in Paris proper, but the stained glass windows are just beautiful.
See Related: Best Paris Bastille Hotels
5. Saint-Germain l’Auxerrois
Saint-Germain l’Auxerrois is a Gothic cathedral in the fourth arrondissement of Paris. It was originally built in the 12th Century and underwent several renovations over the centuries.
It is now considered one of Paris’s best examples of Gothic architecture. Saint-Germain l’Auxerrois is also the inspiration for several notable artworks, including Claude Monet’s “Saint-Germain l’Auxerrois” painting of the Cathedral. J.-K. Huysmans’s book about the cathedral is entitled “L’église Saint-Germain l’Auxerrois.”
See Related: Arc de Triomphe: Exploring the Iconic Paris Arch
6. Sainte-Chapelle
Sainte-Chapelle is located in Paris, France, and is a Gothic cathedral known for its beautiful stained glass windows. The windows were created in the 13th Century and are some of the oldest and most intricate.
Sainte-Chapelle was originally built as a royal chapel. The King of France used it to store his collection of holy relics, including the Crown of Thorns, which was believed to have been worn by Jesus Christ during his crucifixion.
Today, Sainte-Chapelle is a popular tourist attraction and is considered one of the most beautiful cathedrals in the world.
See Related: Best Weekend Trips from Paris
7. Saint-Sulpice Church
Saint-Sulpice Church is one of the most popular French Gothic cathedrals in Paris, France. Saint-Sulpice Church was originally built in the 12th Century but has been rebuilt and renovated several times.
Saint-Sulpice Church is known for its beautiful architecture, intricate details, and large organ, which is one of the largest in Europe.
Saint-Sulpice Church is known for its large stained glass windows and two bell towers. It is a popular tourist destination and a popular place for weddings. Saint-Sulpice Church is one of the largest churches in Paris, and it can accommodate up to 2,000 people.
The Saint-Sulpice church is a Gothic church located in the 6th arrondissement of Paris. It’s one of the oldest churches in Paris and is well known for its beautiful Gothic architecture. Nearby attractions include the Luxembourg Gardens, the Palais du Luxembourg, and the Saint-Michel Bridge.
8. Church of Saint-Eustache
The Church of Saint-Eustache is a Gothic cathedral located in the 1st arrondissement of Paris. Construction began in the 12th Century, and the church was consecrated in the 15th Century.
It is considered one of the most beautiful Gothic cathedrals in Paris and is home to a large organ with over 8,000 pipes.
The Church of Saint-Eustache is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture, and its massive size and ornate facade will impress any visitor.
If you’re interested in learning more about the history of the Church of Saint-Eustache or if you want to admire its beauty, be sure to visit it the next time you’re in Paris.
As if that weren’t enough, some of the best Gothic cathedrals in Paris are located near the Church of Saint-Eustache. This includes the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Sainte-Chapelle, and the Saint-Germain l’Auxerrois Church.
If you’re looking for a place to stay near this magnificent church, check out the Best Western Premier Hôtel.
This 4-star hotel is perfect if you’re looking to explore this Gothic cathedral. It also features a restaurant, bar, and fitness center, so you can relax after a day of sightseeing.
There’s also the Hotel le Petit Moulin. This 3-star hotel is located in the heart of Paris’ Gothic district, just a short walk from the Church of Saint-Eustache. The hotel’s Gothic-inspired décor will make you feel you’re stepping back in time.
Hotel Mercure Paris Notre Dame Saint Germain des Prés also offers excellent accommodation for visitors who want to explore the Gothic cathedrals in Paris. The hotel is in the heart of the Latin Quarter, close to many of the city’s most famous attractions.
See Related: Best Parisian Food Markets
9. Abbey of St. Germain des Prés
The Abbey of St. Germain des Prés is a Gothic cathedral in Paris, France. It was founded in the 6th Century by the Merovingian king Childebert II and is one of the oldest churches in Paris.
The Abbey was rebuilt in the 12th Century and is considered one of France’s finest examples of Gothic architecture. The Abbey of St. Germain des Prés is a popular tourist destination and one of Paris’s most visited Gothic cathedrals.
The Abbey is located in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood on the Left Bank of the Seine River. It is open to the public, and guided tours are available. Visitors can also explore the museum, which houses artifacts from the Abbey’s history.
10. Church of Saint-Séverin
The Church of Saint-Séverin is a Gothic cathedral located in the 5th arrondissement of Paris. It was built in the 12th and 13th Centuries and is one of Paris’s best examples of Gothic architecture.
The church has a beautiful facade with elaborate carvings, and the interior is decorated with stained glass windows and Gothic artwork.
Saint-Séverin is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Paris, and it is worth a visit if you are interested in Gothic architecture or history. If you plan to visit Saint-Séverin, allow enough time to explore the church thoroughly.
The Church of Saint-Séverin is an excellent example of Gothic architecture, and it is worth a visit if you are interested in this type of architecture or history.
The Church of Saint-Séverin is one of the best attractions near Gothic cathedrals in Paris, France. This church is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture and is worth visiting in the area.
Another nearby attraction you won’t want to miss is the Notre Dame Cathedral. This cathedral is one of France’s most famous and must-see for any traveler.
If you are looking for something a little different, check the also Saint above Chapelle. This Gothic chapel is known for its beautiful stained glass windows and is worth visiting.
11. Church of Saint-Merri
The Church of Saint-Merri is located in the 4th arrondissement of Paris, France. It is a Gothic cathedral built in the 15th Century and is dedicated to Saint Merry, a bishop of Paris in the 5th Century.
The Church of Saint-Merri has a beautiful Gothic style on its exterior, with flying buttresses and rose windows. The church’s interior is as beautiful, with high ceilings and stained glass windows.
The Church of Saint-Merri is one of Paris’s best French Gothic cathedrals. If you’re interested in Gothic architecture or if you’re looking for a beautiful church to visit in Paris, be sure to check it out.
12. Temple du Marais
If you plan a trip to Paris to see some historic churches, visiting the Temple du Marais is a must. This Gothic cathedral is one of the best examples of French Gothic architecture in the city, and it’s been beautifully preserved.
The Temple du Marais was originally built in the 12th Century, but it has undergone several renovations, the most recently completed in the early 21st Century. Today, it is one of Paris’s most popular tourist destinations.
Thousands of people visit the cathedral every year to admire its beauty and marvel at its history. If you’re lucky, you might even glimpse one of the Temple du Marais’s famous gargoyles!
See Related: Best Rooftop Bars in Paris, France
13. Saint-Gervais-et-Saint-Protais
Saint-Gervais-et-Saint-Protais is a French Gothic cathedral located in the fourth arrondissement of Paris, France. The cathedral was consecrated in 1150 and features a mix of Gothic and Romanesque styles.
It is best known for its stained glass windows, dating back to the 13th Century. The windows depict scenes from the Old and New Testaments and the life of Saint-Denis. The cathedral also houses the remains of Saint-Denis, the patron saint of France.
Saint-Denis was decapitated in the 3rd Century for his Christian beliefs and is said to have miraculously picked up his head and walked for several miles before collapsing.
Today, the cathedral is one of Paris’s most popular tourist destinations. Visitors can explore the cathedral’s interior, marvel at the stained glass windows, and learn about the fascinating history of Saint-Denis.
14. Sainte Clotilde Basilica
Sainte Clotilde Basilica is one of the best examples of a Paris cathedral built in a flamboyant Gothic style. As you approach the Basilica, you can’t help but be impressed by its size and stature. The beautiful stained glass windows are among the first things that catch your eye.
They depict scenes from the life of Saint Clotilde, the Basilica’s patron saint. As you enter the building, you can’t help but be awed by the height of the ceilings and the intricate details of the architecture.
The Sainte Clotilde Basilica is a sight to behold and well worth visiting in Paris.
See Related: Pont Mirabeau in Paris, France
15. Saint-Étienne-du-Mont
Saint-Étienne-du-Mont is a Gothic cathedral in Paris, France. This magnificent structure was built in the 12th and 13th Centuries and is considered one of the city’s finest examples of Gothic architecture. Saint-Étienne-du-Mont’s bell tower is particularly impressive.
Saint-Étienne-du-Mont was built between 1163 and 1345. Saint Étienne du Mont is located east of the Pantheon (the French one).
Saint Étienne du Mont was built on the site of a 5th-century church, and its architectural style reflects the influence of that earlier structure. The Saint-Étienne-du-Mont is 246 feet tall, and its base covers an area of just over 30,000 square feet.
The Saint-Étienne-du-Mont has three levels of interior space illuminated by large stained glass windows. The crypt beneath the Saint-Étienne-du-Mont contains the remains of several notable individuals, including Blaise Pascal and Jean Racine.
See Related: Pont au Double
17. Saint-Nicolas-des-Champs
Saint Nicolas-des-Champs is a Gothic cathedral in the heart of Paris. This stunning structure was built in the 12th Century and is one of the city’s most popular tourist destinations. The cathedral’s intricate design is a sight to behold, and its majestic size will surely amaze visitors.
Saint Nicolas-des-Champs is one of the world’s most impressive examples of Gothic architecture, and its history is just as fascinating as its appearance. If you’re ever in Paris, add this beautiful cathedral to your list of must-see sights.
If you’re looking for some of the best attractions near this landmark, be sure to check out the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Louvre Museum. These world-renowned attractions are worth a visit if you’re in the area.
18. Église Saint-Thomas-d’Aquin de Paris
Église Saint-Thomas-d’Aquin de Paris is a Gothic cathedral in the 6th arrondissement of Paris, France.
The church was originally built in the 12th Century but has been renovated and expanded. The cathedral is known for its beautiful Gothic architecture and stained glass windows.
The Église Saint-Thomas-d’Aquin de Paris is one of the most famous and popular tourist attractions in this part of Paris and is worth a visit if you are ever in the area.
19. Chapelle Notre-Dame de la Médaille Miraculeuse
Located in the heart of Paris, the Chapelle Notre-Dame de la Médaille Miraculeuse is a Gothic cathedral known for its ornate facade and intricate stained glass windows.
The Chapelle Notre-Dame de la Médaille Miraculeuse is also home to several notable works of art, including works by the French artist Jean-Paul Laurens. The Chapelle Notre-Dame de la Médaille Miraculeuse is open to the public and worth visiting if you are in Paris. You will not be disappointed!
There are several nearby hotels that visitors can stay at when exploring Chapelle Notre-Dame de la Médaille Miraculeuse.
The Hotel du Louvre, located right next to the chapel, is a wonderful option. It offers guests stunning views of the chapel and is just a few minutes from some other top Gothic cathedrals in Paris, France.
See Related: Best Restaurants with a view of the Eiffel Tower
Bonus: Best Gothic Cathedrals Ousitde Paris
We were having so much fun building this list that we thought, “Why stop at Paris?” Read on for more great French Gothic cathedrals!
Chartres Cathedral
The Chartres Cathedral is located in the city of Chartres, France. It is a Gothic cathedral famous for its intricate design, asymmetrical towers, and stained-glass windows.
The cathedral was built in the 12th Century and has been renovated and restored many times over the years. It is a popular tourist attraction and one of the most visited Gothic cathedrals in Europe.
Strasbourg Cathedral
The Strasbourg Cathedral is a Gothic cathedral in Strasbourg, France. It is easily the most famous landmark in the city.
The cathedral was built in the 12th and 13th Centuries and has a long history that spans the French Revolution, the Franco-Prussian War, and two world wars.
It is considered one of the most beautiful Gothic cathedrals in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Beauvais Cathedral
The Beauvais Cathedral in France is another one of the most beautiful Gothic cathedrals in the world. It’s also one of the largest, with a height of more than 48 meters.
Construction on the cathedral began in 1225. One of the most interesting things about the Beauvais Cathedral is that it has two spires, one much taller than the other. The taller spire was built later than the shorter one, replacing the original, which collapsed in the 16th Century.
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen
The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen is a Gothic cathedral located in Rouen, France. It is one of the most notable examples of Gothic architecture and is easily one of the most beautiful churches to see in France.
The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen is not only a significant architectural landmark, but it is also home to many important works of art, including paintings by Claude Monet. The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen is open to the public and is well worth a visit.
Amiens Cathedral
The Amiens Cathedral is a Gothic cathedral located in Amiens, France. This Gothic cathedral is one of the largest in the country, and it’s definitely worth a visit.
The cathedral was built between 1220 and 1270 and contains some of the most impressive Gothic architecture in the world. The Amiens Cathedral is a must-see for anyone interested in Gothic architecture or French history.
FAQ
What is the best Gothic cathedral in France?
France has many beautiful and famous Gothic cathedrals, but some of the most popular ones include the Strasbourg Cathedral, Amiens Cathedral, and the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen.
What is the difference between a Gothic cathedral and a regular cathedral?
Gothic cathedrals are characterized by their intricate designs, large size, and beautiful stained glass windows. They are often considered among the most beautiful examples of architecture in the world.
What is the best time of year to visit Gothic cathedrals in France?
The best time to visit Gothic cathedrals in France is during the spring or summer when the weather is warm and there are fewer crowds. However, these landmarks are popular tourist attractions, so planning and booking tickets in advance is important.
Related Resources