When it comes to iconic Paris landmarks, two names top the list: Sacré-Cœur and Notre-Dame. One sits high on a Montmartre hilltop, glowing white against the sky. The other rises from the banks of the Seine, wrapped in centuries of Gothic mystique. They’re both architectural gems, spiritual powerhouses, and must-visits in their own right. So how do you choose? Whether you’re hunting down the best views, looking to feel the history, or simply want a spectacular spot to rest your feet—this guide will help you decide. Or better yet, make time for both.
🧭 The Lowdown
A side-by-side cheat sheet for planning your day.
Sacré-Cœur
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Roman-Byzantine basilica located at the summit of Montmartre
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Completed in 1914 and consecrated in 1919
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Stunning white domes visible across Paris
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Free to enter; dome access for a small fee
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Offers sweeping city views from both the steps and dome
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Montmartre’s bohemian streets, cafés and art stalls right outside
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Entry to the dome is included with The Paris Pass
Notre-Dame
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Masterpiece of French Gothic architecture on Île de la Cité
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Begun in 1163, with over 800 years of history
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Known for its flying buttresses, rose windows and bell towers
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Temporarily closed for restoration (set to reopen in 2025)
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Visitors can still enjoy the exterior and nearby attractions
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Adjacent to the Seine, Sainte-Chapelle and Latin Quarter
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Entry to nearby crypt and tower experience included with The Paris Pass
🎟 Sounds good, tell me more...
🎟 Sounds good, tell me more...
A visit to Sacré-Cœur
Sacré-Cœur feels like a dreamy escape perched high above the city. The moment you spot its pristine white domes from a distance, you know you’re heading somewhere special. Once you arrive—by foot, funicular or metro—you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views before you even set foot inside. It’s a peaceful spot to catch your breath, snap photos, or simply soak in the scene.
Inside, the vibe is quiet and contemplative. The ceiling features one of the world’s largest mosaics, glowing with golds and blues, while soft candlelight flickers below. It’s still an active place of worship, so there’s a steady rhythm of prayer and stillness, which only adds to the atmosphere.
Want to stretch your legs? Climb the dome. It’s 300 steps to the top, but the views are worth every one. You’ll get an unforgettable look across the rooftops of Paris—with no glass or railings to block your view. On clear days, you can see all the way to the Eiffel Tower.
The cherry on top? Montmartre is right outside. Stroll through cobbled streets, visit the Place du Tertre for art and street performers, and maybe grab a crêpe on your way down.
A visit to Notre-Dame
Notre-Dame is currently closed to the public, but even behind scaffolding, it commands attention. Standing at the heart of the city on Île de la Cité, it’s surrounded by the Seine and steeped in centuries of stories. You can still admire its gothic façade from the plaza out front, where thousands gather daily for photos, quiet reflection, or to listen to the bells when they ring.
Until the cathedral reopens in late 2024 or early 2025, you can still visit the Archeological Crypt beneath the plaza—one of the coolest hidden gems in Paris. It gives you a literal underground look at the layers of history that came before the current building.
And while interior access is off-limits, the surrounding area is packed with things to explore. Sainte-Chapelle, with its 15-meter stained glass windows, is just around the corner and included with The Paris Pass. The Latin Quarter is right across the bridge, full of student energy, bookshops, and cafés.
Notre-Dame’s story isn’t over—it’s just mid-chapter. And even while closed, it’s still one of the most beautiful and meaningful places in Paris.
💥 Okay, so which one is most impressive?
If we’re going by first impressions, Sacré-Cœur takes your breath away before you even walk in. Set atop Paris’s highest natural point, its clean white domes glow in the sun and stand out against the city skyline. It feels a little removed from the bustle—more like a pilgrimage than a pitstop.
But Notre-Dame is legendary for a reason. Its intricate façade, gargoyles, and rose windows are pure Gothic craftsmanship at its finest. Even partially hidden during restoration, the sheer scale and detail are astonishing. Knowing it has stood through revolutions, wars, and a fire only adds to the awe.
Sacré-Cœur has the wow-factor in height and setting. Notre-Dame brings centuries of soul and architectural storytelling. Both will leave a lasting impression—just in different ways.
🎉 Which one is more fun?
If we’re talking lively surroundings and energy, Sacré-Cœur wins hands down. The steps outside double as a hangout spot, with street musicians, artists and performers adding to the atmosphere. The climb up to the dome is part workout, part adventure—and the descent into Montmartre’s winding lanes is its own kind of fun.
Notre-Dame, while more solemn, brings its own form of discovery. The surrounding area is packed with treats: bookstalls along the Seine, riverside walks, and crepe stands galore. And once it reopens, climbing the towers to meet the famous gargoyles is a must-do.
Sacré-Cœur leans playful and spontaneous. Notre-Dame is thoughtful, layered, and full of hidden corners to explore.
🎨 Which is more beautiful?
🎨 Which is more beautiful?
Beauty is subjective, but here’s how it breaks down:
Sacré-Cœur is stunning in its symmetry and serenity. The Roman-Byzantine design feels light and airy, and the inside glows with gold and soft light. It’s almost ethereal. The clean lines and pale stone give it a dreamy quality—especially in the early morning or at dusk.
Notre-Dame, on the other hand, is detailed, dark and dramatic. Every inch of the exterior tells a story, and the stained glass (especially in the rose windows) is jaw-dropping. The beauty here is in the craftsmanship—the layers of sculpture, stone, and shadow.
If you love soft curves and quiet light, Sacré-Cœur is your winner. If you’re into detail, history and grandeur, Notre-Dame will take your breath away.
👀 Which has the better view?
This one’s simple: Sacré-Cœur has the better view.
From its steps alone, you’ll get a wide-angle look across all of Paris—no need to climb unless you want an even better shot. Once at the top of the dome, it’s a 360° panorama of the city, with zero barriers and maximum wow-factor. On clear days, you can spot the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and even La Défense in the distance.
🚇 How do I get there?
Sacré-Cœur
Take Metro Line 2 to Anvers, then it’s about a 10-minute walk uphill through Montmartre. You’ll pass plenty of souvenir shops and bakeries along the way. If you want to skip the climb, hop on the Montmartre funicular, which is included in a regular metro ticket. It drops you right at the base of the basilica.
Notre-Dame
Take Metro Line 4 to Cité—the station drops you right on Île de la Cité, a few steps from the cathedral plaza. You can also arrive via Saint-Michel Notre-Dame (RER B or C), which gives you a lovely stroll along the Seine. Everything’s flat and easy to navigate, and the surrounding area is super walkable.
👫 Best choice for families, couples or friends
👫 Best choice for families, couples or friends
Families
Sacré-Cœur is a great pick for families with older kids who don’t mind a bit of climbing. The dome is fun to ascend, and the square outside is buzzy and lively. Montmartre also has lots of fun stops, from artists sketching portraits to classic carousel rides.
Notre-Dame, while less interactive for kids, is surrounded by quieter spaces. The nearby Archeological Crypt is cool and educational, especially for history fans. And the square in front is wide, flat, and perfect for a rest or snack break.
Couples
Both are fantastic, but in different ways. Sacré-Cœur offers dreamy sunset views and a romantic walk through the winding Montmartre streets. Notre-Dame, especially when fully open, brings moodier charm. The surrounding bridges, riverside paths, and bookstalls add to the romance.
Friends
With friends, Sacré-Cœur is all about spontaneity. Grab a crêpe, listen to a busker, climb the dome, and hit up a Montmartre café after. Notre-Dame is best paired with a riverside wander and stops in the Latin Quarter for wine and people-watching.
🧒 I’ve got fidgety kids to entertain – which has more ‘hands on’ activities?
Sacré-Cœur wins here. There’s space to run around on the grassy slope below the basilica, street performers to watch, and lots of energy on the steps. The dome climb is a mini-adventure, and you can mix in a visit to nearby Montmartre’s cafés and toy shops.
Notre-Dame, while more serious in tone, offers a quieter and more educational experience. When the tower access reopens, the gargoyle climb will be a hit with older kids. In the meantime, the nearby Archeological Crypt offers a cool underground journey through Paris’s ancient foundations.
♿ What’s the accessibility like?
Sacré-Cœur
The church itself is accessible via the Montmartre funicular, which brings you to the base of the basilica. However, the interior still has a few steps, and the dome is only reachable by staircase. The surrounding area is cobbled and hilly, which can be tricky for wheelchairs or buggies.
Notre-Dame
The plaza surrounding Notre-Dame is flat and fully accessible. While the main interior and towers are still closed, the Archeological Crypt has accessible entrances and pathways. Once the cathedral reopens, the main nave will likely offer improved accessibility as part of the restoration.
🥐 Best lunch spots nearby?
🥐 Best lunch spots nearby?
Near Sacré-Cœur
Hardware Société (10 Rue Lamarck)
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An Aussie-style brunch spot just steps from the basilica. Think fluffy pancakes, perfectly poached eggs and stellar coffee. The inside is cozy and modern, and it’s great for a post-dome recharge.
Le Consulat (18 Rue Norvins) -
One of the most photographed cafés in Paris—and it’s not just a pretty face. The classic French menu includes onion soup, croque-monsieurs and escargots, all served with a side of Montmartre charm.
Coquelicot (24 Rue des Abbesses) -
A beloved boulangerie with a warm interior and a menu of quiches, tarts and excellent pastries. Affordable, delicious, and perfect if you want something quick but satisfying.
Near Notre-Dame
Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole (24 Rue Chanoinesse) -
This ivy-covered gem is as atmospheric as it gets. Inside, it’s all dark wood and stained glass. The duck confit is a standout, and it’s just a couple of minutes from the cathedral.
Le Saint Régis (6 Rue Jean du Bellay) -
A buzzy brasserie on Île Saint-Louis with fabulous views and people-watching. The French onion soup here is legit, and the steak-frites doesn’t disappoint.
Crêperie Genia (17 Rue de la Huchette) -
Budget-friendly and cheerful, this tiny spot in the Latin Quarter serves up sweet and savoury crêpes at lightning speed. Great for kids, quick lunches or snack breaks.
📸 Where are the best photo opportunities?
Sacré-Cœur
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From the steps: Snap a full panorama of Paris, especially at sunrise or sunset.
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Behind the basilica: Fewer crowds, lovely side angles and ivy-draped walls.
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Dome climb: For a full 360° view with no glass between you and the skyline.
Notre-Dame -
From the plaza: Capture the full Gothic façade with the towers towering above.
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From the Seine: Take your shot from the riverbank for a romantic waterside frame.
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At Square Jean XXIII: A garden behind the cathedral that gives you peaceful side views with seasonal flowers in the foreground. Pro tip: Notre-Dame is especially magical at dusk when the lighting adds golden drama to the stonework—even during restoration.
🍷 We’re finished and thirsty – is there a decent bar in the area?
Near Sacré-Cœur
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Lulu White (12 Rue Frochot)
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A speakeasy-inspired bar near Pigalle that serves absinthe cocktails with a moody, jazz-era twist. Try the Green Beast—it’s refreshing, sharp, and definitely memorable.
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La Maison Rose (2 Rue de l’Abreuvoir)
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More café than bar, but the wine list is solid and the setting is Insta-famous. Sip rosé at golden hour and you’ll feel like you’re on a postcard.
Near Notre-Dame -
Le Caveau des Oubliettes (52 Rue Galande)
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A live jazz and blues bar with an atmospheric medieval basement. It’s popular with locals and students, and the drinks are reasonably priced.
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Sherry Butt (20 Rue Beautreillis)
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An intimate cocktail bar tucked away near the Marais. The drinks are elegant and expertly crafted—try the smoky mezcal creations if you’re feeling bold.
🗺 Any other good stuff nearby?
🗺 Any other good stuff nearby?
Around Sacré-Cœur
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Place du Tertre: Artists paint and sketch in this open-air square. It’s touristy, but still fun—especially if you want your portrait done.
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Montmartre Museum: Learn about the area’s artistic past and its famous former residents, including Toulouse-Lautrec.
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Espace Dalí: A quirky gallery of Salvador Dalí’s work—great if you like your art a bit surreal.
Around Notre-Dame -
Sainte-Chapelle: A Paris Pass gem just around the corner. The stained glass here is a kaleidoscope of colour and genuinely jaw-dropping.
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Shakespeare & Company: A must-visit for book lovers, just across the river. Browse the shelves, then grab a coffee next door.
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Pont de l’Archevêché: For views of Notre-Dame from the rear and romantic photo ops. One of the quieter, more charming bridges in central Paris.
Both Sacré-Cœur and Notre-Dame are unmissable Paris experiences—and the best news is, with The Paris Pass, you don’t have to choose. Whether you're climbing high for citywide views in Montmartre or tracing the centuries along the Seine, each church offers its own atmosphere, beauty and charm.
Sacré-Cœur delivers with dome-top views, artistic energy and bohemian buzz. Notre-Dame grounds you with its history, riverside calm and gothic wonder—even in restoration. With The Paris Pass, you can explore both and make the most of every moment in the city.
Ready to soak in the spirit of Paris from every angle? Get your Paris Pass and start discovering.
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