4 Churches to Visit in Paris

         Paris is filled with hundreds of churches spanning thousands of years in age. Here is a list of 4 churches that everyone must see on their next trip in the city.

1. Notre Dame

         The oldest church in Paris right in the center of the city was constructed in 1160 and is still open today. It's free to walk in and tours only cost 4 Euro. The lines are usually very long, but move quickly. If staying for mass, be sure to know that "International Mass" which is supposed to accommodate English-speaking tourists when visiting France, is actually all in French and arrive early if you'd like a seat close to the front.

2. St. Chapelle

8 Boulevard du Palais, 75001 Paris, France

         This church is my absolute favorite church in Paris and for one reason: the windows. The entire church is windows. The light shines into the church and the stained glass is unlike anything I have ever seen before. The lines for this church are extremely long so plan ahead you will not want to miss out on this opportunity. If time permits, stay for the concert. A classical concert is performed every Saturday and Sunday night. Tickets sell out in advance so be sure to buy tickets before your vacation begins. 

3. St. Denis

1 Rue de la Légion d'Honneur, 93200 Saint-Denis, France

           St. Denis was the first bishop of France. There is a legend surrounding the saint. It is told that he was standing at the Sacre Coeur in Montmartre when he was suddenly decapitated, but he didn't die he instead carried his head 2 miles to where St. Denis now stands.  This church has important history surrounding it, as it was the first Gothic style church built in France. This church is in the northern suburbs and is about a half hour away, but it is worth a visit to learn some of the rich history surrounding it. 

         

4. The Sacre Coeur at Montmartre

35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018 Paris, France

            This is one of the oldest churches in France and is located in the district of Montmartre. Montmartre is about 40 minutes away from the city center so it is important to plan ahead if you'd like to go. Another warning is that Montmartre is on top of a very large hill and is only accessible by stairs. This walk is not for the faint of heart. You will be walking a lot so make sure to wear comfy shoes before ascending the stairs to the Sacre Coeur, which is a beautiful church and the views of Paris from the steps on the church is amazing. If you plan to spend the day in Montmartre be sure to check out the art district. Montmartre is home to many aspiring artists and bargain hunters can find amazing deals on paintings.

Bonus: Visit a Mosque

The Grand Mosque in Paris

2bis Place du Puits de l'Ermite, 75005 Paris, France

          I loved visiting the grand mosque. The decor was simple yet beautiful, although nothing was hung on the walls, they were covered in blue and green tile that captivated your attention as you walked past. It was my first time ever visiting a mosque and it isn't a very popular tourist sight so it is very quiet. The rooms are peaceful and if a break from sightseeing is needed there is a cafe inside that sells pastries and tea.