Sacre-Coeur Basilica Accessibility Guide

Overview

Sacre-Coeur sits at the top of Montmartre hill, 130 meters above sea level. The main challenge is getting up the hill. The Montmartre funicular is wheelchair accessible and takes you from the base to just below the basilica entrance. From the funicular exit, there is a short paved path (about 50 meters) to the basilica doors. Inside, the basilica floor is flat and spacious. The dome and crypt require climbing stairs and are not accessible.

Getting There

• Metro: Anvers (Line 2) then walk 300m to the funicular base station. Anvers station has no elevator. Alternative: take bus 40 or 54 to "Funiculaire" stop.
• Funicular: The Montmartre funicular runs from Place Saint-Pierre to the top of the hill. It accepts Navigo cards and t+ tickets. The cabin is wheelchair accessible with space for one wheelchair user.
• Bus: Montmartrobus runs through the narrow Montmartre streets and stops near the basilica. The bus is accessible but can be very crowded.
• Important: Do NOT attempt to push a wheelchair up the hill via the staircases. There are over 200 steps on most routes.

Wheelchair Accessibility

• The funicular is the only practical wheelchair route up the hill. Runs daily from 6:00am to 12:45am. Frequency: every 5 to 10 minutes.
• The basilica entrance has a small lip (about 3cm) at the doorway. Staff can assist if needed.
• Inside, the floor is flat stone. The nave is wide and easy to navigate.
• No wheelchair access to the dome (300 narrow spiral steps) or crypt.
• The outdoor terrace in front of the basilica offers panoramic views of Paris and is accessible from the funicular path.

Accessible Toilets

There are no accessible toilets inside the basilica. The nearest accessible toilet is in the Place du Tertre area (about 200m from the basilica) at a public Sanisette automatic toilet. It is free to use.

Tips for Visitors with Disabilities

• Entry to the basilica is free. No ticket or reservation needed.
• Visit early morning (before 10:00am) for fewer crowds and more space inside.
• The terrace offers the same view as the dome for those who cannot climb the stairs.
• Street performers and vendors crowd the area in front of the basilica, which can make wheelchair navigation difficult. Approach from the funicular path which is less congested.
• The Place du Tertre (artist square) is about 200m from the basilica and is paved but can be crowded. Best visited on weekday mornings.