Gothic architecture’s magnificent and elegant elements make the Sainte Chapelle one of the most visited places in Paris.
Its 15-foot stunning stained glass windows, much of which are original glass from the 13th century, put on a great light show at any given moment of the day.
But visiting Sainte Chapelle at sunset gives you a mesmerizing view.
Additionally, Sainte Chapelle’s splendor is at its height at night, when the lilting tones of violins and cellos fill the chapel’s magnificent halls.
Experience an incredible night admiring its vaulted ceilings and stained glass windows while listening to the beautiful music of some of Paris’s best musicians.
Night at Sainte Chapelle
The regular opening hours of Sainte Chapelle are 9 am to 7 pm in the summer.
However, every Wednesday from May 15th to September 15th, Sainte Chapelle remains open until 9.30 pm.
This extended opening time provides an excellent opportunity to explore the chapel in a more serene and peaceful atmosphere.
When you visit Sainte Chapelle at night, the stained glass windows’ illumination and interior will leave you spellbound.
You can marvel at the windows and try to know the stories they tell in the artificial light settings.
The stained glass windows are illuminated from within, creating a magical ambiance.
The massive windows make the chapel a beautiful sight when the glowing colors cover the golden arches and sculptures.
Its colorful illuminations contrast with the night sky ceiling at Sainte Chapelle, with gold stars on a dark blue background.
This well-lit combination of art and architecture radiates pure ecstasy.
If you want to know how the Stained Glass Windows of Sainte Chapelle look at night, read on to learn whether you should see them in the morning or at night.
Best time to visit Sainte Chapelle: Day or Night
The ideal time to visit Sainte-Chapelle and witness its breathtaking beauty is sunset.
If you prefer a quieter experience, a sunny weekday morning is the next best option.
During these mornings, the sunlight enters the chapel at a beautiful angle, creating a mesmerizing ambiance, and the crowds haven’t arrived yet.
Interestingly, Thursdays are the busiest day of the week, so if you can plan your visit on a different weekday, it may be less crowded.
Additionally, it’s best to avoid visiting during peak holiday periods such as Christmas, Easter, and the weekends of July 14th (Bastille Day), and August 15th, as these times attract many visitors.
By considering these factors and choosing a less crowded time to visit, you can fully appreciate the magnificence of Sainte-Chapelle.
We hope you have a more enjoyable experience exploring this iconic Parisian attraction!
If you are confused about when you should visit Sainte Chapelle, during the day or not, read our detailed article on the best time to visit Sainte Chapelle.
Enjoy classical music at Sainte Chapelle at night
You will enjoy the same enjoyment in the classical concerts three times a week in the Sainte Chappelle as in Chappelle’s splendor.
During the concert, you can sit back and listen to music in the finest example of Gothic architecture, which is a fantastic experience.
The classical music program at Sainte-Chapelle usually features light chamber music such as Vivaldi’s Four Seasons or Pacabel’s Canon.
You can also enjoy music by renowned composers such as Bach, Mozart, and Handel.
Sainte Chapelle Concert Timings:
Sainte Chapelle is the venue for classical concerts from mid-March to mid-October.
The concerts usually begin at 8 pm or 8.30 pm and last for around an hour.
You can check the concert schedule here.
You can either book the concert tickets online or purchase them at the entrance of Sainte Chapelle.
Choose an early evening concert on a sunny day if you visit Paris in the summer months to enjoy the sun’s rays illuminating the beautiful stained glass windows.
Please know that the concert has a limited seating capacity of 200 people, so booking early will be wise to avoid any last-minute inconvenience.
FAQs
How early should you arrive for the Holy Chapel concerts?
You must arrive at least 40 minutes before the concert starts.
You have to go through security checks, and you can carry a bag no bigger than 7.9 x 7.9 x 15.7 inches.
What is the duration of the Sainte Chapelle concert?
The Sainte Chapelle concerts typically last for one hour, but some concerts can be longer, such as one hour and 20 minutes or one hour and 30 minutes.
You can find out the precise duration of the concert on your ticket or online before you book.
The concert goes on without intermission, so you must be seated for about 1 hour and 20 minutes (depending on the concert length).
Do I need to follow any dress codes while visiting the concert?
You do not need to follow any dress code. However, you should wear bright casual or formal clothes.
Avoid wearing shorts, ripped jeans, hot pants, and Crocs.
Also, remember that Sainte Chapelle is not heated in the winter, so you should dress warmly while visiting the chapel.
Can visitors explore the chapel after the concert?
You can explore the upper level as the concerts are held there. But you can check with the administration if the lower chapel is still open for exploration.
However, you cannot walk around during the concert or tour the rest of the church.
Will the concerts at Sainte Chapelle be organized throughout 2023?
The Sainte-Chapelle Concert Series takes a break from October 1 to December 20, 2023.
However, you can attend the concerts at some of the best attractions in Paris, such as the Saint-Germain-des-Prés Church, during this time.
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