Saint-Sulpice Church (Église Saint-Sulpice)

The basics

Most Latin Quarter and Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood tours make a stop at the landmark Saint-Sulpice Church to admire its historic architecture and works by Delacroix. A variety of tours that include the church alongside other top sights are available, ranging from walking tours to tours by bike, vintage 2CV Citroens, or even motorcycle sidecars. Alternatively, take in Saint-Sulpice as part of a Da Vinci Code-themed itinerary—the church was the setting for a pivotal scene in the book and film.

Things to know before you go

• Saint-Sulpice Church is a religious site, so keep your voice moderate and be careful not to disturb religious services when visiting.

• Tours of the church interiors are offered for free by volunteer guides each Sunday at 12:15pm.

• The historic organ is played each Sunday for morning and evening Mass and several times a year during special concerts; check the church website for dates.

• The accessible entrance is at 2 Rue Palatine, along the right flank of the church around the corner from the main entrance in Place Saint-Sulpice.

How to get there

Set in the Latin Quarter in Paris’ central 6th arrondissement, Saint-Sulpice Church is easy to reach on foot from most sights in the Rive Gauche area south of the River Seine, including the Luxembourg Palace and the historic Les Deux Magots café. Metro line 4 stops at the Saint-Sulpice station, just a short walk away.

When to get there

The church is open daily from early morning to late evening. Be aware that the low lighting inside can make it difficult to see the details in the Delacroix works outside of the bright midday hours. Each Sunday, the historic organ plays at the 11am and the 6:30pm Masses, plus there are short recitals at 10am and 4pm.

Delacroix’s Romantic Masterpieces

Saint-Sulpice is lined by more than 20 interior side chapels, but all eyes are on just one: Chapelle des Saints-Anges (Chapel of the Holy Angels), the first chapel to the right that is decorated with murals by Romantic master Eugène Delacroix. The most famous are the two wall paintings entitled Jacob Wrestling with the Angel and Heliodorus Driven from the Temple, followed by the ceiling scene, Saint Michael Vanquishing the Demon.

Ways to explore

Dating back to the mid-1600s, Saint-Sulpice is one of the largest and loveliest churches in the city. Most Latin Quarter and Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood tours make a stop here to admire the historic architecture and works by Delacroix. Walking tours, bike tours, vintage 2CV Citroens tours, and even motorcycle-sidecar tours often pass by the church as well.

Alternatively, take in Saint-Sulpice as part of a Da Vinci Code–themed itinerary—the church was the setting for a pivotal scene in the book and film.

Accessibility

Certain entrances are at ground level, though wheelchair users may need assistance.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera without flash, small coins for donation

What to wear

Modest, respectful clothing that covers shoulders and knees is appropriate for religious sites.

Not allowed

Flash photography, disruptive behavior

Amenities

Religious services, guided tours, organ recitals, occasional concerts, restrooms

Address

In Paris’ 6th arrondissement, Saint-Sulpice Church is a few blocks north of the Jardin du Luxembourg. Since it’s a busy area, your best bets are tours or public transit.

Driving

If you must drive, the INDIGO Saint-Sulpice underground parking area (fee required) is directly under Place Saint-Sulpice. However, driving in the 6th arrondissement means heavy traffic, narrow streets, and limited expensive parking—take a tour or public transit, if you can.

Public transportation

Take metro line 4 to Saint-Sulpice station, and you’re right there.

Best times to visit

Come in the early morning or late afternoon for the best exterior lighting and fewer crowds. Or, attend one of the organ recitals, which are scheduled around Sunday Mass.

Best days to visit

Go on a weekday for smaller crowds, or on a Sunday to hear the famous organ.

Best months to visit

On Wednesdays and Fridays during Advent, the 7am Mass is only lit by candlelight.

Special events

Beyond Advent, catch occasional classical music concerts, guided tours, and organ recitals year-round—check the calendar for more information.