Skip-the-line available How to Get to the Basilica of Saint-Denis from Paris
The simplest routes to the Royal Necropolis — Métro line 13 to Basilique de Saint-Denis, plus RER and tram options and what to expect on arrival.
The Basilica of Saint-Denis sits just north of Paris, and reaching it is genuinely easy — a single Métro line drops you a hundred metres from the door. This guide covers the recommended route on line 13, the RER and tram alternatives, roughly how long it takes, and what to expect when you arrive, so you turn up relaxed and in good time for your timed slot.
The Easiest Route: Métro Line 13
The simplest way to reach the basilica is Métro line 13 to its northern terminus, Basilique de Saint-Denis. The station sits about 100 metres from the basilica — you come up, and the great grey west front is right in front of you. From the centre of Paris the ride takes roughly 20 to 25 minutes, and line 13 connects to much of the network, including Montparnasse, Saint-Lazare, Champs-Élysées–Clemenceau and Invalides, so most visitors can reach it with a single change or none.
One practical note: the Basilique de Saint-Denis Métro station has no lift, so if you have heavy luggage, a pushchair or reduced mobility, factor in the stairs, or consider the tram alternative below. Otherwise line 13 is far and away the most convenient option, and the walk from station to door could hardly be shorter.
RER and Tram Alternatives
If line 13 is not convenient for where you are staying, the RER D also serves Saint-Denis, stopping at the Saint-Denis mainline station a short walk from the basilica, which can be quicker from some parts of central and eastern Paris. From there it is about a ten-minute walk, or a short hop on the tramway T1, which stops close to the basilica.
The tramway T1 is also the more step-free option, useful for visitors with mobility needs given that the Métro station has no lift. Whichever you choose, Saint-Denis is well signposted, and the basilica is the obvious landmark in the town centre — you are unlikely to lose your way once you arrive.
Arriving and Timing Your Visit
Because entry to the Royal Necropolis is by timed slot, aim to arrive a few minutes before your chosen time. With your concierge e-ticket you skip the ticket queue and are admitted straight to the necropolis at your slot. Allow a little buffer for the journey — line 13 is reliable but, like any Métro line, can occasionally be delayed — and you will step into the choir unhurried.
Saint-Denis rewards arriving a touch early. The free nave of the basilica is worth a look before you enter the paid necropolis, and the square and covered market around the church make a pleasant few minutes' wander. If you plan to see the Fabrique de la flèche spire workshop, remember it is closed on Mondays, so choose another day for that part of the visit.
Frequently asked
What is the easiest way to get to Saint-Denis from Paris?
Métro line 13 to Basilique de Saint-Denis, its northern terminus. The station is about 100 metres from the basilica door, and the ride from central Paris takes roughly 20 to 25 minutes.
Which Métro station is the basilica?
Basilique de Saint-Denis, the northern terminus of Métro line 13. It is about 100 metres from the basilica. Note the station has no lift.
How long does it take from central Paris?
Roughly 20 to 25 minutes on line 13 from the centre of the city, depending on where you start. The RER D can be quicker from some eastern and central areas.
Is there a step-free route?
The Métro station has no lift, so for step-free access the tramway T1, reached via the RER D to Saint-Denis station, is the better option. Contact us with specific mobility needs and we will advise.
Can I take the RER to Saint-Denis?
Yes — the RER D stops at Saint-Denis mainline station, about a ten-minute walk from the basilica or a short ride on tram T1. It can be quicker than the Métro from parts of central and eastern Paris.
How early should I arrive for my timed slot?
A few minutes before your chosen time is enough, since your e-ticket lets you skip the queue. Allow a little buffer for the journey, and arrive a touch early if you want to see the free nave and the square first.