Certainly on everyone’s list is this small island in the middle of the Seine. Île de la Cité is the historic and spiritual heart of Paris, and for good reason. It’s accessible by several bridges across the Seine—something London could probably take a hint from. In short, this is one place in Paris you simply can’t miss.
Île de la Cité is home to some of the most iconic Parisian landmarks, including Notre-Dame Cathedral and Sainte-Chapelle. Beyond these architectural giants, the island also holds historic treasures like the Conciergerie, the former prison where Marie Antoinette awaited execution in 1793, and the Palais de Justice, which houses Sainte-Chapelle. Both are worth visiting, even just to admire their impressive facades. But the real draw? The Parisian superstars that define the island.
Notre-Dame
Yes, the famous Notre-Dame. You hardly need an introduction to this Gothic masterpiece. The line usually moves quickly, and we were lucky enough to walk right in. While the architecture alone is a draw, Notre-Dame holds deeper historical and religious significance. Within the cathedral’s treasury are some of the most revered relics of Catholicism—what is believed to be the Crown of Thorns, a fragment of the True Cross, and one of the Holy Nails.
The interior of the cathedral is simply breathtaking. With soaring ceilings, ribbed vaults, and intricate stained glass, it’s easy to lose track of time just taking it all in. Notre-Dame also boasts an impressive set of bells. The largest, Emmanuel, dates back to 1681 and weighs more than 13 tons.
The cathedral has been the site of many historic events. In 1431, it hosted the coronation of Henry VI of England. In 1804, Napoleon I crowned himself and his wife Joséphine there, with Pope Pius VII present. And of course, Victor Hugo’s The Hunchback of Notre-Dame, published in 1831, gave the cathedral lasting literary fame.
Sainte-Chapelle
Just a short walk from Notre-Dame is Sainte-Chapelle, a jewel of Gothic architecture that left a lasting impression on me back in my college art history class. I remember flipping through my textbook, mesmerised by the brilliant reds and blues of its stained glass. I thought then that it must be the most beautiful church in the world.
I first visited in 2014, and was lucky enough to return this past January. During my earlier visit, some restoration was underway. This time, I had the chance to see it in all its glory—and wow. I truly believe you could visit Sainte-Chapelle a hundred times and still be amazed. The stained glass is beyond description, but I’ll try: it is nothing short of magnificent.
The chapel features 15 towering stained-glass windows and a stunning rose window. The three windows in the eastern apse illustrate New Testament scenes, including the Passion, the Infancy of Christ, and the life of John the Evangelist. The nave windows, in contrast, show Old Testament stories, with an emphasis on royal figures—an intentional tribute to the French kings who commissioned the chapel. The final window ties it all together, depicting the rediscovery of Christ’s relics, the miracles they inspired, and their journey to Paris in the hands of King Louis himself. Fortunately, Sainte-Chapelle provides a guide to help you follow along.
Île de la Cité is a place unlike any other. Even aside from the famous monuments, the island is a joy to walk around. I visited in January and enjoyed the peace and quiet, far from the usual crowds that descend on Paris. That’s the gamble of travelling to Paris—but when it pays off, it’s magic.
Check out my other posts on Paris for more!
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