Visiting the Pantheon in Paris: how to visit, tickets & tips

The Pantheon is one of those places in Paris that truly takes your breath away. Nestled in the charming Latin Quarter, it’s an architectural gem packed with history, beauty, and a sense of calm that’s often hard to find in such a bustling city. If you’re planning a trip to Paris, the Pantheon should absolutely make your list—and I’m here to help you make the most of your visit!

Why Visit the Pantheon?

If you need a little convincing, here are three great reasons why the Pantheon deserves your time:

1. The Stunning Architecture

Built between 1758 and 1790, the Pantheon was designed to rival the grandest churches in Europe, like Saint Peter’s Basilica in Rome and Saint Paul’s Cathedral in London. Its dome towers 83 meters above the city, and the neoclassical design, with its intricate facades and beautiful bas-reliefs, is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Just standing in front of it will make you pause and go, “Wow.”

2. A Walk Through French History

The Pantheon is more than a building—it’s a tribute to the great minds of France. Beneath its majestic dome, you’ll find the resting places of some incredible people:

Voltaire, whose writings helped spark the Age of Enlightenment.
Victor Hugo, the author of Les Misérables and Notre Dame de Paris.
Marie Curie, a trailblazing scientist and the first woman to earn her spot here purely on merit.
Alexandre Dumas, whose adventurous tales like The Three Musketeers are beloved worldwide.

Walking through the crypt feels like stepping into history. You can almost hear their stories echoing through the halls.

3. It’s Peaceful and Less Crowded

Paris is amazing, but let’s be honest—some attractions are packed. The Pantheon offers a quieter, more reflective experience. You won’t have to elbow your way through crowds, which makes it all the more enjoyable.

Tips for Visiting the Pantheon

Let’s make your visit as smooth as possible:

Tickets: You can book your tickets online. If you’re under 18 or an EU citizen under 26, you can visit for free. Want to go big? Grab an extra ticket for the dome—it’s worth every penny for the views! Those tickets are sold inside the Pantheon.
Paris Museum Pass: If you’re planning to visit other landmarks like the Orsay Museum, consider getting a Paris Museum Pass. It often includes the Pantheon and can save you some money.
Best Time to Visit: Mornings are your best bet. It’s quieter, and the light streaming into the dome is magical.

What to See Nearby

One of the best things about visiting the Pantheon is how close it is to other amazing spots:

Luxembourg Gardens: Just a 6-minute walk away, these gardens are perfect for relaxing, people-watching, or snapping some gorgeous photos.
The Latin Quarter: A 15-minute stroll will take you to this vibrant area filled with cafes, cobblestone streets, and the kind of charm you picture when you think of Paris.
Notre Dame Cathedral: If you’re up for a bit more walking, Notre Dame is about 20 minutes away. It’s a classic Parisian landmark that’s well worth the detour.

A Fun Itinerary Idea

Start your day at the Luxembourg Gardens, then head to the Pantheon for a dose of history and incredible views. From there, wander through the Latin Quarter, and if you’re feeling ambitious, make your way to Notre Dame. In just a few hours, you’ll see some of the best that Paris has to offer.

How to Get There

The Pantheon is located at Place du Panthéon. (view it on Google Maps)

By Metro:
- Cardinal Lemoine (Line 10)
- Place Monge (Line 7)
By RER:
- Luxembourg (RER B)

Official Website: https://www.paris-pantheon.fr/en/

Bonus tip: From the street in front of the Pantheon, you can even catch a glimpse of the Eiffel Tower.

Final Thoughts

The Pantheon isn’t just another monument—it’s a place that leaves you feeling inspired. Whether it’s the jaw-dropping architecture, the powerful history, or the peaceful atmosphere, it’s an experience you won’t forget.

Plan to spend about 45 minutes exploring the interior, and don’t miss the chance to climb to the dome. Trust me, seeing Paris from up there is unforgettable.

So, what are you waiting for? Book your tickets and get ready to discover one of the most beautiful spots in the City of Light!