I will be in Paris for essentially 2 days and I have always wanted to climb to the domes/towers of both of these churches. However, with so little time I don't think I'll have time to do both.

I realize it is somewhat subjective, but if you have climbed both, which did you prefer? Which provides a better (prettier, more majestic) view of Paris? Which would you suggest I "do"?

Also, I looked at hours of opening for both churches and see that they are both for the most part open on Sundays. However, do these opening hours include the dome/towers? I'm thinking I am going to reserve Saturday for shopping but might switch the church activity to Saturday as well if it will be difficult/impossible to go to the top of either church on a Sunday.

Thanks in advance!

Sacre-Coeur has an Excellent view of Paradise.It would be my first choice.

Notre Dame is more popular because of its location, therefore you will have to wait in a long line to get in.

Hi

The view from Sacré-Coeur is great and I think it is one of the highest points in Paris. It is not as popular as Notre Dame so the lines are shorter. I have not done the Notre Dame tower so I can't really compare the two. I have posted some more details about the climb of Sacré-Coeur in my trip report with pictures, links and maps on my homepage http://gardkarlsen.com/Paris_France.htm . Maybe you can find some useful information there

Regards
Gard
http://gardkarlsen.com - trip reports and pictures

I've done both.

Sacre Coeur is more of a big overall view of Paris.

Notre Dame is interesting because you're up there with the gargoyles and statues. Also you get to see the bell which I have forgotten the name of.

I don't know which I would do if I could only do one.

When I was in Paris last year, there was so much haze in the air the day I went to Sacre Coeur I could hardly see the Eiffle Tower. Maybe see what kind of day it is and if it's a clear day head up to Sacre Coeur, the views will be fabulous, and if it's hazy or clouldy, stick to Notre Dame.

I think that the views from Sacre-Coeur are better but given your short time frame it may make more sense to go to Notre Dame. Sacre-Coeur is away from most of the other tourist attractions. You will no doubt want to spend time around Ile de la Cite anyhow as its also home to the very beautiful St. Chapelle.

Tracy

You can do both in one morning go for it. Each has it's own view and surrounding cultre.

Thanks for all your thoughts! I have been to Paris twice before and since I've never done either (I've been inside both churches, just not up top) I'm really going to try to do both. But so far it sounds like Sacre-Coeur might be the better option.

Has anyone ever done the climb on a Sunday/does anyone know if its possible on a Sunday? (for either church)

I don't know whether this affects your plans.

Every Sunday : 11 am High mass with the Little Singers of Montmartre

Although Tracy is right about location of tourist sites, you will want to visit Place du Tertre (artists) while you are there. Strolling the streets around is worth it if you like that sort of thing and have a walking tour plan.

Robjame: Does the 11am mass on Sundays mean that the church is closed to tourists during this time? Do you think people can still go up the dome during this mass?

Don't know.
We happened on Sacre Coeur during a noon hour mass and slipped in the back and listened. It was magnificent as the nuns were chanting - very musical and very moving. If that sort of thing interests you, you might time your visit accordingly.
BTW - After climbing the steps I didn't have the inclination to climb any towers.

We too were lucky enough to visit Sacre-Coeur during the middle of a concert practice and it was just beautiful to listen to.

Tracy

Thank you to everyone who replied to my questions! As an update, I just returned from Paris. I did the Notre Dame tower, and loved it! It was a beautiful day and we could see for miles all around. I wanted to do the dome at Sacre-Coeur too but when we went, the dome was closed. Dissapointing, but I guess that leaves something to do for next time!

Of course you can do both! Don't choose sweetie, you only live twice!!