Panthéon travel guide

The Panthéon, a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture, holds a rich history dating back to the 18th century. Originally commissioned by Louis XV as a church dedicated to Saint Genevieve, the Panthéon was completed in 1790 during the French Revolution.

The revolutionary government repurposed the church as a mausoleum for the interment of great Frenchmen, transforming it into a symbol of the nation's respect for intellectual and political luminaries. Notable figures such as Voltaire, Rousseau, Victor Hugo, Émile Zola, and Marie Curie are among those honored here.

The Panthéon's façade, inspired by the Pantheon in Rome, features a portico of Corinthian columns. Its interior showcases a unique blend of gothic and neoclassical design elements. Over the centuries, this iconic monument has undergone several restorations and regained its religious function intermittently. Today, it serves both as a civic building and a historical site, attracting visitors from around the world who come to admire its stunning architecture and pay homage to the influential figures buried within its crypt.

The Panthéon in Paris is renowned for its Neo-Classical architecture. The façade, modeled after the Pantheon in Rome, is a grand display of Corinthian columns and triangular pediment. The inscription 'AUX GRANDS HOMMES LA PATRIE RECONNAISSANTE,' which translates to 'To great men, the grateful homeland,' makes it unique as it underlines France's tribute to its national heroes.

The Pantheon's interior is equally impressive, housing a collection of beautiful art and sculptures. But its crowning glory is the famous Foucault Pendulum, demonstrating the Earth's rotation, a display that no other monument can boast of.

Below the Panthéon lie the Crypts, final resting place of France's eminent personalities like Voltaire, Rousseau, and Marie Curie, among others. This feature of the Panthéon sets it apart as a national mausoleum.

Lastly, the Panthéon offers a panoramic view of Paris from its colonnade, a unique spectacle that is an absolute must-see for any visitor.

Discover Panthéon, a prime feature of Paris, in the vibrant Quartier de la Sorbonne. Panthéon is situated at Pl. Du Panthéon, 75005 Paris, France, just a short distance from Luxembourg Gardens and Luxembourg Palace, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Panthéon, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Paris, a city in France rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Discover the best time to visit Paris to fully enjoy the seasonal charm of Panthéon. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Paris travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

Panthéon is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Paris, France. If you're flying in or planning to book a flight to Paris, Charles de Gaulle Airport is approximately 14.5 miles (23.4 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach Panthéon by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Paris, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Panthéon, which is located 0.5 miles (0.8 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Pl. Du Panthéon, 75005 Paris, France.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Panthéon!

The best time to explore Panthéon is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these periods, Paris experiences mild weather which is perfect for indoor and outdoor exploration. Further, these seasons are not peak tourist times, hence, you can enjoy a leisurely visit to the Panthéon without contending with large crowds. Do make sure to check the weather forecasts before you plan your visit, as sudden rain could be a dampener. Additionally, consider visiting during the European Heritage Days (usually the third weekend in September) when the Panthéon, along with other monuments, offers free admission and special events. This can significantly enhance your experience. Similarly, the 'Nuit des Musées' or 'Night of Museums', typically in mid-May, is another wonderful opportunity to witness the Panthéon in a different light, as it stays open till late into the night. These events can make your visit to the Panthéon even more memorable.

To truly enjoy your visit to Panthéon, joining a guided tour of this renowned monument in Paris is highly recommended. As one of France's most iconic attractions, Panthéon draws visitors from across the globe, often leading to long queues and limited availability.

Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience. With the biggest selection of tours and tickets in Paris, you’re sure to find an option that fits your schedule and preferences.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Panthéon starting at just 2.99 EUR below. Enjoy benefits like free cancellation and 24/7 customer support for added convenience.

With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Paris, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Panthéon.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic monument in France.

Upon arriving at Charles de Gaulle Airport, you’ll find 3 reputable rental car companies conveniently situated near the city of Paris.

Click 'See More' to unlock other affordable car rental options in Paris.

Choosing the right accommodation near Panthéon from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Paris can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Panthéon, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Panthéon, Paris boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From establishment to museum, the top attractions in Paris offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Paris is Eiffel Tower, located at Champ de Mars, 5 Av. Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France. This well-known establishment enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Louvre Museum is worth seeing when you're in Paris. It's a popular museum that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Arc de Triomphe completes any trip to Paris. This museum draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Pl. Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, France, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Paris below to discover even more incredible places to explore.