The Île de la Cité The historic heart of Paris

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The Île de la Cité is one of the two main islands located on the Seine in Paris. It is often considered the historic heart of the city. It has been inhabited since antiquity and was the site of the founding of Paris by the Parisii, a Gallic tribe. It is home to several iconic monuments, including the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Sainte-Chapelle, and the Palais de Justice. The island is accessible by several bridges, including the Pont Neuf, the oldest bridge in Paris.

Where is the Île de la Cité located?

The Île de la Cité is an island in Paris located on the Seine, in the 1st and 4th arrondissements of the capital. It is bordered by the Quai de l'Horloge, the Quai de la Corse, and the Quai aux Fleurs to the north, the Quai des Orfèvres and the Quai du Marché Neuf to the south, and the Quai de l'Archevêché to the east.

How to get to the Île de la Cité by public transport?

Several means of transport allow you to reach the Île de la Cité.

By Metro

Line 4: Cité station
Lines 1, 4, 7, 11, 14: Châtelet station
Lines 1 and 11: Hôtel de Ville station

By RER

RER lines A, B, and D: Châtelet-les-Halles station
RER lines B and C: Saint-Michel Notre-Dame station

By Bus

Lines No. 21, 38, 47, 58, 70, 96: Cité - Palais de Justice stop

What to visit on the Île de la Cité?

The Île de la Cité is filled with historical and cultural sites to visit.

Notre-Dame Cathedral: a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, famous for its stained glass windows, gargoyles, and rich history.
Sainte-Chapelle: known for its magnificent stained glass, this chapel is an exceptional example of radiant Gothic architecture.
The Palais de Justice: a historic building that houses courts and is an example of medieval architecture.
The Conciergerie: a former prison and royal palace, famous for its role during the French Revolution.
Place Dauphine: a charming, quiet square, ideal for relaxing and enjoying the Parisian atmosphere.
The Pont Neuf: the oldest bridge in Paris, offering stunning views of the Seine and the island.
The archaeological crypt of the Île de la Cité: a site that showcases the remnants of Paris's history, from the Gallo-Roman period to the present day.

Did you know?

The residence of the Kings of France

The Palais de Justice, some of whose courts recently moved to Porte de Clichy, was formerly known as the Palais de la Cité. This Palais de la Cité was the first residence of the Kings of France. Since then, the walls of this former building have undergone numerous modifications.