Basilica of Saint-Remi Reims - The late romanesque Basilica
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Basilica of Saint-Remi Reims

4.7
·5k reviews·Reims, France

A UNESCO World Heritage site, this ancient basilica houses Saint Remi's tomb and showcases stunning Romanesque and Gothic architecture.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings (Thu-Sun)

Experience the magical Luminescence show

CrowdMedium
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Basilica of Saint-Remi Reims - The late romanesque Basilica

Basilica of Saint-Remi Reims

Best Time

Evenings (Thu-Sun)

Experience the magical Luminescence show

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A UNESCO World Heritage site, this ancient basilica houses Saint Remi's tomb and showcases stunning Romanesque and Gothic architecture.

4.7
(5k reviews)

"The Luminescence show was absolutely incredible. About 45 minutes of history... it was magical."

Vertical photo
TIP

✨ Book Luminescence Tickets

The 'Luminescence' show is highly recommended! Book tickets in advance, especially for weekend shows.

🚶‍♀️ Explore the History

Don't miss Saint Remi's tomb; it's a significant historical landmark.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Luminescence Show

Luminescence Show

Basilica interior

An immersive light and sound spectacle detailing the basilica's history. Magical and unforgettable!

Saint Remi's Tomb

Saint Remi's Tomb

Basilica interior

The final resting place of the bishop who baptized the first King of the Franks. A pivotal historical site.

Romanesque & Gothic Architecture

Romanesque & Gothic Architecture

Entire Basilica

Marvel at the blend of ancient Romanesque foundations and later Gothic additions, showcasing centuries of architectural evolution.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Magic

Consider visiting for the 'Luminescence' show in the evening for an immersive light and sound experience that brings the basilica's history to life. Daytime visits offer a serene escape into ancient architecture.

Beyond the Basilica

While the Basilica of Saint-Remi is a UNESCO World Heritage site, it's also historically significant as the burial place of Saint Remi, who baptized the first King of the Franks. Explore its Romanesque and Gothic elements.

Best Times

When
Evenings (Thu-Sun)
Why
Experience the magical Luminescence show
Crowd
Medium
When
Afternoon
Why
Peaceful exploration of history
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Qui a cassé la télécommande de la Cathédrale ? 🫠 Le spectacle #Regalia, c’est à 22h45 les jeudi et vendredi à la basilique Saint-Remi et les samedi et dimanche à la cathédrale Notre-Dame ✨ tu viens ? #Reims #foryou #pourtoi #fyp #sonetlumiere #devinelapersonne #spectacle
@reims_off
42.2K likes • 793.4K views

✨ Book Luminescence Tickets

The 'Luminescence' show is highly recommended! Book tickets in advance, especially for weekend shows. TikTok+1

🚶‍♀️ Explore the History

Don't miss Saint Remi's tomb; it's a significant historical landmark. Reddit

Une expérience immersive à 360° dans les secrets de la basilique Saint-Remi, c’était absolument incroyable ⭐️🥹 Le spectacle dure environ 1h ! 📍: Basilique Saint-Remi - Rue Saint-Julien, Reims Invitation #cathedrale #luminiscence #ideesortie @LUMINISCENCE
@agathemgt3
4.8K likes • 69.7K views
reddit.com

Visiting Reims for a day and night. Besides the cathedral any suggestions?

📸 Capture the Architecture

The basilica's blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles is stunning. Great for photography! Instagram

⏳ Allow Ample Time

The immersive show lasts about an hour, plus time for exploring the basilica itself. TikTok

reddit.com

What else to see in Reims

Tips

from all over the internet

✨ Book Luminescence Tickets

The 'Luminescence' show is highly recommended! Book tickets in advance, especially for weekend shows. TikTok+1

🚶‍♀️ Explore the History

Don't miss Saint Remi's tomb; it's a significant historical landmark. Reddit

📸 Capture the Architecture

The basilica's blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles is stunning. Great for photography! Instagram

⏳ Allow Ample Time

The immersive show lasts about an hour, plus time for exploring the basilica itself. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.7
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Basilica of Saint-Remi for its impressive architecture and profound historical significance, particularly as the resting place of Saint Remi. The 'Luminescence' evening show is frequently highlighted as a magical and immersive experience, though some feel it's better suited for families or a bit pricey for adults. Daytime visits offer a calm, awe-inspiring journey through centuries of history.

"Impressive building and architecture. Beautiful art if few exposed. The history of the place where many of France kings got their blessed oil for their coronation
It’s a touristic spot but not too busy"

Fadoua Sf

"We did a walk through this beautiful basilica in the afternoon, and then returned for the Luminescence show in the evening.

The basilica itself is beautiful and enormous. Was apparently started hundreds of years ago in the Roman style and then as it was damaged in the wars and added to the style of the additions was Gothic.

The Luminescence show was absolutely incredible. About 45 minutes of history of the basilica, all in French, with an incredible immersive light show that highlighted and the architecture of the church itself. Highly, highly recommend."

Dave Schwimmer

"There was an immersive show that we went into . I can’t explain it, it was magical. I only speak English and the choir was singing in french but we could feel it. Music seriously has no boundaries and it reached us.

What an amazing show! Must show🫶🫶 and the basilica is amazingly beautiful with the lights and the story depicted."

akshi manglik

What People Like

Impressive architecture
Historical significance
Magical Luminescence show

What People Dislike

Show price for adults
Show better for kids

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Basilica of Saint-Remi is located in Reims, France. It's accessible by public transport within the city. Many visitors find it a pleasant walk from the city center or the cathedral. Consider checking local bus routes for the most convenient option. Reddit

Parking can be challenging in the city center. It's advisable to look for public parking garages or street parking, but be prepared for potential fees and limited availability, especially during peak hours. Reddit

Absolutely! The Basilica of Saint-Remi is a key attraction and can easily be included in a day trip to Reims, alongside the cathedral and other historical sites. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the basilica itself is generally free, allowing you to admire its architecture and historical significance. However, special events like the 'Luminescence' show require separate tickets. TikTok+1

Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official website or local listings before your visit. The basilica is typically open during daylight hours, with specific times for the 'Luminescence' show. TikTok

Ticket prices for the 'Luminescence' show can vary. It's recommended to check the official ticketing platform or the basilica's website for the most up-to-date pricing information. Some reviews suggest it might be pricey for adults if not fully appreciated. TikTok

Discounts may be available for children, students, or groups. It's always a good idea to inquire about potential discounts when booking your tickets for the 'Luminescence' show. TikTok

Yes, the basilica complex includes an abbey museum that houses artifacts and exhibits related to the history of the site. There may be a separate admission fee for the museum. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted inside the basilica for personal use, but flash photography might be restricted to protect the artworks and atmosphere. Always check for any posted signage. Instagram

The nave, the altar area, and the stained-glass windows offer fantastic photographic opportunities. For the 'Luminescence' show, be prepared for low light conditions, which can create dramatic effects. TikTokInstagram

While some visitors capture photos or videos during the show, it's often best to immerse yourself in the experience. Flash photography is usually prohibited during shows to avoid disrupting the atmosphere. TikTok

Yes, the exterior of the Basilica of Saint-Remi, with its blend of architectural styles, offers excellent photo opportunities, especially from the front plaza and surrounding streets. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Typically, there are no dining facilities directly within the basilica itself. However, the surrounding area in Reims offers a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and bakeries to choose from. Reddit

Reims is known for its Champagne region cuisine, so expect to find excellent local dishes, French specialties, and of course, plenty of opportunities to sample Champagne. Reddit

Yes, while Reims has fine dining, you can also find more affordable options like brasseries, creperies, and bakeries offering sandwiches and pastries for a quick and budget-friendly meal. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Basilica of Saint-Remi offers a unique experience for families. The 'Luminescence' show is particularly recommended for children, as it's designed to be engaging and entertaining for younger audiences, making history accessible and fun. TikTok [^Review] While the basilica itself is a beautiful and calm space for exploration, the immersive show provides a captivating way to keep kids entertained for about an hour. [^Review]

Consider the historical context of Saint Remi and Clovis I as a story to share with children, making the visit more interactive. The sheer scale of the basilica can also be awe-inspiring for kids. Remember to check for any specific family ticket options or discounts for the 'Luminescence' show. TikTok

🏛️ History Buffs

For history enthusiasts, the Basilica of Saint-Remi is an absolute must-visit. Its significance as the burial place of Saint Remi, the bishop who baptized the first King of the Franks, places it at a crucial junction of early French history. [^Review] The basilica's architecture, a blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles, offers a rich study for those interested in medieval construction and evolution. [^Review] Don't miss the abbey museum for deeper insights into the site's past. Reddit

✨ Couples & Romantic Getaways

The Basilica of Saint-Remi can offer a serene and historically rich experience for couples. A daytime visit provides a peaceful atmosphere to wander through the ancient architecture and reflect on its history. [^Review] For a more unique experience, consider attending the 'Luminescence' show in the evening. While some find it more geared towards families, the magical ambiance created by the light and music can be a romantic backdrop for a memorable night out in Reims. TikTok [^Review]

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Luminescence Show: An Immersive Experience

The 'Luminescence' show at the Basilica of Saint-Remi is a highlight for many visitors, transforming the ancient space into a canvas for light and sound. This immersive experience uses projections and music to tell the story of the basilica's rich history, from its Romanesque origins to its Gothic expansions and its role in French coronations. TikTok+1 Visitors describe it as magical and incredible, with music transcending language barriers. TikTok

While highly praised, some reviews suggest that for adults, the experience might be enjoyable but not 'great,' especially considering the price, and that photos can make it look better than it is. [^Review] However, it's consistently recommended for entertaining children and providing a unique way to engage with the basilica's heritage. [^Review] The show typically lasts about an hour and is performed on select evenings, often Thursdays through Sundays. TikTok+1

Key Takeaways:
* Immersive Storytelling: Uses light and sound to narrate the basilica's history.
* Magical Atmosphere: Creates a captivating and memorable experience. TikTok
* Audience Appeal: Particularly recommended for families with children. [^Review]
* Booking Essential: Tickets are required and should be booked in advance. TikTok

Historical Significance of the Basilica

The Basilica of Saint-Remi is not just an architectural marvel; it's a cornerstone of French history. It predates the Reims Cathedral and is historically just as significant, if not more so in certain aspects. Reddit It is famously the burial place of Saint Remi, the Bishop of Reims who baptized Clovis I, the first King of the Franks, in 496 AD. This event is considered a pivotal moment in the Christianization of France and the establishment of the Merovingian dynasty. [^Review]

The basilica itself showcases a remarkable evolution of architectural styles. Its foundations are Romanesque, evident in its robust structure, while later additions and modifications reflect the Gothic period. This layering of styles provides a fascinating glimpse into centuries of construction, renovation, and adaptation. [^Review] As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it stands as a testament to medieval religious architecture and its enduring legacy. [^Description]

Key Historical Points:
* Burial Site: Final resting place of Saint Remi. [^Review]
* Baptism of Clovis: Site linked to a foundational event in French history. [^Review]
* Architectural Evolution: Displays Romanesque and Gothic styles. [^Review]
* UNESCO World Heritage: Recognized for its historical and cultural importance. [^Description]

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