Opening Hours of the Conciergerie
Marie Antoinette’s Prison, known today as the Conciergerie, is one of the most fascinating historic monuments in Paris. The site is open to visitors every day of the year, with opening time at 9:30 am and closing time at 6:00 pm. Last entry is allowed at 5:30 pm, so it’s advisable to arrive a little early to enjoy the visit without rushing. The Conciergerie is open from Monday to Sunday, so there are no weekly closing days. However, the monument remains closed on a few annual holidays, specifically 1 May and 25 December. On certain special occasions, such as particular holidays or exceptional events, hours may vary, so it’s always worth checking for updates before your visit.
The busiest periods generally coincide with June, July and August, when international tourism peaks and queues can be longer. Visitor numbers also rise noticeably during school holidays and end-of-year festivities. By contrast, January, February and November are considered the quietest months, offering a more relaxed experience and shorter waiting times. Visiting Marie Antoinette’s Prison in the early morning or during the low season makes it possible to explore the historic rooms, the famous Marie Antoinette’s Cell and the spaces that tell the story of the French Revolution at a calmer pace, for a more enjoyable and in-depth cultural experience.
Opening and Closing Hours
09:30 - 18:00
18:00 - 09:30
Opening Hours Table
Day | Opening Hours |
|---|---|
Monday | 9:30 am – 6:00 pm |
Tuesday | 9:30 am – 6:00 pm |
Wednesday | 9:30 am – 6:00 pm |
Thursday | 9:30 am – 6:00 pm |
Friday | 9:30 am – 6:00 pm |
Saturday | 9:30 am – 6:00 pm |
Sunday | 9:30 am – 6:00 pm |
Best Time to Visit
Visitor Numbers Throughout the Year
Month | Visitor Numbers | Note |
|---|---|---|
January | Low | Few queues, cold weather. |
February | Low | Quiet, quick visit. |
March | Moderate | Tourism gradually increasing. |
April | High | Spring, many visits. |
May | High | Ideal weather, high turnout. |
June | High | Start of the high season. |
July | High | Summer, very busy site. |
August | High | Peak international tourism. |
September | High | Still busy, mild weather. |
October | Moderate | Fewer crowds, pleasant visits. |
November | Moderate | Quietest period. |
December | Moderate | More visitors during the holidays. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the opening hours of Marie Antoinette's Prison?
Marie Antoinette’s Prison, today known as the Conciergerie, is generally open every day from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm. Last entry is normally allowed about 30 minutes before closing.
Is Marie Antoinette's Prison open every day of the week?
Yes, the monument is generally open from Monday to Sunday, including weekends. However, some national holidays may result in closure or changes to visiting hours.
On which days is Marie Antoinette's Prison closed?
The Conciergerie is normally closed on 1 May and 25 December. Additional temporary closures may occur for exceptional events or maintenance work.
What is the best time of day to visit Marie Antoinette's Prison?
The early morning, right after opening, or late afternoon are generally the best times to avoid queues and visit the monument in a more relaxed way.
Do the opening hours change throughout the year?
Opening hours generally stay the same throughout the year, but may change for holidays, special events or organisational needs. It’s always a good idea to check the latest hours before your visit.