Opened in 1804 and named after Father François de la Chaise, Louis XIV's confessor, Père Lachaise is the most visited cemetery in the world, with more than a million people buried across its 44 hectares (97 divisions). It is beloved as an open-air sculpture museum and historic site, home to artists such as Chopin, Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrison, Édith Piaf, Balzac and Proust, as well as the fighters of the Paris Commune. It remains a working cemetery, and in summer 2026 red heat-wave alerts have at times forced early closures. Approach it as a reflective walk hunting famous graves along its hilly, tree-lined avenues.
Graves of Chopin and Édith Piaf — perpetually covered in fresh flowers, a shrine of French culture
Oscar Wilde's tomb — so damaged by lipstick kisses that a glass barrier was installed in 2011
Jim Morrison's grave (The Doors) — modest but the busiest fan pilgrimage site, now railed and often watched by a guard
The Communards' Wall (Mur des Fédérés) — where Commune fighters were executed and buried during the 1871 'Bloody Week'
Grand hillside family tombs and avenues, plus the graves of Molière, Balzac, Proust and Delacroix
Good to know
MannersThis is an active cemetery with funerals every day. Keep your voice low, yield to funeral processions, and avoid photographing on graves, picnicking, or loud behavior.
SeasonSummer 2026 has seen frequent heat-wave (canicule) alerts; from 13–16 July, for example, the cemetery closed at 2 p.m. There is little shade and few shops inside, so bring water and re-check the day's official hours before you go.
SafetyThe grounds are hilly with uneven cobblestones that get slippery in rain. Flat, non-slip shoes are essential, and many sections are difficult for wheelchairs or strollers.
SafetyAt 44 hectares and 97 divisions it is huge and easy to get lost in. Pick up a free map at the entrance or bring one, and note the division number of each grave you want to find.
CautionThe cemetery itself feels safe by day, but at nearby metro stations (Père Lachaise, Gambetta) and in crowds, watch for pickpockets and petition/friendship-bracelet scams. Wear bags in front and keep zippers closed.
RulesEntry is free but guided tours are paid. Do not climb on or touch the tombs (Oscar Wilde is behind glass, Jim Morrison behind railings), and private vehicles are barred on 1 November (All Saints' Day).
Practical info
The cemetery is a short walk from Métro Père Lachaise (lines 2, 3) and Philippe Auguste (line 2, for the main gate at 28 ter bd de Ménilmontant), or Gambetta (lines 3, 3bis) for the Porte Gambetta; buses 61, 69, 71 and 26 also serve it. Admission is free and it is generally open about 8 a.m.–6 p.m. (to 5:30 p.m. in winter), but hours vary by day, season and heat alerts, so confirm current fees and opening times on the official website before visiting.
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