How to Visit Père Lachaise Cemetery Graves

Père Lachaise Cemetery, located in the 20th arrondissement of Paris, is not merely a burial ground—it is a living museum of art, history, and culture. Established in 1804 and named after Father François de la Chaise, confessor to King Louis XIV, it has grown into the most visited cemetery in the world. With over 3.5 million graves spread across 44 hectares, Père Lachaise is the final resting place of some of the most influential figures in Western civilization: Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrison, Frédéric Chopin, Edith Piaf, Marcel Proust, and many more. For travelers, history enthusiasts, and admirers of art and literature, visiting these graves is more than a pilgrimage—it is an immersive encounter with the past.

Yet, navigating this vast and intricate landscape can be overwhelming. Without proper preparation, visitors may spend hours wandering aimlessly, missing iconic monuments or becoming disoriented among the winding paths. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to visiting Père Lachaise Cemetery graves—designed to help you locate your desired sites efficiently, respect the sanctity of the space, and fully appreciate its cultural significance. Whether you’re seeking the poetic epitaph of Oscar Wilde, the rock-and-roll legacy of Jim Morrison, or the hauntingly beautiful tomb of Edith Piaf, this tutorial ensures your visit is both meaningful and well-informed.

Step-by-Step Guide

Plan Your Visit in Advance

Before stepping foot into Père Lachaise, preparation is essential. The cemetery is enormous—roughly the size of 60 football fields—and contains over 70,000 graves. Without a plan, you risk missing key sites or wasting valuable time. Begin by identifying which graves you wish to visit. Create a prioritized list based on personal interest, historical significance, or proximity to one another. Popular destinations include Oscar Wilde’s monument, Jim Morrison’s grave, Frédéric Chopin’s tomb, Edith Piaf’s resting place, and the graves of Molière, Balzac, and Sarah Bernhardt.

Check the cemetery’s official opening hours. Père Lachaise is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM in winter (November–February) and until 8:00 PM in summer (March–October). Arriving early—ideally by 9:00 AM—allows you to avoid crowds and enjoy the quiet, atmospheric ambiance before the influx of tour groups. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, particularly Sundays.

Choose Your Entry Point

Père Lachaise has five main entrances, each leading to different sections of the cemetery. Selecting the right one can significantly reduce your walking distance to your target graves. The most commonly used entrances are:

• Entrance 1 (Boulevard de Ménilmontant): Near the Ménilmontant Métro station (Line 2). This entrance leads to the central and eastern sections, making it ideal for visitors targeting Jim Morrison, Oscar Wilde, and Chopin.
• Entrance 2 (Rue de la Réunion): Closest to the main administrative building and the chapel. Useful for those interested in the older, more ornate tombs and the cemetery’s historical core.
• Entrance 3 (Rue de la Division Leclerc): Near the Père Lachaise Métro station (Line 2). This is the most popular entrance and offers direct access to the central avenues and major monuments.
• Entrance 4 (Rue de la Couronne): Less crowded, ideal for those seeking quieter paths and lesser-known graves.
• Entrance 5 (Avenue du Père Lachaise): Located near the eastern edge, best for visitors targeting graves in the northern and eastern sections.

For first-time visitors, Entrance 3 is recommended due to its proximity to the central map kiosk and main pathways. Upon entry, locate the large, free, multilingual map stand near the entrance. Take a printed copy—it’s invaluable for navigation.

Use the Official Map and Mark Your Targets

The cemetery’s official map is divided into 136 numbered divisions. Each grave is located within one of these divisions. For example, Oscar Wilde’s tomb is in Division 89, Jim Morrison’s grave is in Division 70, and Frédéric Chopin’s monument is in Division 71. Mark these divisions on your map before you begin walking.

Many modern smartphones allow you to take a photo of the map and annotate it with arrows or notes. Alternatively, download a PDF version of the map from the official Père Lachaise website and print it at home. Having a physical copy reduces reliance on mobile data, which can be unreliable in the cemetery’s dense, tree-covered terrain.

Follow the Pathways Strategically

Once inside, follow the main avenues first. These are wide, paved paths that intersect at key points and lead to major sections. From Entrance 3, head toward the central chapel. From there, take the main east-west avenue (Avenue Principale) toward Division 89. You’ll pass several notable graves along the way, including those of the novelist Honoré de Balzac and the playwright Molière.

When approaching your target division, look for small numbered plaques mounted on stone pillars or trees. These indicate the division number. Once you’ve located the correct division, walk along the side paths. Graves are arranged in rows, often with family names or surnames engraved on the headstones. Use the division map on your printed copy to pinpoint the exact row and position.

Some graves are difficult to find due to overgrowth or lack of signage. For instance, Jim Morrison’s grave is often obscured by crowds and floral offerings. If you’re unable to locate it, ask a cemetery staff member—they are stationed at key intersections and are usually happy to assist.

Respect the Space and Navigate with Care

Père Lachaise is an active cemetery. Many families still visit their ancestors’ graves to leave flowers, light candles, or clean tombstones. Always walk slowly and quietly. Avoid stepping on graves, even if they appear unmarked or neglected. Do not sit on monuments or lean against them. Some tombs are centuries old and fragile.

Photography is permitted, but be mindful of others. Avoid using flash near graves where families are paying respects. If you’re taking portraits of monuments, wait for a quiet moment. Many visitors come to mourn or reflect—your presence should be respectful, not intrusive.

Locate the Most Famous Graves

Here are the precise locations of the cemetery’s most sought-after graves:

• Oscar Wilde: Division 89. Look for the striking, modernist sculpture of a winged angel with a broken column. The tomb is covered in lipstick kisses and is often surrounded by admirers. It was designed by Jacob Epstein and unveiled in 1914.
• Jim Morrison: Division 70. A simple, unadorned stone with his name and dates. It is one of the most visited graves in the world, often adorned with flowers, notes, and cigarette butts. Be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends.
• Frédéric Chopin: Division 71. His tomb features a marble statue of Euterpe, the muse of music, weeping over a broken lyre. The monument is surrounded by lush greenery and is frequently visited by classical music lovers.
• Edith Piaf: Division 83. Her grave is marked by a small, elegant stone with a single inscription: “Je ne regrette rien.” Visitors often leave roses and small tokens of admiration.
• Molière: Division 27. His tomb is modest, but the surrounding area is rich with literary history. Nearby, you’ll find the graves of other French literary giants.
• Marcel Proust: Division 88. A quiet, understated monument. Fans of his work often leave copies of “In Search of Lost Time” or handwritten notes.
• Sarah Bernhardt: Division 17. Known as the “Divine Sarah,” her tomb is an elaborate bronze sculpture of a grieving woman holding a rose.

Time Your Visit for Optimal Experience

The lighting and atmosphere of Père Lachaise change dramatically throughout the day. Early morning offers soft, golden light that illuminates the marble and stone carvings beautifully. Late afternoon, especially during autumn, casts long shadows across the tombs, enhancing the cemetery’s melancholic beauty. Sunset is particularly magical in the eastern sections, where the light filters through the trees and glows on the back of old headstones.

If you’re visiting during winter, dress warmly and wear waterproof footwear. Paths can become muddy and slippery. In summer, bring water, sunscreen, and a hat—there is limited shade in some areas. A small backpack with essentials is preferable to carrying a large suitcase or bulky bag.

Best Practices

Wear Comfortable, Sturdy Footwear

Père Lachaise is not a manicured park. Its pathways are uneven, often cracked or overgrown with moss and roots. Cobblestones, gravel, and grassy slopes are common. High heels, sandals, or new sneakers are not advisable. Opt for closed-toe walking shoes with good grip. Many visitors underestimate the terrain and end up with sore feet or minor slips. Comfortable footwear ensures you can focus on the monuments, not your steps.

Bring Water, Snacks, and a Light Jacket

There are no food vendors inside the cemetery. The nearest cafés and convenience stores are located just outside the entrances. Bring bottled water, especially in warmer months. A small snack like a granola bar or fruit can help maintain energy during your walk. Weather in Paris can change quickly—a light windbreaker or scarf is useful, even on sunny days.

Do Not Remove Anything

Flowers, candles, notes, and tokens left at graves are offerings from visitors. Never take them. Even if a flower appears wilted or a note seems discarded, it is still part of someone’s personal tribute. Removing items is considered disrespectful and is strictly discouraged. The cemetery staff regularly collects and disposes of offerings in a respectful manner.

Use the Official App or Download a Reliable Map

While the printed map is essential, consider supplementing it with a digital tool. The official Père Lachaise Cemetery app (available on iOS and Android) includes GPS-based navigation, audio commentary on major graves, and real-time updates on events or closures. Third-party apps like “Père Lachaise Map” or “Cemetery Finder” also offer user-generated tips and photos of hard-to-find graves.

Learn Basic French Phrases

Although many staff members speak English, knowing a few French phrases can enhance your experience and show cultural respect. Learn to say:

• “Bonjour” – Hello
• “Merci” – Thank you
• “Où est la tombe de…?” – Where is the grave of…?
• “Pouvez-vous m’aider?” – Can you help me?

Even a simple “Merci” when asking for directions can lead to a more welcoming interaction.

Respect Religious and Cultural Symbols

Père Lachaise contains graves of people from diverse religious and cultural backgrounds. You’ll find Jewish stars, Islamic calligraphy, Christian crosses, and secular inscriptions. Do not touch or photograph religious symbols unless you are certain it is acceptable. Some families may be present during prayer or memorial rituals. If you see someone kneeling or weeping, give them space.

Travel in Small Groups

Large groups can be disruptive, especially near popular graves. If visiting with friends or family, keep your group size to four or fewer. Speak quietly. Avoid loud conversations or phone calls. Remember—you are in a place of remembrance, not a tourist attraction to be raced through.

Document Your Visit Thoughtfully

Take photographs, but don’t treat the visit like a checklist. Pause. Read the inscriptions. Reflect on the lives of those buried here. Many of these individuals shaped literature, music, politics, and philosophy. Their final resting place is a testament to their enduring legacy. Consider keeping a small journal to record your thoughts, quotes you read, or the emotions you feel at each site.

Tools and Resources

Official Père Lachaise Website

The cemetery’s official website (www.cimetierepere-lachaise.fr) is the most reliable source for up-to-date information. It includes:

• Interactive map with division numbers
• Searchable database of interred individuals
• Opening hours and seasonal changes
• Guided tour schedules
• Historical background on key figures

Use the search function to enter a name—such as “Chopin” or “Piaf”—and the site will return the exact division, plot number, and a brief biography. This is invaluable for planning your route.

Printed Maps and Guidebooks

Several guidebooks are available in English and French, including:

• “Père Lachaise: A Guide to the Cemetery and Its Notable Graves” by John F. Miller
• “The Graves of Père Lachaise” by Michael L. Wilson
• “Parisian Cemeteries: A Traveler’s Guide” by Marie-Claire Dupont

These books include detailed maps, historical context, and anecdotes about the people buried there. Many are available in Parisian bookshops near the cemetery or online through Amazon or Librairie Galignani.

Audio Guides and Podcasts

For a deeper experience, consider downloading an audio guide. Platforms like VoiceMap, Rick Steves, and Apple Podcasts offer curated walking tours of Père Lachaise. These often include narrated stories, forgotten histories, and hidden anecdotes—such as how Jim Morrison’s grave became a counterculture shrine or why Oscar Wilde’s tomb was vandalized in the 1990s and later restored.

Mobile Apps

Several apps enhance navigation and storytelling:

• Père Lachaise Cemetery Map (iOS/Android): GPS-enabled with user-uploaded photos and tips.
• Cemetery Finder: Allows you to search by name and get directions from your current location.
• Google Maps: While not always accurate inside the cemetery, it can help you locate the entrances and nearby public transport.

Download offline maps before your visit. Cellular reception can be weak among the dense trees and stone walls.

Guided Tours

For those who prefer structure, guided walking tours are available daily. Several reputable companies offer small-group tours led by historians, art scholars, or Parisian locals. These tours typically last 2–3 hours and focus on themes such as “Romanticism and Death,” “Rock Legends of Père Lachaise,” or “Women Who Changed History.”

Book in advance through platforms like GetYourGuide, Viator, or directly through local tour operators like “Paris Walks” or “Context Travel.” Tours often include access to restricted areas or graves not listed on public maps.

Library and Archive Access

For researchers or deeply curious visitors, the cemetery’s administrative office maintains an archive of burial records dating back to 1804. While not open to the general public, requests for genealogical or historical research can be submitted via email. Include the full name, date of death, and division if known. Responses are typically provided within 5–7 business days.

Real Examples

Case Study 1: The Wilde Experience

One visitor from Australia, Sarah, arrived at Père Lachaise determined to see Oscar Wilde’s tomb. She had read about the lipstick kisses and the controversy surrounding its restoration. Using the official website, she noted Division 89 and planned her route from Entrance 3. She arrived at 9:15 AM, just as the gates opened.

As she approached, she found a small crowd gathered. Rather than pushing forward, she waited quietly. When the group dispersed, she stepped forward and read the inscription: “And alien tears will fill for him / Pity’s long-broken urn, / For his mourners will be outcast men, / And outcasts always mourn.”

She took a photo, but left a single white rose—a gesture she’d read Wilde would have appreciated. She noted in her journal: “His tomb is not a monument to death, but to the enduring power of art to defy judgment.”

Case Study 2: The Morrison Pilgrimage

A group of four music students from Germany visited Jim Morrison’s grave on the anniversary of his death. They arrived at noon, when crowds were heaviest. They had prepared a playlist of The Doors on their phone and played “The End” softly as they stood in silence.

They noticed that many visitors had written messages on the stone with chalk. One read: “You were the voice of a generation.” Another: “Still wild at heart.” They left a single black rose and a small piece of paper with the lyrics to “Light My Fire.”

Later, they visited Chopin’s tomb and were struck by the contrast: one grave was a shrine of chaos and youth; the other, a sanctuary of sorrow and elegance. “It made us think about how legacy is shaped—not just by fame, but by the way we are remembered,” one student wrote.

Case Study 3: The Forgotten Grave of Léon Blum

A history professor from Canada, Dr. Robert Chen, came to Père Lachaise to locate the grave of Léon Blum, France’s first Jewish Prime Minister and a resistance hero. His name was not on most tourist maps. Using the cemetery’s official database, he found it in Division 92. The grave was modest—a simple stone with a Star of David and the words “Homme de Paix.”

He was the only visitor there that day. He spent 20 minutes reading the inscription, taking notes, and photographing the site. He later published an article on Blum’s legacy in a historical journal, citing his visit as a pivotal moment of personal connection to history.

Case Study 4: The Family Visit

A French family from Lyon visited Père Lachaise to pay respects to their great-grandmother, buried in Division 45. They brought flowers, cleaned the stone with a soft cloth, and recited a prayer. They also took time to explore nearby graves—discovering that the poet Paul Verlaine was buried just a few rows away. “We came for one person,” the grandmother said, “but left remembering many.”

FAQs

Is Père Lachaise Cemetery open every day?

Yes, Père Lachaise is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM (November–February) and until 8:00 PM (March–October). It is closed only on major French public holidays, such as May 1st and December 25th. Always verify the current hours on the official website before visiting.

Do I need to pay to enter Père Lachaise?

No. Entry to the cemetery is completely free. There are no admission fees, even for guided tours—though some private tour operators charge for their services.

Can I take photos at the graves?

Yes, photography is permitted for personal use. However, avoid using flash, especially near active memorials. Commercial photography or filming requires prior permission from the cemetery administration.

Are there restrooms inside the cemetery?

Yes, public restrooms are located near Entrance 3 and the central chapel. They are maintained regularly but may be limited in availability during peak hours.

Is Père Lachaise safe to visit?

Yes, Père Lachaise is generally safe. It is patrolled by cemetery staff and municipal police. However, as with any large public space, be aware of your surroundings. Avoid isolated areas after dark, and do not carry large sums of cash or valuables.

How long does it take to see the major graves?

With a focused plan, you can see the top 10 graves in 1.5 to 2 hours. If you wish to explore more slowly, read inscriptions, and enjoy the atmosphere, allocate 3–4 hours.

Can I bring my dog?

No. Dogs are not permitted inside Père Lachaise Cemetery, except for certified service animals.

What should I do if I can’t find a grave?

Ask a cemetery staff member—they wear blue uniforms and are stationed at key intersections. You can also use the official app’s GPS feature or return to the map kiosk for clarification.

Are guided tours worth it?

If you’re interested in deep historical context, yes. A knowledgeable guide can reveal stories not found in guidebooks—such as the secret societies buried here, the symbolism in tomb designs, or the political tensions reflected in epitaphs.

Can I leave offerings at the graves?

You may leave flowers, but avoid placing candles, plastic items, or food. The cemetery has strict policies on waste and preservation. Fresh flowers are the most appropriate and widely accepted offering.

Conclusion

Visiting the graves of Père Lachaise is not a simple act of tourism—it is a journey through time, memory, and human legacy. Each stone, each inscription, each flower left behind tells a story of love, loss, genius, and resilience. To navigate this sacred space effectively is to honor the lives it holds.

This guide has provided you with the tools, techniques, and respect necessary to make your visit meaningful. From planning your route using official maps to understanding the cultural nuances of remembrance, every step you take here should be intentional. Whether you come for Oscar Wilde’s angel, Jim Morrison’s silence, or the quiet dignity of a stranger’s grave, you are not merely a visitor—you are a witness.

As you leave Père Lachaise, carry with you more than photographs. Carry the words you read, the emotions you felt, the lives you encountered. In a world that often forgets, this cemetery endures—not as a monument to death, but as a testament to the enduring power of memory. Visit with reverence. Walk with purpose. And remember: in the quiet among the stones, history does not sleep. It whispers.