An event not to be missed
Paris hasn't welcomed a pope since 2008. On Friday 25 and Saturday 26 September 2026, that changes: two packed days of quiet reflection and public celebration, before Pope Leo XIV's apostolic journey through France continues on to Lourdes and Metz. Vespers at Notre-Dame, an evening vigil with young people at the Stade de France, a vast open-air mass between the Concorde and the Champs-Élysées — the capital shifts gear, with several hundred thousand visitors expected in its streets.
What's on the programme for the papal visit to Paris?
Friday 25 September: an official welcome at the Élysée and diplomatic meetings first, before the Pope heads back out into the streets, travelling by popemobile through Paris so that anyone who wishes can catch a glimpse of him along the route. Late afternoon brings vespers at Notre-Dame, gathering France's clergy, with the cathedral square open to the public for the occasion. The evening then moves to the Stade de France, where 75,000 young people aged 17 to 35 are expected for a prayer vigil, set to music in part by rising singer Monroe.
Saturday 26 September: after a morning of quieter engagements, a community centre in the 18th arrondissement, the Institut Catholique de Paris, the Pope celebrates a solemn open-air mass in the early afternoon, held between Place de la Concorde and the Avenue des Champs-Élysées. Around 500,000 people are expected along this avenue, transformed for one afternoon into an open-air nave. Leo XIV then flies on to Lourdes later that day.
For the full program of the papal visit, head to the official site pape-france.fr.
Do you need to book to attend the Pope's visit to Paris?
Vespers at Notre-Dame, the vigil at the Stade de France and the mass at Concorde all require an invitation or prior registration; places for the youth vigil are already fully booked. The popemobile procession and the gathering on the cathedral square, however, remain open to all, within the security perimeters set by the local authorities. The latest information on access is available on the official site pape-france.fr.
Where to stay in Paris for the Pope's visit
Just a few metro stops from the buzz, the 15th arrondissement keeps a precious sense of calm during these two days. Hôtel Moderniste offers a peaceful base well connected to the rest of the capital: the Élysée, the Champs-Élysées and the Stade de France are all within easy reach via metro line 12. Our front desk team will be delighted to help you make the most of your stay!
A few practical pointers for a stay in Paris on 25–26 September 2026:
Plan ahead for journeys into the center, where traffic restrictions and heightened security checks are expected around Notre-Dame, Concorde, and the Champs-Élysées.
Favor public transport over cars or taxis on these two days.
Book your accommodation in advance, demand in Paris is set to be especially high over this period.
In summary
- When is Pope Leo XIV visiting Paris? Pope Leo XIV will be in Paris on Friday 25 and Saturday 26 September 2026, before continuing his journey through France to Lourdes and then Metz.
- Where can you see Pope Leo XIV in Paris? The popemobile procession through the streets of Paris, the gathering on the Notre-Dame square, and the open-air mass between Concorde and the Champs-Élysées are the most accessible moments for the public.
- Do you need to register to attend a papal event in Paris? Yes, for vespers at Notre-Dame, the vigil at the Stade de France and the mass at Concorde. Registration takes place via the official platform for the apostolic journey.
Whether you're here for a moment of reflection or simply to watch Paris transform over a historic weekend, the team at Hôtel Moderniste is on hand to point you towards the best vantage points and routes.
Photo ©Hanvin Cheong - Unsplash