Free entry

Entry to the Church of San Luigi dei Francesi is free, as in most of Rome's churches. You need no ticket and no reservation to admire the three Caravaggios of the St Matthew cycle in the Cappella Contarelli. All that's asked is modest dress (shoulders and knees covered) and respect for any service in progress.

Opening hours

The church is generally open every day, often with a short break at one point during the day (hours are approximate, so check on site or on the official website). Hours can change for services and French holidays. If you want to take in the paintings at your own pace, it's best to avoid Mass times.

Lighting the Cappella Contarelli

A valuable tip: the Cappella Contarelli with the Caravaggios is usually fitted with a coin-operated lighting system. Drop in a small offering and the canvases light up for a few minutes, revealing the details and contrasts of light that make Caravaggio unique. Keep a few coins handy: without the lights, the chapel can sit in shadow.

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Tips for your visit

  • Bring coins: essential for lighting the Cappella Contarelli.
  • Avoid Mass times: so you can enjoy the Caravaggios in peace.
  • Go early or in the late afternoon: the chapel can get crowded at peak times.
  • Dress modestly: shoulders and knees covered.
  • Pair it with Piazza Navona and the Pantheon: both are a few minutes' walk away.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to enter San Luigi dei Francesi? Entry is free: no ticket is needed to see the three Caravaggios. All you need are coins to light the Cappella Contarelli.

What are the church's hours? It's generally open every day, often with a short break at one point during the day. Hours vary for services; check on site or on the official website.

Do I need to book? No. Since it's a church, entry is free and requires no reservation.

How are the Caravaggios lit? With a coin-operated lighting system in front of the Cappella Contarelli: a small offering switches the lights on for a few minutes. It's worth having coins on hand.

When is the best time to visit? Early morning or late afternoon, avoiding Mass times and the busiest hours, so you can admire the paintings in peace.

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Article #343 · Category: Practical · Updated: May 2026