If you’re heading to Paris, do yourself a favor and put Notre-Dame Cathedral on your list. Trust me, it’s one of those places that you just can’t skip – it’s practically the city’s heart and soul, but with better architecture. Nestled on the Île de la Cité, this Gothic beauty is like Paris’s most iconic selfie backdrop, only with a few centuries of history thrown in. The flying buttresses, the intricately carved statues, and those enormous rose windows are like the cathedral’s way of saying, “Yeah, I’m kind of a big deal.”
Inside, it’s all about the atmosphere – those soaring ceilings will make you feel tiny in the best way, and the stained glass windows? Absolute show-stoppers. You’ll probably get a spiritual boost just from standing there, soaking it all in. And don’t forget about the historical relics, like the Crown of Thorns – no big deal, just a piece of history you’ll never forget.
Now, if you’re up for a bit of a workout, climb the towers. The views of the Eiffel Tower and the Seine are worth the sweat. Sure, the fire in 2019 put a dent in things, but don’t worry – the cathedral is under restoration, and it’s still impressively gorgeous.
In short, Notre-Dame isn’t just a “been there, done that” stop. It’s a full-on experience – history, art, faith, and Parisian charm all wrapped into one. You won’t regret it, I promise.
Basic Information
Opening Hours
- General Visiting Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 7:50 AM to 7:00 PM (with extended hours on Thursdays until 10:00 PM)
- Saturday and Sunday: 8:15 AM to 7:30 PM
- Treasury and Museum Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM (extended until 9:00 PM on Thursdays)
- Sunday: 1:00 PM to 5:30 PM
- Last entry to the Treasury is 30 minutes before closing time.
- Mass and Services:
- Regular services are held throughout the week, including daily Mass at 6:00 PM and other special services on Sundays.
Ticket Information
Ticket Price
- Free Admission: Access to the main cathedral is free of charge. You can visit the interior of the cathedral, admire the stunning stained-glass windows, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere at no cost.
- Treasury and Museum:
- Full Price: €12
- Reduced Price: €6 (upon presentation of valid proof)
- Children under 12 years old
- Students
- Job seekers
- Priests and religious
- Free Admission:
- ICOM and ICOMOS card holders
- People with disabilities and one accompanying person, upon presentation of valid proof
- Tower Climb:
- The tower climb has been suspended since the fire in 2019 for restoration work. It is estimated to resume in summer, 2025.
- Mass and Services: Attending religious services is free of charge. However, for special events or concerts, there may be a suggested donation.
Ticket Booking
- Main Cathedral: Although you do not need to book in advance to visit the Notre-Dame Cathedral itself, it is advised to do so. Booking a time slot in advance can help you avoid long queues, especially during busy periods.
- Treasury and Museum: You can book the ticket via the Official Notre-Dame Cathedral Website or on site. But the latter option often means long queues.
Guided Experiences to Enhance Your Visit
1. Free Guided Tours by CASA Association
- Description: The CASA association provides free guided tours of the cathedral’s facade and surrounding area. These tours are led by passionate volunteers who offer insights into the cathedral’s history, art, and spiritual significance.
- Schedule: Tours are available daily in multiple languages (Check the calendar). No prior reservation is required; simply join the group in front of the statue of the Virgin and Child.
2. Audio Guides
- Availability: Audio guides are available for rent at the cathedral’s reception for €6. They offer commentary in French, English, and Spanish. Magnetic loops are also available for the hearing-impaired.
- Self-Guided Tours: For a self-guided experience, you can download the official Notre-Dame Cathedral app, which provides an audio guide and interactive map to explore the cathedral at your own pace.
3. Private Guided Tours
- Description: For a more personalized experience, private guided tours are available, offering in-depth knowledge of the cathedral’s history and architecture. These tours can be tailored to your interests.
How to Get to Notre-Dame Cathedral
The Notre-Dame Cathedral is located on the Île de la Cité, a small island sitting in the middle of the Seine River, which flows through Paris. The specific address is 6 Parvis Notre-Dame – Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris, France.
Getting There By Metro
- Line 4: Alight at Cité station, which is directly adjacent to the cathedral.
- Line 10: Disembark at Cluny – La Sorbonne station; a short walk away from Notre-Dame.
- Lines 1 and 11: Exit at Hôtel de Ville station, approximately a 10-minute walk from Notre-Dame.
- Lines 7, 11, and 14: Get off at Châtelet station, about a 15-minute walk to the cathedral.
Getting There By RER (Regional Express Network):
- RER B and C: Alight at Saint-Michel – Notre-Dame station, which is a 5-minute walk from the cathedral.
Getting There By Bus:
- Lines 21, 27, 38, 47, 85, 96: Stop at Notre-Dame – Quai de la Tournelle.
- Lines 24, 27, 47, 85: Stop at Saint-Michel – Notre-Dame.
- Lines 63, 70, 72, 75, 76, 85, 87, 96: Stop at Hôtel de Ville.
Top Things to Do and See at Notre-Dame Cathedral
Marvel at the Gothic Architecture
First things first, you have to take a moment to stand in awe of the cathedral’s architecture. The facade of Notre-Dame is a masterpiece – everything from the flying buttresses to the rose windows is just jaw-dropping. The two towers are iconic, and they’ll instantly tell you you’ve arrived at one of Paris’s most famous landmarks. Be sure to look up at all the sculptures around the entrance. Each one tells a biblical story, and there are even some fun characters (like gargoyles and angels) that are worth spotting.
And don’t get me started on the flying buttresses – those external supports that give the cathedral its sky-high walls. They’re not just for decoration; they allowed for those massive windows we can’t stop staring at. They’re a signature of Gothic architecture, and Notre-Dame does it better than most.
Step Inside the Majestic Interior
Once you step inside, the cathedral’s vastness will take your breath away. The soaring vaulted ceilings, which stretch over 30 meters high, create a sense of grandeur that was ahead of its time. The interior feels almost limitless, designed to make you feel small, which was precisely the purpose in the 12th century: to awe visitors and lead them to a spiritual encounter. The stained-glass windows, particularly the famous rose windows, allow light to pour in and bathe the cathedral in vibrant colors.
The West Rose Window above the main entrance is famous for its depiction of the Last Judgment. You’ll see Christ seated at the center, surrounded by angels and saints, while the righteous are rewarded and the damned are cast into hell. It’s a spectacular visual narrative. The North Rose Window, which is among the largest in the world, showcases biblical genealogies and prophecies that foretold the arrival of Christ. Meanwhile, the South Rose Window focuses on the life of Christ, from his Nativity to his Passion, culminating in his Resurrection.
Climb the Towers for a View Like No Other
Okay, if you’re up for it, climb the Notre-Dame towers. Yes, it’s a bit of a workout – there are 422 steps to the top – but trust me, the views are worth every single step. You’ll get a 360-degree view of Paris, with sights like the Seine River, the Eiffel Tower, and Sainte-Chapelle all laid out before you. From the top, you can also get a close-up of the gargoyles and chimeras on the cathedral’s roof – those creepy little stone creatures you always see in pictures. It’s a totally unique perspective of the city.
And while you’re up there, take a minute to admire Emmanuel, the cathedral’s huge bell, which weighs a mind-boggling 13 tons! It’s one of the oldest bells in France, and if you’re lucky, you might even hear it ringing during a special service.
Discover the Crypt and Archaeological Site
If you’re someone who’s into history, you’ll love the Notre-Dame Crypt. It’s hidden beneath the cathedral, and it’s like stepping back in time. You’ll find remnants of ancient buildings that date all the way back to Roman times – this was once the heart of the Roman city of Lutetia. The crypt gives you a glimpse into the early foundations of Paris, with ruins of ancient streets and walls.
The crypt also hosts exhibits that explain the history of the cathedral, and it’s an excellent place to get a deeper understanding of how Notre-Dame evolved through the centuries. Trust me, it’s more than just a basement.
Catch a Mass or a Concert
Here’s a little tip: don’t just visit for the architecture – experience the cathedral’s living history by attending a mass or a concert. The cathedral has been a place of worship for over 850 years, and there’s a certain reverence you feel when you’re sitting inside during a service. The music fills the space in the most magical way, especially when you’re lucky enough to hear the famous Notre-Dame organ. It’s the largest in France, and it has some seriously impressive pipes.
Mass Timetable:
| Monday to Saturday | Morning Mass: 8:00 AM Evening Mass: 6:45 PM |
| Sundays | Morning Masses: 10:00 AM (Mass with the choir) and 11:30 AM Afternoon Mass: 6:00 PM |
| Special Occasions/Feasts: | On Christmas, Easter, and other major religious holidays, there may be additional services. Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve is particularly popular, as is the Easter Vigil. |
Learn About the Organ
The Notre-Dame Organ is not just a piece of church history – it’s a marvel of engineering. Considered one of the largest and most significant organs in the world, it has been used for centuries to accompany services and concerts. It boasts 7,800 pipes and has undergone several major restorations. You’ll often find it playing during services, but if you’re lucky enough to attend a special concert, you’ll be treated to the full impact of its sound. For organ enthusiasts, there’s also an opportunity to visit the organ loft during some tours to get a closer look at its intricate mechanics.
Visit the Relics
The cathedral holds some of Christianity’s most important relics. The most famous is the Crown of Thorns, which, according to tradition, was worn by Jesus during the crucifixion. The relic is kept in Notre-Dame and is only displayed on very special occasions, like Good Friday.
The cathedral also contains other relics, including pieces of the True Cross and saintly bones. While the display of relics may not always be available to the public, these sacred objects add to the spiritual atmosphere of the cathedral and offer insight into the medieval veneration of saints.
Take in the Views of the Seine
After you’ve marveled at the cathedral, take some time to wander around the Île de la Cité, where Notre-Dame is located. The views of the Seine River from the cathedral are just spectacular, especially at sunset or in the early morning when the crowds are smaller. There are some great spots along the river where you can sit and just enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
The cathedral looks stunning at night when it’s all lit up, and the reflection in the Seine is just magical. It’s one of those quintessential Paris experiences that you won’t forget.
Best Time to Visit Notre-Dame Cathedral
Best Time to Visit Throughout the Year (Special Events)
Spring (April to June): During spring, Notre-Dame often holds special church services for major religious observances, such as Easter celebrations, One of the most significant celebrations in the cathedral. You might get the chance to witness Easter Mass or even special musical performances in the cathedral.
Summer (July to August): Summer is the peak tourist season in Paris, but it also brings more events and concerts, including organ recitals and choir performances. If you’re a fan of live music, this is a good time to experience the grandeur of the Notre-Dame organ or other performances in the cathedral.
Fall (September to November): Fall is a wonderful time to visit Notre-Dame, as the weather is still pleasant but the crowds have started to thin. September marks the beginning of the fall season, making it an ideal time to enjoy the annual Notre-Dame festivals and musical events without overwhelming crowds. You might also catch the Feast of the Archangels or other services.
Winter (December to March): Winter in Paris is cold, but it also offers a chance to experience Notre-Dame in a quieter, more intimate setting. On December 8th, the cathedral hold La Fête de Notre-Dame, a festival honors the cathedral’s patroness, the Virgin Mary. Christmas is also an especially magical time to visit, as the cathedral hosts special Midnight Mass services and Christmas Eve celebrations.
Best Time of Day to Visit (Avoid Crowd)
Early Morning (Before 9 AM): The early morning is the best time to visit Notre-Dame if you prefer to avoid the crowds. The cathedral opens at around 7:45 AM for morning mass, and if you arrive right when it opens, you can enjoy the tranquility and take photographs without other people in the frame.
2. Mid-Morning to Early Afternoon (9 AM to 2 PM): This period is when most tourists arrive, so the cathedral gets quite crowded. However, it’s also when the cathedral is fully alive, with daily services and guided tours happening throughout the day.
3. Late Afternoon (3 PM to 6 PM): Late afternoon offers a more peaceful experience than the peak midday hours but still with plenty of activity. The light starts to change, making this a fantastic time for photographers who want to capture Notre-Dame in a different light. During this time, you may also be able to catch an organ recital or a special choir performance, depending on the schedule.
4. Evening (6 PM to 8 PM): The evening hours at Notre-Dame can be enchanting. By this time, the cathedral’s interior is bathed in soft evening light, creating a beautiful atmosphere for anyone who wants to experience its spiritual side. Evening services, like Vespers, are often held around this time, adding to the cathedral’s sacred ambiance. In the summer, the cathedral’s exterior is beautifully lit, making it an ideal time to see the cathedral from the outside as well.
Ten Fun Facts about Notre-Dame Cathedral
1. It Took Over 200 Years to Build: Notre-Dame’s construction was no quick feat. Construction began in 1163 and wasn’t completed until 1345, meaning it took nearly 200 years to finish! Talk about commitment. The project spanned multiple generations of builders, architects, and artisans, with various parts of the cathedral evolving in style over the centuries.
2. The Famous Rose Windows Are a Masterpiece of Stained Glass: Notre-Dame is renowned for its stunning stained-glass windows, especially the three rose windows – each one located at the west, north, and south ends of the cathedral. These magnificent windows, completed in the 13th century, are some of the finest examples of Gothic stained glass in the world. Each rose window features intricate patterns and vivid depictions of biblical stories, with the west rose window being the largest, measuring about 12 meters (40 feet) in diameter.
3. The Cathedral Was Almost Torn Down During the French Revolution: During the French Revolution (1790s), Notre-Dame wasn’t exactly receiving visitors for Sunday mass. In fact, it was repurposed as a Temple of Reason. The revolutionaries, who were trying to rid France of anything symbolizing monarchy or religion, began to destroy statues, paintings, and other religious artifacts inside the cathedral. Many of the iconic sculptures on the cathedral’s exterior were decapitated, including statues of the kings of Judah. Luckily, Napoleon Bonaparte came to the rescue in 1801, saving the cathedral and restoring it to its status as a place of worship.
4. The Cathedral Was the Site of Napoleon’s Coronation: Here’s a fun twist in the cathedral’s history: Napoleon Bonaparte wasn’t exactly your typical emperor when it came to his coronation. While the Pope was supposed to crown him, Napoleon decided he’d do it himself! In 1804, the self-crowned emperor stood in Notre-Dame’s grand nave and placed the crown on his own head, defying tradition and sending a clear message about his power.
5. Quasimodo Lives Here: If you’re a fan of Victor Hugo’s The Hunchback of Notre-Dame, you’ll appreciate this tidbit: the cathedral is forever linked to the character of Quasimodo, the hunchbacked bell ringer. Published in 1831, Hugo’s novel made Notre-Dame famous around the world. Although Quasimodo is a fictional character, his tragic tale, along with the stunning descriptions of the cathedral, led to renewed interest in preserving the building.
6. The Cathedral Has 10 Bells: Notre-Dame is home to 10 bells – all of which have their own personalities and stories. The most famous of these bells is Emmanuel, which weighs about 13 tons and is located in the south tower. Emmanuel is known for its deep, resonant tone and rings on special occasions, like religious celebrations and significant events.
7. The Spire Was a Later Addition: When you look at Notre-Dame, you might notice the tall spire that rises above the cathedral. It’s iconic, but it wasn’t part of the original design. The spire was added in the 19th century, during the restoration work that followed Victor Hugo’s novel. The spire was designed by Eugène Viollet-le-Duc, a famous architect who restored much of the cathedral’s structure. The spire stands at a height of about 96 meters (315 feet), and it was famously destroyed in the 2019 fire, though it has been rebuilt to its former glory as part of the ongoing restoration efforts.
8. The Cathedral Is Built on an Ancient Site: Notre-Dame wasn’t just plopped down randomly in the middle of Paris. The cathedral is actually built on a very ancient site. Before the cathedral, there were two earlier churches on the same spot, dating back to the 5th century. The earliest church was built by King Clovis, who was baptized there in 496, marking the Christianization of the Franks.
9. There’s a Secret Library in the Cathedral: Tucked away in the cathedral’s back rooms is a little-known library. This library houses some pretty valuable manuscripts and books about the history of Notre-Dame and French history in general. It’s not typically open to the public, but it’s one of those hidden gems that only the lucky few ever get to see. Imagine what it would be like to browse through centuries of history from one of the world’s most famous cathedrals.
10. The Gargoyles Have a Purpose: Those gargoyles on Notre-Dame’s façade might look creepy, but they weren’t just designed to give you the chills. These quirky, often grotesque sculptures are functional. They’re water spouts, designed to channel rainwater away from the cathedral’s walls to prevent erosion. And let’s face it, a little creepiness never hurt anyone. These iconic creatures – like the famous flying lion gargoyle – have become synonymous with Notre-Dame, adding to the cathedral’s mystique.
2019 Fire at Notre-Dame Cathedral
The 2019 fire at Notre-Dame Cathedral was a heartbreaking day. If you’d been in Paris when it happened, you’d have felt the weight of it in the air. It started around 6:50 PM on April 15, and the flames quickly made their way up into the cathedral’s roof and spires. It was terrifying to watch, honestly. That 96-meter spire, which you’ve probably seen in all the photos, collapsed after just a couple of hours, taking much of the roof with it.
What’s crazy is that the fire was contained before it could destroy the entire building. The stone structure – like the flying buttresses and the walls – survived pretty much intact, which is a miracle considering how old and vulnerable some of those elements are. But the wooden roof – known as la forêt – was completely lost, and that’s a real tragedy. That roof had been there for 800 years, made from oak beams, and it all just went up in flames.
Of course, it wasn’t just the building itself. Some of Notre-Dame’s most sacred relics – like the Crown of Thorns – were also in jeopardy. But thank goodness, the Paris Fire Brigade was able to get them out of harm’s way. They saved the relics, and the stained-glass windows mostly stayed intact, too. So, the fire didn’t take everything, but the damage was still huge.
Attractions Near Notre-Dame Cathedral to Enrich Your Day
Sainte-Chapelle
- Distance from Notre-Dame: ~5-minute walk (400 meters)
- Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (last entry at 6:30 PM)
- Ticket Price: €11.50
- Highlights: Sainte-Chapelle is a Gothic masterpiece famous for its stunning stained-glass windows. The cathedral’s upper level features a collection of glass panels depicting biblical scenes – it’s often considered one of the most beautiful stained-glass collections in the world and described as looking like “a kaleidoscope” of light.
Conciergerie
- Distance from Notre-Dame: ~7-minute walk (600 meters)
- Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Ticket Price: €9
- Highlights: Once a royal palace, the Conciergerie later became a prison during the French Revolution. It’s famous as the place where Marie Antoinette was held before her execution. Visitors can explore the historical cells, including her infamous prison cell, and see exhibits about the Revolution. The Salle des Gens d’Armes is particularly stunning, with its Gothic vaulted ceilings.
Musée de Cluny (National Museum of the Middle Ages)
- Distance from Notre-Dame: ~10-minute walk (800 meters)
- Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 9:15 AM – 5:45 PM (closed Mondays)
- Ticket Price: €9
- Highlights: This museum is housed in a medieval mansion and features a remarkable collection of medieval art and artifacts. The Lady and the Unicorn tapestries, considered one of the finest examples of medieval tapestries, are the museum’s star attraction. You can also explore Roman baths and enjoy beautiful views from the museum’s garden.
Pont Neuf
- Distance from Notre-Dame: ~8-minute walk (650 meters)
- Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
- Ticket Price: Free
- Highlights: As the oldest bridge in Paris, Pont Neuf offers incredible views of the Seine and the city. It’s a great place to walk across and get panoramic views of the Île de la Cité and Notre-Dame Cathedral. The bridge itself has beautiful sculptures, and its stone arches have a charming old-world feel. It’s especially romantic at night when the lights reflect off the water.
The Latin Quarter
- Distance from Notre-Dame: ~10-minute walk (800 meters)
- Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
- Ticket Price: Free (unless visiting a museum or café)
- Highlights: The Latin Quarter is the beating heart of Parisian student life and a great area to explore after visiting Notre-Dame. Wander the narrow streets, check out the Pantheon, or visit some of the quaint bookshops like Shakespeare and Company. This neighborhood is full of cafés, bistros, and historic landmarks that make it a lively and vibrant part of Paris.
Pantheon
- Distance from Notre-Dame: ~12-minute walk (1 km)
- Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM (last entry at 6:00 PM)
- Ticket Price: €11.50
- Highlights: The Pantheon is a stunning neoclassical building, originally built as a church but now serving as a mausoleum for famous French figures like Voltaire, Rousseau, Victor Hugo, and Émile Zola. The dome and the crypt are awe-inspiring, and the panoramic views of Paris from the top are fantastic.
Top 5 Affordable Restaurants Near Notre-Dame Cathedral
| Restaurant | Distance from Notre-Dame | Average Cost | Signature Dishes | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Le Saint Régis | 5 mins walk (400m) | €30-€50 | Duck Confit, Escargots, Crème Brûlée | Cozy bistro, classic French fare |
| Les Deux Magots | 12 mins walk (900m) | €40-€70 | Steak Tartare, Croque Monsieur, French Onion Soup | Historic café, iconic Parisian spot |
| Le Procope | 15 mins walk (1.2 km) | €50-€80 | Beef Tartare, Coq au Vin, Tarte Tatin | Historic restaurant, elegant setting |
| Le Reminet | 7 mins walk (550m) | €40-€70 | Foie Gras, Lamb Shoulder, Tarte au Citron | Cozy, romantic, modern French twists |
| Au Bougnat | 6 mins walk (450m) | €25-€45 | Beef Bourguignon, Moules Marinières, Crème Brûlée | Cozy, traditional, family-friendly |
Affordable Hotels Near Notre-Dame Cathedral
1. Hôtel Le Notre-Dame
- Distance from Notre-Dame: 2 minutes walk (approx. 150 meters)
- Address: 1 Quai Saint-Michel, 75005 Paris, France
- Average Cost per Room: €130 – €200 per night (varies by season)
- Features: Located just steps from Notre-Dame Cathedral, Hôtel Le Notre-Dame offers a charming, quaint Parisian experience with a spectacular view of the cathedral from some of its rooms. The rooms are elegantly furnished, with traditional French décor.
2. Hotel de la Place du Louvre
- Distance from Notre-Dame: 10 minutes walk (approx. 800 meters)
- Address: 1 Rue de la Vieille Draperie, 75001 Paris, France
- Average Cost per Room: €120 – €180 per night
- Features: This charming hotel is located near the Louvre Museum, which is just a short walk from Notre-Dame Cathedral. The rooms are stylish yet comfortable, with a classic Parisian vibe. The hotel also offers concierge services, so you can get personalized tips on exploring the city.
3. Hotel Henri IV Rive Gauche
- Distance from Notre-Dame: 10 minutes walk (approx. 800 meters)
- Address: 50 Rue de la Vieille Draperie, 75005 Paris, France
- Average Cost per Room: €120 – €190 per night
- Features: Situated in the Latin Quarter, just a short walk from Notre-Dame, Hotel Henri IV Rive Gauche offers a classic French hotel experience with modern touches. The hotel is housed in a beautiful historical building, featuring charming rooms with antique furniture, comfortable bedding, and stylish décor.
4. Hôtel Le Relais Saint-Germain
- Distance from Notre-Dame: 15 minutes walk (approx. 1.1 km)
- Address: 9 Carrefour de l’Odéon, 75006 Paris, France
- Average Cost per Room: €170 – €250 per night
- Features: Located in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés area, this stylish hotel offers a more luxurious yet affordable experience in Paris. The on-site restaurant serves a delicious breakfast, and the lobby bar is perfect for unwinding after a busy day.
5. Hôtel des Grands Hommes
- Distance from Notre-Dame: 10 minutes walk (approx. 750 meters)
- Address: 17 Place du Panthéon, 75005 Paris, France
- Average Cost per Room: €150 – €220 per night
- Features: Located just a short stroll from Notre-Dame Cathedral, Hôtel des Grands Hommes is a charming and elegant hotel located in the Latin Quarter. The hotel is housed in a beautiful 18th-century building and offers a cozy, classic Parisian experience. The hotel offers a 24-hour front desk, a lounge area to relax in, and breakfast options served daily.