Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris, Paris - Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris
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Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris

4.7
·73k reviews·Paris, France

Experience the awe-inspiring Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, now beautifully restored and open to the public. Ma...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, Early Morning

Fewer crowds, shorter lines for entry

CrowdLow
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Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris, Paris - Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris

Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris

Best Time

Weekdays, Early Morning

Fewer crowds, shorter lines for entry

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience the awe-inspiring Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, now beautifully restored and open to the public. Marvel at its history, art, and spiritual grandeur.

4.7
(73k reviews)

"A truly breathtaking experience, especially after the restoration; the lines move fast and it's absolutely free! TikTokReddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Don't Pay for Entry

Admission to Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris is free. Ignore anyone trying to sell you tickets.

🚶‍♀️ Lines Move Fast

Even if the line looks long, it typically moves quickly, often taking 10-20 minutes to enter.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Gothic Grandeur & Facade

Gothic Grandeur & Facade

Exterior

Marvel at the intricate Gothic architecture, flying buttresses, and famous gargoyles that adorn the exterior of this historic cathedral.

Stunning Rose Windows

Stunning Rose Windows

Interior

Be captivated by the vibrant, centuries-old stained-glass rose windows, casting colorful light across the restored interior of Notre Dame.

The Nave & Altar

The Nave & Altar

Interior

Experience the vastness of the nave and the solemn beauty of the main altar, a testament to centuries of faith and artistry.

Planning Your Visit

Free Entry & Smart Queuing

Visiting Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris is free, but expect lines. Don't panic, they move fast! Reservations are optional and often hard to secure, so many opt for the walk-in queue. Be prepared for security checks and a respectful dress code to fully enjoy this iconic landmark. TikTokReddit+2

Dress Code & Etiquette

Remember to dress respectfully: shoulders and knees must be covered. Hats are not allowed inside the Notre Dame Cathedral of Paris. During services, maintain silence and avoid disturbing worshippers. This ensures a pleasant experience for all visitors and respects the sacred space. TikTokReddit+1

Best Times

When
Weekdays, Early Morning
Why
Fewer crowds, shorter lines for entry
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays, Late Afternoon
Why
Tour groups thin out before closing
Crowd
Medium
When
During Evening Concerts
Why
Unique atmosphere, special access
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Five quick tips for visiting Notre-Dame on your trip to Paris! 👉 It’s FREE 👉 Reservations are no longer required, and if the line looks long, don’t panic—it moves fast. 👉 Notre-Dame is featured in our...
@paris.in.my.pocket
27.3K likes • 446.7K views

🎟️ Don't Pay for Entry

Admission to Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris is free. Ignore anyone trying to sell you tickets. TikTok+1

🚶‍♀️ Lines Move Fast

Even if the line looks long, it typically moves quickly, often taking 10-20 minutes to enter. TikTokReddit+1

Save this for your next trip to Paris! Here’s a travel tip if you’re planning to visit Notre Dame in Paris! Since Notre Dame reopened late last year, tickets have been nearly impossible to redeem and ...
@suzyandaustin
13K likes • 260.2K views
🎥 Retour historique : Notre Dame retrouve sa cathédrale ! Ce vendredi 15 novembre, après cinq années de travaux, la statue de la Vierge à l'Enfant, surnommée "Notre Dame de Paris" et miraculeusement é...
notredamedeparis
143.1K likes • 1.6M views

👗 Dress Respectfully

Cover your shoulders and knees. Hats are not allowed inside. A shop nearby sells cover-ups. TikTokReddit

⏰ Reserve Ahead (If Possible)

Reservations are optional but recommended for specific times, though they can be hard to secure. TikTokReddit

We can finally visit Notre Dame de Paris🤩 I’m so glad I could enter Notre Dame Cathedral today 🥹! After 5 years of closure for renovations due to the terrible fire that ruined it in April 2019 😱, th...
limitlesssecrets
8.4K likes • 218.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Don't Pay for Entry

Admission to Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris is free. Ignore anyone trying to sell you tickets. TikTok+1

🚶‍♀️ Lines Move Fast

Even if the line looks long, it typically moves quickly, often taking 10-20 minutes to enter. TikTokReddit+1

👗 Dress Respectfully

Cover your shoulders and knees. Hats are not allowed inside. A shop nearby sells cover-ups. TikTokReddit

⏰ Reserve Ahead (If Possible)

Reservations are optional but recommended for specific times, though they can be hard to secure. TikTokReddit

🤫 Be Mindful During Mass

If you visit during a service, be quiet and respectful of worshippers. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(73k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking architecture and historical significance of Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris, especially after its impressive restoration. While lines can be long, many find them manageable, and the free entry is a major plus. Some note the strict dress code and occasional crowds as minor inconveniences.

"The renovation following the fire can only be described as magnificent. It appears no detail went unnoticed and from floor to ceiling. This is truly a must see during your trip to Paris.

At midnight each night, local time tickets open up for the following two days. So at midnight on Monday (12am Monday) there will be tickets for Tuesday and Wednesday. This is the most reliable way of getting a ticket. They otherwise sell out very quickly. Tickets are free.

We got a ticket right at opening and the standby line had no wait. So if you are unable to get a ticket, just go when they open if you don’t want to risk a line. I have heard from others that the line moves quickly throughout the remainder of the day as well.

There is a paid exhibit to see some of the church, artifacts, which I highly recommend. There is a great assortment of clothing, jewelry, and church valuables.

I would plan for around 30 minutes to walk through the cathedral."

Brian Kane

"Was absolutely spectacular can't say enough about it. Keep in mind your shoulders need to be covered. So before you get in line if your shoulders are not covered go to the nearest store and buy a little scarf for €5 to put over your shoulders. It's well worth the $5 to go inside. As you leave the cathedral there is an opportunity to purchase a souvenir. Please be respectful very very beautiful and holy place."

Margo Valcke

"If you’re in Paris, you can’t miss this place. Notre-Dame Cathedral is over 850 years old and one of the most iconic examples of French Gothic architecture. Construction started in 1163 and took nearly 200 years to complete. It has witnessed many key events in French history, including the coronation of Napoleon and Victor Hugo’s famous novel The Hunchback of Notre-Dame that helped save the cathedral.

When I visited in the morning, I was honestly surprised by how crowded it already was. But despite the people, the stunning architecture completely mesmerized me. The details of the facade, the giant rose windows, and the impressive scale are unforgettable.

Highly recommended for anyone interested in history, architecture, or photography!"

Douglas Shin

What People Like

Stunning Gothic architecture
Free entry
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Long lines at peak times
Strict dress code
Difficulty securing reservations

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris is centrally located on the Île de la Cité. You can easily reach it via metro (Cité, Saint-Michel, or Hôtel de Ville stations) or RER (Saint-Michel - Notre-Dame station). Many bus lines also stop nearby, making it highly accessible for visitors to Notre Dame Paris. Reddit

Yes, Notre Dame de Paris is very well-served by public transport. The closest metro station is Cité (Line 4), and the RER B and C lines stop at Saint-Michel - Notre-Dame, just a short walk away. This makes planning your visit straightforward. Reddit

After visiting Notre Dame, consider exploring Sainte-Chapelle (book tickets ahead!), the Deportation Memorial, or the charming Square du Vert-Galant. You can also walk across the river to Shakespeare and Company or visit the free Saint-Séverin church. Reddit

Absolutely! Notre Dame is within walking distance of many key Paris attractions. For instance, it's a pleasant stroll from the Louvre Museum or the Latin Quarter, offering scenic views along the Seine. This makes it easy to integrate into your Paris itinerary. Reddit

Parking directly around Notre Dame is limited and often expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transportation or taxis/ride-shares when visiting the Notre Dame Cathedral of Paris. If driving is necessary, look for underground parking garages further afield.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris is completely free. Do not purchase tickets from unofficial vendors. While reservations for specific time slots are available, they are optional and not always required for entry. TikTokReddit+1

Reservations for Notre Dame Paris can be made on the official website, typically becoming available at midnight Paris time for two days ahead. However, they are often hard to secure due to high demand. Many visitors successfully enter by simply waiting in the general admission line. TikTokReddit

The price for general admission to the interior of Notre Dame de Paris is free. There is no charge to experience the beauty and history of this iconic cathedral. Special events or concerts might have separate ticketing. TikTok+1

Lines for Notre Dame de Paris can appear long, especially during peak times. However, they are known to move surprisingly fast, with most visitors reporting entry within 10-20 minutes, even without a reservation. TikTokReddit+1

While reservations offer specific entry times, they are not mandatory. You can join the general queue at any time during opening hours. Arriving early in the morning or late afternoon on weekdays often means shorter wait times for the Notre Dame Cathedral of Paris. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

After its extensive restoration, visitors can now experience the grandeur of the nave, the stunning rose windows, and the main altar. The interior reflects centuries of history and the remarkable efforts to restore it to its former glory. TikTok+1

Most visitors spend between 45 minutes to 1.5 hours exploring the interior of the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris. This allows ample time to admire the architecture, stained glass, and soak in the atmosphere. Reddit

Photography is generally permitted inside Notre Dame de Paris for personal use, but flash photography is usually prohibited to preserve the art and respect other visitors. Be mindful and respectful, especially during services. Reddit

Yes, you can attend religious services or special concerts. If attending a concert, entrance typically opens 30 minutes before the start, and arriving early is advised for better seating as seats are not reserved. During mass, visitors are expected to be quiet and respectful. Reddit+1

The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris, a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture, began construction in the 12th century. It has witnessed centuries of French history, including coronations and revolutions. After the devastating fire in 2019, it underwent a massive restoration, reopening in December. TikTok+2

📸 📸 Photography & Views

For iconic exterior shots, try the Pont au Double or the Square Jean XXIII behind the cathedral. Inside, the rose windows and the vast nave offer breathtaking photo opportunities. Remember to be respectful and avoid flash. Reddit

Absolutely! A boat cruise along the Seine offers fantastic panoramic views of the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris, showcasing its impressive flying buttresses and riverside facade. It's a popular way to admire the cathedral from a different perspective.

While personal photography is generally allowed, flash photography is typically forbidden to protect the delicate artworks and maintain a serene atmosphere. Always be mindful of others and avoid disrupting services or private moments. Reddit

Explore the side streets and bridges around Île de la Cité for less common angles. The Square du Vert-Galant at the western tip of the island provides a lovely foreground with the Seine. Experiment with different times of day for varied lighting. Reddit

Yes, the intricate sculptures, gargoyles, and statues on the exterior of Notre Dame de Paris are popular subjects for photography. Take your time to appreciate the detailed craftsmanship that tells centuries of stories. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris with children can be a rewarding experience. Since entry is free, it's a budget-friendly activity. The lines move quickly, which is great for impatient little ones. Encourage them to spot the gargoyles and learn about the cathedral's history. TikTokReddit

Remember the dress code (shoulders and knees covered) for everyone, including children. Plan for a visit of about an hour to keep their attention. Afterwards, the nearby Square Jean XXIII or Square du Vert-Galant offer green spaces for kids to run around, and the Seine riverbanks are perfect for a stroll. Reddit+1

💰 Budget Travelers

Notre Dame de Paris is a dream for budget travelers as admission is completely free! This allows you to experience one of Paris's most iconic landmarks without spending a euro. While reservations are optional, don't worry if you can't get one; the general line moves fast. TikTok+1

To save more, pack snacks and water instead of buying from nearby tourist traps. Explore the surrounding Île de la Cité and Latin Quarter on foot, where you can find affordable eateries and other free attractions like Saint-Séverin church or Shakespeare and Company bookstore. Reddit

📚 History & Architecture Buffs

For those passionate about history and architecture, Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris offers an unparalleled journey through time. Delve into its 12th-century origins and the evolution of its Gothic design, from its innovative flying buttresses to its intricate sculptures. The recent restoration efforts add another layer of contemporary history, showcasing modern preservation techniques alongside ancient craftsmanship. TikTok+1

Consider researching the cathedral's history before your visit to fully appreciate its significance. Pay close attention to the details of the facade, the symbolism in the stained glass, and the sheer scale of the interior. Attending a mass or concert can also provide a deeper, more immersive historical and cultural experience. Reddit+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Restoration Journey: Notre Dame Now

The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris has undergone an extraordinary restoration following the devastating fire in April 2019. After five years of meticulous work, the cathedral officially reopened its doors in December, allowing visitors to once again step inside this historic landmark. The restoration focused on preserving its Gothic integrity while incorporating modern techniques to ensure its longevity. TikTok+2

Visitors can now witness the remarkable efforts that have gone into repairing the roof, reinforcing the structure, and cleaning the interior, revealing previously obscured details. This ongoing journey of renewal makes a visit to Notre Dame de Paris even more poignant, offering a glimpse into both its ancient past and its resilient future. It's a testament to human dedication and craftsmanship. TikTok

Navigating Crowds & Entry

Visiting the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral of Paris often involves navigating crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons. While reservations are available on the official website, many travelers report them being difficult to secure, often selling out days in advance. However, don't let this deter you; a significant number of visitors successfully enter via the general admission line without a reservation. TikTokReddit+1

The key insight from real travelers is that even if the line appears long, it tends to move surprisingly quickly, often taking only 10-20 minutes to get inside. To minimize wait times, consider visiting early in the morning right after opening or later in the afternoon on weekdays. Avoiding major holidays and weekends, like Easter, can also significantly reduce your queuing time. TikTokReddit+2

Architectural Wonders: Beyond the Facade

The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris is a quintessential example of French Gothic architecture, renowned for its innovative design elements. Beyond its famous facade, take time to appreciate the flying buttresses that elegantly support the massive walls, a revolutionary engineering feat for its time. These external supports allowed for thinner walls and larger stained-glass windows, flooding the interior with light. Reddit

Inside, the sheer scale of the nave, the intricate details of the altars, and the breathtaking rose windows are truly awe-inspiring. Each element tells a story, from the biblical narratives depicted in the glass to the sculptural details that adorn every arch and column. Exploring these architectural marvels offers a deep dive into medieval artistry and engineering. Reddit

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