Notre-Dame Cathedral of Papeete - Image 1
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Notre-Dame Cathedral Papeete

4.3
·159 reviews·Papeete, French Polynesia

Historic 1875 Catholic cathedral in Papeete, blending French colonial style with Tahitian art. A peaceful landmark near the port.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Beat the crowds

CrowdLow
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Notre-Dame Cathedral of Papeete - Image 1

Notre-Dame Cathedral Papeete

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Beat the crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic 1875 Catholic cathedral in Papeete, blending French colonial style with Tahitian art. A peaceful landmark near the port.

4.3
(159 reviews)

"Beautiful local cathedral with Tahitian style. You have to visit. Wonderful architecture."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Respectful Attire

Cover shoulders & remove hats before entering.

⏰ Beat the Crowds

Visit early morning or Thursday evenings for a peaceful experience.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tahitian-Inspired Stations of the Cross

Tahitian-Inspired Stations of the Cross

Interior

Experience religious art with a unique local twist, featuring paintings that reflect Tahitian culture.

Colonial Architecture

Colonial Architecture

Exterior

Admire the historic French colonial style with a distinctive red roof and spire, a standout in Papeete's cityscape.

Beautiful Wooden Carvings

Beautiful Wooden Carvings

Interior

Discover intricate wooden carvings that add to the cathedral's historical and artistic charm.

Stained Glass Windows

Stained Glass Windows

Interior

Marvel at the vibrant stained glass windows that cast colorful patterns throughout the cathedral's interior.

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Planning Your Visit

Dress Code & Respect

While Papeete's Notre-Dame Cathedral is a place of worship, it's also a significant historical site. Visitors are advised to dress respectfully, covering shoulders and removing hats before entering. This ensures a pleasant experience for both you and the local congregation. TikTok

Best Visiting Times

To avoid crowds and experience the cathedral's serene atmosphere, consider visiting early in the morning or during weekday evenings. Some sources suggest Thursday evenings are particularly good for a less crowded visit. TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Beat the crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Thursday evenings
Why
Quieter atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Sunday mornings
Why
Experience local worship
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 FREE 48 Hours in Paris itinerary! 👉 Heads up: take off your hats and cover your shoulders before entering. 👉 Want to see the Crown of Thorns? It’s on display every Friday from Jan 10–April 18, 2025, ...
@paris.in.my.pocket
27.3K likes • 447.3K views

🎯 Respectful Attire

Cover shoulders & remove hats before entering. TikTok

⏰ Beat the Crowds

Visit early morning or Thursday evenings for a peaceful experience. TikTok

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 the line everyday has been crazy.. BUT! If you visit in the morning, around the time it opens 8am or on Thursday night (closes at 10pm), you can completely avoid the line and walk right in! No ticket ...
@suzyandaustin
13.2K likes • 268.7K views
🇵🇫 Fransk Polynesia Notre Dame Cathedral, Papeete. Fra 1875. Tahiti. (Katolsk)
norske_kirker_ann_kristin72
29 likes • 0 views

🚗 Free Parking Nearby

Benefit from two hours of free parking close to the port. Reddit

🖼️ Admire Local Art

Look for the unique Tahitian-style Stations of the Cross. Reddit

. . . #papeete #thahiti #tahitietsesiles #tahititourisme #polynesie #polinesia #polynesia #polynesiefrancaise #polinesiafrancesa #frenchpolynesia #cathedral #cathedrale #catedral #vitraux #vidrieras #stainedglass
catherine92130
29 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Respectful Attire

Cover shoulders & remove hats before entering. TikTok

⏰ Beat the Crowds

Visit early morning or Thursday evenings for a peaceful experience. TikTok

🚗 Free Parking Nearby

Benefit from two hours of free parking close to the port. Reddit

🖼️ Admire Local Art

Look for the unique Tahitian-style Stations of the Cross. Reddit

🌬️ Pleasant Interior

Enjoy the cross-ventilation that keeps the interior comfortable. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(159 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors describe Notre-Dame Cathedral Papeete as a modest but nice historical church, notable for its unique Tahitian-inspired art and colonial architecture. While some find it 'nothing special' compared to grand European cathedrals, others appreciate its historical significance as the oldest church on the island and its comfortable, well-ventilated interior. The free entry and convenient location near the port are frequently highlighted positives.

"This is a church. In the middle of the city. Nothing special. But free parking for two hours, close to the main port, in a calm area."

Miklós Csere

"Beautiful local cathedral with Tahitian style. You have to visit. Wonderful architecture. Oldest church on the island. Beautiful wooden carvings. I really liked that the stations of the cross paintings had Tahitian flair."

Ernesto A

"I was in Tahiti on 22nd August, 2017, a beautiful but pretty hot day, and while out site-seeing was looking for the US Embassy (McDonald's) and came across the Papeete Catholic Cathedral, know as Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Papeete. Not at all far from the waterfront, it's a modest but nice Cathedral. It was built by French missionaries in the period 1848-1875 making it the oldest church in Tahiti. Also of interest is that it's the last remaining examples of the early colonial architecture of Papeete. The gaily coloured with red roof, not to mention the distinctive red spire on the church tower certainly make this cathedral a stand out in the centre of the capital.

The Cathedral has benefited from several restorations over the years and it will be interesting to see how it holds its place in years to come as central Papeete develops, as I'm sure that it will.

ps. Walking a little further down the road from the Cathedral I eventually found the rather uninteresting U.S. Embassy."

Adam G

What People Like

Historic colonial architecture
Tahitian-inspired art
Free entry & parking

What People Dislike

Modest interior

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Notre-Dame Cathedral is centrally located in Papeete, making it easily accessible. It's situated near the main port and waterfront. Many visitors find it convenient to walk from their accommodation or cruise ship. If driving, there's free parking available for up to two hours nearby. Reddit

Yes, there is free parking available for two hours close to the main port, which is very convenient for visitors to the cathedral. Reddit

Absolutely! The cathedral is a short and pleasant walk from the main cruise port in Papeete, making it an easy stop for cruise passengers. Reddit

Walking is highly recommended for exploring Papeete's city center, including the cathedral. This allows you to soak in the local atmosphere and discover hidden gems. Reddit

While the cathedral is on a relatively flat area, it's always a good idea to check for specific accessibility features if you have concerns. The interior is generally comfortable due to good ventilation. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, visiting Notre-Dame Cathedral in Papeete is free of charge. It's a place of worship and a historical monument open to all. TikTok

While specific hours can vary, the cathedral is generally open for visitors. It's advisable to check locally or aim for morning or late afternoon visits to ensure it's accessible. Thursday evenings are also mentioned as a good time. TikTok

There is no entrance fee to visit Notre-Dame Cathedral Papeete. It is a free attraction. TikTok

Yes, you can attend church services. The cathedral holds services, and visitors are welcome to join, offering a chance to experience local culture. Reddit

Reservations are not required to visit Notre-Dame Cathedral Papeete. You can typically enter freely, though it's always good practice to be mindful of ongoing services. TikTok

🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience

The cathedral features a blend of French colonial and Gothic styles, with a distinctive red roof and spire, making it a unique landmark in Papeete. Reddit

Don't miss the beautiful wooden carvings and the Stations of the Cross, which are notable for their Tahitian flair. The stained glass windows are also a highlight. InstagramReddit

The cathedral is not air-conditioned, but it benefits from excellent cross-ventilation, making the interior surprisingly pleasant and comfortable, even on hot days. Reddit

Built by French missionaries between 1848 and 1875, it is the oldest church in Tahiti and one of the last remaining examples of early colonial architecture in Papeete. Reddit

Photography is generally permitted inside religious sites, but it's always respectful to be discreet and avoid flash photography, especially during services. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior, with its striking red roof and spire, offers great photo opportunities. The surrounding area also provides good vantage points. Inside, the stained glass windows and unique artwork are photogenic. Instagram

Yes, you can generally take photos inside, but always be respectful. Avoid using flash, especially during services, and be mindful of other visitors. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon light can be beautiful for exterior shots, offering softer light and fewer crowds. The interior lighting from stained glass is also a key feature. Instagram

Definitely focus on the distinctive red spire and roof, the intricate wooden carvings inside, and the vibrant stained glass windows. The Tahitian-inspired Stations of the Cross are also unique subjects. InstagramReddit

While you can capture the atmosphere, it's crucial to be extremely discreet and respectful if photographing during a service. Many prefer to visit outside of service times for photography. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Notre-Dame Cathedral Papeete can be a brief but interesting stop for families. The free entry makes it an easy addition to your itinerary. Kids might be fascinated by the distinctive red spire and the colorful stained glass windows that create patterns of light inside. The Tahitian-inspired artwork on the Stations of the Cross could also spark curiosity about local culture. Remember to ensure children are dressed respectfully, with shoulders covered, and to keep noise levels down to respect the sacred space. TikTokReddit

⛪ Religious Visitors

For those who wish to worship while traveling, Notre-Dame Cathedral Papeete welcomes visitors to its services. Attending a Sunday service offers a unique opportunity to experience local religious practices and cultural traditions firsthand. It's a chance to connect with the community and observe how faith is integrated into daily life in Tahiti. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Photographers will find Notre-Dame Cathedral Papeete offers several compelling subjects. The exterior's unique colonial architecture, especially its vibrant red roof and spire, stands out. Inside, the stained glass windows provide opportunities for dramatic shots with colored light, and the Tahitian-style Stations of the Cross offer a culturally rich photographic element. Be mindful of lighting conditions and always practice respectful photography, especially during services. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

Notre-Dame Cathedral in Papeete stands as a significant historical landmark, inaugurated in 1875. It was constructed by French missionaries and represents one of the last remaining examples of early colonial architecture in the capital city. Its construction spanned several decades, from 1848 to 1875, making it the oldest church on the island of Tahiti. The cathedral has undergone various restorations over the years, ensuring its continued presence as Papeete develops. Reddit

The architecture itself tells a story, blending French colonial influences with a unique local touch. The prominent red roof and distinctive red spire make it a visually striking building against the Papeete skyline. Inside, visitors can find elements that reflect the Polynesian culture, such as the Tahitian-inspired Stations of the Cross and beautiful wooden carvings, adding a layer of cultural depth to its religious significance. InstagramReddit

Experiencing the Interior

Stepping inside Notre-Dame Cathedral Papeete offers a serene escape from the tropical heat. Unlike many modern structures, it lacks air conditioning but compensates with excellent cross-ventilation, making it a comfortable space to explore. This natural airflow contributes to its peaceful ambiance. Reddit

The interior is adorned with artistic elements that are particularly noteworthy. The stained glass windows are a major draw, casting colorful light patterns that shift throughout the day. Equally captivating are the intricate wooden carvings and the unique Stations of the Cross paintings, which are celebrated for their distinct Tahitian flair. These artistic details provide a rich visual experience and a connection to the local heritage. InstagramReddit

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