Notre-Dame Cathedral Papeete
Historic 1875 Catholic cathedral in Papeete, blending French colonial style with Tahitian art. A peaceful landmark near the port.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds
Notre-Dame Cathedral Papeete
Best Time
Beat the crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic 1875 Catholic cathedral in Papeete, blending French colonial style with Tahitian art. A peaceful landmark near the port.
"Beautiful local cathedral with Tahitian style. You have to visit. Wonderful architecture."
🎯 Respectful Attire
Cover shoulders & remove hats before entering.
⏰ Beat the Crowds
Visit early morning or Thursday evenings for a peaceful experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tahitian-Inspired Stations of the Cross
Interior
Experience religious art with a unique local twist, featuring paintings that reflect Tahitian culture.

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

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
Best Visiting Times
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Respectful Attire
Cover shoulders & remove hats before entering.
⏰ Beat the Crowds
Visit early morning or Thursday evenings for a peaceful experience.
🚗 Free Parking Nearby
Benefit from two hours of free parking close to the port.
🖼️ Admire Local Art
Look for the unique Tahitian-style Stations of the Cross.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Respectful Attire
Cover shoulders & remove hats before entering.
⏰ Beat the Crowds
Visit early morning or Thursday evenings for a peaceful experience.
🚗 Free Parking Nearby
Benefit from two hours of free parking close to the port.
🖼️ Admire Local Art
Look for the unique Tahitian-style Stations of the Cross.
🌬️ Pleasant Interior
Enjoy the cross-ventilation that keeps the interior comfortable.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
Yes, there is free parking available for two hours close to the main port, which is very convenient for visitors to the cathedral.
Absolutely! The cathedral is a short and pleasant walk from the main cruise port in Papeete, making it an easy stop for cruise passengers.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
There is no entrance fee to visit Notre-Dame Cathedral Papeete. It is a free attraction.
Yes, you can attend church services. The cathedral holds services, and visitors are welcome to join, offering a chance to experience local culture.
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.
🎫 ⛪ 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.
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.
The cathedral is not air-conditioned, but it benefits from excellent cross-ventilation, making the interior surprisingly pleasant and comfortable, even on hot days.
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.
Photography is generally permitted inside religious sites, but it's always respectful to be discreet and avoid flash photography, especially during services.
📸 📸 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.
Yes, you can generally take photos inside, but always be respectful. Avoid using flash, especially during services, and be mindful of other visitors.
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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
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👨👩👧 Families with Kids
⛪ Religious Visitors
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
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.
Experiencing the Interior
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.



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