From Louvre Museum to Notre Dame de Paris: A Complete Guide

Paris is truly amazing. The country has so many amazing landmarks that it can feel a bit overwhelming. Imagine yourself enjoying the lovely courtyard of the Louvre Museum. While you’re there, think about how nice it would be to go from the Louvre Museum to Notre Dame.

How about a lovely walk to the famous Notre-Dame Cathedral? This journey is more than just getting from one place to another; it’s a delightful stroll through history and art. With the Seine River sparkling beside you, each step reveals something special.

However, without a plan, you might miss out on some hidden treasures and waste valuable time. I’m here to help! Together, we can explore the best transport, walking paths, and river cruises to connect these two beautiful Parisian icons. Let’s make the most of your adventure!

Key Takeaways

• The Louvre Museum and Notre-Dame Cathedral are two of Paris’ most iconic landmarks.
• You can walk between them, which takes about 25 to 30 minutes and offers beautiful views of the Seine.
• There are some other options, including buses, taxis, cars, and scenic river cruises.
• Discover landmarks like Pont Neuf, Île de la Cité, and Sainte-Chapelle along the way.

History of the Louvre and Notre Dame

Louvre Museum

The Louvre is located in Paris, France. It is one of the world’s largest and most famous museums. In the 16th century, King François I converted the fortress into a royal residence. After the Renaissance, it became a public art museum in 1793. In 2023, around 9 million tourists visited the Louvre Museum.

Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris

The Notre-Dame Cathedral is a medieval Catholic cathedral located on Île de la Cité. It is considered the masterpiece of French Gothic architecture. The construction of Notre Dame began in 1163. During the French Revolution, it faced huge damage.

Napoleon’s coronation and many French presidents’ funerals took place at the cathedral. Despite the 2019 fire, it remains a symbol of resilience and faith. Around 12 million tourists visit this monument every year.

Together, these landmarks represent the essence of Paris: art, history, and timeless beauty.

Starting Point: The Louvre Museum

The Louvre was a fortress built by King Philip II in 1190. At first, it slowly transformed into a royal palace. By the late 18th century, it became the magnificent museum we know today. Today, it has over 35,000 art pieces. They include masterpieces from ancient civilizations, the Renaissance, and modern art.

Must-See Highlights At Louvre Museum

1. The Mona Lisa

Leonardo da Vinci is the artist of the Mona Lisa. It is the most famous painting in the world for its subject’s enigmatic smile. Everyone talks about her mysterious smile.

Ticket tip: You can book direct access tickets for the Mona Lisa painting room.

2. Venus de Milo

Another famous statue at the Louvre is the Venus de Milo. It represents Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love.

3. The Winged Victory of Samothrace

This incredible sculpture of Nike, the Greek goddess of victory. It is another Must-See attraction at the Louvre.

Exploring Tips: If you are going to explore Louvre Museum, read our “What to See in Louvre Museum?” guide.

Booking Louvre Museum Tickets

Visiting the Louvre museum needs entry tickets. From my experience, here are some tips for Louvre Skip the Line Tickets or last-minute tickets for the Louvre Museum.

Where to Buy Louvre Museum Tickets

Official Website: You can book your tickets from the museum’s official website. The availability of tickets from the website is very low.

Trusted Third-Party Platforms

There are several platforms which sell tickets for Louvre museum. But all platforms are not trusted. From my experience, you can trust platforms like:

• Tours Travel Finder: This platform is very trusted. Most of the time, you can book your entry tickets from them. During my last visit, I booked my tickets from them, which saved my tour.
• GetYourGuide: Another famous platform for Louvre museum tickets. Sometimes they do not have the ticket due to early sell-out. But you can trust this platform.

How to Secure Louvre Museum Last Minute Tickets​?

There are some other trusted platforms which sell skip the line louvre tickets​. Below I am giving a list of tickets and their purchase link.

Booking Advice: You can buy various types of tickets from Tours Travel Finder. They are trusted.

Best times to visit Louvre Museum

Visit early in the morning at the gate opening time for fewer crowds. January to March and late September to November are also good times for a small crowd. If you visit during these months, you can enjoy the museum more. 

Visit on weekdays, especially Tuesdays and Wednesdays, for fewer crowds. If you are looking for more details, read the full guide for Best Time to Visit Louvre Museum.

Route Options from Louvre Museum to Notre dame

The distance from Louvre to Notre Dame depends on the way you are using to reach it. But, around 2 kilometres is the average distance between these landmarks. There are various ways to get from louvre to Notre Dame.

Walking Route Along the Seine River

Both attractions are located very closely. You can take a walk from the Louvre to Notre-Dame Cathedral. Depending on your walking speed, it will take 20-25 minutes. The route is very beautiful. You can enjoy the Seine River and bridges, quaint streets, and famous landmarks.

Highlights Along the Way:

• Pont des Arts: Known as the “Lover’s Bridge,” it offers stunning river views.
• Île de la Cité: The cradle of medieval Paris.

Get to Notre-Dame by metro

Metro is the best way to travel from the Louvre to Notre Dame.

• Start at: Palais Royal–Musée du Louvre (Lines 1 and 7)
• End at: Cité Station (Line 4)
• Travel Time: 5 to 10 minutes
• Costs: €2.15 per ticket.
• Details: The Cité station is just a short walk from Notre-Dame, making this a quick and efficient option.

Bus Services

The bus is another easy way to get from the Louvre to Notre-Dame. You will find direct buses operating every 5 minutes.

• Lines to Consider: Buses 21, 27, or 38 operate between the Louvre and Notre-Dame.
• Travel Time: Around 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.

Taxi and Ride-Sharing Options

• Travel Time: ~5 minutes, depending on traffic.
• Cost: Typically between €10 and €15, but this can vary depending on traffic and the time of day.
• Booking Tips: You can book taxis directly from the street, or you can use ride-sharing apps.

If you are looking for a comfortable and fast way, this is ideal for you. Public transport can sometimes be crowded, and it can also get stuck in traffic.

Taking a Seine River cruise

A Seine River cruise offers a scenic and relaxing way to travel between the Louvre and Notre-Dame. You can enjoy unique views of Paris from the water.

How to Board a Batobus: The Batobus operates as a water taxi service along the Seine. You can board at the Louvre stop along the river.

Cruise Duration and Ticket Details:

• Duration: The Batobus takes about 30-40 minutes for a full loop, but you can hop on and off at various stops.
• Ticket Price: The price is different for various types of cruises. You can book  River Cruise with Audio Commentary.

Must see landmarks between Louvre and Notre Dame

Explore Pont Neuf

Pont Neuf is an iconic bridge. It is one of the most famous spots near Louvre and Notre Dame. You will find it between the Louvre and Notre Dame. You need to cross the Seine River by using this to reach Notre-Dama.

Why visit Pont Neuf?

• Completed in 1607 under King Henry IV.
• Offers panoramic views of the Seine and Île de la Cité.

Pay a visit to Sainte-Chapelle

• Location: 8 Boulevard du Palais, on the Île de la Cité.

This chapelle was built in the 13th century. It was commissioned by King Louis IX. The chapelle was a part of the Palais de Justice complex. Sainte-Chapelle is considered one of the finest examples of Rayonnant Gothic architecture.

Place de la Concorde

• Location: At the eastern end of the Tuileries Gardens
• Highlights: It is one of the most famous public squares in Paris. You can enjoy amazing views of the Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe from this place.
• Tip: The area is very large. Take a break and enjoy the expansive views of Paris.

Palais de Justice (Palace of Justice)

The Palace of Justice is located at 4 Boulevard du Palais, on Île de la Cité. It is a historical building that has several courts and a prison. The famous Court of Appeal is also here. The architecture of the Palais de Justice is a stunning example of French Gothic style.

Paris Attractions Tips: If you are a Museum Lover, Paris is best for you. Explore More About Museums of Paris.

Destination: Notre-Dame Cathedral

A Gothic Masterpiece

Finally, you are in front of Notre-Dame Cathedral. It is one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture. The cathedral’s construction took nearly 200 years. It started in 1163 and was completed in 1345. King Louis IX started the construction of Notre-Dame Cathedral.

Architectural Highlights: Notre-Dame features some amazing elements, such as flying buttresses. It was a wonder at the time, which allowed the walls to be thinner and enabled the installation of larger windows. Its vaulted ceilings and intricate stonework showcase the craftsmanship of the era. The cathedral has three massive rose windows.

Significance: The cathedral has seen many significant events in French history. Notably, Napoleon Bonaparte crowned himself Emperor of France at Notre-Dame in 1804.

Impact of the 2019 Fire and Ongoing Restoration

In April 2019, a dangerous fire damaged a large portion of Notre Dame. It caused the collapse of the spire and destroyed much of the roof. The fire was a national tragedy for France and the world.

Since the fire, an extensive restoration project has been underway. The French government has allocated a big budget to rebuild the cathedral. Their main focus is restoring the building to its former glory.

What to See at Notre-Dame

Rose Windows: There are three big rose windows. These are the most amazing elements of Notre Dame. Each window is composed of intricate stained glass panels. The west rose window is the most famous and can be seen from the front façade.

Gargoyles and Statues: Notre-Dame is famous for its charming gargoyles. These unique figures not only add beauty but also help channel rainwater away from the building. The statues of saints, biblical figures, and kings of Judah improve the look of Notre Dame.

Flying Buttresses: The innovative use of flying buttresses is another key architectural feature.

Bell Towers: The two towers of Notre-Dame stand proudly above the cathedral. They offer a commanding view of the Paris skyline.

Notre Dame Tickets and Entry Information

Opening hours

• Monday to Friday 7:45 AM – 7:00 PM, until 10:00 PM on Thursday
• Saturday and Sunday 8:15 AM – 7:30 PM

Things to Know: Access to the cathedral is free of charge every day of the year during opening hours.

Combining Nearby Attractions Tickets

Maximize your day by including these stops. I will add all ticket-booking links for you.

• Musée d’Orsay: Just across the Seine, featuring Impressionist art.
• Eiffel Tower: Visit for breathtaking night views.
• Seine River Cruise: Take a river cruise and enjoy Paris city from the river.

Best times to visit Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris

Tips for Exploring Notre-Dame Cathedral

Interior Exploration: The interior of Notre-Dame is still an awe-inspiring sight. Look out for the high vaulted ceilings, medieval stained-glass windows, and the altar.

Rooftop and Tower Views: The rooftop views of Notre-Dame offer a panoramic view of Paris. The bell towers provide better close-up views of the cathedral’s gargoyles and sculptures.

Mass and Services: You can attend Mass or other religious services. This experience adds a spiritual layer to your visit.

Audio Guides and Tours: To enhance your experience, try an audio guide or join a guided tour to understand the rich history.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How far is the Louvre Museum from Notre-Dame Cathedral?

The distance is about 2 kilometers (a 25-30 minute walk). The time depends on your mood of transportations.

What’s the Best way to travel from Louvre to Notre Dame?

Walking is scenic; public transport and taxis are faster options. You can use the metro service for a better travel experience.

What are Must-see landmarks between Louvre and Notre Dame?

Pont Neuf, Sainte-Chapelle, Seine River, Place de la Concorde, Palais de Justice (Palace of Justice).

Can you walk from Louvre to Notre Dame?

Yes, you can walk from louvre to Notre Dame. The distance is not very far. It will take around 20 minutes from louvre to Notre Dame.

Conclusion

Getting from Louvre to Notre Dame is more than a journey. It’s a journey through Parisian history, art, and culture. Plan your trip wisely, and don’t forget to enjoy famous places in Paris. Whether you walk, take a bus, or hop on a river cruise, this is a Parisian adventure you’ll never forget.