Table Of Content
- The History of Notre Dame Cathedral
- The Notre Dame Cathedral Opening Hours 2025
- Notre-Dame de Paris Tickets: What You Need to Know
- How to Go to the Notre-Dame Cathedral?
- What is the Best time to go to the Notre-Dame Cathedral?
- What to eat at the Notre Dame Cathedral?
- Things to Do at the Notre Dame Cathedral
- Notre Dame Cathedral Map
- Notre Dame Cathedral Must-See Exhibits
- Things you need to know before visiting the Notre Dame Cathedral
- Other Attractions in Paris
- Tips for Exploring Notre-Dame Cathedral
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
I thought getting Notre Dame Cathedral tickets would be simple. I was wrong.
There were too many options, hidden fees, and websites that didn’t feel safe. I even showed up once without a valid ticket—just to be turned away. The lines were long, the rules confusing, and I felt frustrated and lost.
I didn’t want to waste another day in Paris. I just wanted to see the cathedral without the chaos.
If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Many travelers make the same mistakes I did.
But don’t worry—I found a better way.
In this guide, I’ll show you how to book tickets the right way. Fast, safe, and stress-free. Keep reading and make your Notre Dame visit smooth and memorable.
Key Takeaways
- Book your Notre Dame Cathedral tickets online to avoid long queues.
- The Notre Dame Cathedral reopened to the public on 7 December 2024 after the devastating 2019 fire.
- Be sure to explore the beautiful crown of thorns, the stunning spire, and the lovely nave during your visit.
- You can choose between our guided tours or explore at your own pace with self-guided options.
- Combine your visit with nearby landmarks like Sainte-Chapelle or a Seine River cruise.
The History of Notre Dame Cathedral
The Notre-Dame Cathedral is an amazing example of French Gothic architectural history. It is a medieval Catholic cathedral located on Île de la Cité. You will be amazed that the construction of the cathedral was started in 1163 and completed in 1345. It took around 200 years to build this structure.
During its construction phase, it faced huge damage from various events. France’s revolution is one of them. Many French presidents’ funerals took place at the cathedral. One of the best events in the history of this cathedral was Napoleon’s coronation. It became a symbol of resilience and faith. It became a symbol of resilience and faith. Around 12 million visitors annually visit this monument.
Notre Dame Cathedral Architectural Highlights
Notre-Dame has some amazing features that attract millions of visitors. Flying buttresses are one of them. These features enable thinner walls and bigger windows. Some other architectural features are:
- Rose Windows: Notre Dame de Paris Cathedral has three iconic rose windows, located at the west, north, and south ends of the church.
- Notre Dame’s Towers: The twin towers of Notre Dame are another eye-catching feature. They stand at 69 meters tall.
- Sculptures and Gargoyles: Notre Dame Chapel has hundreds of sculptures. The cathedral is also known for its gargoyles.
- Vaulted Ceilings and Nave: Inside, you will see that the cathedral has vaulted ceilings. These are a marvel of Gothic architecture.
While exploring Notre Dame Cathedral, you might also be interested in another iconic French landmark, the Palace of Versailles: A UNESCO World Heritage Marvel.
Why Should You Visit Notre-Dame Cathedral?
The Notre-Dame Cathedral is not just a landmark; it is a living example of French Gothic architecture and culture. Here’s why it is a must-visit:
1. A Timeless Architectural Icon
Visit and enjoy its stained-glass windows, intricate flying buttresses, and the grand portal of the Last Judgment.
2. Home to Sacred Relics
People believed that the crown of thorns had been worn by Jesus Christ. It is one of the cathedral’s most prized treasures.
3. Witness a Historic Revival
The Cathedral was damaged by a devastating fire in 2019. It has undergone an extraordinary restoration. You can watch its renewed splendor, including the rebuilt spire and restored nave.
4. A Place of Stories and Legends
Visiting the cathedral will tell you the stories from Victor Hugo’s The Hunchback of Notre-Dame to its role in French history.
Ticket Tips: Confirm your reservation before visiting the Notre Dame Cathedral.
The Notre Dame Cathedral Opening Hours 2025
The cathedral is open every day. There are just time variations. Here is some information you need to know:
| Day of the Week | Opening Hours |
| Saturday and Sunday | 8:15 AM – 7:30 PM |
| Monday to Friday | 7:50 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Thursday | 7:50 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Last entry 30 minutes before closing. | |
- There are no ticket charges for the Notre-Dame Cathedral. It is free and open to all.
- Book free access online before your visit. Without a reservation, the waiting time can be long.
Notre-Dame de Paris Tickets: What You Need to Know
The entry to Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral remains free of charge. You can book free access from the official website to enter Notre-Dame. However, there are many trusted platforms that sell complete tickets for this attraction. These tickets include entry and exploration of the church.
There are many types of tickets. Here I am giving you a complete guideline for the iconic cathedral.
1. Skip-the-Line Tickets
Who loves to wait in line? The answer is no one. Skip-the-line tickets are lifesavers for people who have limited time and plan for a short tour. This type of ticket grants access to the cathedral very smoothly. You can book tickets from Tours Travel Finder for your Notre Dame tickets.
2. Guided Tours
Guided tours are always best for history lovers and first-time travelers. In this type of tour, an expert guide will help you understand the history and architecture. Sometimes, these tickets include access to areas like the bell towers or archaeological crypts.
| Guided Tour Type | Price | Booking Link |
| Guided Walking Tour of Notre-Dame | From $52.65 | Book Now |
| Virtual Reality Experience at Notre-Dame | From $41.84 | Book Now |
| Guided Notre Dame Cathedral & Seine River | From $75.60 | Book Now |
3. Self-Guided Tickets + Audio Guide
If you love to explore alone, an audio guide ticket is the best option for you. You can book an attraction ticket with an audio guide. The audio will explain the history, instructions, and necessary information.
4. Combo Deals With Seine River
Paris is the home of many amazing attractions. You can easily maximize your visit by adding another attraction to your ticket. There are many trusted platforms selling combo tickets with Notre-Dame. I am giving you a list of combo deals you can enjoy.
| Tour Type | Price | Booking Link |
| Notre-Dame & Seine Cruise | From $75.60 | Click Here |
| Notre-Dame Guided Walking Tour | From $52.65 | Click Here |
| Eternal Notre-Dame VR Experience | From $41.84 | Click Here |
| Sightseeing Night Tour by Open-Top Bus | From $47.25 | Click Here |
| Illuminations River Cruise | From $22.95 | Click Here |
For more Paris historical sites tickets, visit the official Tours Travel Finder.
Where to Buy Tickets?
There are tons of third-party platforms that sell Notre Dame Cathedral tickets. But there is a risk of scams. Many platforms are not trusted because they will keep your money without giving you a ticket. Sometimes, scam platforms give fake tickets to visitors.
But don’t worry, I am giving you some trusted platforms you can use. I personally used these platforms and bought my tickets from them without any hassle.
- Tours Travel Finder: This site is a great choice for finding last-minute tickets. It has a strong reputation for being reliable.
- GetYourGuide: Here’s another great online platform where you can find last-minute tickets. It’s a fantastic option to consider.
How to Go to the Notre-Dame Cathedral?
Here is the address of the Notre-Dame Cathedral: 6 Parvis Notre-Dame – Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris, France. You can have several options to get to the Notre-Dame Cathedral.
Transportation to get to the Notre-Dame Cathedral
| Mode of Transport | Details | Estimated Cost (One Way) |
| Metro | Take Line 4 to Cité station or Line 1/Line 11 to Hôtel de Ville station. | €1.90 |
| Bus | Routes: 21, 38, 47, 85, 96 (get off at Notre-Dame stop or nearby stops). | €1.90 |
| RER Train | Take RER B or RER C to Saint-Michel Notre-Dame station. | €1.90 – €10 (depending on distance) |
| Bike | Use Paris’s Vélib’ bike-sharing system | Free (if under 30 min), then €1+ |
| Taxi/Ride-Hailing | Book a taxi or use apps like Uber. | €10-€25 (depending on distance) |
| Walking | From central areas like Hôtel de Ville or the Latin Quarter, it’s within walking distance. | Free |
| Seine River Cruise | Take a boat such as Quai de Montebello. | €12-€20 (per person) |
Attraction Tips: If you’re visiting Notre Dame, you can also explore the Louvre Museum with this complete guide.
What is the Best time to go to the Notre-Dame Cathedral?
| Time | Details |
| Early Morning | 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM (at the time of gate opening, especially on weekdays) |
| Late Afternoon | 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM (after peak crowd hours and for golden hour photos) |
| Weekdays | Monday to Thursday (less crowded compared to weekends and public holidays) |
| Spring & Autumn | April to June, September to October (mild weather, fewer tourists than in summer) |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | December to February (Low crowds, festive atmosphere) |
| Evenings (for view) | After sunset, it offers a stunning view (the interior closes earlier) |
| Avoid Peak Times | 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM (crowded with tour groups, especially during summer and holidays) |
What to eat at the Notre Dame Cathedral?
There are no options for eating food inside the Notre-Dame Cathedral. You can find several restaurants and cafés nearby offering meals. Some popular food options are classic French cuisine, crêpes, and pastries.
You will find nearby restaurants like Aux Tours de Notre-Dame and Le Saint Régis for a meal. For something sweet, enjoy a café crème with a dessert at local pâtisseries.
Things to Do at the Notre Dame Cathedral
Admire the Architecture: See and admire the intricate Gothic design, flying buttresses, and iconic rose windows.
Climb the Towers: Access the towers with a time slot. It offers stunning views of Paris, including landmarks like Pont Neuf and Hôtel de Ville.
Visit the Crypt: Explore the archaeological crypt beneath the cathedral square. It showcases the Gallo-Roman remains and moments in French history.
Learn About the Restoration: See ongoing efforts for the restoration of Notre-Dame. Authorities are trying to ensure it remains open to visitors.
Notre Dame Cathedral Map
Notre Dame Cathedral Must-See Exhibits
- Stained Glass Windows: Intricate, colorful windows telling biblical stories. Rose Windows are special.
- The Treasury of Notre-Dame: It includes historical artifacts like pieces of the True Cross and the Crown of Thorns.
- The Organ: A grand 18th-century organ, one of the largest in France.
- The Bell Towers: It offers stunning views of Paris and the iconic Emmanuel Bell housed in the South Tower.
- The Notre-Dame Museum: A small museum displaying the cathedral’s historical evolution.
- The Crypt of Notre-Dame: An underground museum exhibition that has remains from Paris’s Roman and medieval history.
Explore the Paris Catacombs Last Minute Tickets: Visit Paris Catacombs for a unique underground adventure in Paris.
Things you need to know before visiting the Notre Dame Cathedral
- Entry: There is no entry fee, but some parts, like the towers, museum, and treasury, may have an entry fee.
- Security Checks: Expect airport-style security checks at the entrance.
- Dress Code: Keep in mind that it is a religious site. Modest dress is encouraged.
- Restoration Progress: The 2019 fire may limit access to some areas and exhibits.
- Photography: You can take photos inside the cathedral, but avoid using flash.
- Accessibility: The cathedral is wheelchair accessible. But, the bell towers are not due to the many stairs.
Other Attractions in Paris
Paris is a haven for tourists. It offers tons of attractions for visitors. When you are in Paris, don’t miss these landmarks to visit. Here I am giving you a list of attractions you must visit and their ticket booking links for your.
| Attraction | Description | Booking Link |
| Eiffel Tower | The iconic Paris landmark offers stunning views of the city. | Book Here |
| Louvre Museum | Home to the famous art Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo. | Book Here |
| Musée d’Orsay | Offers an impressive collection of Impressionist art. | Book Here |
| Champs-Élysées & Arc de Triomphe | A world-famous place for shopping and the Arc de Triomphe at its end. | Book Here |
| Musée de l’Orangerie | Known for its collection of Monet’s Water Lilies. | Book Here |
| Luxembourg Gardens | A peaceful park perfect for strolling. | No Ticket Needed |
| Seine River Cruise | A scenic boat ride along the Seine. | Book Here |
| Panthéon | A neoclassical monument where famous French figures are buried. | Book Here |
| Montmartre | Famous for its artistic history and the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica. | No Ticket Needed |
| Tuileries Gardens | A beautiful public garden between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde. | No Ticket Needed |
Tips for Exploring Notre-Dame Cathedral
- Tickets: Buy tickets online to skip long lines, especially for the Notre-Dame Cathedral.
- Mass and Services: You can attend Mass or other religious services. This experience adds a spiritual layer to your visit.
- Audio Guides and Tours: For a better experience, try an audio guide or join a guided tour.
- Food and Snacks: During your visit to Notre-Dame, take a break in a cafe or restaurant. Try traditional French food.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need to buy tickets to visit Notre Dame Cathedral?
Visiting the main part of Notre Dame Cathedral is free, as it is still a functioning place of worship. However, if you want to access specific parts like the towers, crypt, or the treasury, you will need a ticket. These sections offer stunning views of Paris, historical artifacts, and deeper insights into the cathedral’s architecture and past.
Can I buy Notre Dame Cathedral tickets online?
Yes, you can buy tickets online through official platforms or trusted resellers. Booking online is highly recommended, especially during the high season. It allows you to secure your spot, skip long lines, and avoid last-minute disappointments. Some platforms even offer skip-the-line or guided tour options.
Are guided tours of Notre Dame Cathedral worth it?
Absolutely. Guided tours provide expert insights into the history, architecture, and symbolism of the cathedral. Many tours also include priority access to restricted areas like the towers or crypt. If you want a richer, more educational experience, a guided tour is a smart choice.
Are Notre Dame Cathedral tickets refundable or changeable?
It depends on where you buy them. Tickets purchased through official sites may have strict refund policies. However, many third-party platforms offer flexible or cancelable options for a small fee. Always read the terms before purchasing to avoid any surprises.
Conclusion
Visiting the Notre-Dame Cathedral is a must for anyone exploring Paris. Its reopening in 2025 marks a historic moment, making it more important than ever to plan your visit in advance.
Book your Notre Dame Cathedral tickets now to skip the queue and experience the beauty of this Gothic masterpiece.