notre dame cathedral

Notre Dame tours and experiences

Make reservations for the iconic Paris cathedral.

Hours of operation

Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri 7:50 AM to 7:00 PM, Thu to 10:00 PM, Weekends 8:15 AM to 7:30 PM.

No ticket required

Admission is free at the cathedral, though a timed-entry reservation is recommended.

Best time to visit

Early morning, late afternoon, and early evening tend to be less busy.

About Notre Dame Cathedral

Notre Dame Cathedral stands as one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture, with construction spanning nearly two centuries from 1163 to 1345. Point Zéro, the marker from which all distances in France are measured, sits in the square before it, making the cathedral the literal and symbolic heart of the country.

About Notre Dame Cathedral

Notre Dame Cathedral stands as one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture, with construction spanning nearly two centuries from 1163 to 1345. Point Zéro, the marker from which all distances in France are measured, sits in the square before it, making the cathedral the literal and symbolic heart of the country.

Top highlights for your visit

notre dame spire

Reconstructed spire

The spire that collapsed in the 2019 fire has been rebuilt using traditional materials, including oak and lead, faithfully restoring the silhouette above the Île de la Cité that had been missing from the Paris skyline for five years.
notre dame cathedral towers

Cathedral towers

Climbing the 424 steps to the top of the towers brings you face-to-face with the cathedral's famous gargoyles and a panoramic view across Paris. A separate paid ticket is required and must be reserved in advance through the official website.
notre dame rose windows

Rose windows

Three immense stained-glass rose windows dating to the 13th century remain among the cathedral's most celebrated features, and the late afternoon light passing through them is worth timing your visit around.
notre dame point zero

Point Zéro

Set into the cobblestones of the square directly in front of the main entrance, this small bronze marker is the point from which all distances in France are officially measured, making it the literal geographic heart of the country.

Notre Dame Cathedral FAQs

Things to know before visiting Notre Dame

Entry and dress code

  • Entry to the main cathedral is free for all visitors.
  • Security screening is in place at the entrance; allow extra time on busy days.
  • Dress modestly inside, with shoulders and knees covered, as it is an active place of worship.

What to bring

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes, especially if you plan to climb the towers.
  • Travel light. Large luggage is not permitted inside the cathedral.
  • Tower access requires a separate paid ticket reserved in advance.

Additional Information

  • The main floor is accessible to visitors with reduced mobility. The towers—with 424 steps to the top— are not.
  • Photography is generally permitted for personal use. Flash and tripods are not allowed.