Notre-Dame de Paris travel guide

Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris, often simply referred to as Notre-Dame, is a historical treasure and an architectural masterpiece situated in the heart of Paris.

It was first commissioned by Bishop Maurice de Sully in 1163 during the reign of Louis VII. The construction of this Gothic architectural marvel spanned over two centuries, with its completion in 1345.

Notre-Dame has borne witness to significant historical events, from the coronation of Napoleon Bonaparte in 1804 to the beatification of Joan of Arc in 1909.

Tragically, in 2019, a catastrophic fire ravaged parts of the cathedral, leading to the collapse of the spire and roof. However, restoration work is underway to preserve this iconic symbol of French Gothic architecture.

Notre-Dame is not just an iconic cathedral, but a symbol of the enduring spirit of Paris and France. Its rich history and architectural beauty continue to attract millions of visitors each year.

The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris, a marvel of French Gothic architecture, holds myriad distinctive features. Its facade, adorned with numerous sculptures, tells biblical stories, making it a 'Poor People’s Book.' The cathedral's three portals, the Portal of the Virgin, Portal of the Last Judgment, and Portal of St. Anne, each carry unique carvings and symbolism. Another striking feature is the Rose windows, the large circular stained glass windows, which are among the largest in Europe. They are known for their intricate designs and vivid colors, depicting biblical scenes.

The cathedral's interior is equally captivating with its rib-vaulted ceiling supported by slender columns, creating a sense of verticality. The choir and apse of the cathedral are surrounded by an ambulatory and a row of chapels, each holding its charm. The cathedral's south tower houses Emmanuel, the largest bell, named after the Angel of the Annunciation. Lastly, the cathedral's twin towers, standing 69 meters high, offer panoramic views of Paris, a sight not to be missed. Despite suffering significant damage in the 2019 fire, the intrinsic value and allure of Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris remain undiminished.

Discover Notre-Dame de Paris, a prime feature of Paris, in the vibrant Quartier Notre-Dame. Notre-Dame de Paris is situated at 6 Parvis Notre-Dame - Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris, France, just a short distance from Sainte-Chapelle and Conciergerie, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Notre-Dame de Paris, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Paris, a city in France rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Discover the best time to visit Paris to fully enjoy the seasonal charm of Notre-Dame de Paris. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Paris travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

Notre-Dame de Paris is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Paris, France. If you're flying in, Charles de Gaulle Airport is approximately 14.1 miles (22.6 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach Notre-Dame de Paris by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Paris, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Notre-Dame de Paris, which is located 0.1 miles (0.1 km) from the city center. Its exact address is 6 Parvis Notre-Dame - Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris, France.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Notre-Dame de Paris!

The best time to explore Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). These seasons offer mild weather conditions which can enhance your exploration of the cathedral's unique architecture. Also, these periods are less crowded than the summer months, providing a more relaxed atmosphere for your visit. If you're interested in special events, the Easter Mass in spring and the Assumption of Mary in August offer unique religious ceremonies that add to the cathedral's historic ambiance. For a magical experience, consider visiting during the Christmas season when the cathedral is beautifully lit up, although it's worth noting that this time tends to be busier. To avoid the peak crowds, aim to visit on weekdays and arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Regardless of the season, the best time to explore Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris often depends on your personal preferences for weather, crowd levels, and special events.

To truly enjoy your visit to Notre-Dame de Paris, joining a guided tour of this renowned church in Paris is highly recommended. As one of France's most iconic attractions, Notre-Dame de Paris draws visitors from across the globe, often leading to long queues and limited availability.

Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience. With the biggest selection of tours and tickets in Paris, you’re sure to find an option that fits your schedule and preferences.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Notre-Dame de Paris starting at just 2.99 EUR below. Enjoy benefits like free cancellation and 24/7 customer support for added convenience.

If you're looking for an effortless way to explore Notre-Dame de Paris, perfectly planned travel packages to Paris make it easy and enjoyable, all while keeping costs manageable. With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Paris, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Notre-Dame de Paris.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic church in France.

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Choosing the right accommodation near Notre-Dame de Paris from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Paris can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Notre-Dame de Paris, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Notre-Dame de Paris, Paris boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From establishment to museum, the top attractions in Paris offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Paris is Eiffel Tower, located at Champ de Mars, 5 Av. Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France. This well-known establishment enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Louvre Museum is worth seeing when you're in Paris. It's a popular museum that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Arc de Triomphe completes any trip to Paris. This museum draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Pl. Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, France, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Paris below to discover even more incredible places to explore.