Cathédrale 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.

Located in Quartier Notre-Dame, the iconic Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Paris or as a stop on your countrywide road trip in France.

Paris is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Paris offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit the iconic landmarks and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Arc de Triomphe, Champ de Mars, and Sacré-Cœur.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Paris has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Paris - a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in France!

Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris is located in Paris, France, and is easily accessible by several modes of transportation. If you are arriving by plane, Charles de Gaulle Airport is approximately 14.07 miles (22.64 km) away from Paris. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle to the city, where Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris is located.

If you’re already in Paris, you can take a bus, taxi or even walk to the Catholic cathedral. The exact address of the attraction is 6 Parvis Notre-Dame - Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris, France, France.

You can also rent a car and drive to Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris. With a rental car you will enjoy freedom to explore Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris and other top attractions in Paris at your own pace.

With your travel plans in place and these guidelines in mind, you're all set for an unforgettable experience at Cathédrale 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.

No visit to Paris is complete without a trip to Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris, one of the most iconic attractions in France drawing large crowds of visitors every year. To make the most out of your visit at this unique Catholic cathedral, consider booking a tour in advance to avoid the lines and guarantee a seamless experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris starting from 9.99 EUR below.

Discover the enchanting beauty of Paris and top attractions like Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris with a perfectly planned holiday package. Our travel packages include everything you need to explore Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris and beyond. Whether you're looking for an adventure-filled getaway or a relaxing retreat, our holiday packages to Paris, France, offer a variety of activities and experiences to suit all types of travelers.

Continue reading to find the best travel plans and tips for discovering this one-of-a-kind Catholic cathedral in France.

Discovering France's captivating landscapes and the iconic Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris becomes a breeze with a rental car. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 8 reputable rental car companies near Charles de Gaulle Airport and the city of Paris, making transportation seamless and efficient.

France's rental car companies cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Paris and beyond.

For budget-conscious travelers, Sixt currently boasts the most affordable rates, starting at just 30.86 EUR per day or 215.99 EUR per week. Conveniently located at 195 Boulevard Voltaire, 75011 in Paris, this rental option ensures you can explore France's wonders without breaking the bank.

Wake up well-rested to a new day of exploring in Paris by staying at a top-rated hotel in the heart of the city. With the city's most famous attractions like the stunning Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris just a stone's throw away, you'll be in the perfect location to effortlessly immerse yourself in Paris.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris below.

Paris offers a diverse range of top attractions. From museums and architectural wonders to sculptures and natural wonders, the city has something for everyone. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Paris, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Arc de Triomphe.

Eiffel Tower is a bucket-list lattice tower and top attraction in Paris, attracting numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 5 out of 5 stars in 322,389 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Eiffel Tower is Champ de Mars, 5 Av. Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France.

Another appreciated attraction in Paris is Louvre Museum. This is just like Eiffel Tower, one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 5 out of 5 stars among 250,811 visitors, it’s also one of the highest rated. The exact address of this art museum is Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France.

Arc de Triomphe is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Paris. This triumphal arch and top attraction in Paris has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 193,235 visitors. Visitors usually spend a moment at Arc de Triomphe creating core memories of the city. This attraction is located at the address of Pl. Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, France.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Paris below.