Completed in the 14th century, the Notre Dame is the one of the most famous churches in the world. Its French Gothic style architecture is widely recognized as the finest example of its kind and the huge interior is a beautiful sight, with lovely stained glass windows on every wall, some of which date back to the 13th century when the western towers and the north rose window were completed. You'll find an interesting juxtaposition of solemn worshippers attending mass and excited tourists trying to capture the ambience with flash cameras in this cathedral.
Notre Dame is literally at the center of the city. There's even a bronze star set in the pavement across from the main entrance that marks the point zéro des routes de France. This is the point from which distances are calculated between Paris and other French or foreign cities.
How do I get there?
The cathedral is located on an island on the Seine called the Île de la Cité. The closest Metro stop is on Line 4, get off at the Cité station. This station is pretty far underground, so get ready to ascend 4 flights of stairs, or you can take the elevator to the top.
Is there an entrance fee?
There is no entrance fee to enter the Cathedral. However, if you're planning on climbing to the top see below for fees and other details.
Are there any restrictions on photography?
You can take photos inside, but flash photography is frowned on. Tripods are not allowed so you'll have to make do with hand holding those low light shots.
Can I climb to the top of the Notre Dame?
Yes you can, but you should be in reasonable shape and not claustrophobic. It's 387 steps up a narrow spiral stairway to the top, but the climb pays off with a spectacular view of Paris. At the top, there's a little alcove to see the 13 ton bell named Emmanuel-every bell in the Cathedral has a name. You also get to see the fearsome grotesque and gargoyle statues up close.
The entrance for the climb to the top tower is located OUTSIDE of the cathedral, on the left-hand side of the facade, Rue du Cloître Notre-Dame. It's a good idea to grab a bottle of water from the café opposite, you'll need it. The wait is usually an hour or longer to get to the steps. You then proceed a few flight of steps to the ticket and gift shop where you purchase your tickets. This is a good time to decide whether you can climb another 300 steps up a similar (actually slightly smaller) stairway. After you buy your tickets there's a lengthy climb to the main level. You can also opt for another climb from there to the top of the tower but that view is as good as the main level and not worth the climb in our opinion.
The ticket costs for the climb are €8.50 for adults. Tickets are free for children under 18, as well as for young adults from 18-25 provided they are EU citizens or non-European permanent residents of France. Tickets are also free for disabled visitors and their escorts as well as unemployed persons.
Is there anything else to see near the Notre Dame?
Yes! Just a short 5 minute walk from the Notre Dame is a historic and architecturally breathtaking former prison and royal palace known as La Conciergerie. The entrance is an unassuming doorway situated just next to the Palais de Justice, a courthouse which has been in operation since the late 1800s. La Conciergerie is notorious as the prison that held hundreds of prisoners before their execution during the French revolution, the most famous prisoner being Marie Antoinette. The first hall you come to when you enter the complex is the Hall of the Guards and the architecture of the interiors is simply breathtaking.
The Latin Quarter is also a 5 minute walk from Notre Dame, and the narrow streets are a great way to spend an afternoon browsing the shops or getting a delicious Middle Eastern meal.
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