Message from Tripadvisor •
Due to the tragic fire that has destroyed portions of the Notre Dame Cathedral, it will be closed to tourists and worshippers until further notice. Tours listed on this page may go past, but do not enter, Notre Dame Cathedral.
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris
4.5
About
The iconic Notre Dame Cathedral Paris—meaning ‘Our Lady of Paris’—is a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture. Built back in the 12th century, the important monument has witnessed many historical events. It has also inspired Victor Hugo’s story of the Hunchback of Notre-Dame. Outside the cathedral, you can admire its grand exterior which is framed by an elegant pair of bell towers, stained glass windows and an ornately decorated facade with grand statues. You can also enter the cathedral for a small entrance fee to view Nio-Gothic artwork and furniture as well as join their weekly sessions. – Tripadvisor
Duration: 1-2 hours
Suggest edits to improve what we show.
Improve this listingTours & experiences
Explore different ways to experience this place.
Full view
What is Travelers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Top ways to experience Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris
The area
Address
Neighborhood: Ile de la Cité / Ile Saint-Louis
Two islands sit in the middle of the Seine at the very heart of Paris. The more majestic one, Ile de la Cité, sparkles with history. This is the birthplace of Paris, the home of the Gothic Sainte-Chapelle, and the site of the prison where Marie Antoinette was held before her execution. Tourists flock to see the iconic Notre Dame and the beautiful bridges that straddle the Seine. Ile Saint-Louis, the more provincial island, welcomes you with cozy traditional eateries, small boutiques, and what some people say is the best ice cream in the city. This is essential Paris from its very beginnings to its modern appeal.
How to get there
- St-Michel – Notre-Dame • 4 min walk
- St-Michel – Notre-Dame • 4 min walk
Reach out directly
Best nearby
Restaurants
10,000 within 5 kms
Attractions
4,242 within 10 kms
See what travelers are saying
- sarpor283 contributionsBeautiful, even under ruinThe devastating fire that took hold of Notre-Dame obviously devastated the place, but work is well under way to restore it. The whole area has changed since we were last here and there seems to be less space outside to stand around. Still beautiful to see.Visited April 2023Written April 3, 2023
- Caleb K4 contributionsStill a must-seeEven after the fire, the Notre Dame Cathedral continues to inspire and amaze with a renewed purpose. The grand front section of the cathedral still stands tall and although the main part of the building is covered in scaffolding, this can be viewed as proof of the active restoration. There are signs that explain the plans for the restoration as well as the significance of the cathedral and what happened due to the fire; these signs include photographs of the restoration efforts and the Cathedral before and after the fire. Overall, even in its most vulnerable state, Notre Dame is still worth visiting, and I can't wait to see it again in its full grandeur.Visited April 2023Traveled with friendsWritten April 8, 2023
- Phim BColumbus, Ohio130 contributionsWonderful is an understatement!Watching the animated movie, Quasimodo, gave me the feeling of how tiny I was compared to the hugeness of the cathedral! Being there in person made me realize it was even bigger in reality! Though we were only able to see the facade of the cathedral, still in construction after the fire that smoldered some of its sections/ceilings, you can very well see the intricate details of the buildings, the gargoyles, and appreciate the finesse architecture of the great artists and designers of this humongous cathedral, the ingenuity of their creation. Am looking forward to be back to see the interior of the cathedral which am sure is more magnificent than what can be seen outside! What’s a travel to Paris without seeing the Notre Dame Cathedral?Visited April 2023Traveled with friendsWritten April 10, 2023
- EyekaytooLeverkusen, Germany3,047 contributionsOur starting point of a whistle stop tour around ParisThis was the first real stop on our family tour of many of the great sights in the centre of Paris. We emerged from the nearby Metro/RER station and found ourselves within a stones throw of this majestic cathedral. Since the great fire back in 2019 it obviously is not possible to visit the interior but it's certainly imposing enough from the outside. Many tourists were perched on the steps of the large wooden stand in front of the building. We didn't stay long other than to take the obligatory photo (trying to avoid as much of the scaffolding and as many of the cranes as possible) and then move on downstream to see the rest that Paris had to offer.Visited April 2023Written April 14, 2023
- Heather H9 contributionsStill under repair but go!The cathedral is still under repair as of April 2023. However, there is an interesting and well done storyboard wall that explains all the work being done to fix it after the fire. The photos are wonderful and there are history lessons and visuals to explain how they are fixing. The bleachers are set up outside so grab lunch and hang out there too. Bathrooms are 2 euros -cash only.Visited April 2023Written April 17, 2023
- osnoopy13Lilburn, Georgia288 contributionsEven From the Outside Notre Dame is Awe InspiringThis is my second time visiting Notre Dame. Last time we got to go inside and see the stain glass windowns, relics and historical artwork. It's still a magnificant structure but it brings tears to my eyes to see it now half-destroyed by the fire. They say it will return to it full glory in 1-2 years. I took a few pictures and said a silent prayer for all those working on it now and those who still worship at the facility.Visited April 2023Written May 5, 2023
- biw766Henderson, Nevada42 contributionsInteresting to see what’s happening with the reconstructionKind of sad to see the cathedral gutted after the fire. We’ve been before, so went back to see the damage. It was a lot worse than we thought. It’s still worthwhile to go, but don’t plan on tours any time soon. There are bleachers outside so people can watch the repair work going on.Visited March 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten May 12, 2023
- FedoraOnTourSidcup, United Kingdom211 contributionsMANIFIQUE!Following the fire some years ago ND has been closed to the public. However, do go and have a close look at it from outside the perimeter. A magnificent building - well worth the visit. Hopefully it will be open again in 2024Visited May 2023Written May 31, 2023
- T.FoxRoubaix, France3 contributionsOur ladyUnfortunately the Notre Dame has not reopened after the devastating fire in 2019, but still it´s a work of art to see from the outside. They told us they will reopen in 2024 for the Olympic games, but looking at all the work to be done, we have our doubts. Let´s see if they can make it in time.Visited June 2023Written June 9, 2023
- Ben FBloomington, Indiana1,506 contributionsRestoration In Progress as of Summer 2022 (and 2023)Even though the cathedral is still under restoration due to the massive fire, I really enjoyed and appreciated viewing it from outside. Doing so still gives you a great sense of how grand and gorgeous the building is, both before and after the blaze. Such icons like this will never be forgotten. I can’t wait to go back after restoration and enter the amazing place.Visited July 2022Traveled soloWritten June 12, 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Contribute
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
71,645 reviews
Excellent
49,274
Very good
17,619
Average
4,029
Poor
506
Terrible
224
Olivia L
10 contributions
Mar 2024 • Couples
It was ok. Not much to ser since it’s still under reconstruction from the fire in 2019 but still a cool thing to see. Impressed with the building in general.
Written March 15, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
alejandra s
1 contribution
Nov 2023 • Family
Notre-Dame de Paris, built from 1163 to 1345, showcases stunning French Gothic architecture with intricate sculptures and colorful stained glass windows. It served as a symbol of French identity and religious devotion, attracting pilgrims and Parisians alike. Its significance lies in its historical importance, cultural influence, and as a hub for spiritual and secular gatherings.
Written March 8, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
EDUARDO FRANCIS... L
1 contribution
Dec 2023 • Family
If you’re looking to experience Notre-Dame for yourself, consider taking a virtual tour of the cathedral. While nothing can compare to seeing it in person, a virtual tour can provide you with a glimpse of its beauty and history, allowing you to appreciate this architectural masterpiece from the comfort of your own home.
Written March 8, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Diego C
1 contribution
May 2023 • Solo
This place is full of history and relics from very ancient times, it was built before 1250, during medieval times, many people moved to this place to contribute to the extensive culture that is found there.
Written March 5, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Companion16912162970
1 contribution
Mar 2024 • Solo
It is incredible how they built that in 1163, also the gothic art that is inside the Cathedral is really interesting, all thr background it has in all the art is really breath-taking; all the significant religious and historical artifacts that the Cathedral has inside such as the Crown of Thorns, they even believe it was worn by Jesus Christ during his crucifixion; the most interesting thing is that everybody is allowed to enter the cathedral, even nowadays!
Written March 5, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
RickDen
Beaconsfield, UK464 contributions
Feb 2024 • Couples
Shame this wasn't ready, but I'm informed all wil be completed by the end of 2024.
Not much to see around the side, as bulding work still going on.
Not much to see around the side, as bulding work still going on.
Written February 26, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sherpa27598282555
Houston, TX3 contributions
Jul 2023 • Solo
so much love for this iconic church, I wish I was a French to visit this destination everyday. if I have a chance I want to take my whole family to this place
Written February 24, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Victoria
188 contributions
Feb 2024 • Solo
It may still be under construction due to the 2019 fire, but even just from the outside you can still get a sense of the glory and majesty of this most famous of Gothic cathedrals. Its imposing frame still watches over the city of Paris and though scarred for the moment, it remains undefeated, a lofty symbol of the resilience and determination of the city it has watched over for nearly a thousand years.
Written February 18, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thomas V
Oakland, CA16,858 contributions
Dec 2023 • Couples
The re-construction continues, but we are now in the last stretch and it is looking good. So happy that France and the world have committed to bringing the Cathedral back to its magnificence. Never get tired of gazing at its lovliness and can't wait to go back inside.
Written January 13, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Anne C
New Jersey859 contributions
Nov 2023 • Family
Although still under construction with plenty of scaffolding around it is still massive and a site not to miss. Convenient stop for the big bus hop on hop off. The scaffolding did obstruct your view of the arches and the wall surrounding it also obstructed your view, but you can still see plenty of it and worth the trip. They had stadium type seating for those that want to just sit and pray/meditate etc. You could not go inside, and you could see construction worker doing their thing. Their is alo places to place your love locks all around that area and the river to throw your key.
Written December 28, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Would the crown of thorns be on display Friday Oct. 6, 2023? Thank you.
Lainie L
New York City, NY199 contributions
Good question! I doubt it since the Cathedral is not officially open until next year.
cuales fueron las medidas de control que se le dio al suceso de incendio el 15 de abril ??
Michael H
Kornwestheim, Germany549 contributions
Ich war nicht im Gebäude
when was it built?
bama74
Columbus, GA144 contributions
Sorry that it was started in 1163
Marina R
Cairo, Egypt32 contributions
Is the cathedral still opened for tourists to visit?
Bryn Heather Johnson
Draper, UT153 contributions
No, but they do have some information about the restoration posted along the barriers. It was interesting to walk around the cathedral and read about the fire and the plans to rebuild.
SaraAdkison
Houston, TX
Is mass still being held at Notre Dame? We are visiting in October, and I heard there are English masses, so we really wanted to go. Thanks in advance!
etoileparis
Paris, France83 contributions
Notre Dame will be closed for renovation and repair. Mass will be held at St Germain d'Auxerrois, near the Louvre museum, with the Archbishop presiding Sunday evening, I couldn't find information about the mass in English. concerts will also transfer to this church,
Ethan M.
Ashburn, VA81 contributions
We are looking to visit Paris around the end of August. Will it be open to the public and for tours by then? Or will only some parts (or none of) Notre Dame be opened?
2019 Europe trip
Palos Heights, IL62 contributions
It is a definite NO. You can take a river cruise and see the back of the building from the river but it will take YEARS to renovate. There are plenty of other things to visit. Take a hop on hop off bus tour, there are several routes and you see a lot.
Is this your Tripadvisor listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim your listingCATHÉDRALE NOTRE-DAME DE PARIS: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris:
- Paris Top Sights Half Day Walking Tour with a Fun Guide (From ₱3,990.07)
- The Darkest Secrets of Paris (From ₱2,014.28)
- Paris Full Day Tour with Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame (From ₱8,484.54)
- Big Bus Paris Hop-On Hop-Off Tour with Optional River Cruise (From ₱2,510.32)
- Latin Quarter Le Quartier Latin Guided Walking Tour - Semi-Private 8ppl Max (From ₱6,242.05)
- Hotels near Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris:
- (0.06 km) Unique 1BR Flat Next to Notre Dame and La Seine
- (0.19 km) Esmeralda Hotel
- (0.23 km) Hotel le Notre Dame
- (0.18 km) Maison Colbert member of Meliá Collection
- (0.13 km) Quai Montebello
- Restaurants near Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris:
- (0.04 km) La Creperie du Cloitre
- (0.05 km) A l'Ombre de Notre Dame
- (0.05 km) La Rosace Bistro
- (0.14 km) A. Lacroix Patissier
- (0.12 km) Comme Chai Toi - Notre Dame
- Attractions near Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris:
- (0.00 km) Aperture Tours
- (0.04 km) FM Tour France
- (0.05 km) Antiquites Eric Dubois
- (0.10 km) Wego Walking Tours
- (0.12 km) White Umbrella Tours