If Paris had a main character, Notre-Dame would be on the shortlist.
Sitting on Île de la Cité in the middle of the Seine, Notre-Dame de Paris has been part of the city since the 12th century. Today, after years of restoration, its doors are open again—with surprises inside this editor only found out about in the past year!
Here’s every tip you need for visiting Notre-Dame!
First Things First: It’s Free!
One of the best things about visiting Notre-Dame? You do not need to buy a ticket.
Entry to the cathedral is free. You can simply walk up and enter, although reserving a free time slot through the official website is recommended during busy periods.
Reserve your free time slot here!
About Notre-Dame
Notre-Dame has been part of Paris for more than 850 years. Construction began in 1163 under Bishop Maurice de Sully and took nearly two centuries to complete. Its soaring Gothic architecture, famous rose windows, vaulted ceilings, sculptures, and stained glass helped make it one of medieval Europe’s great architectural achievements.
And this cathedral has seen a lot. Notre-Dame witnessed royal ceremonies, revolutions, restorations, generations of worshippers, and the devastating fire of 2019. After an extensive restoration, it reopened its doors in December 2024, beginning a brand-new chapter in its very long Parisian story.
The Relics of Jesus at Notre-Dame
One of the most remarkable things about Notre-Dame is what is preserved inside. The cathedral houses three relics traditionally associated with the Passion of Jesus: the Crown of Thorns, a fragment of the True Cross, and one of the Nails of the Passion.
According to Notre-Dame, these relics were venerated in Jerusalem as early as the fourth century before being transferred to Constantinople. In 1238, King Louis IX of France, later known as Saint Louis, acquired the Crown of Thorns. He brought it to Paris in 1239, carrying the relic barefoot in a solemn procession before eventually commissioning Sainte-Chapelle to serve as its magnificent home.
Built between 1242 and 1248 on the Île de la Cité, Sainte-Chapelle was designed specifically to house the Passion relics acquired by Louis IX. Its soaring Gothic architecture and extensive stained glass transformed the chapel into a monumental reliquary. The Crown of Thorns remained there for centuries before the relics were moved during the French Revolution and eventually placed in the treasury of Notre-Dame in 1806.
Today, the Crown of Thorns, the True Cross and the Nail are all presented at Notre-Dame on Fridays. Get the schedule here!
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Rules for Entering
Notre-Dame is a major Paris attraction, but it is also an active Catholic church.
Mass and prayer services take place throughout the week, so sightseeing comes second when worship is taking place. Keep your voice low, dress respectfully, and follow the cathedral’s photography guidelines.
And if you have time, stay for Mass!
What to Wear
Notre-Dame is both a historic landmark and an active Catholic church, so dress with the setting in mind!
If you’re attending Mass or spending time in prayer, shoulders and hemlines should be covered. Comfortable shoes are also a good idea—you’ll want to take your time walking through the cathedral and exploring Île de la Cité afterward.
For more Paris fashion info, read How to Dress Like the Locals in Paris This Fall.
Before You Go
A few things to keep in your Paris notes:
- Address: 6 Parvis Notre-Dame, Place Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris
- Cathedral entry: Free
- Check hours: Opening times change for celebrations and special events
- Dress: Covered shoulders with comfortable shoes
- Bag Policy: Small purses and handbags are welcome
- Helpful: The official Notre-Dame app is free
Check current visitor information and opening hours here!
And Then… Enjoy Paris
After your visit, step outside and take a little stroll around Île de la Cité. Grab a pastry. Walk along the Seine. Find a pretty spot to sit.
The City of Light is still standing after all this time. Go see the world the Father sent his son for!
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