How Can I Visit Notre-Dame Cathedral?

We all remember the heart-wrenching images of Notre-Dame Cathedral’s roof collapsing in 2019 during the devastating fire. Five years later, the Cathedral has risen from the ashes, more glorious than ever. As a local who’s watched this iconic symbol of Paris undergo its incredible transformation, I’m thrilled to share my best tips for visiting Notre-Dame now that it has reopened to the public.

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Reopening of Notre-Dame de Paris: what you need to know

Is There an Entrance Fee to Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris?

Good news! Entry to the cathedral itself is free, but access to specific areas, like the Treasury, costs €10. Notre-Dame aims to remain a welcoming space for all, sharing its rich history and beauty freely.

That said, be prepared for crowds. Nearly 40,000 visitors are expected daily, especially in these initial months after reopening. While you can visit spontaneously, long waiting times are likely, so planning ahead is key.

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How to Book Tickets to Visit Notre-Dame

To manage the crowds, a free reservation system has been introduced. Here’s how it works:

- Reserve your time slot through the official Notre-Dame website or the “Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris” mobile app.

- Tickets are released only 2 days before, the day before, and on the day of your visit.

- Every day, between 10,000 and 15,000 free reservations are available. These slots are gradually put online, just a few hours before you enter the cathedral.

- Visits take place in 30-minute slots, with real-time adjustments based on occupancy. Up to 3,000 people can enter simultaneously.

- Once booked, you’ll receive a digital ticket via email. Bring this (printed or digital) and a valid ID.

Pro tip: Tickets go fast, so try booking early in the morning for the best chance at snagging a slot. I suggest checking the official website regularly for new availability.

If you don’t manage to book, walk-ins are allowed but be prepared for queues depending on the time of day. I suggest you come to Notre-Dame early in the morning when the monument opens or during the last opening hour of the day.

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What Are the Opening Hours?

From December 16, 2024, the cathedral will be open:

- Monday to Wednesday and Friday: 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM  
- Thursday: 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM  
- Saturday and Sunday: 8:15 AM to 7:30 PM

Last entry is 30 minutes before closing. If you’re aiming for a quieter experience, visiting during the final hour of the day is your best bet.

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Can I Attend Mass at Notre-Dame Cathedral?

Absolutely! As a functioning place of worship, Notre-Dame offers daily masses, as well as rosary prayers and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. Special events and weekly concerts will also run through June 2025. For details on services and concerts, check the cathedral’s official program.

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Practical Tips for Visiting the Inside of Notre-Dame

To ensure a smooth visit, here are a few rules and tips:

- Security: All visitors undergo security checks. Leave large bags and unnecessary items at home to speed up the process.
- Behavior: Respect the prayerful atmosphere by wearing modest attire, speaking quietly, and refraining from phone calls.
- Amenities: There are no restrooms inside. Free public toilets are available nearby on rue d’Arcole, or paid options can be found on the forecourt.

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What New Features Can Visitors Expect?

The restoration process has brought new life to Notre-Dame. Here’s what’s new:

- A reimagined tour route and redeveloped forecourt.
- Enhanced visitor experiences through updated signage and the dedicated mobile app.
- Thoroughly cleaned stonework, paintings, and renovated furniture, showcasing the cathedral’s true brilliance.

Fun fact: During the fire, a human chain of emergency workers saved priceless artifacts, including the Crown of Thorns. Many of these treasures remain on display inside.

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Can I Book a Guided Tour of Notre-Dame?

Guided tours won’t be available until June 2025. For now, you’ll need to explore the cathedral on your own. If you’re visiting Paris before June, consider pairing your self-guided tour with an exterior guided walk to learn about Notre-Dame’s history and architectural marvels.

For group visits, bookings will open in 2025—February for religious groups and June for tourist groups.

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My Insider’s Tip

If you’re planning to visit, flexibility is key. Download the mobile app, dress appropriately for security checks, and keep an eye on ticket releases. And don’t forget to carve out time to admire the cathedral’s stunning exterior, which has been carefully preserved and restored.

Notre-Dame isn’t just a symbol of Paris; it’s a testament to resilience and human craftsmanship. Whether you’re stepping inside for the first time or revisiting after the fire, this experience will stay with you long after your trip. Happy exploring!

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