Paris Notre-Dame Cathedral Exterior Tour with Free Entry
Experience a Notre-Dame guided tour, exploring its stunning exterior, before entering the Cathedral itself.
Top Pick!
Live Tour Guide
- 4.3
40 reviews - Free cancellation
- Reserve now & pay later
- Duration 1 hour
- Live tour guide: English
- Provided by: GetYourGuide
Highlights
- Expert-Led Notre Dame Exterior Tour: Explore the cathedral’s Gothic architecture
- Perfect for All: History buffs, architecture lovers, and anyone visiting Paris.
- Notre Dame Entry: Enjoy general admission access after the tour
- Île de la Cité Insight: Learn why this island anchors Notre Dame
Including
- 1-hour guided exterior tour of Notre Dame (English)
- Notre Dame Entry
Availability
Full Description
Join our Paris Notre-Dame Guided Tour for an in-depth exploration of Paris’s most iconic cathedral, located on Île de la Cité. For one hour, your professional guide will reveal the awe-inspiring details of the cathedral’s exterior, from its intricate flying buttresses and gargoyles to the symbolic sculptures that adorn the West Façade. You’ll also discover how Victor Hugo’s classic novel, The Hunchback of Notre-Dame, played a pivotal role in preserving this architectural marvel. After your guided exterior walk, your guide will direct you to the general admission line for Notre Da... Read more
Join our Paris Notre-Dame Guided Tour for an in-depth exploration of Paris’s most iconic cathedral, located on Île de la Cité. For one hour, your professional guide will reveal the awe-inspiring details of the cathedral’s exterior, from its intricate flying buttresses and gargoyles to the symbolic sculptures that adorn the West Façade. You’ll also discover how Victor Hugo’s classic novel, The Hunchback of Notre-Dame, played a pivotal role in preserving this architectural marvel. After your guided exterior walk, your guide will direct you to the general admission line for Notre Dame entry, which is free and does not require a timed ticket. While there’s no skip-the-line option available, any waiting period only adds to the anticipation of witnessing Notre Dame’s newly restored interior. Once inside, stroll through the cathedral at your own pace. Stand beneath the vaulted ceilings, marvel at the crown of stained-glass rose windows, and soak up the spiritual atmosphere. Enriched by your guide’s insights, you’ll appreciate every carved detail and centuries-old relic, even more so as this sacred landmark continues its remarkable rebirth after the 2019 fire.
- The tour operates in all weather conditions, so please dress accordingly. In case of rain, bring an umbrella.
- We do not provide time entry tickets into Notre Dame nor are we selling any type of entry into Notre Dame. Entry to
- Notre Dame is free for anyone who wishes to visit, we are providing guidance on how to enter and a historic exterior walking tour.
- The tour is not wheelchair accessible due to the historic nature of the sites.
REVIEWS
4.3/5 
40 reviews
Our guide made the whole tour come alive with her humour knowledge and anecdotes Was a great experience Recommend 100%
Stephen – United Kingdom
Pierre was knowledgeable and entertaining. He showed us the area around as well as the cathedral itself.
Beth-Ann – United States
Sonny, was a very pleasant and knowledgeable individual. He pointed things out that you would never know unless you had a guide.
Andrew – United Kingdom
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
When was Notre-Dame built? Construction began in 1163 and was largely completed by 1345.
Why is Notre-Dame so famous? It is an architectural masterpiece of French Gothic style, a major religious site, and the setting of Victor Hugo’s novel The Hunchback of Notre-Dame.
What does “Notre-Dame” mean? It means “Our Lady” in French, referring to the Virgin Mary.
Is Notre-Dame still a church? Yes, it remains a Catholic cathedral and hosts religious services.
What relics are housed in Notre-Dame? The cathedral holds significant Christian relics, including the Crown of Thorns, believed to have been worn by Jesus Christ.
What is the best time to visit Notre-Dame? Early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays to avoid crowds.
Can you climb the towers of Notre-Dame? Before the fire, visitors could climb to see the famous gargoyles and a panoramic view of Paris. It is expected to reopen after restoration.
What are some other nearby attractions? The Sainte-Chapelle Church, Conciergerie, and the Seine River walks are all close by.
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