Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Paris
About
The Cathedral of Notre‑Dame de Paris, renowned for its soaring nave, UNESCO‑listed stone arches, and iconic rose windows, has reopened its doors after a five‑year restoration following the devastating 2019 fire. On 7 December 2024, the grand ceremony—presided over by Archbishop Laurent Ulrich and attended by French President Emmanuel Macron and hundreds of dignitaries—featured a trumpet‑like chiming of the cathedral’s bells for the first time in five years, the unveiling of a newly restored wooden spire, and the performance of a choral piece in the nave. The following day a service of prayer and music took place, marking the return of worship to the historic site. Now open to visitors for the first time since the fire, Notre‑Dame welcomes daily masses, weekend choir services, and a variety of secular performances in the first weeks of its reopening. General admission is free, but visitors are encouraged to reserve their tickets in advance via the official cathedral website, especially for the first week of the historic ‘octave’ of September 2024. The cathedral’s modern facilities—such as audio‑guided tours, wheelchair access, and multilingual signage—have been upgraded to serve all ages and interests, from history enthusiasts to families seeking a spiritual and architectural journey.
Highlights
- Restored Spire
- Stained‑Glass Windows
- Bell Towers
- Flying Buttresses
- Chapel of St. Joan of Arc
Must-See Areas
Good to Know
Good for
Best time to visit
Spring and early autumn, when the weather is mild and visitor numbers are lower, allow a more relaxed exploration of the cathedral’s masterpieces.
Pros & Cons
What visitors love
- Architectural Brilliance
- Historic Resilience
- Iconic Artwork
Things to consider
- Crowded During Peak Season
- Limited Parking
What people are saying
Frequently Asked Questions
At a glance
- Typical visit: about 2 hours