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A guide to Notre-Dame's operating hours and best times to visit

Today

Open 08:00–18:45

Notre Dame Paris

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The Cathedral is open all year round, every day of the week from 7:45am to 7pm on the weekdays and 8:15am to 7:30pm on the weekdays.

Jan 1 TO Dec 31 Timings

Days (Jan 1 TO Dec 31)

TIMINGS

Monday (Today)08:00–18:45
Tuesday08:00–18:45
Wednesday08:00–18:45
Thursday08:00–18:45
Friday08:00–18:45
Saturday08:00–19:45
Sunday08:00–19:45

Best time to visit the Notre Dame Paris

Weekday vs Weekend

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  • From Monday to Friday, especially early in the morning or late in the afternoon, the Cathedral tends to have fewer crowds, making it easier to explore the intricate architecture, stained glass windows, and other features without feeling rushed.
  • Weekends, on the other hand, are typically busier as they attract both tourists and local worshippers, particularly on Sundays when mass services may limit access to sightseeing.
  • However, weekends can also offer a more vibrant atmosphere with nearby street performers and bustling cafés around the Île de la Cité.

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

Pleasant
Crowded
Very Crowded
Closed

Peak season vs low season

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  • During the peak season, which spans spring and summer (April to August), the weather is pleasant, and the long daylight hours allow for extended exploration of the Cathedral and its surroundings. However, these months attract heavy crowds, leading to longer queues and a busier atmosphere.
  • In contrast, the non-peak season, which includes fall and winter (September to February), offers a quieter and more serene experience. With fewer tourists, you can fully immerse yourself in the Cathedral's grandeur, particularly in winter, when Notre-Dame’s interior feels especially magical during Christmas festivities.

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Off Season
Moderate Season
Peak Season
Notre-Dame interior and exterior guided tour

Discover the wonders of Notre-Dame with an expert-led tour that takes you through both the inside and outside of the cathedral. Learn about its Gothic architecture, rich history, and hidden symbolism, with commentary available in English, Italian, Spanish, French, or Russian.

​Book now

Notre-Dame Mass timings

Notre-Dame Mass can be attended by all and is free for all. Find out more here.

Monday to Friday

  • 8am – Angelus and Mass
  • 12pm – Angelus and Mass
  • 3pm – Rosary
  • 5:30pm – Vespers
  • 6pm – Mass and Angelus
  • Thursday, 6:45pm – Eucharistic Adoration

Saturday

  • 8:30am – Angelus and Mass
  • 12pm – Angelus and Mass
  • 3pm – Rosary
  • 5:15pm – First Vespers
  • 6pm – Anticipated Mass and Angelus

Sunday

  • 8:30am – Mass
  • 9:30am – Lauds
  • 10am – Gregorian Mass
  • 11:30am – Mass
  • 5:15pm – Vespers
  • 6pm – Diocesan Mass

How long should I spend at the Notre-Dame?

Quick visit

30–45 minutes

  • Walk around the exterior to admire the Gothic architecture, sculptures, and gargoyles.
  • Explore the plaza (Place Jean-Paul II) and take photos of the façade.

Standard visit

1–2 hours

  • Admire the interior (when open), including the stained-glass windows, statues, and altar.
  • Light a candle or take a moment for quiet reflection.
  • Walk around Île de la Cité for views of the Seine and the back of the Cathedral.

Extended visit

2–3+ hours

  • Explore the Archaeological Crypt below the plaza to learn about Paris's Roman and medieval history.
  • Stroll along the Seine or relax in the nearby Square Jean XXIII garden behind the Cathedral.

Archeological Crypt opening hours

Inside underground archeological crypt, Notre dame, Paris

The Archaeological Crypt of Notre-Dame, located beneath Place Jean-Paul II in front of the Cathedral, typically has the following timings:

  • Tuesday to Sunday: 10am to 6pm 
  • Last entry 30 minutes before closing
  • Closed on Mondays and certain holidays like May 1 and December 25.
  • Most visitors spend around 30-45 minutes exploring the Crypt, which contains artifacts and exhibits showcasing the history of Paris from Roman times through the Middle Ages.
Beneath Notre-Dame lies 2,000 years of secrets

Ever wondered what Paris looked like long before the boulevards, cafés, and crowds? With Archeological Crypt of Île de la Cité Entry Tickets, step beneath Notre-Dame and uncover the city’s hidden past through Gallo-Roman and medieval remains, ancient port ruins, 308 AD fortifications, and grand 3rd-century dwellings—all with access to every exhibition.

​Explore now

Frequently asked questions about Notre-Dame Cathedral hours

Since Notre-Dame Cathedral is open to all and free of entry, it could get crowded. To avoid the long wait line, reserve your time slot on the official website for a hassle-free entry.

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