This is my another blog about Notre Dame Cathedral. It was such an interesting tour of a place in my france journey. One of my audience asked me: Do you need tickets for Notre Dame Paris?
Several places in the world are breathtaking in various ways, and for most, you would probably agree that Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris is breathtaking in more ways than one.
As for those who are like me, the mere thought of taking a stroll in its shadows, feeling history that spans centuries and enjoying the facets of Gothic architecture is heart-warming.
On the latter, the famous French landmark was on my itinerary and well you should know it was worth the hype.
While seated here, sipping coffee and lost in thought, I remember so vividly the time I was in front of Notre Dame Cathedral, in fact, this is right now I recall, thanks to the coffee.
When this work of art came into the picture, the energy and anticipation of the festivities grew. My friend asked me then, “Voilà, mais alors vos billets pour Sainte Chapelle, il en faut ou pas?” and I hadn’t been bearing the commission.
However, as with so many other things about this well-known place, this is also true—it is said—more of it and more along the way. So come along for the ride as I later relive my visit to Notre Dame , I explore all that I am and negate the belief that one needs a ticket to enter.
The First Glimpse of Notre Dame Cathedral
How fascinated I was with the splendid awesome look of Notre Dame Cathedral as soon as I set foot on the campus.
The grand twin towers of Paris stood out against the urban cityscape of Paris with the exquisite details of every inch of stone. I instantly felt as though I had stepped into a living history museum.
Notre Dame is situated on the Île de la Cité, and it has been one of the highlights of Paris for many centuries – as soon as I set foot on the island, I already knew that it was special.
The weather on that day could not have been better – the sun shone bright and the skies were clear with just a gentle breeze and that invigorating Paris air where every inhale felt very nice.
A majestic Notre Dame Cathedral which sits gracefully close to the middle of the Seine made it hard to walk at a normal pace. And that is exactly what I did. Long before I even thought about whether it was necessary to buy a ticket to get inside, I spent quite a half an hour just sitting in front of it and looking at its gorgeous facade.
A Glance Into the History of Notre Dame
However, even though Notre Dame Cathedral is today regarded as the crowning glory of the French Gothic style, it is almost 900 years old.
The construction work commenced in 1163 in the time of Louis VII of France and it is hard to believe that it took almost two hundred centuries to finish! If you have ever queried, ‘“How long did it take to build Notre Dame?’“, approximately 180 years, which is quite a long term, isn’t it?”
Arch purposes inspired the cathedral beautifully over the generations which picked up certain drawing points – its flying supporting arches, lavish stained glass decorations and of course the spitting ones who forever seem to be above you.
It housed royal ceremonies, revolutions, and restorations; it was used for the emperor’s crowning ceremony in 1804 as well. And certainly, who will not recall the great jog of imagination that Victor Hugo took in the writing of ‘the hunchback of not re-dame’.
Going Inside Notre Dame: Should Tickets be Purchased?
Pricing. The golden question:“Do you need tickets for Notre Dame Paris?“. Well, this time it will be mandatory- but the short answer is no! Why, that is a pleasant surprise- at least for a traveler with an economic slant such as myself there is no fee for entering the cathedral.
But in case you wish to explore the top of the overview towers of Paris, the observers towers, I am afraid additional charge for that visit will have to be done. Thank god, the public is still permitted to visit the central hall and the chapels.
As much as the building is still a work in progress most parts of the inner court are waiting to be dry and suck this more itinerant l and I guarantee it is worth wetting your feet.
There are simply no words to describe the sense of peace that engulfs you the moment you step inside. I was left enthralled by the high walls and arches, as well as the ornate decoration of the interior and the brilliantly illuminated rather large Rose Window.
The soft whisper of prayers and quiet footsteps made me realize that Notre Dame Cathedral was not only for the tourists, but also still an active church.
The Memory of Notre Dame Which Was More Than Just Impressive: A Personal Moment at This Monument
There is one memory pending on all the other memories from that day for it was something that has been etched in my mind. As I was sulking about the hallway, which had rather dim lighting everywhere, I ended up in front of the altar which had several candle lights.
At that moment, it dawned on me how many people actually stood at the same site before me praying, lighting candles or mourning? Quite often it felt like being engaged in something way beyond the scope of me.
Though the number of tourists surrounding me was very high, the awe was common for all. Both inhabitants and tourists seemed to share the marvel of the place’s past and the space itself.
And then when I was already sitting comfortably at one of the benches, and leaned on modern church glass, sunlit by vivid colors I was ready to fly in the clouds. This was not the purpose of the trip, ‘hey look, I went there’; such was the impact one felt during this visit.
Near to Notre Dame Cathedral Where to Stay-Which Resort Should You Select
Be it for a day or a week, a stay morning news Planning Your Visit To The Notre Dame Cathedral justifies the whole essence of a Parisian experience undeniably. Let me mention some examples of the accommodations you can choose from, which I think you will like:
- Hôtel Le Notre Dame Saint-Michel: Situated just minutes from the Notre Dame Cathedral, this charming boutique hotel also commands superb views of both Notre Dame and the River Seine.
They are comfortable and beautifully furnished in the modern as well as the Gothic designs that would suit everyone wishing to appreciate the historical background of the area.
- Les Rives de Notre Dame: This is a lovely budget accommodation with a view over the river and rest within a short distance to some of the major tourist attractions in Paris. Hence it is a good option for those who wish to move around the city.
Travelers with limited funds may still go for one of the many affordable Airbnbs available within the area, which guarantee a short distance to the cathedral while allowing for more local interactions.
Where to Eat Around Notre Dame
After a day filled with activities, a place to sit down and savor some nice food will be needed. This is expected in Paris where there are lots of nice cafes and restaurants. There are some that I tried and loved while I was there, as follow:
- Le Saint Régis: This bistro located in the Île Saint-Louis serves classic French cuisine in a welcoming and homey atmosphere. You cannot leave without tasting their croque-monsieur and as for coffee, it will energize you for sightseeing all afternoon.
- Le Petit Chatelet: This lovely little restaurant is close to the cathedral and serves mainly French food with some focus on various meats grilled on the spit.
The warm and close environment feels amazing especially after a tiring day. I also enjoyed Odette for a quick coffee and pastry break – a small patisserie known for the irresistibly – puffs, light and enjoyable, perfect for a mid-morning teaser before hitting the road again. — ‘Visiting ‘Notre Dame’ at night:
A different world of ‘Paris’’ That said, do not leave Paris without witnessing ‘Notre Dame Paris at night’. The cathedral, located in the fifteenth century, has a different character when it gets dark. The light brings out the tortuous forms of the facades and surrounding walls and creates an other worldly appeal around the building.
While walking along the River seine, I shimmered at the water wherein Notre Dame could be seen projecting its contours and the entire scene was like rendered from a Bollywood movie.
It is these peaceful moments whenever no one is in a hurry that made my journey an unforgettable experience. — ‘Information about Notre Dame that the Traveler may need to plan her or his trip’ On a more practical note, it’s good to consider certain information when developing a plan to visit. – ‘Does Notre Dame gather visitors everyday? Peace and Quiet Hall welcomes visitors as the reconstruction works may go on regarding some particular crocheting for example the main table.
- Transport: The Notre Dame Cathedral is within reach to anyone as one easily gets off at the Cité stop which is the closest to the cathedral. A short distance can also be walked from other places of attraction of the city like the Louvre or Saint Germain des Pres. A vehicle is not even necessary – the Paris public transport is so well designed.
- Budget-Friendly Tips: Apart from the ticketed climb of the towers, there are no charges for entering the cathedral which gives it an edge for the economical travelers. Purchase your lunch then and enjoy it in some of the parks near there’s something in my big head or book, I don’t want to talk to all the blocks I mean the view.
Final Reflections on Notre Dame Cathedral
Trying to relax and considering my time in Notre Dame, I guess quite possibly one of the most unforgettable experiences this place gave me. I was embraced inside and out by its impressive history and architecture, as well as in the quietness I gifted myself in contrast to the bustling city – not just a place to see, but a place to be.
I strongly urge you to allocate time for Notre Dame Cathedral whether it is your first visit to Paris or the hundredth. Its charms, attractiveness and historical value render it to be possibly one of the most interesting places to be and I look forward to the time when it will be back to the people completely.
But also make sure to look up when you are going—you may be amazed at the things you don’t usually see.
FAQs:
Is Notre Dame’s entry free?
Yes, one can freely enter the main hall of Notre Dame, but a ticket will be necessary to scale the towers.
When is the complete reopening of Notre Dame expected?
At the moment the works of full-size restoration activities are provided and for this prayer temple Notre Dame the resumption to the public will more likely be within the year 2024.
Who is the architect of Notre Dame Church?
Many architects worked on the Notre Dame cathedral through many centuries in the year of AC, especially Jean de Chelles and Pierre de Montreuil in the 13th century.
When was Notre Dame Cathedral built and completed?
The building of Notre Dame kicked off in 1163; it took almost 180 years to finish the construction that is general 1345- N and some details were done.
Do you mean there are other Notre Dame too?
It is true in fact that in France and also in some other countries one can find other Notre Dame cathedrals, albeit not quite complementary as Notre Dame de Paris.
Do we still find the true ‘Crown of Thorns’ in Notre Dame?
Indeed, the Crown of Thorns, which is believed to have been worn by Jesus Christ, is kept in the Notre Dame Cathedral, and the crown was spared from the flames of the 2019 fire.
