Explore Notre-Dame and the Île de la Cité

The historic heart of Paris.

🕰️ A bit of history!

The historic birthplace of Paris, Île de la Cité is one of the oldest populated areas in the capital, occupied since Gallo-Roman times.

It was in the heart of this island that Notre-Dame de Paris was built, with construction beginning in 1163 during the reign of Louis VII and completed in the mid-14th century. A masterpiece of Gothic art, the cathedral has been the scene of many major events: coronations, royal weddings, and even the coronation of Napoleon in 1804.

The building impresses with its rose windows, gargoyles, majestic vaults and two 69-metre towers overlooking the Seine. It has inspired generations of artists, notably Victor Hugo with his famous novel Notre-Dame de Paris in 1831.

Exploring Notre-Dame and the Île de la Cité is like stepping back in time, with medieval streets, monuments steeped in history and breathtaking views of the Seine.

🏛️ The essential places to visit:

Notre Dame Cathedral

Reopened to the public since December 2024, Notre-Dame welcomes you to its beautifully restored interior following the fire in 2019. You will discover the Gothic nave, the new roof structure, the cleaned stained-glass windows, and the famous Crown of Thorns, which is on display on certain Fridays.

ℹ️ Admission is free, but online booking is recommended via the official website up to 48 hours before your visit.

🕰️ Allow approximately 1 to 1.5 hours for a complete visit.
🎧 Audio guides are available.
🛐 Appropriate clothing and silence are required during services.
♿️ Accessible for PRM.

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The Sainte-Chapelle

A jewel of Gothic art, the Sainte-Chapelle, built in the 13th century by Saint Louis, houses one of the most spectacular collections of stained glass windows in the world, depicting more than 1,000 biblical scenes. Its upper chapel, bathed in coloured light, offers an unforgettable visual experience.

ℹ️ Admission fee applies, online booking strongly recommended via the official website, with mandatory time slot. Combined tickets with Conciergerie are available.

🕰️ Open daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. (April–September) / until 5 p.m. (October–March).
🕓 Allow approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour for the visit.
🎧 Audio guides available – guided tours at 11 a.m. & 3 p.m.
📍 Access via the Palais de Justice.
♿️ Lower chapel accessible to PRM – upper chapel is not accessible.

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The Conciergerie

A former royal palace converted into a revolutionary prison, the Conciergerie offers a true journey through history: discover the majestic Salle des Gens d'Armes, the restored medieval kitchens, and the memory of Marie Antoinette and the Revolutionary Tribunal.

ℹ️ Admission fee applies, online booking strongly recommended via the official website. Combined tickets with Sainte-Chapelle are available.

🕰️ Opening hours: daily from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. (last admission at 5:30 p.m.).
🕓 Duration: allow 1 to 1.5 hours.
🎧 Audio guides available – guided tours at 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
♿️ Accessibility: site not PRM accessible (stairs)

Book your visit

🍽️ Where to eat?

- Les Deux Colombes : Old-fashioned bistro with a quiet and intimate terrace. Traditional French cuisine, generous portions.

- Le Caveau du Palais : A discreet establishment on Place Dauphine. It serves classic French cuisine in a typically Parisian wood-panelled setting.

- Les Deux Palais : Lively brasserie opposite the courthouse. Perfect for a quick lunch or a coffee on the terrace.

- Le Petit Plateau : A small, friendly restaurant just a few steps from the Conciergerie, offering seasonal dishes and vegetarian options. Warm welcome and good wines.

- Le Parvis : Located just a stone's throw from Notre Dame, this restaurant offers refined French cuisine in a sleek setting.

🧘 To relax:

- La Place Dauphine : One of the most charming squares in Paris, with a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a break or an improvised picnic.

- Le Square du Vert-Galant : Located at the western tip of the island, this little green haven offers a magical view of the Seine and the Parisian quays.