The Notre Dame Cathedral has finally reopened its doors for visitors from December 2024.
While it welcomes people from 7.45 am to 7 pm from Monday to Friday, it offers extended time for visiting till 10 pm on Thursdays.
Also, the opening hours vary slightly on weekends, from 8.15 am to 7.30 pm.
While visiting Notre Dame de Paris during the daytime is a wonderful idea, if you have extra time, consider visiting it at night too.
Tourists who are short on time use the extended hours and visit it after dark.
Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your nighttime visit.
Best time to visit at night
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To experience the Notre Dame transform into a majestic spectacle against the night sky, we recommend planning your visit strategically.
Aim to arrive just before sunset (around 8 pm) for a breathtaking transition from daylight to dusk. This timing allows you to capture the cathedral glowing in the warm hues of the setting sun.
Consider arriving later in the evening on Thursday, as Notre Dame remains open until 10 pm.
By this time, the crowds thin out, offering a more serene atmosphere for soaking in the illuminated beauty of the cathedral and its surroundings.
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A tourist from South Portland, Maine, says, “The Cathedral is beautiful but most beautiful at night when it is all lit up against the Parisian night sky. Worth a visit inside but just beautiful from the outside at night.”
What to expect by visiting Notre Dame at night
Visiting Notre Dame Cathedral at night is a captivating experience that reveals a different side of this iconic Parisian landmark.
Shrouded in lights, history, and the gentle hum of Parisian nightlife, the cathedral takes on a mystical and romantic charm.
Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect:
An illuminated masterpiece
Lights: Notre Dame’s intricate Gothic details, from its flying buttresses to the majestic rose window, are emphasized by a carefully designed lighting scheme. The spotlights cast a golden glow, highlighting the cathedral’s façade and sculptures, including the iconic gargoyles that seem alive at night.
Glittering towers: The two tall towers look even more imposing under the night sky, with shadows playing across their detailed stone carvings.
Light reflections: The Seine River, flowing just beside Notre Dame, mirrors its lights, offering a dreamlike view of the illuminated cathedral.
Even without entering the cathedral, the sheer beauty and grandeur of Notre Dame at night evoke a sense of wonder and reflection. It’s a moment to appreciate not only its architectural splendor but also its resilience through centuries of history, including its restoration after the 2019 fire.
Serene atmosphere
👨👩👧👦 Fewer visitors: Unlike the bustling crowds of the daytime, evenings bring a quieter experience. You can enjoy the cathedral’s magnificence without the interruptions of large tour groups or long queues.
❤️ Romantic ambiance: The lighting, combined with the serene surroundings of Île de la Cité, creates a perfect romantic atmosphere, making it a favorite spot for couples.
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The Charm of the Seine at Night
The Seine embankments near Notre Dame offer a picturesque setting for evening strolls, where the gentle sound of the flowing river enhances the cathedral’s serene ambiance.
The interplay of lights from Notre Dame and nearby streetlamps creates shimmering reflections on the water, evoking a scene straight out of a painting.
Adding to the charm, street musicians and artists often grace the area, infusing the night with a quintessentially Parisian vibe.
Take a guided tourNearby Attractions to Explore
Nearby Notre Dame, you can explore the charming Île de la Cité, with its peaceful cobblestone streets and historic vibe.
Don’t miss Sainte-Chapelle, famous for its gorgeous stained-glass windows, and the Conciergerie, a former royal palace and prison.
Take a walk to Pont Neuf, the oldest bridge in Paris, for beautiful views of the Seine and Notre Dame at night. These spots add more magic to your evening visit!
Take a guided tourAccessibility of Notre Dame areas at night
Here’s a clear breakdown of what can and cannot be accessed during a nighttime visit to Notre Dame Cathedral:
| Area | Accessibility at Night | Details |
| Main Floor | Limited (Thursdays Only) | Open until 10 pm on Thursdays. |
| Exterior (Plaza) | Always Accessible | Free to visit anytime. |
| Crypt | Not Accessible at Night | The archaeological crypt closes earlier in the evening (typically by 6 pm). |
| Roof (Observation Deck) | Not Accessible at Night (Currently) | The roof, offering panoramic views, is not open for evening visits. |
| Treasury | Not Accessible at Night | Usually closes by early evening; special events may provide exceptions (check for updates). |
| Surrounding Area | Always Accessible | Explore nearby attractions like Square Jean XXIII, Pont Neuf, and Île de la Cité, lit up beautifully. |
Practical tips for a smooth visit
🆓Free Entry for the Exterior: The exterior of Notre Dame is free to visit, even at night. Strolling around the plaza and nearby quays requires no tickets.
But you can take the guided tours to explore the attraction from outside with the help of an expert guide. Remember, guided tours are only available for outside the cathedral. You cannot take the guide inside the attraction.
🎟️Interior Access Tickets: While the interior is typically closed at night for most days of the week, they allow entry inside the cathedral on Thursdays (or for special events). The cathedral is free to enter, but tourists must get reservations done online or at the offline reservation counter.
Get more details about tickets.
🚐Transportation:
- Nearby metro stations like Cité (Line 4) and Saint-Michel Notre-Dame (RER B and C) make it easy to reach Notre Dame and return to your accommodation. Explore in detail.
- If you plan to stay late, consider using a taxi or rideshare service for convenience.
Learn more about transportation options.
⚠️Safety: Paris is generally safe for nighttime exploration, but it’s always wise to stay in well-lit areas and be mindful of your belongings, especially near the Seine.
🌥️Weather preparedness: Check the forecast before heading out. Evenings by the river can be chilly, so dress warmly or carry a jacket.
📸 Best vantage points for photography:
- Square Jean XXIII: Located behind the cathedral, this square offers a stunning view of the illuminated flying buttresses and the Seine.
- Pont de l’Archevêché: A short walk from the cathedral, this bridge provides excellent angles for nighttime photography, including reflections on the river.
- Quai de Montebello: Positioned along the Left Bank, this spot is ideal for unobstructed front façade and tower views.