Paris: Notre-Dame Cathedral Interior & Ile de la Cité Guided Tour

Paris , France

Paris: Notre-Dame Cathedral Interior & Ile de la Cité Guided Tour

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About this experience

Step inside the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral and uncover the stories behind its awe-inspiring Gothic design.
Marvel at the vaulted ceilings, glowing stained glass, and sacred altars that define its breathtaking interior. Explore the historic heart of Paris on a guided walking tour of Ile de la Cité, where every corner reveals centuries of history.
Enjoy the intimacy of a semi-private group with no more than 5 guests, allowing for a more personal and engaging experience.

Available options

English Semi-Private Tour

This tour includes a guided interior visit to Notre-Dame and a walk through the Ile de la Cité in a semi-private group.

What's included

Guided visit inside Notre Dame Cathedral

Expert local guides for insider knowledge

Guided walk through the Ile de la Cité

2-hour guided walking tour at a relaxed pace

Semi-private group of up to 5 people

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Explore the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral and the Ile de la Cité on a 2-hour guided walking tour. Join a semi-private group to experience Notre Dame’s interior and uncover the rich heritage of Paris’s historic heart. Begin your journey at the Equestrian Statue of Henri IV, located at the western tip of Île de la Cité.

Stop 2

Step into the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, a symbol of resilience and a breathtaking masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Learn about the remarkable restoration efforts following the tragic fire of 2019. Take in the cathedral’s grand portals and the King’s Gallery, where rows of biblical kings overlook the square—a defining feature of its detailed facade.

Inside, discover a collection of classical religious artworks that reflect the cathedral’s rich spiritual and artistic heritage. Admire its soaring flying buttresses, intricate stone carvings, and magnificent stained glass windows, including the world-renowned rose windows that bathe the interior in vibrant color and light.

Hear fascinating stories about Notre Dame’s gargoyles, towering spires, and the craftsmanship behind its iconic Gothic elements. Relive scenes from Victor Hugo’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame and stand where Napoléon Bonaparte was crowned, immersing yourself in centuries of French history.

Walk through Ile de la Cité, learning how it evolved from a Roman settlement into the historical heart of Paris.

Stop 4 Pass by

See the impressive exterior of Sainte-Chapelle, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.

Stop 5 Pass by

Admire the Conciergerie from the outside, known for its striking towers and historic role as a royal palace and prison.

Stop 6 Pass by

Stroll along the Seine, admire its medieval architecture, and hear tales of monarchs and pivotal events that shaped the city.

What's not included

Transfer to the meeting point

Visit to the Treasury and Bell Towers of Notre Dame

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

16 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Suitcases and large bags are not allowed

Please wear modest clothing suitable for a place of worship.

Bring valid identification documents with you, considering security checks within the premises.

Arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before the start of the tour.

It is not possible to join the tour after it has commenced.

The group will include a maximum of 5 people.

Tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated.

All visitors will undergo security checks upon entry, which may result in long lines, especially during high season.

Fast-track entry is not available for the cathedral. All visitors, including guided groups, must pass through mandatory security checks, which may result in a wait at the entrance.

Respectful clothing is required to enter the cathedral. Shoulders and belly must be covered, thighs at least half-covered, and transparent clothing is not permitted. Entry may be denied if these rules are not respected.

Please note: The meeting point is not at the Notre-Dame Cathedral!

Meeting point

We meet in front of the Equestrian Statue of Henri IV. Please note that the nearest metro station is Pont Neuf. Your guide will have a signboard that says, “Walks In Europe.”

Please note: The meeting point is not at the Notre-Dame Cathedral!

About Paris

Paris, the capital of France, is a city steeped in history, art, and romance. Known for its iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and charming neighborhoods, Paris offers a unique blend of timeless elegance and modern vibrancy. From the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre, the city is a treasure trove of cultural and historical gems.

Top Attractions

Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is Paris's most iconic landmark and a symbol of France. Built in 1889 for the World's Fair, it offers breathtaking views of the city.

Architecture 2-3 hours €17.10-€26.80 (depending on the level)

Louvre Museum

The Louvre is the world's largest art museum and a historic monument in Paris. It houses thousands of works of art, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.

Museum 3-4 hours €17 (full price), free for under 18s and EU residents under 26

Notre-Dame Cathedral

Notre-Dame is a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture and one of the most famous cathedrals in the world. It has been undergoing restoration since the 2019 fire.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free (towers and crypts may have reopening fees in the future)

Montmartre

Montmartre is a historic and artistic district known for its bohemian past, charming streets, and the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica.

Cultural Half-day Free to explore (Sacré-Cœur dome visit €6)

Palace of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles is a grand royal château and garden located just outside of Paris. It was the principal royal residence of France from 1682 to 1790.

Historical Full day €18-€28 (depending on the pass)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Croissant

A buttery, flaky pastry made from laminated dough. Best enjoyed fresh from a local bakery.

Breakfast Contains gluten and dairy

Baguette

A long, thin loaf of French bread with a crispy crust and soft interior. Often served with cheese or ham.

Breakfast/Lunch Contains gluten

Steak Frites

A classic French dish consisting of steak and French fries, usually served with a side of salad and béarnaise sauce.

Lunch/Dinner Contains gluten (if served with fries) and meat

Crêpes

Thin pancakes that can be filled with a variety of sweet or savory ingredients, such as Nutella, cheese, or ham.

Snack/Dessert Can be made gluten-free and vegetarian/vegan options available

Popular Activities

Hot air balloon rides Rock climbing in Fontainebleau forest Kayaking on the Seine Picnicking in the Luxembourg Garden Boat tours on the Seine Spa day at a luxury hotel Visiting museums and galleries Attending a cabaret show

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season in Paris, with warm weather and long daylight hours. This is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities and festivals. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.

15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: French
Widely spoken: English, Spanish, Arabic, Portuguese
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Paris is generally safe for travelers, but pickpocketing and petty theft can be a problem in tourist areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas and on public transport
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services

Getting there

By air

Charles de Gaulle Airport • 25 km (15.5 miles) from city center
Orly Airport • 14 km (8.7 miles) from city center

By train

Gare du Nord, Gare de Lyon

By bus

Bercy Seine, Porte Maillot

Getting around

Public transport

The Paris Metro is one of the most efficient and extensive subway systems in the world, covering all major attractions and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, G7

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Le Marais Montmartre Latin Quarter Saint-Germain-des-Prés Champs-Élysées

Day trips

Versailles

17 km (10.5 miles) from Paris • Full day

The Palace of Versailles is a grand royal château and garden located just outside of Paris. It was the principal royal residence of France from 1682 to 1790 and is famous for its opulent interiors and vast gardens.

Giverny

75 km (47 miles) from Paris • Half day to full day

Giverny is a charming village known as the home of the famous impressionist painter Claude Monet. The village is home to Monet's House and Gardens, which inspired many of his most famous works.

Château de Fontainebleau

55 km (34 miles) from Paris • Full day

The Château de Fontainebleau is a grand royal château and park located just outside of Paris. It was a residence of the French monarchs from Louis VII to Napoleon III and is known for its beautiful architecture and vast forests.

Festivals

Fête de la Musique • June 21st (annual) Paris Fashion Week • February and September (annual) Nuit Blanche • First Saturday in October (annual)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic French phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture
Use public transport, walk, or bike to get around the city and avoid traffic and parking issues
Consider purchasing a Paris Museum Pass or a multi-day public transport pass to save money on attractions and transport
Explore the city's many neighborhoods and hidden gems, not just the major tourist attractions
Try local specialties and enjoy the dining experience slowly and leisurely