Notre-Dame: Opening Hours, Entry and Etiquette

Notre-Dame Cathedral is open every day of the year. On weekdays the doors open early in the morning and stay open until around 7 p.m., though hours can vary by day and season, so it is best to check the official website before you go. Admission is free. There is a treasury displaying sacred objects near the passage to the south windows inside, and that part does charge a fee, but you don't need to go in.

You will go through a security check at the entrance. Large suitcases and backpacks, dangerous items such as knives and scissors, alcohol and aerosol sprays are not allowed, so pack as light as you can. Selfie sticks are also off-limits inside.

Clothing that is too revealing can get you turned away, so if your shoulders are bare, bring a cardigan or a light layer. This is still a living, sacred space where Mass is held. Men should take off their hats indoors, and loud talking and phone calls are best avoided. Photos are allowed in most areas, but never use a flash, so you don't disturb other people's prayers.

With the crowds these days, booking on the official website lets you skip the long line. But slots often fill up a month ahead, so you may well end up queuing on the day. The line can look daunting at first, but the cathedral is huge and visitors don't stay as long as you might expect, so it shrinks faster than you would think.