No.3 In our Top 10 Places to Visit in Paris

Notre Dame

3. Notre Dame

Metro: Cité or St. Michel Bus: Les Cars Rouges & Open Tour bus. Official Website: Cathedraledeparis.com
One of the best loved sights in Paris, immortalised by Victor Hugo in his novel Notre Dame de Paris
Pope Alexander III laid the first stone in 1163, starting the 170 construction project by armies of Gothic and Medieval Craftsmen.
Notre Dame is nearly always busy but fortunately the flow through the Cathedral is generally steady and therefore the queues are kept at a managable length.

It is possible to ascend the twin towers which are so imposing on your approach to Notre Dame, although this can mean queuing for 20 mins to 1 hour depending on the time of year and day that you visit.
The view from the top is spectacular giving you a view over the square at the fron of the Cathederal, the River and great views of the statues on the roof of the main building.

Notre Dame Rose Window

Inside the view is equally as impressive, in particular the North and South Rose Windows are worth special mention, they’re about halfway down the length of the main building and are an impressive 13 mtrs in height.
Opening times: 8 am – 6.45 pm daily, towers – 9.30 am – 5.30pm (Winter) 6.00 pm (Summer). The Cathedral is free although there is a small charge for the Towers.

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