Is there a dress code for visiting Notre Dame or Sacre Coeur churches? (both genders)

I haven't noticed an enforced dress code there. I did notice an enforced dress code on my last trip to France, but it wasn't in Paris. It was interesting, they had a roll of essentially giant paper towels people could wrap around their shoulders or legs. I've seen dress codes in Spain and Italy. This was the first one outside of those two. If they have a dress code, it's to cover your shoulders, midriff and knees. Flip flops are fine. It's about modesty not dressing up.

It didn't seem to matter what people wore in either church. I saw lots of shorts and plenty of what I'd consider, inappropriate shorts for church.

Play it safe and be respectful - cover knees and shoulders. These are functioning houses of worship. You are not visiting Disneyland. Remember you are a guest in the country. Just because others act disrespectful, doesn't mean that you should also.

I'm of a certain era and may well be old fashioned according to today's standards, but I agree with all Frank has stated above.

People should be respectful and dress appropriately but both Notre Dame and Sacre Cœur are government owned buildings which is why there is no enforceable dress code.

Frank hit the nail on the head. Hear, hear!

I’ll be honest, I never really saw a dress code enforced in any French Church. I think Notre Dame gets too many people to probably realistically enforce it. Now if you want to talk about Italy... some churches definitely enforce it.

I would consider shorts ok as long as they aren’t short short or have holes/rips. We did this in Italy and it was fine. I would wear a shawl over your shoulders if they are exposed, just out of respect. Avoid spaghetti straps or stomach exposure. That’s just tacky. This would be my rule for any French church

Yes to Franks comments. Its not about what you can get away with, its the right thing to do. Not all churches can afford security guards.

Shorts are fine- no one really cares, but I wouldnt reccommend short shorts as it is a Church with services going on.

Happy Travels✨💫