Notre Dame

Go to mass. Can’t wander around but at least you’ll get inside and experience its beauty. Be respectful and appreciate it’s purpose.

https://www.notredamedeparis.fr/en/

The line to get in without tickets apparently moves relatively quickly. But try to go on a weekday, somewhat early.

I was in Paris at the end of August. I got in the line for people without tickets (left hand side of the cathedral as you face it). I timed how long it took to get in. Although the line looked daunting as it stretched with many zig-zags almost to the far end of the courtyard, I entered the cathedral 10 minutes after joining the line. Once inside, you can stay as long as you want.

I think trying to get tickets online (repeatedly) would have taken me longer than 10 minutes!

I just went in earlier this week on Tuesday. I got to the plaza in front of Notre Dame about 10. The entrance line moved quickly…maybe 7 minutes to get in. I did manage to get ahead of several big Viking ship tour groups (easy to tell because the guides all hold up paddles). Inside you are routed to the left and it was literally shoulder to shoulder until it thinned out in the very back at the chapel for the Crown of Thorns.

I’ll add that I was in the area last Saturday around noon. The line was huge and no one was being admitted (service?)so I moved on by as I knew I had enough days to come back.

Have a wonderful time on the Best of Paris tour! I did it in 2014 and still use the information from my guide!

Get up early. If you are there at opening, there’s no line and it’s also not crowded and you’ll have a great experience.

Option two is to go on one of the late opening evenings

Thanks to everyone for your suggestions. I really appreciate it.

Merci
Eva