I'm taking RS tour in the Spring. In Paris, I'll arrive one day early. I understand there's also some free time to squeeze in sights like Eiffel's tower, Bus 69 to La Chaise cemetery and the interior of Notre Dame. I'd like to reserve tickets ahead. Could any of you suggest any particular day for scheduling those sites?
Posted by
Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, USA
16123 posts
Of those 3 venues, you only need to book the Eiffel Tower ahead of time. Notre Dame can be accessed without booking ahead, especially if you are up early and get there before 10 or so on a day other than Sunday.
Are you taking the Best of Paris tour? It’s awesome. I learned so much about how to get around Paris I keep returning!
I know Rick suggests the 69 bus but to me this is a time waster. It’s the regular city bus so is stopping every few blocks and is often so full you can’t see out of the windows. Take the Metro to Pere Lachaise. I like his suggestion of the Gambas entrance as that puts you at the top of the hill. If you have a choice, do this on a sunny day.
Posted by
Long Beach, Ca, usa
2593 posts
No need to reserve a visit to Pere Lachaise cemetery. Notre Dame entrance reservation can only be made two days ahead. (e.g., Wed. tickets are available on the website at midnight Sun/Mon) Word on the forum is that even though the "no reservation" line is long, it moves very quickly. The Eiffel tower tickets to ascend are offered 60 days ahead and some are offered 14 days ahead. Do a search on this forum for more details and discussions on these subjects. (e.g. Enter Notre Dame reservations, then filter for forum, then 6 months or less or one year or less) You will find all the details you need, and recommended days if necessary. The Louvre is closed on Tuesdays, so the Eiffel Tower is often more crowded on that day. Hints like this are mentioned in prior threads.
Posted by
Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, USA
16123 posts
“Word on the forum is that even though the "no reservation" line is long, it moves very quickly.”
Yes, this was my experience a couple of weeks ago. I arrived shortly before 10A. As I was entering the zigzag line there were at least 3 big tours from Viking cruises right behind me. I meant to time how long it took me but the line was moving so quickly (steady walking) I forgot. Less than 10 minutes and probably around 7 minutes. Inside, however, was jammed and shoulder to shoulder most of the way around the one-way system in the nave. By April maybe some of the crowds will have abated. It IS just amazing to see the brilliant white of the interior.