Question 1

Can I do a self-guided tour of the interior?

Accepted Answer

Yes! In fact, we encourage it. Because we don't lead groups inside (to maintain the silence of the sanctuary), we provide you with all the historical context outside, and then you enter for a peaceful, self-guided experience of the nave, the choir, and the stained glass.

Question 2

Are the Notre Dame Towers open in January 2026?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the towers are open. You can climb the 424 steps to see the bells and the gargoyles. However, you must book a specific time slot via the official app. These slots are like "unicorns"—they disappear almost instantly. If you cannot get a tower ticket, don't worry; the view of the facade from the ground is equally historic.

Question 3

Is there a skip-the-line ticket to visit Notre Dame in January 2026?

Accepted Answer

Technically, no "official" skip-the-line ticket is sold by the Cathedral. Entry to the main nave is free for everyone. However, the "hack" to skipping the line is timing. By arriving for the 8:00 AM opening, you bypass the 2-hour queues that form by midday. Our Semi-Private Morning Tour is built around this exact window.

Question 4

What is the dress code to visit Notre Dame in January 2026?

Accepted Answer

As it is a working Catholic Cathedral, respectful attire is required. In January, this is easy as most people are in coats. However, men must remove hats upon entry, and shoulders/knees should be covered (no gym shorts or tank tops, even if the sun comes out!).

Question 5

Why should I avoid Sainte-Chapelle in January 2026?

Accepted Answer

Sainte-Chapelle is a jewel, but its small size and massive popularity during the Jubilee Year mean it is almost always sold out. Many tourists spend their morning waiting in a "security line" only to be told there are no tickets. We recommend focusing on the Archaeological Crypt or the Conciergerie, which are often easier to access and just as historic.

Question 6

What is the best time of day to visit?

Accepted Answer

8:00 AM is the undisputed best time. The second-best time is during the Evening Vespers at 5:30 PM, when the crowds thin out and the Cathedral atmosphere becomes deeply spiritual.

Question 7

Do your tours go inside the monument?

Accepted Answer

No. To respect the worshippers and the rules of the Cathedral, we conduct our expert storytelling on the Parvis (the square) and the surrounding historical streets. This allows you to walk through the interior at your own pace in silence, which is the most moving way to experience it.

Question 8

Is the Grand Organ playing every day?

Accepted Answer

The organ is used during most major Masses. For a dedicated listening experience, we recommend the Tuesday evening recitals at 8:30 PM.

Question 9

How do I get to Notre Dame in January?

Accepted Answer

The best way is via Metro Line 4 (Cité) or the RER B/C (Saint-Michel Notre-Dame). In January, the RER station is often warmer than the outdoor bus stops!

Question 10

What is the "Jubilee 2026"?

Accepted Answer

The Jubilee is a special "Holy Year" in the Catholic Church. It means there will be more pilgrims and special religious events throughout 2026. January is the start of this year, making it a very significant time to visit.

Question 11

Is there an entrance fee for the 2026 Jubilee?

Accepted Answer

No. In keeping with tradition, the Cathedral remains free to enter for all. Any website offering "tickets" to the main floor for a fee is likely a scam. You only pay for specialized guided tours (like ours) or access to the Towers and Crypt.

Question 12

What happened to the relics after the fire?

Accepted Answer

The most famous relic, the Holy Crown of Thorns, was saved by the Paris Fire Brigade. It has been returned to the Cathedral and is displayed every Friday in January at 3:00 PM for public veneration.

Question 13

Can I take photos inside?

Accepted Answer

Yes, non-professional photography without flash is permitted. However, during Mass, visitors are asked to stop taking photos to respect the liturgy.

Question 14

Can I take photos inside?

Accepted Answer

Yes, non-professional photography without flash is permitted. However, during Mass, visitors are asked to stop taking photos to respect the liturgy.

Question 15

Is Notre Dame accessible for those with limited mobility?

Accepted Answer

The main floor of the Cathedral is accessible. However, the Towers and parts of the Archaeological Crypt involve narrow, ancient staircases that are not wheelchair accessible.

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