Visiting the historic Notre Dame Cathedral and the exquisite Sainte-Chapelle is a must-do experience for any traveler to Paris. This guided tour provides skip-the-line access, allowing you to dive straight into the heart of Île de la Cité and explore these architectural marvels. With an English-speaking guide to provide insightful commentary, you’ll uncover the captivating history and intricate details that make these landmarks so iconic. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Francophile, this tour offers a chance to learn about the enchanting world of Parisian history and culture. But the true magic lies in the unexpected…
Key Points
- A 2-hour guided tour covering the highlights of Notre Dame Island, including a visit to Sainte-Chapelle with skip-the-line access.
- Tour starts at the Statue of Henri IV and includes a 1-hour walking tour of Notre Dame Cathedral and Place Dauphine.
- Tour provides an opportunity to witness the ongoing restoration efforts of Notre Dame Cathedral after the 2019 fire.
- Inclusions cover an English-speaking guide, walking tour, and entry ticket to Sainte-Chapelle, but exclude hotel pickup and drop-off.
- Tour may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to uneven walking surfaces.
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Tour Overview and Pricing
What’s the tour overview and pricing for the Notre Dame Island Tour & Sainte Chapelle Entry Ticket?
It’s a 2-hour guided tour that starts at the Statue of Henri IV on Île de la Cité. For the price of £31.87 per person, you’ll explore Notre Dame Cathedral, Place Dauphine, and Sainte-Chapelle.
The tour includes an English-speaking guide, a walking tour, and skip-the-line access to Sainte-Chapelle. It’s a great way to save up to 10% off the regular price of £35.41 per person.
Plus, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve your spot and pay later.
Itinerary and Highlights
The tour starts at the Statue of Henri IV on Île de la Cité, the historic center of Paris.
From there, the English-speaking guide leads a 1-hour walking tour of Notre Dame Cathedral and Place Dauphine.
After a 15-minute photo stop at Notre Dame, the group heads to Sainte-Chapelle for a 15-minute guided tour.
Visitors then have 45 minutes to explore the stunning Gothic chapel, skipping the lines.
Highlights include witnessing Notre Dame’s restoration post-2019 fire and visiting the iconic Shakespeare and Company bookstore.
Comfortable shoes are a must, as the tour involves a moderate amount of walking on uneven surfaces.
Inclusions and Exclusions
Included in the tour package are an English-speaking guide, a walking tour, and an entry ticket to Sainte-Chapelle.
However, hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included. Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
Key inclusions and exclusions:
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Includes:
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English-speaking tour guide
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Walking tour
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Entry ticket to Sainte-Chapelle
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Excludes:
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Hotel pickup and drop-off
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Not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users
Meeting Point and Directions
Visitors can head to the Statue of Henri IV, situated in the middle of Pont Neuf, to meet up for the tour. This is the designated meeting point, easily accessible via the Pont Neuf (Line 7) or Cité (Line 4) metro stations.
It’s important to wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves walking. Unfortunately, baby strollers aren’t allowed on the tour.
Attendees should also note that security measures are in place at Sainte-Chapelle, with all bags scanned and sharp or metal items confiscated.
Following these simple directions will ensure a smooth start to the Notre Dame Island Tour and Sainte Chapelle entry experience.
Restoration of Notre Dame Cathedral
A key highlight of the Notre Dame Island Tour is the opportunity to witness the ongoing restoration efforts at the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral.
Following the devastating 2019 fire, the cathedral has been undergoing extensive repairs and renovations. Visitors can observe the intricate work being done, including:
- The reinstallation of the cathedral’s iconic spire
- The meticulous restoration of the cathedral’s stone façade
- The preservation of the stained glass windows and other historic features
- The modernization of the cathedral’s infrastructure and safety systems
- The careful cleaning and conservation of the cathedral’s interior
This rare glimpse into the restoration process provides a unique and insightful experience for tour participants, offering a firsthand look at the painstaking efforts to preserve one of Paris’ most beloved landmarks.
Explore Ile De La Cité
The Notre Dame Island Tour takes visitors on an immersive exploration of Ile de la Cité, the historic heart of Paris.
This picturesque island in the Seine is home to iconic landmarks like Notre Dame Cathedral and the Conciergerie. The tour guides guests through the charming Place Dauphine, a quaint 17th-century square that retains its timeless character.
Visitors can marvel at the cathedral’s intricate Gothic architecture, still undergoing restoration after the 2019 fire. The tour also includes a visit to the iconic Shakespeare and Company bookshop, a literary haven beloved by writers and readers alike.
With its rich history and cultural significance, Ile de la Cité offers a captivating glimpse into the soul of Paris.
Visit Sainte-Chapelle
Sainte-Chapelle’s stunning stained-glass windows captivate visitors, showcasing exquisite artistry and biblical narratives across its upper and lower levels.
Highlights of the visit include:
- Marveling at the intricate stone tracery and ornate Gothic architecture
- Admiring the brilliant hues and ethereal glow of the 1,113 stained-glass panels
- Learning about the chapel’s rich history, commissioned by King Louis IX in the 13th century
- Exploring the upper chapel, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, and the lower chapel, used for royal and religious ceremonies
- Appreciating the skip-the-line access, allowing visitors to maximize their time immersed in this architectural masterpiece.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
Visitors have overwhelmingly praised the Notre Dame Island Tour & Sainte Chapelle Entry Ticket, with an impressive overall rating of 4.5/5 based on 72 reviews.
Customers highlight the knowledgeable tour guides who provide informative and engaging experiences.
The tour’s highlights, from witnessing Notre Dame’s restoration to exploring the historic Ile de la Cité, have resonated with travelers.
However, the tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues, as strollers aren’t allowed.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take Photos Inside the Attractions?
Yes, you can take photos inside the attractions. However, flash photography may be prohibited to preserve the delicate interiors. Be mindful of any restrictions and follow the tour guide’s instructions to ensure an enjoyable and respectful experience.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?
Yes, the tour provider offers discounted tickets for students and seniors. They can save up to 10% off the standard price by presenting valid ID at the time of check-in.
Can I Modify the Tour Itinerary to Visit Additional Sites?
The tour’s itinerary is fixed, but visitors can explore additional sites around Île de la Cité on their own before or after the guided tour. Customizations may incur extra costs or require booking a private tour.
Will the Tour Operate if It’s Raining or Snowing?
The tour will likely operate in rain or snow as it takes place primarily indoors. However, participants should dress appropriately for the weather conditions and be prepared for potential outdoor walking segments.
Is There a Dress Code for Entering the Religious Sites?
There’s no strict dress code, but visitors are expected to dress modestly when entering religious sites like Sainte-Chapelle. Bare shoulders, short skirts, and revealing clothing should be avoided out of respect for the sacred spaces.
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Sum Up
This guided tour of Notre Dame Island and Sainte-Chapelle offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the rich history and stunning architecture of Paris. With skip-the-line access and insightful commentary, visitors can explore the restored Notre Dame Cathedral and marvel at the breathtaking stained-glass windows of Sainte-Chapelle. At just £31.87 per person, it’s a captivating and cost-effective way to experience the enchanting Île de la Cité.