Exploring the rich history of Paris doesn’t get much better than the Notre Dame Outdoor Tour. This comprehensive experience takes visitors on a guided journey through the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, the stunning Sainte-Chapelle, and the fascinating Archaeological Crypt. With a focus on the cathedral’s ongoing restoration efforts after the 2019 fire, the tour offers an intimate atmosphere for discovering hidden gems on Notre Dame Island. Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking to learn about the city’s cultural heritage, this tour promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for one of the world’s most renowned landmarks.
This experience made our list of the 25 Best Tours In Paris.
Key Points
- The tour offers a 1.5-2 hour guided exploration of Notre Dame Cathedral, its history, and post-fire restoration efforts, starting at $38.40 per person for small groups.
- The tour includes exclusive access to the Notre Dame crypt and optional visits to nearby attractions like Shakespeare & Company and the Archaeological Crypt.
- The tour provides historical insights and cultural exploration of Notre Dame Island, with a focus on the cathedral’s architecture, history, and significance.
- The tour features a hassle-free booking process, with no upfront payment required and a flexible cancellation policy for a seamless sightseeing experience.
- The tour is highly rated by customers for its educational value, the guide’s expertise, and the in-depth exploration of Paris’s ancient foundations and the Notre Dame restoration efforts.
Tour Overview
The Notre Dame Outdoor Tour offers visitors an engaging 1.5-2 hour exploration of the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral and its surrounding area.
Priced from $38.40 per person, this small group tour (up to 15 participants) provides an English-language guided experience.
While the tour’s availability is limited, it allows visitors to discover Notre Dame’s history, including insights into the cathedral’s post-2019 fire restoration efforts.
The itinerary also includes optional self-guided visits to nearby attractions like the Shakespeare & Company bookstore and the Archaeological Crypt of Ile de la Cité.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Paris.
Booking Information
Booking this Notre Dame Outdoor Tour is a hassle-free process. You can reserve your spot now and pay later, with no upfront payment required.
The tour also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring you can get a full refund if your plans change.
The meeting point is at 21 Quai de Montebello, opposite Café Panis, where you’ll find the guide in a red cap with the vacation logo.
To secure your place, simply check the availability for starting times and book your tour.
With a friendly cancellation policy and easy booking, this tour makes for a seamless sightseeing experience in Paris.
Itinerary Highlights
This guided tour around Notre Dame Cathedral offers a comprehensive 30-minute look at the iconic landmark, including exclusive access to the crypt.
The itinerary also includes several optional visits:
- Shakespeare & Company bookshop, just a 5-minute walk away.
- The Archaeological Crypt of Île de la Cité, where visitors can explore Paris’s ancient foundations on a self-guided tour lasting approximately 20 minutes.
The main stops on this tour are Notre Dame Cathedral, Sainte-Chapelle, and the archaeological crypt, providing a well-rounded experience to discover the rich history and hidden gems of this iconic Parisian location.
Tour Experience
Guided insights allow visitors to explore the history of Notre Dame Cathedral, including the ongoing restoration efforts following the devastating 2019 fire. The tour provides an opportunity to discover the hidden gems on Notre Dame Island and learn about the Conciergerie, a former royal palace and prison. Guests can enjoy the cultural exploration of the area, gaining a deeper understanding of Paris’s ancient foundations through the self-guided tour of the archaeological crypt.
Tour Experience Feature | Description |
---|---|
Guided Insights | Explore Notre Dame’s history and restoration |
Cultural Exploration | Discover hidden gems on Notre Dame Island |
Self-Guided Exploration | Ticket includes entry to the crypt for independent exploration |
Important Information
Individuals over 95 years of age, as well as those with oversized luggage, aren’t suitable for this tour.
Plus, the tour prohibits the presence of alcohol, drugs, or explosive substances. This is to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants.
The tour has an overall rating of 4.5/5 based on 18 reviews, highlighting the educational value and the quality of the guide.
Customers have praised the tour for its insightful exploration of Notre Dame’s history, including the post-2019 fire restoration efforts, and the opportunity to discover the hidden gems on Notre Dame Island and the Conciergerie.
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Customer Reviews
Customers have consistently praised the tour for its educational value and the exceptional quality of the guide.
With an overall rating of 4.5/5 based on 18 reviews, the tour has been praised for its ability to provide insightful information about the history and restoration of Notre Dame Cathedral.
Reviewers have highlighted the guide’s deep knowledge and engaging presentation style, which has brought the site’s rich history to life.
The inclusion of the crypt exploration has also been well-received, allowing visitors to explore Paris’s ancient foundations.
Explore Notre Dame Island
The Notre Dame Outdoor Tour not only provides insight into the cathedral’s history and restoration, but also invites guests to explore the rich cultural tapestry of Notre Dame Island.
Beyond the iconic cathedral, the tour highlights several captivating destinations:
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The Shakespeare & Company bookstore, a literary landmark and gathering place for artists and intellectuals.
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The Archaeological Crypt of Île de la Cité, where visitors can explore the island’s ancient foundations and uncover the layers of Paris’s history.
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The Conciergerie, a former royal palace and prison, now a museum offering a glimpse into France’s storied past.
Embracing the spirit of discovery, the tour encourages participants to venture beyond the main attractions and enjoy the rich cultural heritage of this remarkable island.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?
Photography is generally allowed on the tour, though it may be restricted in certain areas like the crypt. Guests should follow any guidance from the tour guide regarding photography during the experience.
What Happens if the Tour Is Canceled Due to Weather?
If the tour is canceled due to weather, customers will receive a full refund. The tour operator will contact participants ahead of time to notify them of any cancellations or changes to the schedule.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, but the guide recommends keeping them lightweight and compact to avoid disrupting the group. Consuming alcohol or excessive substances is strictly prohibited during the tour.
How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?
The tour is generally accessible, but it’s recommended to check with the tour operator ahead of time about accommodations for individuals with disabilities. They can provide details on accessibility and make arrangements to ensure an enjoyable experience.
Is There an Option to Upgrade or Add-On Additional Experiences?
There’s no mention of an option to upgrade or add-on additional experiences for this tour. The tour appears to offer a fixed itinerary and program based on the information provided.
Sum Up
The Notre Dame Outdoor Tour offers a captivating exploration of Parisian history. From the iconic cathedral to the stunning Sainte-Chapelle and Archaeological Crypt, this tour immerses visitors in the rich cultural heritage of Notre Dame Island. With insightful commentary and a small group setting, it’s a must-do experience for history enthusiasts seeking an intimate glimpse into the restoration efforts and hidden gems of this legendary Parisian landmark.
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