Notre Dame — More Than Just A Destination

Most tourists come to Notre Dame to walk through the majestic cathedral, but do no more. In reality, Notre Dame has a rich set of events and programs that visitors can enjoy, from concerts, to walking the 387 steps to the top of the cathedral. More information can be found here.

We came across a moving ordination of priests, one of many events that occur at the cathedral. It can also be visited during major holidays, including Christmas and Easter. There are also night shows, and an archaelogical crypt.

Not to be missed is the beautiful park in the back of the church, as well as the bouqanistes that line the seine on boths sides of the river. Just across from Notre Dame, is Shakespeare & Company where literary giants like Hemingway spent time.

As it is centrally located, you can easily walk to visit La Sainte-Chapelle, the Conciergerie next door where Marie-Antoinette was held in prison, and the quiet Place Dauphine, which is by far the most beautiful hidden corner in Paris and directly across from the French Supreme Court. The Hotel de Ville (Paris city headquarters), the venerable BHV, and the Louvre and Jardin des Tuileries are all close by too.