Strasbourg Cathedral of Notre Dame (Cathédrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg)

The Basics

The UNESCO-listed cathedral dates back to 1015, but the majority of the structure was built between the 12th and 15th centuries. Admire the 12th-century stained glass windows and magnificent 18-meter-tall astronomical clock, then climb the 300-step spiral staircase for a stunning view of the city.

Full-day tours of the UNESCO-listed Grande Île (the city’s historic center) include the cathedral along with other top attractions, such as the Rohan Palace. Some tours go farther afield, heading through the Black Forest to Lake Mummelsee and the Kurhaus casino in the spa town of Baden-Baden. You can also explore the city on a bicycle, take a boat through the canals, or opt for a gastronomy-focused tour and try local Alsatian specialties.

Things To Know Before Going

• There is an admission fee to see the astronomical clock and the viewing platform.

• The church is wheelchair accessible, but the viewing platform is not.

• The Strasbourg Cathedral is a place of worship; please maintain a respectful attitude when visiting.

How To Get There

Strasbourg Cathedral is located at Place de la Cathédrale on the east side of Grande Île, in central Strasbourg, and is walking distance from many of the city’s other major attractions. To reach the site via tram, take the the A or E to the Langstross Grand'Rue stop or the B, C, or F to the Broglie stop; both are about a 5-minute walk from the cathedral. Driving is not recommended in the Grande Île as the streets are very narrow and parking is limited.

When To Get There

The cathedral is open daily from morning until evening. Strasbourg is a great place to visit at any time of year. Peak seasons are June–August, when the city hosts a number of outdoor festivals, and around Christmastime, when everything is festooned in lights and the city hosts one of Europe’s most famous Christmas markets.

Grande Île

The Grande Île—the historic center of Strasbourg—is an island separated from the rest of the city by the River Ill and the Canal du Faux-Rempart. This UNESCO-listed area is home to the majority of the city’s top attractions, including the cathedral, the Rohan Palace (Palais Rohan), the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Decorative Arts, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the picturesque La Petite France, a neighborhood full of canals and half-timbered buildings.

What is Strasbourg Cathedral of Notre Dame (Cathédrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg) known for?

The Strasbourg Cathedral of Notre Dame (Cathédrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg) is a stunning Gothic landmark located in the center of Strasbourg’s historic district. The medieval cathedral features many intricate details—stained glass windows, a towering spire, cheeky gargoyles—but is most famous for its astronomical clock, created by Swiss clockmakers in the mid-1800s, which still marks the hour today.

How much time should I spend in Strasbourg Cathedral of Notre Dame?

That depends. Visitors with a particular interest in Gothic architecture or religious art will probably spend around an hour visiting Strasbourg Cathedral of Notre Dame, allowing time to admire its altarpieces, sculptures, windows, and organ. Others might need less time, although that depends if you plan to climb up to the cathedral’s panoramic platform.

Does Strasbourg Cathedral of Notre Dame have a dress code?

Yes, modest clothing is a must for entering Strasbourg Cathedral of Notre Dame. Visitors are asked to keep shoulders and legs covered, so consider bringing a jacket or shawl to keep yourself covered during your visit, especially during the summer months. Plunging necklines are not permitted, but shorts and skirts are fine if they cover your knees.

Do I need tickets to visit Strasbourg Cathedral of Notre Dame?

If you’re just popping in to see the cathedral’s interior, then admission tickets aren’t needed as the ground floor is free and open to the public. Tickets are required for watching the astronomical clock’s famous moving sculptures, or climbing to the cathedral’s rooftop, and can be purchased the day of your visit.

What is the best time of day to visit Strasbourg Cathedral of Notre Dame?

If you’d like to see the famous astronomical clock in action, then arrive just after noon; automatons representing every stage of life—from childhood to adulthood and old age—start moving every day at 12:30pm. Plan to arrive a little early, as there can be crowds. Alternatively visit in the early evening, which is typically a quieter, more reflective time.

Is Strasbourg Cathedral of Notre Dame accessible?

While visitors using wheelchairs or with limited mobility should have no issue exploring the ground floor, accessing the panoramic platform is sadly not possible for those who are not strong walkers. There are 330 steps to the top, where views overlooking the roofs of Strasbourg await.