Notre-Dame Cathedral of Paris

Notre-Dame Cathedral is the most iconic Gothic cathedral in the world, and after its devastating 2019 fire and subsequent restoration, it reopened to visitors in December 2024. For families, it remains one of those Paris experiences that impresses every age group in different ways.

The exterior alone is worth the visit. Kids who've watched Disney's Hunchback of Notre Dame will immediately recognize the twin towers, flying buttresses, and rows of stone gargoyles and chimeras peering down from the roofline. Point out the Point Zéro marker in the square — a bronze star set into the ground from which all road distances in France are measured.

Inside, the soaring nave and the three enormous rose windows — particularly the south window with its deep blues and reds — create a sense of awe that transcends any religious context. Even small children tend to fall quiet and look up. The interior is free to enter, though you may queue for 30 minutes or more during peak tourist season.

The tower climb (when available) is the highlight for older kids and teens. The climb involves several hundred narrow spiral steps, but the reward is a close-up encounter with the gargoyles and a panoramic view of Paris from the gallery. Check current availability as access may still be evolving post-restoration.

The Île de la Cité location puts you at the geographic and historic heart of Paris — cross the bridge to the Latin Quarter for lunch, or stroll along the Seine to the nearby Shakespeare and Company bookshop.