Archaeological Crypt of Notre Dame
The basics
Choose a Paris City or Paris Museum Pass, or opt for a hop-on-hop-off bus tour that includes entry into the Archeological Crypt of the Ile de la Cité (Crypte Archéologique de L'ile de la Cité) to avoid the hassle of standing in line for tickets. Once inside, follow one of two itineraries through the ruins to see 3rd-century homes, a 4th-century bathhouse, and the ancient port on the River Seine. The crypt also houses the remains of a two-story, 12th-century home; an 18th-century hospital; and shops built along the rue Neuve Notre Dame in the second half of the 12th century.
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Things to know before you go
- Multimedia exhibits inside the crypt guide visitors through centuries of Parisian history, making it a must-see for archaeology and history buffs.
- The crypt is also home to an exhibit on the construction of Notre Dame Cathedral, for additional insights into Paris’ most iconic church.
- To best appreciate the ruins inside the crypt, rent a 30-minute audio guide (available in English* and a number of other languages).
- There are no restrooms or lockers.
- The crypt is wheelchair-accessible.
How to get there
The Archeological Crypt of the Ile de la Cité (Crypte Archéologique de L'île de la Cité) is located beneath the square in front of the Cathedral of Notre Dame, and is accessible via metro line 4 (Cite ou Saint-Michel stop), the RER train (Saint-Michel Notre-Dame stop), or a number of city bus lines.
Trip ideas
When to get there
The archaeological site is open Tuesday through Sunday and can be visited in less than an hour, so offers a nice break from the crowds and heat on street level during the summer months. Pair your visit with a tour of the top sights on île de la Cité, including the Cathedral of Notre Dame and Pont Neuf.
Paris’ Iconic Cathedral
Paris’s Notre Dame Cathedral (Cathédrale de Notre Dame de Paris) is one of the top sights in the city and a masterpiece of medieval architecture, with a soaring Gothic facade, magnificent stained-glass windows, and a romantic setting on the Ile de la Cite island in the middle of the Seine River. Many Paris City passes, hop-on-hop-off bus tours, or Seine River cruises include a stop to admire the church.
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- Palais de Justice
- Sainte Chapelle
- Conciergerie
- Fontaine Saint-Michel
- Île de la Cité
- Latin Quarter (Quartier Latin)
- Hotel de Ville
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