A Paris sunrise at Notre Dame is unforgettable. Notre Dame stands in the middle of the city on the island where Paris was born. It’s seen centuries of sunrises and sunsets and generations of people have walked in its shadow. On a recent trip, I decided to get up early and see the day begin in this iconic place, just as it had through history. This proved to be an unforgettable experience.
[UPDATE:: Notre Dame suffered a fire in April 2019. The giant steeple fell. The twin towers survived, along with the Rose Window and much of the interior. Notre Dame is repaired, a new steeple is in place, and you are free to visit and marvel over this iconic church once more.]
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Notre Dame is peaceful at sunrise
It’s remarkable to see this “tourist attraction” without crowds milling around. It was almost deserted except for the little birds in the front courtyard.
The side of the building was still in shadow.
And then we rounded the corner to the back of the grand cathedral and the famous flying buttresses. And here is where the sun lit up the iconic Paris landmark with glorious beams of light. 
We paused to enjoy the Seine bathed in a yellow glow.
I recommend experiencing a Paris sunrise Notre Dame. Or visit at sunset, or any time of day. It’s a breathtaking French Gothic cathedral built between 1160 and 1260. The two towers give Notre Dame its recognizable look. They were the tallest structures in the city until the arrival in 1889 of the Eiffel Tower. 
Centuries of history of Notre Dame
Notre Dame fell victim to the French Revolution in the 1790s. Its religious imagery was damaged or destroyed. The French, inspired by Victor Hugo’s novel, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, later decided to restore the grand building. More recently, in the 1960s, the facade of the building was cleaned. Centuries of grime and soot came off, revealing the original color. Further restoration took place at the end of the 1900s to ready the cathedral for the new millennium. Be sure to look up as you enter. The sculptures of the last judgment and the 12 apostles will amaze you.
The interior of Notre Dame
The inside of Notre Dame is spacious and filled with art. The three Rose Windows are famous. If you arrive when a service is being held, you can still go in. But you will be asked to be quiet and respectful.
Those famous flying buttresses
You may have heard of the flying buttresses that help support the walls and prevent the roof from causing collapse. These are visible from the back of Notre Dame. No one knows for sure when the original flying buttresses were first added, but they were in place by the end of the 13th century. By carrying so much weight, they allow for higher walls and more windows.
The spire of Notre Dame
The main spire weighs 750 tons. [NOTE: The spire fell to the ground in the fire of 2019. So these photos of it still standing are especially treasured and poignant.]
As you walk around Notre Dame, you’ll find so many details to enjoy. I love looking up at all the gargoyles pointing into space. I learned recently that they are actually rainwater spouts. And here’s a sculpture that caught my eye. 
After taking in the sunrise on Notre Dame, we crossed the Seine and found a cozy cafe for lattes and croissants — a perfect way to start a day in Paris. 
Planning your first trip to Paris can give you so much pleasure. Then go and soak it all in. And plan to go back. Because, as they say, Paris is always a good idea.
UPDATE AFTER THE FIRE
Notre Dame stands in the middle of the city on the island where Paris was born. It’s seen centuries of sunrises and sunsets and generations of people have walked in its shadow. On April 15, 2019, fire tore through Notre Dame. Heartbreaking video filled the news with scenes of the roofing ablaze, giant clouds of dark smoke, and most terrible of all, the historic steeple collapsing and falling to ruin. Restoration efforts began shortly after the fire and continue today, with scientists and restorers working diligently to rebuild this treasured cathedral.
The front of the cathedral remains standing. Members of the Paris Fire Brigade fought tirelessly to save what they could. It’s said to be a miracle that they were able to contain the fire before it reached these twin towers.
The rose window and other stained glass survived the fire, partly due to the careful actions of the fire brigade. Many of the relics inside the cathedral also were saved.
Where to stay in Paris
Paris offers hundreds of hotels. It’s sometimes overwhelming to start looking for a place to stay. Here are a few suggestions for lovely hotels near some of the sites mentioned. With the excellent Paris Metro system, you will be able to arrive wherever you like with just a little planning.
Near the Invalides: The Hotel de Varenneis exquisitely decorated and includes an inviting patio. You can walk from here to the Invalides as well as theRodin Museum. (7th arrondissement)
Book your stay at the elegant Hotel de Varenne around the corner from the Rodin Museum.
Near the Pantheon:Hotel des Grand Hommes and (right next door) theHotel les Dames du Pantheon. Both of these elegant hotels are across the street from thePantheon. From my balcony room at the Grand Hommes I watched the sun rise on the iconic Pantheon. And you can walk down the street toLuxembourg Gardens. (5th arrondissement)
Book your stay at the Hotel des Grand Hommes and enjoy a view of the stately Pantheon out your window.
A gem in the Latin Quarter:Hotel Serotel Lutece is in the Latin Quarter. You can walk from here to the Pantheon, Notre Dame, andSainte-Chapelle. Not only is this a comfortable, attractive hotel, but I also found the staff here to be extra helpful with directions and information. (5th arrondissement)
Book your stay at the cozy Hotel Serotel Lutece in a walkable neighborhood near metro stations, shops, and restaurants.
Central to wherever you want to go:Hotel Moliere, themed on the French poet, is a delightful hotel near the Louvre. It is surprisingly affordable for this pricey area. You can walk or take the Metro to any sites you would like to visit. (1st arrondissement)
Book your stay at Hotel Moliere near the Louvre and the lovely Tuileries Garden.
Book your train tickets with Rail Europe for easy and reliable service.
Rail Europe partners with more than 230 train services such as SCNF, DB, and Swiss train lines. So, you can always find the transportation you need for your trip.
Consider a side trip to the D-Day Beaches and Normandy
History comes alive when you visit the D-Day Beaches in Normandy. Just a two-hour train ride or drive from Paris, the Normandy beaches offer battle sites and museums. Pay respects at the many somber cemeteries. Stay in charming Bayeux. Normandy makes a great side trip if you are going to Paris.
Book the elegant Hotel Churchill in Bayeux, the perfect base for exploring the D-Day Beaches.
Places to visit include Omaha Beach, Utah Beach, and Gold, Juno, and Sword Beaches. If you have time, include all 5 D-Day Beaches in your itinerary for an amazing overview of June 6, 1944 and Operation Overlord.
FOR MORE OF PARIS, HEAD TO THESE POSTS!
Tips for Your First Trip to Paris
Climbing Up Into the Eiffel Tower
Exploring the Rodin Museum
5 Reasons to Visit Luxembourg Gardens
Paris Gardens to Enjoy
The D’Orsay Museum in Paris
A Walk in the Latin Quarter
Ageless Beauty at Sainte-Chapelle
Paris WWII Sites for History Lovers
A Few Hours in Paris
The Invalides – Where Paris History Comes Alive
Reasons to Visit the Eiffel Tower
The Conciergerie – Marie Antoinette’s Prison
PIN IT FOR LATER! 
40 Comments
Exquisitely beautiful!
What beautiful “sun” pictures of Notre Dame! I absolutely loved all the different sites of the sunrise in Paris. The stain glass was my favorite. I can’t wait to visit Paris again, and this time look at it through the eyes of the sunshine 🙂 . Cheers!!
The architecture of this church is spectacular. I agree so much to look at. It would take all day to see it all inside and outside. I agree it would be so much better without the crowds. It’s beautiful
The architecture is stunning. It would take days to notice all of the intricacies. I’m sure it was so much better without all of the tourists around.
Oh my goodness, these are breathtakingly beautiful!
Early bird catches the worm, and the gorgeous light! #MondayEscapes
Your photos are just stunning- you’ve captured the beauty of Notre Dame so well! #MondayEscapes
This is a beautiful post. What a good idea to get up early and visit without the crowds. Thank you for sharing.
As if the architecture wasn’t beautiful enough, the sunset is the cherry on top!
The pictures are more than beautiful! I love to have all the ” tourist attractions ” for myself and that’s why I also like to wake up early and take picture without crowds.
#MondayEscapes
A magnificent structure – as usual a superb post!!
Beautiful shots of Paris and the cathedral.
Such lovely sun-soaked pictures! I visited Paris and Notre Dame in 2015 but it looks exactly the same in your photos
Beautiful photos of an iconic building
How beautiful! I did get to see Notre Dame at sunset when we took a cruise along the Seine and we spent another day/time exploring the cathedral in it’s own right. It’s just too bad photography then is nothing like it is now as my photos did not do this beautiful place justice. Those stained glass windows are just breathtaking.
I’ve been aching for a Paris visit for like forever!
I love Paris and the Notre Dame! What a great time of day to visit. #Mondayescapes
Great architecture.
Tres belle! Beautiful shots.
Wonderful shots.
I have heard of Notre Dame but never knew that many people visit this place as this is a popular tourist attraction. When I was planning my Paris trip, I planned only for two days and this never figures in the list given there are other places like Eiffel tower, Seine river cruise, Louvre museum, Champs Elysee and so on.
Your pictures are absolutely stunning. The architecture of Notre Dame is amazing and the small statues carved on the arch are marvellous.
Wow. AWESOME shots.
Thanks for linking up at https://image-in-ing.blogspot.com/2019/04/almost-time-for-mimosas.html
Your photographs are stunning and really capture the different lights. You must love looking back at these #MondayEscapes
Beautiful shots – I love the outside but prefer the inside to St Ettienne Du Mont or Sainte Chappelle (if the light is right). I LOVE, however, the island, but the other side where the houses and shops are. Next time we go to Paris (if there is a next time) that’s where I want to stay….Such a different vibe. #MondayEscapes
Was here before, but linked with the Ipad – I don’t see my comment, so I assume it didn’t go through…
Ah the Notre Dame, I remember feeling guilty saying “No” to my son when he was 14, when he wanted to visit this church right after the Louvre, we were so tired out visiting the latter. But later son went 3 times with friends to Paris – I have to ask him if he made it on one those occasions. A stunning church it is, Sharon! Many thanks for sharing this jewel with All Seasons! Have a beautiful week:)
Beautiful beyond words…and so worth getting up to see it lit with the morning sun!
Gorgeous Sharon! I’ve never managed to wake up in time to see sunrise in Paris. Maybe one day. 🙂
Sharon thank you for that wonderful photo essay. We have all seen the facade of this magnificent cathedral many times but the back with its flying buttresses was quite the revelation. There is so much to see and you are right that the best time is in the morning without the crowds. I especially enjoyed your photos of the sun hitting the church.
Those photos are gorgeous! And I can’t believe you’ve seen it almost deserted. Sometimes it is worth getting up so early; you saw the cathedral at the perfect time.
Your pics are absolutely gorgeous, Sharon and even more so with the golden glow from the sunrise. I love an early start when a city is waking up. I remember Notre Dame knocked me for a six when I went. So humbling. The intricate detail and amazing craftsmanship. You’ve made me want to return at sunrise now. LOL.
I am just gobsmacked at your photos! I had no idea there was such wondrous beauty on the inside as well as the outside. I appreciate you linking up to make My Corner of the World a success!
Well I certainly know where I’ll begin a new day while in Paris! Nothing like the glory of the morning sunrise on a beautiful building! #FeetDoTravel
Such beautiful photos! How early was this exactly?? I have visited Notre Dam but have learned so much from this post. Your photo of the Seine in the morning sunlight is gorgeous too. #FeetDoTravel
Oh how I love Paris! And you’ve taken such beautiful photos. And such beautiful light. Love it!
Beautiful photos! I´ve been to Notre Dame de Paris years ago, but never really climbed the dome for the same reason! #feetdotravel
So happy that you were able to visit and capture these fabulous pictures given the most recent circumstance. I really need to be more pro-active active about waking up for sunrise. It sounds like it was a magical time to visit.
How fortuitous that you visited Notre Dame before the recent fire. It goes to show that travel should not wait. Your photos of the outside features at the golden hour are beautiful.
Amazing, the photos depict such a beautiful Notre Dame especially now since the current fire. You’re post comes at the perfect time to show the world photos and provide interesting history on this treasure. Thanks for sharing! #feetdotravel
What timing for this post – a detailed account of just how beautiful Notre Dame was/is. And how lovely to have such amazing pictures. thank you for sharing them and thanks for linking up to the last #MondayEscapes.