Notre Dame Basilica
If you appreciate beautiful historical buildings and architecture the Basilica of Notre-Dame is a must see
One of Montreal's most impressive historical sites is the Basilica of Notre-Dame. Referred to as a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture, both the outside and inside of the Basilica are displays of architectural ingenuity.
The Basilica built between 1824-1829 is the work of James O'Donnell an architect from New York and then later (1870-1900) Cure' Victor Rousselot and Victor Bourgeau. When standing outside the Basilica looking up you will see the twin towers looming over you in all their majesty. The western tower is called 'Perseverance' and the eastern tower called 'Temperance'. Each tower is home to the church bells of the Basilica. Perseverance houses the great bell nick-named 'Jean- Baptiste' whilst Temperance houses 10 smaller bells.
The inside of the Basilica is impressive with stained glass windows, vaulted ceilings, sculptures, statues and paintings. But what is even more impressive are the fine details which have gone into creating the Gothic style of the church. The columns, the organ, the church pews, the banisters, the pulpit and the altarpiece are all meticulously and beautifully crafted. The use of rich colours makes one feel as if you are in a spring garden or in some heavenly realm. At night time you can also experience a sound and light show within the Basilica which is bound to make your experience even more so memorable.
In addition to the sound and light show, the Basilica of Notre-Dame also hosts many concerts by various orchestras and other music groups. Admission to these concerts does vary from the admission to the actual Basilica, so be sure to check the website for more details on admission for the concerts. In order to be able to truly experience the majesty of a service at the Basilica, one must attend one of the religious events held there. The traditional organ is played and a traditional church choir leads the worship.
To get a true sense of the history of Montreal you have to visit the basilica for what would a visit to a French city in Canada be without a visit to its Sacré-Cœur.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: Various admission fees apply, see the website for the full fee schedule.Notre Dame Basilica Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:30 – 4:00 PM
Address: 110 R. Notre Dame O, Montréal, QC H2Y 1T1, Canada
Phone: (514) 842-2925
Official Website: Notre Dame Basilica
Notre Dame Basilica Reviews
Rated out of 5![]()
In town on vacation with my wife and teenage daughter. Wife put the show and I have no idea them. We’re going to some chapel for a light show. I didn’t think they’re gonna play Van Halen or Pink Floyd or Led Zeppelin but it was just as good as any other life show, I’ve been to. The basilica is amazing. Very large very ornate very beautiful. I’ve been to probably 50 to 100 basilica chapel through North south America plus Europe. And this is as good as any. The light show is pretty amazing. It lasted about a half an hour and didn’t disappoint at all. My expectations were wide open because I didn’t know it was gonna be about. But it started incredibly well. I’m finished even better. I would highly recommend if you got the time in a few bucks in your pocket to burn go ahead and go to the light show.
Jon Pippert - a month ago
Absolutely stunning! We were in Montreal for a short time but we knew we had to make a stop at the Notre-Dame Basilica. Everyone inside is very respectful and quiet while people walk around and appreciate the beautiful architecture. As you walk around, there are plaques filled with history to educate you on the paintings and statues. Each pane of stained glass has a backstory describing the scene. You can set your own pace walking through and stop in the pews to enjoy or say a prayer. The price is very reasonable per ticket and there is an opportunity to purchase the lighting of a candle in memory of someone. Very glad we stopped by!
Rachel O - 3 months ago
Just visited the area to see as the ticket window had closed. Incidentally, the food distribution day was there in the evening, and I could see the service being done by the basilica.
Otherwise there are different tickets for individual and family.
Worth visiting when in time.
Today was an amazing visit to admire the beautiful architecture. And why this basilica holds so much importance in the world, and in Montreal legacy of St. Bonaventure experienced the paintings. The stain glass panels, the lace architecture, the inlet work. The statues all speak volumes of the talent from Italy. Excellent influence and a great structure in downtown Montreal, not to be missed. And i'm so grateful, I reach there before four p m to enjoy a relaxed divine view.And also saw the confession and blessing desk. Montreal..Bonaventure area named after the Italian priest
Dr Mohina S kulkarni - a month ago
We went to see the Notre-Dame light show and, without a doubt, it was totally worth it. The basilica is incredibly impressive and beautiful on its own, but the experience truly comes to life during the show. The only downside was that it was under renovation at the time, so its exterior couldn’t be fully appreciated, but it was still incredible.
The light show was a real marvel: a perfect combination of history, art, and technology that further enhances the beauty of the place. It was an exciting experience, unlike anything we had ever experienced before.
Honestly, I think it was one of the best things we did during our visit to Montreal. We highly recommend it to anyone visiting the city.
Makku - 2 months ago
Beautifully located in the heart of Montreal. I've been here twice and am always so impressed with the beauty and craftmanship. From the hand-carved wood work, to the paint and details in each piller, to the pipe organ it really is a marvel. Last time we came mid-day, right before the pipe organist started playing, and it was spectacular. Make sure you don't rush through, their is historically stain glass windows throughout the main area. Please respect those around you, especially in the new chapel they have behind the alter. I found myself admiring it through the glass doors for almost 30 minutes.
Chris Mattina - 2 months ago
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Directions
| Metro Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Line 2 - Orange | Place-d'Armes | 4 Minutes |
How to get to Notre Dame Basilica by Metro
By Metro: Take Metro Line 2 to Place-d'Armes; exit and go right (south) on St. Urbain Street. You will see the Basilica straight ahead as you approach.
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Photo Gallery
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Some of the incrediblily beautiful details inside Montreal's Notre-Dame Basilica cc licensed photo by Ryan Hyde -
Photo Credit: Nick Fewings 5 Million Views - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: kasio69 - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Gord McKenna - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: szeke - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Joe Passe - cc license via Flickr

