Notre-Dame Basilica Montreal
A masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture, this basilica captivates with its celestial blue ceiling and vibrant stained glass.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Experience the magical light show
Notre-Dame Basilica Montreal
Best Time
Experience the magical light show
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture, this basilica captivates with its celestial blue ceiling and vibrant stained glass.
"The AURA light show is an unforgettable blend of music, lights, and storytelling that brings the space to life."
🎟️ Book AURA Tickets Early
AURA is popular! Secure your tickets online in advance to guarantee entry and avoid disappointment.
🤫 Be Respectful During Mass
It's an active church. Keep noise low and avoid photos during services.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
AURA Light Show
An immersive blend of music, lights, and storytelling that brings the basilica to life. Truly magical!
Intricate Gothic Architecture
Marvel at the soaring ceilings, vibrant stained-glass windows, and detailed woodwork. A feast for the eyes.
Deep Blue Celestial Ceiling
The iconic ceiling, adorned with thousands of gold stars, creates a breathtaking celestial effect.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book AURA Tickets in Advance
Respect the Sacred Space
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Went to mass at Notre Dame Basilica in Montreal today
🎟️ Book AURA Tickets Early
AURA is popular! Secure your tickets online in advance to guarantee entry and avoid disappointment.
🤫 Be Respectful During Mass
It's an active church. Keep noise low and avoid photos during services.
Notre-Dame Basilica Sightseeing Visit vs Aura
Notre Dame Basilica
✨ Attend Sunday Mass for Free
Experience the basilica and its beauty without an entry fee by attending Sunday Mass.
📸 Photography Etiquette
Be mindful of others and avoid flash photography, especially near prayer areas.
Visiting The Notre Dame Cathedral
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book AURA Tickets Early
AURA is popular! Secure your tickets online in advance to guarantee entry and avoid disappointment.
🤫 Be Respectful During Mass
It's an active church. Keep noise low and avoid photos during services.
✨ Attend Sunday Mass for Free
Experience the basilica and its beauty without an entry fee by attending Sunday Mass.
📸 Photography Etiquette
Be mindful of others and avoid flash photography, especially near prayer areas.
🚶 Explore Old Montreal
Combine your visit with a stroll through the charming streets of Old Montreal.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Notre-Dame Basilica Montreal for its breathtaking architecture and the magical AURA light show. Many are awestruck by the intricate details and the serene atmosphere, finding it a profoundly beautiful and uplifting experience. Some note that while it's a place of worship, the visual splendor makes it a must-see for all.
"Unforgettable Experience at Montreal Notre-Dame Basilica.
Even if you're not religious, the AURA light show at Montreal’s Notre-Dame Basilica is absolutely worth seeing. The basilica itself is stunning, with its deep blue ceiling and intricate Gothic architecture. But the real highlight is the AURA show—an immersive blend of music, lights, and storytelling that brings the space to life.
The story is easy to follow and beautifully presented. Outside, the square is full of energy with street performers and local charm. Inside, it’s pure magic. Highly recommend this to anyone visiting Montreal!"
Gabriel
"It was a wonderful experience visiting this church. It made me feel truly amazed. Learning about its history made it even more meaningful.
Although part of the building is under renovation, every corner of the church is full of beautiful and intricate details.
Even though there were a lot of people inside, most were very respectful. However, I did notice one or two people trying to take photos inside the prayer room, which was disappointing. I think it would be helpful if someone could guide visitors near the prayer area to remind them to be quiet and respectful.
After I finished praying, people continued to take photos and talk, which made me feel a bit upset.
Overall, it was an incredible experience to visit such a stunning and historic building in Montreal. I would definitely recommend it to everyone."
min nie
"Went to the Basilica for a light and music concert/show. It was amazing. Goes without saying the building is beautiful. Very awe inspiring. So much details and ornate architecture. Worth checking out."
Simon R
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Notre-Dame Basilica Montreal is conveniently located in Old Montreal. You can easily reach it by public transport, with several bus routes stopping nearby. The closest metro station is Place-d'Armes. Walking from the metro is also a pleasant option, taking about 5-10 minutes. Driving is possible, but parking in Old Montreal can be challenging and expensive.
Yes, Notre-Dame Basilica is very accessible by public transport. The Place-d'Armes metro station (Orange Line) is a short walk away. Several bus lines also serve the area, making it easy to reach from various parts of Montreal.
Parking near Notre-Dame Basilica can be difficult. There are several paid parking lots and street parking options in Old Montreal, but they can fill up quickly and be costly. Consider using public transport or ride-sharing services for a more convenient experience.
Yes, Notre-Dame Basilica is a prominent landmark situated in the heart of Old Montreal, making it a central part of any visit to the historic district.
For ease and to avoid parking hassles, taking the metro to Place-d'Armes and walking is often recommended. It's a scenic route through Old Montreal.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a paid admission fee is required for sightseeing visits to Notre-Dame Basilica. However, attending Sunday Mass grants free entry. The AURA light show also requires a separate ticket.
Ticket prices for sightseeing visits are typically around $15 CAD for adults. Prices for the AURA light show are separate and can vary. It's best to check the official website for the most current pricing.
You can visit Notre-Dame Basilica for free by attending Sunday Mass. For general sightseeing, an admission fee applies.
Tickets for sightseeing visits and the AURA light show can be purchased online through the official Notre-Dame Basilica Montreal website or at the ticket office on-site. Booking online in advance is highly recommended, especially for AURA.
Opening hours vary depending on the season and if there are special events or services. Generally, the basilica is open for sightseeing during the day, with specific hours for AURA shows in the evening. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date schedule.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
AURA is an immersive multimedia experience that uses light, music, and projection mapping to tell the story of the basilica's architecture and history. It's a popular evening attraction.
Many visitors find the AURA light show to be an unforgettable and magical experience, highly recommending it for its stunning visuals and emotional impact.
Photography is generally permitted inside Notre-Dame Basilica, but flash photography is discouraged, especially during services or quiet times. Be respectful of other visitors and the sacred nature of the space.
Parts of the basilica may occasionally be under renovation, but efforts are made to ensure that visitors can still experience its beauty. Check the official website for any specific closure information.
There is no strict dress code for sightseeing, but it's advisable to dress respectfully, as it is a place of worship. For attending Mass, more formal attire is appreciated.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no restaurants located directly inside Notre-Dame Basilica. However, the surrounding Old Montreal area is filled with a wide variety of dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining establishments.
Old Montreal offers numerous excellent dining choices. You can find everything from traditional Quebecois cuisine to international flavors. Popular spots include restaurants along Rue Saint-Paul and Place Jacques-Cartier.
It is generally not permitted to bring food or drinks inside the basilica to maintain its cleanliness and sanctity. Please consume any food or beverages outside before entering.
📸 📸 Photography
The main nave, with its stunning blue ceiling and intricate details, offers incredible photo opportunities. The altar area and the vibrant stained-glass windows are also highly photogenic.
Flash photography is generally discouraged inside Notre-Dame Basilica to respect the atmosphere and prevent damage to the delicate artwork and stained glass.
Daytime visits offer natural light through the stained-glass windows, creating beautiful colors. Evening visits are ideal for capturing the AURA light show.
Tripods may be restricted, especially during busy periods or services, to avoid obstructing other visitors. It's best to check with staff on-site if you plan to use one.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The AURA light show might be particularly engaging for older children and teenagers, offering a dynamic and visually stimulating experience. However, it's important to gauge your child's tolerance for quiet, seated activities, as AURA involves sitting for its duration. For younger children, a daytime visit might be more manageable, focusing on the visual elements and perhaps a brief explanation of the history. Be sure to discuss the importance of being quiet and respectful in a church setting beforehand.
💰 Budget Travelers
Beyond the free entry option, consider visiting during off-peak hours or days when crowds might be slightly thinner, potentially making the paid sightseeing experience feel more worthwhile. While the AURA light show is an additional cost, many find it to be a unique and memorable experience that justifies the expense. If budget is a primary concern, prioritize the free Mass visit and enjoy the surrounding free attractions of Old Montreal.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For the most dramatic shots, consider attending the AURA light show, which transforms the basilica into a dynamic visual spectacle. However, be mindful of photography restrictions during AURA, as flash is usually prohibited and tripods may not be allowed. Daytime visits offer beautiful natural light that highlights the stained glass, while evening visits can capture the serene ambiance. Always be respectful of other visitors and any ongoing services.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The AURA Light Show Experience
Many reviewers describe AURA as 'magical' and 'unforgettable,' emphasizing how the show brings the basilica to life in a way that sightseeing alone cannot. The narrative is designed to be accessible and emotionally resonant, making it a highlight for both locals and tourists. It's important to note that AURA is a separate ticketed event and typically runs in the evenings, offering a different perspective on the basilica compared to daytime visits. Booking tickets well in advance is highly recommended as it is a very popular attraction.
While the visual spectacle is the main draw, the accompanying music plays a crucial role in enhancing the atmosphere. The carefully curated soundtrack complements the visual storytelling, creating a powerful sensory experience. For those looking for a truly special evening in Montreal, the AURA light show at Notre-Dame Basilica is an absolute must-see, offering a blend of art, technology, and spirituality.
Architectural Marvels and History
The basilica's interior is a testament to the craftsmanship of its era. The ornate woodwork, intricate carvings, and the grand altar are all elements that contribute to its majestic ambiance. Even with parts of the building occasionally undergoing renovation, the beauty and grandeur of every corner are evident. The history embedded within its walls adds a profound layer to the visitor experience, making it more than just a visually stunning structure but a place with a deep spiritual and historical significance.
Visitors often express a sense of wonder and amazement upon entering, with many noting how the detailed artistry makes them feel truly inspired. The basilica's ability to evoke such strong emotions and a sense of peace, even amidst crowds, is a testament to its enduring appeal. It stands as a symbol of Montreal's rich heritage and continues to be a focal point for both religious services and cultural appreciation.
Visiting During Sunday Mass
It's important to note that while attending Mass provides free entry, the primary focus during the service is on prayer and worship. Photography is generally discouraged during the Mass itself, and visitors are expected to remain quiet and respectful. However, once the service concludes, there is often a period where attendees are permitted to take photos, allowing them to capture the stunning interior details. This can be a great way to see the basilica if your budget is a concern, but it requires an understanding and respect for the religious context.
Some visitors have shared that even after Mass, there can still be a significant number of people taking photos, which can sometimes detract from the peacefulness for those who wish to continue in quiet contemplation. Nevertheless, for many, the opportunity to experience the basilica in this way is highly valued and considered a highlight of their Montreal trip.
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