Originally constructed in the 17th century, the stunning Notre Dame Basilica rises majestically above the city skyline and is one of the finest jewels in Québec’s religious crown. The oldest Catholic Church in Montreal draws over a thousand visitors a month and is the perfect place to explore the city’s religious history and culture.
To get the most out of your visit, take one of the English guided tours which are included in the price of admission. These excellent tours are a great way to get to grips with the history and architecture of the magnificent basilica. Additional tours are also on offer for those who wish to discover the secrets of the sacristy, the baptistery and the galleries specifically.
With its exterior Gothic-revival architecture, Notre Dame is easily one of the most recognisable landmarks in Old Montreal. Indeed, stand almost anywhere in this district and you will see the iconic eastern and western twin towers as they dramatically pierce the sky. Housing the 11-tonne great bell, the western tower has been given the moniker La Persévérance while its neighbour is known as La Tempérance. Both towers are particularly stunning when lit up at night so if you’re in the area after dark, make sure to snap some photos.
While the exterior is spectacular in its own right, the grandeur of the interior is simply breathtaking. As you make your way down the aisle, note the iridescent light that spills through the ornate stained-glass windows charting the religious history of the Ville-Marie colony. The majestically opulent altar breathes red and orange hues while the cavernous vaulted azure ceiling is delicately decorated with gilded stars. Intricately carved wooden statues and ecclesiastical treasures sit in every nook and cranny, while an enormous pipe organ designed by the eminent firm Casavant Frères takes pride of place at the back of the church.
Before you leave, pay a visit to the more intimate Chapel of Notre Dame du Sacré-Coeur and marvel at the gorgeous linden wood ceiling. This pretty church is also a popular spot for weddings so, if you’re not already visiting Montreal on your honeymoon, perhaps this might get you thinking!
Notre Dame Basilica
Visit Notre Dame Basilica
Tours & day trips
See all 39 activitiesOpens in new tabFull-Day Quebec City and Cruise Tour
Private & custom tours
See all 21 activitiesOpens in new tabWalking Tour of Old Montreal: Historic & Cultural Sites
Food, drink & nightlife
See all 3 activitiesOpens in new tabMontreal: Explore Old Montreal Small-Group Walking Tour
Reviews of Notre Dame Basilica
5/5 - Excellent
Check for organ recitals 2.30pm. We arrived as it started. Amazing
Popular places to visit
Place d'Armes
Learn about the local history of Montreal with a stop at Place d'Armes. Experience the great live music and acclaimed art galleries in this vibrant area.
Place Royale
Learn about the local history of Montreal when you take a trip to Place Royale. Experience the acclaimed art galleries and fascinating museums in this vibrant area.
Montreal Museum of Archaeology and History
You can enjoy some culture when you stop by Montreal Museum of Archaeology and History in Montreal. Discover the great live music and stunning cathedral in this vibrant area.
Saint-Paul Street
You can find out about the history of Montreal with a trip to Saint-Paul Street. Experience the acclaimed art galleries and great live music in this vibrant area.
Montreal History Centre
You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Montreal History Centre during your trip to Montreal. Discover the great live music and shops in this vibrant area.
Jacques Cartier Square
Learn about the local history of Montreal with a stop at Jacques Cartier Square. Discover the acclaimed theatre scene and stunning cathedral in this vibrant area.
Top Notre Dame Basilica Hotel Deals
Check availability on hotels close to Notre Dame Basilica
- Holidays and getaways similar to Notre Dame Basilica
- Hotels Near Notre Dame Basilica
- Hotels near other Attractions
- More Hotel Options in Notre Dame Basilica
- Expedia's Latest Trends
- Hotels near Bell Centre
- Hotels near Old Port of Montreal
- Hotels near McGill University
- Hotels near Montreal Convention Centre
- Hotels near Circuit Gilles Villeneuve
- Hotels near Montreal Biodome
- Hotels near Sainte-Catherine Street
- Hotels near Montreal Casino
- Hotels near Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
- Hotels near Montreal Botanical Garden
- Hotels near Place Bonaventure
- Hotels near Jean-Drapeau Park
- Hotels near Jean-Talon Market
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages. Book Flight + Lodging, save up to 100% of flight price - Savings based on flight + lodging package prices as compared to the price of the same components available for booking separately before all discounts and rewards applied. Your bundled savings cover up to 100% of your flight. Savings vary based on origin/destination, length of trip, stay dates and travel suppliers. Savings not available on all flight + lodging package bookings.