Cathédrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Cathédrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg?
What makes it 82% Kids-Friendly: Children enjoy the automaton clock, VR panels, and free entry, but 330 steps and required silence during services can tire or bore under-12s; there are no toilets inside so plan breaks nearby.
Positives:
- Free main entry: The cathedral interior is free for all ages, so families can explore without ticket costs.
- Hands-on learning: The clock mechanism and stained glass spark kids’ interest in history and science.
- Central location: Situated on Place de la Cathédrale, it’s easy to combine with meals or nearby playgrounds.
Challenges:
- Steep staircases: The tower’s narrow, winding stairs can be tiring and tight for young children.
- Crowded clock show: The midday automaton draw can be busy; seating near the clock fills up quickly.
- No on-site toilets: There are no toilets or baby-changing tables inside; nearest facilities are 100 m away.
What is Cathédrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg?
- A 12th-century High Gothic cathedral constructed from pink Vosges sandstone with a 142-metre spire that made it the world’s tallest building until 1874
- Houses a 16th-century astronomical clock and an extensive medieval stained-glass ensemble, highlighted by a monumental rose window dating from c. 1230
- Anchors Strasbourg’s UNESCO-listed Grande Île, exemplifying the innovation and verticality of High Gothic architecture
What is so special about Cathédrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg for with kids?
- Free interior access lets families explore Gothic art at no cost.
- Kids love the daily astronomical clock automaton at 12:30.
- Tower climb offers rewarding 360° views of Strasbourg.
- Interactive VR and touchscreen exhibits engage all ages.
- Self-guided audio tour and storybook souvenirs add educational fun.
Recommended visit duration: 1–2 hours
Why 1–2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Free entry, clock show and optional tower climb fit within a two-hour visit for families.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Cathédrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg
Interior exploration:
Walk through the nave to see Gothic pillars, 12th-century stained glass and the Geiler pulpit.
Tip: Let kids spot animal carvings on pillars and explain the rose window colors.
Astronomical clock show:
Watch the ‘Parade of the Apostles’ automaton at 12:30 daily.
Tip: Arrive 10 minutes early for front-row spots; point out the zodiac figures to older child.
Cathedral tower climb:
Climb 330 steps to a 66 m viewing platform with 360° city views.
Tip: Hold young kids’ hands on narrow stairs and rest at landings; bring a small water bottle.
Interactive VR & virtual book:
Try the touchscreen ‘golden book’ and VR city reconstructions on the platform.
Tip: Download the VR app in advance and pack spare headphones for each child.
Self-guided audio tour:
Use the POPGuide app for a 42-stop audio tour in English and French.
Tip: Bring personal headphones and pause the tour at the organ loft for a closer look.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Cathédrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg
- Book clock tickets early: Get your show tickets at least 30 minutes before 12:00 at the ground-floor booth.
- Off-peak tower climb: Climb first thing in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.
- Preload audio tour: Download the POPGuide tour over Wi-Fi at your hotel to save on mobile data.
Reviews of Cathédrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg
Hiep Huynh
It's a massive Cathedral with a giant astronomical clock inside, one of Europe’s most extraordinary Gothic cathedrals. Never seen such an impressive architecture like this before. Looks like it was built around 12th century and completed in 16th century. It's free entry and the crowd on a Saturday seems to be coming more after 12pm. I didn't get to go up but this was definitely worth a visit in ...
martin bennett
Located in the centre of the city and took over four centuries to build. Amazing design both outside, so definitely worth a visit. It's also free to go inside and opens from 8:30. I would advise to go early to avoid the large crowds later on.
vruti modhiya
It’s Very Beautiful 🤩. It’s Breathtaking masterpiece pf Gothic Architecture and one of the city’s Best iconic landmark. You can also climb to the top of the cathedral for panoramic views but there is ticket for climb and there is 332 steps in tower, and entry to the main area of cathedral is generally free.
Richard Lewis
Amazing gothic cathedral. So impressive to see this cathedral and be privileged enough to go inside and climbing to the platform on top. *Cathedral* Inside is free to visit, but there are often queues outside. We found visiting early on a morning we didn't have to queue. Later in the afternoon it was much busier and they close about 11.15 for ticket holders only, paying to see the clock. *Astrono...
Balkrishna Shroff
We came here during our Rhine River Cruise. If you are in Strasbourg then you can't miss this beautiful marvel of Gothic architecture. It is located right in the heart of city. It's quite big. The beautiful stained glass windows, paintings and sculptures are worth seeing. This 144 meter tall structure is the 7th tallest church in the world. Another major highlight is the astronomical clock which o...
When is the best time to visit Cathédrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg (Strasbourg, France)?
Summer tower climbs run until 19:15; in winter last ascent is 17:15. Arrive early in July–August to avoid midday heat and queues.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Astronomical clock show (2 adults + 1 child) | EUR 10 |
| Tower climb (2 adults + 1 child) | EUR 21 |
| Children’s storybook souvenirs | EUR 10 |
| Family café snack | EUR 15 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 56 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Cathédrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg
Address: Pl. de la Cathédrale, 67000 Strasbourg, France
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About Cathédrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+33 3 88 21 43 3410 BEST nearby Activities
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