Useful Information
Your Questions, Answered
Consult our FAQ section for questions about the facility, ticketing and activities.
General Information
What year was the Basilica built?
The Basilica was built between 1824 and 1829. Its two towers were later completed in 1841 (west tower, named Perseverance) and 1843 (east tower, named Temperance).
Is it possible to get married at the Basilica?
Yes, it is possible to get married in the nave of the Basilica itself, or in the Notre-Dame du Sacré-Cœur Chapel. For more information, visit the Wedding page.
Who owns the Basilica?
The Notre-Dame de Montréal Basilica is owned by the Fabrique de la paroisse Notre-Dame de Montréal, a nonprofit organization that also manages the Notre-Dame-des-Neiges Cemetery.
Does the Basilica host musical concerts?
Yes, see our activities page for more information on concerts at the Basilica. Concert availability varies from season to season.
Why must I have to pay to enter the Basilica?
The Basilica is managed by the Fabrique de la paroisse Notre-Dame de Montréal, a nonprofit organization that assumes full responsibility for its maintenance and restoration. Thanks to ticket sales, restoration work is made possible, enabling future generations to visit this heritage site. The organization is grateful for all donations to the Basilica and thanks you for your generosity.
What's the difference between a cathedral and a basilica?
A cathedral is a church managed by a bishop or archbishop responsible for the administration of a diocese. A basilica is a title given to a church in recognition of its religious, historical, architectural and artistic value. Pope John Paul II elevated Notre-Dame to the rank of basilica in 1982.
Did Céline Dion get married at the Basilica?
Yes, Céline Dion was married at Notre-Dame Basilica on December 17, 1994, in a ceremony attended by 500 guests. Her son, René-Charles, was baptized in the Notre-Dame du Sacré-Coeur chapel on July 25, 2001, with 250 guests in attendance. The funeral of her husband, René Angélil, also took place at the Basilica on January 22, 2016, with around 1,500 people in attendance. His grave is located at the Notre-Dame-des-Neiges Cemetery, managed by the same organization as the Basilica.
When can I hear the Casavant organ?
During a sightseeing visit, certain days include an organ performance by Mr. Pierre Grandmaison, Notre-Dame's titular organist. Dates are announced each summer season.
Saturday and Sunday masses are also accompanied by the organ.
Is the Basilica accessible to people with reduced mobility?
The Notre-Dame Basilica has been assessed as partially accessible by Kéroul. The main entrance is equipped with a wheelchair ramp. To find out more, please consult our technical data sheet on the Kéroul website.
Is the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montréal a replica of Notre-Dame de Paris?
No. Critics associated the style of Montréal's Notre-Dame Basilica with that of Notre-Dame de Paris when it was built. This was a mistake. The Notre-Dame Basilica of Montréal is in the English Gothic Revival style — its towers are very slender compared to its central core, its volume is vertical and its façade is sparsely ornamented.
During a trip to France, Pastor Rousselot was impressed by the style and symbolism of the Sainte-Chapelle in Paris. He therefore suggested that the architect Victor Bourgeau, who designed the interior of Montréal's Notre-Dame Basilica, take inspiration from it. The Basilica's interior design is reminiscent of the French Gothic Revival style — the blue vaulted ceiling adorned with gold stars and the decorative motifs on the columns are reminiscent of the interior of the Sainte-Chapelle's lower chapel.
Sightseeing Visit Information
How long does the sightseeing visit take?
The self-guided visit lasts approximately one hour.
When can I arrive for the sightseeing visit?
You can arrive at any time during the Basilica's opening hours. However, the last entrance is at 4:30 p.m. Times vary slightly from season to season and are subject to change without notice. We suggest always checking the schedule for the latest news on opening times.
May I take photos and videos during my visit to the Basilica?
Feel free to take photos and share them on social networks by tagging the Basilica. We only ask for you to be mindful of others and to not disturb other participants while taking photos or videos.
If you represent a media organization, please fill in the form on the Media & Press tab and a member of our team will process your request, if supported.
Is it possible to buy food and drink on site?
No food or drink will be allowed on the premises, and no beverages will be offered for sale.
Can I bring pets?
Pets are not allowed, except for service animals. In this case, please present proof of ownership to our staff at reception.
Does the Basilica have a gift store?
For the time being, the Basilica boutique is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 11am to 4pm for those with a ticket for the sightseeing visit. Keep an eye on the Basilica's news to find out when it will be fully reopened.
Can I get free admission to the Basilica if I am a tour guide?
If you're a Montreal tour guide, group leader or bus driver, you and your group can enter the Basilica free of charge.
Establishment Information
Where is the Basilica located?
110 Notre-Dame Street West
Montréal, Quebec
H2Y 1T1 Canada
Are restrooms available on-site?
Yes, restrooms are available on-site.
Is the Basilica accessible to people with reduced mobility?
The Notre-Dame Basilica has been assessed as partially accessible by Kéroul. The main entrance is equipped with a wheelchair ramp. To find out more, please consult our technical data sheet on the Kéroul website.
Is parking available?
The Basilica does not have its own parking lot for visitors. Old Montreal has both paid street parking and paid parking lots.
Ticket Information
What are the entry conditions for younger visitors?
Admission is free for children aged 5 and under. It is therefore not necessary to request an admission ticket for children under 5.
There are special rates for teenagers and students — consult them under the Rates section.
Where can I purchase tickets?
You can buy your tickets in the “Tickets” section of the Fever app. You can download it from the App Store or Google Play. Don't forget to log in with the same email address you used to purchase your tickets. This way, the staff at reception can scan the QR code directly from the app on your smartphone.
If you don't want to download the Fever app, the QR code you'll need to present on the day of the event is also included in your confirmation e-mail.
Can I buy tickets on site?
Yes, it is possible to buy tickets on-site during the Basilica's opening hours. Please note that we do not sell tickets after 5 p.m.
If you wish to purchase tickets for The AURA Experience in the evening (after 5 p.m.), they can only be purchased online. However, due to high demand, we strongly advise you to purchase your tickets in advance.
Can I book a ticket for my accompanying person?
If you need assistance during your visit or experience, your accompanying person will be admitted free of charge.
Is it possible to get reimbursed?
Tickets are generally non-refundable. Ticket terms and conditions are agreed prior to purchase. However, for any special situation, please contact Fever and their customer relations team will deal with your request. Don't forget to quote your ticket ID number.
Can I change the date and/or time of my ticket(s), or change the type of ticket(s)?
We can help you change the date of your ticket or exchange it for another date, time or ticket type (subject to availability) if you request it at least 48 hours before your session. Contact Fever for more information. Don't forget to quote your ticket ID number.
Can I transfer my tickets to another person?
Yes, you can transfer your tickets free of charge to anyone with a Fever account. Simply go to the Fever application, in the “Tickets” section, click on your ticket and then on “Transfer your tickets”. For further assistance, please contact Fever, quoting your ticket ID number.
Do I need to print out my ticket?
There is no need to print your ticket(s). Your electronic ticket(s) will be validated directly from the Fever application or from your confirmation e-mail.
Which official ticket offices sell tickets for activities at the Basilica?
Official tickets can only be purchased on Fever. Tickets are not available from any other website or online ticketing service.
I cannot find my ticket. What should I do?
You can find your ticket with the QR code in the Fever app, in the “Tickets” section. If you haven't installed the Fever app, you can download it from the Apple Store or Google Play. Don't forget to log in using the same account you used to purchase your tickets. If you still can't find your tickets, please contact Fever.
Fever takes your security very seriously. You can view our security measures here.