Visit Strasbourg Cathedral
The absolute symbol of visiting Strasbourg, Notre-Dame Cathedral is one of the most striking masterpieces of medieval Gothic architecture. Built of pink Vosges sandstone over more than four centuries, it reaches a height of 142 metres and remains one of the tallest spires in Europe. Every year, it welcomes almost 4 million visitors, who are captivated by its sculpted portals, its flamboyant stained-glass windows, its legendary astronomical clock and its panoramic platform offering a breathtaking view over the Alsatian plain. A visit to Strasbourg cathedral means plunging into the heart of a thousand-year-old history, a blend of faith, art and architectural prowess, all set in the heart of one of France’s best-preserved historic districts.
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1. History and construction of Strasbourg cathedral
Strasbourg cathedral is the story of a monumental construction project that spanned more than four centuries, making this monument a unique witness to the architectural changes of the Middle Ages. It all began in 1015, under the impetus of Bishop Werner of Habsburg, who laid the foundations of the first Romanesque cathedral on the banks of the River Ill. All that remains of this early Romanesque period is the crypt and the floor space, the buried memory of the original building.
From the middle of the 12th century, the builders resumed work in the nascent Gothic style. The nave and chancel still bear witness to this transition between the two styles, with their slender proportions and their quest for light characteristic of Gothic art. It was in the 13th century that construction really took off under the impetus of the master builder Erwin de Steinbach, whose work is still watched over by a mysterious statue on the southern façade. The western façade, considered to be one of the pinnacles of flamboyant Gothic art, was completed in the early 15th century.
The building takes its characteristic pinkish hue from Vosges sandstone, quarried locally for centuries. This stone, which varies from pinkish brown to orange-red depending on the light, gives the cathedral a unique atmosphere, intensifying its nuances at sunrise and sunset to offer visitors a magical spectacle. In 1439, the spire was finally completed at a height of 142 metres, making Strasbourg cathedral the tallest building in the Christian world, a record it would hold until 1647. The cathedral went on to be the theatre of European history, surviving wars, reforms and revolutions to become an indissociable symbol of Alsatian identity.
2. The west facade: sculpted portals and rose window
The first impression of Strasbourg’s Notre-Dame cathedral (Place de la Cathédrale, 67000 Strasbourg, rated 4.8/5 on Google for more than 75,900 reviews) is that of a stone lacework of almost unreal finesse. The western façade, considered to be one of the most beautiful in the Gothic world, impresses with the richness and meticulousness of its sculptures. It is organised around three monumental portals, each dedicated to a specific biblical theme. The central portal is dedicated to Christ and the Last Judgement, while the side portals depict scenes from the Old Testament and the life of the Virgin Mary. The hundreds of statues and bas-reliefs adorning these portals are a veritable catechism in stone, testimony to the ingenuity of medieval sculptors.
At the centre of this façade is the western rose window, an absolute masterpiece of radiant Gothic art dating from the 13th century. With its sixteen large petals and brightly coloured stained glass windows, it filters the light from the West to project a kaleidoscope of colours inside the cathedral, changing with the passing hours. Symbolising divine perfection with its circular shape and radiating motifs, this rose window is one of the largest and best preserved in France. You only have to stand in the square opposite to understand why Victor Hugo described this building as “a prodigy of the gigantic and the delicate”.
And don’t miss the Gothic spire soaring 142 metres above the ground. Completed in 1439 after several decades of work, it is the result of an unprecedented architectural tour de force. Its buttresses and open galleries give the impression that the stone itself defies gravity. From certain points in the historic centre – notably from the terraces of the Barrage Vauban – the top of the cathedral stands out against the sky like a gigantic lace.
3. Inside the cathedral: treasures not to be missed
To cross the threshold of Strasbourg cathedral is to enter another world. The interior of the building, with its 62-metre-long slender nave, exudes a striking solemnity. The Gothic vaults rise to dizzying heights, while the light filtered through hundreds of stained glass windows bathes the whole in an unreal atmosphere. Here are the highlights of this interior visit.
3.1. The Angel pillar
Located in the south transept, the Pillar of the Angels is undoubtedly the cathedral’s most famous sculptural masterpiece. Dating from the mid-13th century and rising to a height of 18 metres, it depicts the scene of the Last Judgement in four superimposed levels, with twelve figures of angels blowing trumpets and four evangelists bearing the symbols of their gospels. The elegance of the proportions, the delicacy of the drapery and the expressiveness of the faces make this column one of the pinnacles of Gothic sculpture worldwide. Popular legend has it that if this pillar were moved, the whole cathedral would collapse – testimony to its symbolic as well as structural importance within the building.
3.2. The stained glass windows and the nave
The central nave and aisles house an exceptional collection of stained glass windows covering more than 600 m² of glass surface. Some of these date back to the 12th century, making this one of the oldest and best-preserved stained-glass windows in France. During the Second World War, a number of these windows were carefully dismantled and placed in a safe place to protect them from the bombardments – a decision that saved these priceless treasures. Now reinstalled in their original setting, they diffuse streams of coloured light in the cathedral that vary according to the time of day and the season, offering a unique spectacle for every visit.
3.3. The Geiler Chair
Near the north pillar of the nave, the Geiler pulpit, completed in 1485, is another jewel of the late Gothic style. It was designed to honour Jean Geiler de Kaysersberg, a famous preacher from Strasbourg in the late Middle Ages, whose sermons attracted huge crowds. Its delicate carvings and meticulous reliefs bear witness to the excellence of Alsatian craftsmen of the time. The pulpit is adorned with a carved dog at its base – an animal symbolising fidelity and the preacher’s companion – a delightful little detail that will delight attentive visitors.
3.4. The statue of the Virgin on the Pillar
In the south aisle, the 13th-century statue of the Virgin on the Pillar is one of the cathedral’s most venerated features. Carved from pink Vosges sandstone, it depicts Mary carrying the Infant Jesus in a posture imbued with tenderness and serenity. Her gentle expression and delicate posture are characteristic of the Gothic sensibility of the period. Long the object of popular devotion, it continues to occupy a central place in local piety and is one of the must-see stops on your visit.
3.5. The suspended organ
Perched on a gallery fixed high up on the nave wall, the suspended organ is a unique architectural and musical curiosity. Installed in the 15th century, this ingenious device frees up floor space while guaranteeing remarkable acoustics. Its richly sculpted case, with its polychrome figures and finely worked plant motifs, makes it a work of art in its own right. During concerts and liturgical ceremonies, its powerful sound spreads across the entire nave with striking amplitude – an acoustic experience that lovers of sacred music will not want to miss for anything in the world.
Let yourself be guided through all these treasures thanks to the Navaway audioguide tour of Strasbourg, which will allow you to discover the cathedral and the riches of the historic centre completely independently, at your own pace.
4. The astronomical clock in Strasbourg cathedral
Arguably the best-known attraction in Strasbourg cathedral, the astronomical clock (17 Pl. de la Cathédrale CEDEX, 67082 Strasbourg, rated 4.5/5 on Google for 323 reviews) is a true masterpiece of mechanical and artistic ingenuity. The third astronomical clock to occupy this position in the south transept, the present clock was completed in 1843 under the direction of the Alsatian clockmaker Jean-Baptiste Schwilgué. It contains more than 30,000 mechanical parts – gears, automata, astronomical dials – for a result of breathtaking precision and iconographic richness.
Its multiple dials simultaneously indicate legal and solar time, the day of the week represented by the Roman gods of antiquity, the day of the month, the month, the year, the moving and fixed feasts of the liturgical calendar, as well as the position of the planets, the phases of the Moon and even eclipses. Every quarter of an hour, the four periods of life – childhood, adolescence, adulthood and old age – come forward to strike the bell. The long-awaited moment comes at 12.30 pm: the twelve apostles parade before Christ, who blesses them, while the cock crows three times – a mechanical spectacle of remarkable precision that attracts crowds of astonished visitors every day.
There is a charge for admission to the Parade of the Apostles (approx. €4) and places are limited to 50 people per session. You are strongly advised to arrive early in the morning to buy your ticket at the entrance to the cathedral, on the Place du Château side.
5. The panoramic platform: climb to the top of the cathedral
For those seeking a unique perspective of Strasbourg and the Alsace plain, the climb to the cathedral’s panoramic platform is an unforgettable experience. After climbing 330 steps through the galleries and passageways of the north tower, you arrive at a height of 66 metres on a terrace offering a 360° panoramic view of the roofs of Alsace, the meandering Ill, the Black Forest to the east and the crests of the Vosges to the west. On a clear day, you can even see as far as the Alps. The unique spire of the cathedral rises up just a few metres from you, in all its stone lacework, offering an unparalleled perspective on the mastery of medieval builders.
The climb is not easy: the stairs are narrow and steep, and you need to be in good physical condition. Access is limited to 50 people at a time. Tickets for the platform (around €8) can be purchased at the separate entrance on the Place du Château side. In summer (April to September), the platform is accessible from 9.30am to 8pm (last ascent at 7.30pm); in winter (October to March), from 10am to 6pm (last ascent at 5.30pm). To avoid queues, it’s best to visit during the week, in the morning as soon as it opens.
To complete your discovery of Strasbourg from above, the panoramic terraces of the Barrage Vauban also offer a fine view of the cathedral and Petite France – an ideal complement to your visit, which you can find on the Navaway audio tour of Strasbourg.
6. The crypt and treasure of the cathedral
Beneath the cathedral’s choir lies a Romanesque crypt dating back to the 11th century. Its low vaults and hushed atmosphere plunge visitors into an atmosphere of contemplation and ancient history. This is where the oldest heart of the building beats, where it all began in 1015 under Bishop Werner. The crypt also houses the cathedral’s treasury, a collection of priceless liturgical items: medieval reliquaries, priestly vestments embroidered in gold and silk, sculpted ivories, illuminated manuscripts and other evidence of the devotion and wealth of the Strasbourg Church over the centuries. The crypt can be visited during special tours organised by the pastoral team – check the cathedral’s official website for dates and times.
7. Opening times, prices and practical access
Visiting Strasbourg cathedral is very affordable, as admission to the nave is entirely free. Here is some practical information you should know before your visit.
7.1. Opening hours
The cathedral is open all year round, Monday to Saturday from 8.30am to 11.15am and from 12.45pm to 5.45pm; on Sundays and public holidays from 2pm to 5.15pm. During the Christmas market, extended opening hours are in force on the Place du Château side (Monday to Saturday from 8.30am to 5.45pm without interruption). The panoramic platform is open every day from April to September from 9.30am to 8pm, and from October to March from 10am to 6pm. Remember to check the opening times on the cathedral’s official website before you come, as they may change during special liturgical events.
7.2. Rates
Access to the nave is free. There is a charge for access to the procession of apostles on the astronomical clock (approx. €4, tickets to be purchased on site). There is a charge for climbing up to the panoramic platform (approx. €8). Guided tours of the cathedral are available from €9 per person, and audio guides are available from €5.
7.3. How do I get to the cathedral?
The cathedral is located in the heart of Strasbourg, at Place de la Cathédrale, 67000 Strasbourg. From Strasbourg station, it’s about a 15-minute walk via Place Kléber. Tram lines A and D stop at Langstross/Grand’Rue, a 5-minute walk from the cathedral. By car, the Gutenberg and Austerlitz car parks are the nearest. Place Gutenberg, one of the city’s oldest squares, is just a few minutes’ walk away.
7.4. Practical tips for your visit
It is best to arrive during the week, in the morning as soon as it opens, so that you can enjoy the cathedral in relative peace and quiet – Saturday afternoons are the busiest. Dress in a way that respects the religious character of the site (shoulders and legs covered). Bags are subject to a security check at the entrance: travel light to save time. Photography is permitted inside the church, but without flash and with respect for religious services. For the astronomical clock, plan to buy tickets as soon as the cathedral opens.
Download the audio-guided tour to discover Strasbourg on foot and on your own
To make sure you don’t miss a thing of Strasbourg during your visit, the Navaway app offers you a complete audioguide itinerary of 6.6 km for around 2 hours 40 minutes of discovery on foot, taking you from Petite France to Grande Europe, passing by Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Kammerzell House, Place Gutenberg and many other jewels of the Alsatian capital. Thanks to its 32 fun audio guides and interactive GPS navigation, you’ll be able to enjoy the city in complete freedom, without worrying about getting lost. Download the tour before you leave and discover Strasbourg at your own pace!
8. Don’t miss the area around the cathedral
Strasbourg cathedral is surrounded by an exceptional area well worth a visit. In the immediate vicinity of the building, there are several must-see places for visitors.
8.1. Kammerzell House
Almost right up against the cathedral on the Place de la Cathédrale, the Maison Kammerzell is one of the most beautiful medieval Alsatian houses still standing in France. Built in 1427 and remodelled in the 16th century, it owes its name to the grocer Kammerzell, who lived there in the 19th century. Its five-storey wooden facade, richly carved with figures, animals and plant motifs, is a marvel in itself. It now houses a gourmet restaurant serving the most emblematic Alsatian specialities – an ideal address for a gourmet break after a visit to the cathedral.
8.2. The Palais Rohan and the Œuvre Notre-Dame museum
Facing the south side of the cathedral, the Palais Rohan and the Musée de l’Œuvre Notre-Dame form a first-rate museum complex. The Palais Rohan (2 Place du Château, 67000 Strasbourg), the former residence of the bishops-princes of Strasbourg built between 1732 and 1742 by Robert de Cotte, houses three museums: the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, the Musée des Beaux-Arts and the Musée Archéologique. The Musée de l’Œuvre Notre-Dame conserves the cathedral’s original sculptures, which have been replaced by in situ copies, including some strikingly beautiful pieces dating back to the 13th century. An essential complementary visit to understand the history and secrets of the cathedral.
8.3. Petite France and the Vauban Dam
Just a few minutes’ walk from the cathedral, Petite France is Strasbourg’s most picturesque district, with its half-timbered houses mirrored in the arms of the Ill and its cobbled streets crowded with tourists from all over the world. Further on, the Barrage Vauban and its panoramic terraces offer a breathtaking view of the covered bridges and the silhouette of the cathedral on the horizon. These two sites form an integral part of Navaway’s walking itinerary for discovering the best of Strasbourg in a day – an ideal way to extend your discovery after the cathedral.
9. Anecdotes and secrets about Strasbourg cathedral
As well as its impressive size and artistic masterpieces, Strasbourg cathedral is full of anecdotes and secrets that fascinate visitors. Here are a few of them to enhance your visit.
9.1. The highest building in the Christian world
When it was completed in 1439, the cathedral’s spire reached a height of 142 metres, making Strasbourg the city with the tallest human construction on Earth – a title it retained for more than two centuries, from 1647 to 1874. Even today, the spire dominates the roofs of Alsace and can be seen from a great distance across the Rhine plain, like a beacon for passing travellers.
9.2. A cathedral that has stood the test of time
Despite the wars, revolutions and bombings that have marked Strasbourg’s turbulent history, the cathedral has survived the centuries without ever being destroyed. During the French Revolution, it was briefly transformed into a temple of Reason, then a hay warehouse. Its salvation came from the inventiveness of a citizen of Strasbourg who proposed that a large Phrygian cap be placed on the spire, thus avoiding its demolition. During the Second World War, the precious stained glass windows and sculptures were dismantled and placed in a safe place, allowing them to be preserved intact until the present day.
9.3. The mysterious statue of Erwin de Steinbach
On the southern façade of the cathedral, an enigmatic statue is said to represent Erwin de Steinbach, the main architect of the western façade. According to local tradition, this architect of genius has symbolically watched over his masterpiece for centuries, one eye eternally resting on the lace of stone that he helped to raise from the ground in Strasbourg.
To discover these anecdotes and many more during your visit, don’t hesitate to follow the Navaway audio tour of Strasbourg, which reveals the city’s secrets at every stage of your walk.
10. Frequently asked questions about visiting Strasbourg cathedral
Are visits to Strasbourg cathedral free?
Access to the nave is entirely free. However, there is a charge for climbing up to the viewing platform (approx. €8), access to the astronomical clock parade (approx. €4) and guided tours (from €9).
How long will it take to visit the cathedral?
Allow around 1 hour for a self-guided tour of the interior, and 1? to 2 hours if you climb to the platform or watch the clock parade. Half a day is ideal to discover everything at your own pace.
What time should you arrive to avoid the crowds?
It’s best to arrive at the opening (8.30am on weekdays). Saturday afternoons are the busiest, especially from 2pm to 5pm. For the platform, mornings are also preferable, as the number of visitors is limited to 50 at a time.
Can I take photos inside the cathedral?
Yes, photography is permitted inside the cathedral, without flash and with due respect for the liturgical services. Certain areas or periods may be subject to temporary restrictions.
When does the parade of apostles of the astronomical clock take place?
The famous Parade of the Twelve Apostles takes place every day at 12.30pm. Tickets (around €4) must be purchased in the morning at the entrance to the cathedral, on the Place du Château side. Places are limited, so it is advisable to arrive early.
Is Strasbourg cathedral accessible to people with reduced mobility?
Access to the nave is possible for people with reduced mobility via a specially adapted entrance. However, the panoramic platform is not accessible to people with reduced mobility because of the many steps to climb.
In conclusion, a visit to Strasbourg’s Notre-Dame cathedral is an experience that leaves a lasting impression. Whether it’s admiring its Gothic façade covered in sculptures, being enchanted by the light of its stained glass windows, discovering the ingenious mechanism of the astronomical clock or climbing up to the panoramic platform, every angle of view holds its share of wonder. Strasbourg cathedral is more than just a monument: it’s a stone book opening onto ten centuries of history, art and faith at the crossroads of Europe. To extend this discovery and explore all the treasures of the historic centre at your own pace, take the Navaway audioguide tour of Strasbourg on foot and on your own, your best travel companion for an unforgettable day in the capital of Alsace.
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