Not to worship. Canon 1221 of the Code of Canon Law says entry to a church is to be free and gratuitous during the time of sacred celebrations, so no charge may be made for coming to Mass or another service. Outside those times some famous churches charge sightseers. Cologne Cathedral has required a ticket for sightseeing since 1 July 2026, while keeping worship, private prayer and candle-lighting free through its north portal. Notre-Dame de Paris states that access is free, with a separate charge for its treasury.
Practice varies by country. A heritage-sector survey by Future for Religious Heritage reports that about a quarter of cathedrals in the United Kingdom charge visitors, that the Sagrada Família in Barcelona and Milan's Duomo sell tickets, and that charging is uncommon in much of eastern Europe; it also reports that French law has so far kept the historic cathedrals free.
Two habits help a pilgrim. Ask at the door for the entrance for prayer, which often leads to the Blessed Sacrament chapel. And plan to be there for Mass, when the building is doing what it was built for. Use only a cathedral's official website for bookings; Notre-Dame warns that free time slots resold by third parties are not valid. Rules change, so check each cathedral's own website before travel.
Related questions, answered
Is Notre-Dame de Paris free to enter?
Yes. The cathedral states that access is free; booking a time slot through its official website or app is optional and recommended at busy times. No reservation is needed to attend Mass. The treasury has its own charge.
Source: Notre-Dame de Paris: What are the cathedral's opening hours?
