Notre-Dame Basilica of Montréal is a Gothic Revival Catholic church in Old Montreal renowned for its vivid blue, gold, and red sanctuary and the Aura sound-and-light show held inside most evenings.
Built between 1824 and 1829 to designs by architect James O’Donnell, the basilica seats nearly 3,800 people and holds twin bell towers, one containing the massive bell “Le Gros Bourdon.” Its intricate woodwork, stained glass depicting Montreal’s founding, and the ornate Sacred Heart Chapel draw both worshippers and sightseers year-round.
Daytime self-guided visits run Monday to Friday 9:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Saturday 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., and Sunday 12:30-4:00 p.m., with last entry 30 minutes before closing; tickets are sold through the basilica’s official partner platform, and hours can shift for religious ceremonies.
