Notre-Dame Cathedral, Laon

02 / Stone, light and sculpted oxen

Stone, light and sculpted oxen

Begun in the mid-12th century and completed around 1235, Notre-Dame de Laon is an example of early Gothic architecture. Inside, look for its four-storey elevation, large rose windows and pale limestone. From the square, spot the oxen carved high on the towers. Independent entry to the cathedral is free and needs no booking.

03 / Two separate guided tours

Two separate guided tours

The upper-level tour climbs 209 steps and passes through an interior gallery before the panorama. The 26 September–27 December 2026 programme lists Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays at 2:30 pm; allow one hour, with a maximum of 18 visitors. Book with the tourist office and collect the ticket there or show your online confirmation. Pets are not allowed.

The guided cathedral and treasury tour shows preserved liturgical objects but does not include the upper levels. The same programme lists 3:30 pm on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays, also one hour with a maximum of 18 people. Book it separately and check current dates and prices for each tour.

04 / Access, mobility and nearby

Access, mobility and nearby

For an independent visit, enter by the right-hand door of the west front. The square was adapted in 2025 to make movement easier, and the ground floor of the cathedral is described as wheelchair accessible; the 209 tower steps are not. From the station, take bus line 4 to “Cathédrale”. The tourist office is next door in the former Hôtel-Dieu. Leashed dogs may enter the office but not the cathedral. The “Secrets sous la ville” underground visit is another nearby activity requiring a separate booking.