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ONE of the world’s most famous attractions could charge tourists for the first time.
Paris’ Notre-Dame has been closed since 2019 following a huge fire.
The Notre-Dame is re-opening this year – but might have new charges[/caption]
The attraction has been closed since the April 2019 fire[/caption]
However it is set to reopen again this December after a five-year restoration.
And French ministers have suggested a new entry fee could be introduced.
Culture Minister Rachida Dati said the “symbolic charge” would go towards conserving the building, and others across France.
She said: “Across Europe, people have to pay to get into the most remarkable religious buildings.”
The suggested charge could be €5 (£4.17) per person, which would bring in €75million (£62million) a year.
She added: “In this way, Notre-Dame de Paris would save all the churches in Paris and France.”
Non-EU citizens would pay more than French visitors – so Brits would be hit with the charge.
However, many others have said that churches and cathedral should remain free of charge to welcome anyone “unconditionally”.
The costs of restoring the landmark are predicted to be around €700million (£583million), ahead of its official opening date of December 8.
When it does reopen, it wont be fully restored.
New stained glass windows are being installed throughout 2026, with the originals being moved to a museum.
It’s not the only European attraction that is looking at introducing tourist fees.
Turkey’s Hagia Sophia will see tourists charged €25 (£22) to enter, previously being free.
The Trevi Fountain in Rome could charge tourists to visit during the 2025 Jubilee next year.
The Sun's Assistant Travel Editor reveals how to do the Paris attractions in one day
Sophie Swietochowski reveals all….
“ARRIVING at Gare du Nord rail station, you will be able to tick off some of the main tourist attractions without hopping on a bus or the Metro.
“And exploring by foot is by far the best way to soak up the Parisian architecture.
“Montmartre hill and the stunning Sacre Coeur basilica are less than 20 minutes’ walk from the station.
“The Champs-Elysees is made for strolling and you’ll end at L’Arc de Triomphe, one of France’s most famous war monuments.
Nearby is the world-renowned Moulin Rouge cabaret show which also can’t be missed.”
And Barcelona has revealed plans to double the entry fee for the famous Park Guell attraction, but only for tourists.
Most of these attractions remain free for locals.
The suggested charge has been slammed by some locals[/caption]
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