Zero point of the roads of France on the parvis of Notre-Dame
Located in the heart of Paris, the Kilometre Zero of France’s roads on the parvis of Notre-Dame is a symbolic place that attracts visitors from all over the world. This geographical point, marked by a bronze plaque embedded in the ground, signifies the official starting point for road distances in France. A must-stop for those who love historical landmarks and urban curiosities.
Located in a place known the world over
This iconic yet lesser-known spot in the heart of Paris, yet situated on the Parvis Notre-Dame - Place Jean-Paul II.
This small bronze disc embedded in the ground is far more than just a plaque. Located in front of the cathedral Notre-Dame de Paris, in the 4th arrondissement, this site enjoys an exceptional setting.
The Point Zéro in front of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, one of the most visited monuments in the world! Take the opportunity to admire the cathedral’s Gothic architecture, its legendary gargoyles, and its millennia-old history. The perfect combination for a cultural and unique break!
The lively, history-rich parvis offers an atmosphere that is both solemn and vibrant, with visitors bustling around and street musicians sometimes entertaining the crowd. An ideal spot for a photo stop or to soak in the cathedral’s Gothic architecture.
The zero-kilometer point of all French roads
Imagine this: every distance shown on road signs across France starts from this exact spot. Whether you’re heading to Brest, Marseille, or Strasbourg, this is where it all begins! A quick visit, but one rich in symbolism, offering a fresh perspective on Paris. This is the kilometer zero of all French roads—a symbol steeped in history and geography that captivates travelers from around the world.
A symbol for tourists
For tourists, this Point Zéro is far more than just a simple plaque: it’s a symbol of the connection between Paris and the rest of the country, embodying the unity of French territory.
This place can be discovered in a few minutes, but it remains etched in the memory as a nod to French history and geography. A quick visit, yet rich in meaning for those seeking to grasp the soul of Paris.
Created in 1924, this geographical landmark was originally intended for civil engineers of the Ponts et Chaussées to standardize road measurements. Today, it has become a tourist curiosity, a meeting point for lovers of Paris and history enthusiasts.
Exceptional location to visit other points of interest
Freely accessible and open-air, the Point Zéro is an ideal stop during your exploration of the Île de la Cité and the Île Saint-Louis.
Its central location makes it easy to include in a sightseeing itinerary, just a short walk from the Seine, the Hôtel de Ville or the Latin Quarter. Nearby, you’ll find other treasures such as the Sainte-Chapelle, with its sublime stained glass, or the Palais de Justice, a witness to France’s judicial history, or the Conciergerie. Also nearby is the Saint-Germain-des-Prés district.
Starting point of France’s roads: a small detail that adds an original touch to any exploration of the capital.
Starting point of France’s roads: a lucky spot for those who believe in it?
Did you know this spot is also a symbol of luck? An urban legend claims that tossing a coin onto the plaque brings good fortune. So why not try your luck? A wish and a simple gesture that will add a touch of magic to your visit.
A photographer’s dream
For photography enthusiasts, this location offers a unique chance to capture a piece of Paris’s soul. Step onto the plaque, immortalize this symbolic moment, and share it with your loved ones—with Notre-Dame in the background! An original keepsake to bring home from your trip.
To learn more about its history and fun facts, visit the dedicated Wikipedia page. A fascinating read to enrich your visit!
Nearby visits and bookings to consider
Book tickets for Notre-Dame de Paris (Free entry but booking recommended to avoid queues)
Book tickets for the Archaeological Crypt of the Île de la Cité
Also see
the Luxembourg Garden (no ticket or reservation required)
and the Jardin des Plantes (Free but "La Grande Galerie" – to visit with reservation)
To complete your visit to the Île de la Cité, a cruise with boarding nearby:
Book Paris: Seine Dinner Cruise with Panoramic Views and Champagne
Book Batobus River Taxi (9 stops) (Hop-on Hop-off – 1 or 2-day pass – Easy way to travel from one museum to another)
3 important tips to make your stay easier.
### 1. Phrasebook Translator for those who don’t speak French fluentlyStruggling to find the right word or phrase in French? Click here on PHRASEBOOK – or in the top right corner of your screen. This is a glossary of 100 useful words and/or phrases for tourists visiting Paris (At the restaurant, Hotel, Shopping, Metro, Greetings, Asking for directions, etc.). Eight languages are available. And guess what? Each word and phrase can also be heard aloud in French.
### 2. VPBY’s Stay GeneratorThere’s so much to see and do in Paris—so planning your trip wisely is key. To help you, we’ve created a Stay Generator, available to you FREE of charge.
In just 5 minutes and 5 clicks, you’ll get your half-day-by-half-day sightseeing itinerary, all reservations—if you want, no obligation—for the sites you wish to visit, plus transport (plane, train or car), accommodation and even gift suggestions for yourself, your friends or your family.
How does it work?
Click on the free “Paris Trip Organizer” tool and you’ll save yourself the headache of trying to see as much as possible in the shortest time. Next, you’ll be asked to choose:
1/ You select your "general interests" by clicking on the list (Museums, Churches, Monuments, Parks, etc.);
2/ The VPBY Stay Generator then provides you with all relevant listings;
3/ You select by clicking on the names of the museums, monuments, parks, or activities you wish to include;
4/ The organizer returns your itinerary for each day of your stay;
5/ with geographically optimized daily visits—if you wish—to avoid tedious and tiring travel.
It takes just 5 clicks and 3 minutes. And it’s completely free. To use it, click on "Paris Stay Organizer"
Note: Want to know what users of the VPBY Stay Generator think of their experience? Click on "They planned their trip with VPBY"
3. List of Reservations to Make
To avoid wasting time waiting in line, we recommend making your reservations a few days in advance:
Reservations to enter museums, monuments, shows, and Seine River cruises
Reservations for your arrival in France: flights, trains, and cars
Reservations for your accommodation: hotels, apartments, and guesthouses – in Paris or nearby
All these reservations are available on our website, directly in the articles of the attractions you’re interested in or by clicking on "Reservations" to see a full list of what you’ll need during your stay.
