Frequently asked questions

Entry to the basilica interior (sanctuary, nave, side chapels), plus a mobile-phone audio guide in English, French, Spanish, or Mandarin. The audio guide covers architecture, the history of the parish, the stained-glass scenes, and the Casavant Frères organ. Priority entry on Rue Notre-Dame Ouest, bypassing the standing queue at peak times.

A 45-minute immersive multimedia experience produced by Montréal's Moment Factory. The basilica interior becomes a projection canvas: the ceiling stars animate, the walls are painted with light, a full orchestral score plays through the sanctuary's sound system. It's wordless, narrative-led, and designed as a standalone evening experience separate from the daytime self-guided visit.

Yes — they're separate tickets at separate times. A common pattern: daytime visit at 10:00 (with your audio guide), free day in Old Montréal, back at 19:00 or 20:00 for AURA. The two visits complement each other well.

Yes, with caveats. Most kids 6+ are captivated; the darkness, music and lights are immersive but not scary. Toddlers may find the sound volume overwhelming. There's no age restriction but under-7s are free (lap seating). AURA starts after dinner time for small kids.

Yes — the basilica is still an active Catholic parish. Sunday mass is at 11:00 in French. Mass attendance is free and doesn't require a ticket. Tourist visits are not permitted during mass. If you want to attend in a non-tourist capacity, just walk up.

Smart casual. No shorts shorter than mid-thigh, no tank tops, shoulders covered. The basilica doesn't strictly enforce but asks politely; most tourists comply without being asked. Kids' usual clothing is fine.

Two situations trigger a full refund: (a) we cannot secure your slot, or (b) the basilica closes (very rare — typically only for weddings or major services). Outside those, tickets are non-transferable. Reply to your confirmation email 48h+ ahead and we'll try to move the date.

Very — Old Montréal is one of the safest tourist districts in Canada. Normal street-smart rules around Place d'Armes. Nothing specific to the basilica.