Fribourg Cathedral (Cathédrale St. Nicolas de Fribourg)

The basics

No tour of Fribourg’s old town would be complete without a stop to marvel at its magnificent cathedral, the most important and famous local attraction. Join a walking or cycling tour to see the church along with Fribourg’s medieval town walls and fortifications, the Bern Bridge, Espace Jean Tinguely – Niki de Saint Phalle, and historic funicular. Visit with a guide on a private or small-group tour or opt for an audio tour to explore at your own pace.

Things to know before you go

• The cathedral is free to visit, but there is a small admission fee to climb the bell tower.

• Wear modest dress and be respectful of any religious services in the active place of worship.

• Views from the bell tower are among the best in Fribourg, so charge your camera or smartphone.

• The cathedral is accessible to wheelchairs, though the steep ramp at the entrance may be challenging for some visitors.

How to get there

The Fribourg Cathedral sits at the heart of the compact old town, easy to reach on foot or by bike from other local attractions. The city’s large public parking lot is just a 10-minute walk away, or you can take in the church on a walking or cycling tour with a guide to help navigate your way through town.

When to get there

Visit on a clear, dry day to appreciate the stained-glass windows that flood the church interiors with color, and take in sweeping views across the old town and river to the slopes beyond. Opening hours for worshippers and tourists differ, so check the schedule carefully before visiting.

Highlights of the Fribourg Cathedral

The most striking feature of the cathedral is its Gothic architecture, but you’ll also find a number of treasures inside. Pause to admire the relief depicting the Last Judgement over the main portal as you enter, and then take some time to gaze at the stained-glass windows. Created by the Polish artist Jozef Mehoffer between 1896 and 1936, these count among the most important examples of art nouveau–style stained glass in Europe. The cathedral’s 19th-century organs are also significant, with their unique style that combines classic and Romantic details.