Can I create a database from a CSV file in Notion?

Yes, you can absolutely create a database from a CSV file in Notion, and it's one of the most straightforward ways to migrate your existing data into the platform. The process involves using Notion's built-in import feature, which automatically converts your CSV rows into database entries and maps your columns to Notion properties. This functionality has become increasingly reliable, with recent improvements to header mapping and property type control that make the import process more intuitive than ever.

Getting started is simple: navigate to your target page, click the three-dot menu in the upper right corner, and select "Import." Choose CSV as your file type and upload your file. Notion will display a preview showing how your data will appear, automatically using your first row as headers and suggesting appropriate property types for each column. You can adjust these mappings before finalizing the import, ensuring your text columns become text properties, dates are recognized correctly, and numbers maintain their formatting.

However, there are important limitations to consider. Your CSV file should be under 2-5 MB for optimal performance, and only basic data types transfer smoothly. While text, numbers, dates, and checkboxes import seamlessly, complex Notion features like relations, formulas, and rollups must be configured after import. Files with merged cells, embedded formulas, or images will lose that formatting, importing only the raw data. Additionally, your CSV should use UTF-8 encoding and have clear column headers for the best results.

One significant consideration is that manual CSV imports create entirely new databases rather than updating existing ones. If you need to regularly sync data from external sources, you'll need to delete and recreate your database each time, which can disrupt any relations or views you've built. For ongoing data synchronization, automated tools using Notion's API or third-party integrations like Zapier provide better solutions, though they require more setup.

The CSV import feature works best for one-time migrations or periodic updates of straightforward tabular data. Whether you're moving a contact list, project tracker, or inventory from Excel, Notion's import process provides a reliable bridge between traditional spreadsheets and its more flexible database system. Just remember to review your property types after import and be prepared to manually configure any advanced database features your workflow requires.