The iconic bell towers of the Notre Dame Cathedral, known for their breathtaking architecture and panoramic views, are expected to reopen to the public sometime in the Summer 2025.
While restoration work continues, here’s a detailed guide to everything you need to know about visiting the bell towers, including restoration updates, ticketing, visitor routes, and more.
Take Guided TourRestoration updates
The restoration of the bell towers has been meticulous, especially after the fire.
While much of the attention has been on the north tower, it was discovered that the south tower’s belfry (the wooden structure housing the bells) sustained more damage than initially anticipated.
The south belfry still requires significant repairs and carpentry work before the bell towers can reopen.
The restoration efforts also include the design of a new visitor route, which cannot be finalized until the south belfry repairs are completed.
This comprehensive approach ensures the safety and longevity of the towers while enhancing the visitor experience.
A new wooden double-helix staircase is being built as part of the bell tower restoration. This staircase will allow separate spirals for going up and down, so visitors won’t have to pass each other. Also, it lets visitors see others climbing from the opposite side through the center.
This is one of the most unique and exciting new additions to Notre Dame’s bell towers!
New visitor route
The direction of the visitor route through the bell towers will be reversed from how it was before the fire:
- Your journey will start at the south tower on the right side of the cathedral when facing the front.
- On the first level, you’ll visit a new exhibition room located between the Gallery of Kings and the Gallery of Chimeras. This room will showcase Notre Dame’s history, important dates, and significant events.
- Next, you’ll climb a double-helix staircase. This unique design features two spirals—one for going up and the other for going down—allowing visitors to move smoothly without crossing paths.
- After the climb, you’ll reach the Gallery of Chimeras, where you can admire the famous stone creatures that overlook Paris from the cathedral’s heights.
- You’ll then enter the south belfry to see the cathedral’s two largest and most famous bells, Emmanuel and Marie, up close.
- Continue your climb to reach the top terrace of the south tower, offering spectacular views over the city.
- A new terrace connects the south and north towers. From here, you’ll have a rare chance to view the restored wooden roof structure known as the “Forest.”
- Your visit will end with a descent through the north tower, exiting on the left side of the cathedral.
Ticket information
Tickets will be required for entry, and advanced reservations will be necessary.
The exact ticketing details are yet to be announced.
The final ticketing and reservation system post-reopening are still to be confirmed, but advanced booking and a digital reservation process are likely expected.
Before the fire, admission cost €10 per person, and the Paris Museum Pass also covered it. Using an app, guests could purchase tickets and reserve a time slot in advance.
Tip: Visit the main floor of the Notre Dame Cathedral. It's free of cost. Visitor capacity and tour group policy
To ensure a smooth flow and accommodate restoration limitations, the following policies will be in place:
- Visitor Capacity: A maximum of 100 visitors will be allowed in the bell towers at any given time.
- Tour Groups: Large tour groups will not be permitted to climb the towers due to limited space.
Keep an eye on updates as the reopening approaches, and get ready to explore one of the most iconic landmarks in a whole new way!