The iconic bell towers of the Notre Dame Cathedral, known for their breathtaking architecture and panoramic views, are scheduled to reopen on Saturday, September 20th, 2025.
After extensive restoration work following the devastating 2019 fire, these towers will once again offer visitors a unique perspective of Paris.
While restoration is still underway, here’s everything you need to know about visiting the bell towers, including ticket information, visitor routes, and other essential updates
Take Guided TourRestoration updates
The restoration of the bell towers has been meticulous, particularly after the damage caused by 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) suffered more damage than initially expected.
The south belfry still requires significant carpentry and repairs before it can fully reopen.
Additionally, a new visitor route is being created, which will not be finalized until repairs are complete.
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 visitor route through the bell towers will be reversed from its previous layout. Visitors will enter through the south tower (on the right side of the cathedral when facing the front).
- First Level: Start by visiting a new exhibition room located between the Gallery of Kings and the Gallery of Chimeras. This space will showcase Notre Dame’s history, important dates, and key events, as well as display to-scale replicas of three iconic chimeras: The Stryge, The Pelican, and The Dog-headed Woman.
- Double-Helix Staircase: You’ll then climb the double-helix staircase, which offers separate spirals for ascending and descending, allowing visitors to move efficiently without crossing paths.
- South Belfry: At the top of the stairs, enter the south belfry to view the two largest and most famous bells, Emmanuel and Marie, up close.
- Top Terrace: Continue to the top terrace of the south tower, where you can enjoy spectacular views of Paris.
- Terrace Between Towers: A new terrace now connects the south and north towers, providing a rare chance to view the restored wooden roof structure, also known as the “Forest.”
- North Tower: As you descend, pass through the north tower, where the bells are still functioning. The area will be partially accessible, and a sound recording of the bells will accompany your visit.
- Exit: Your visit will conclude with an exit from the north tower, on the left side of the cathedral.
Ticket information
Tickets for visiting the Notre Dame bell towers are required, and advanced reservations are mandatory.
Tickets will be available for purchase starting in early September 2025, with prices set at €16 per adult.
Admission will be free for children under 18 and EU nationals under 25, but even these visitors must reserve a time slot in advance.
Free Entry: On the first Sunday of the months of January, February, March, November, and December, the bell towers will be free for everyone. However, even those with free entry must still 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 of visitors and accommodate the ongoing restoration, only 100 visitors will be allowed inside the bell towers at a time.
Large tour groups will not be allowed due to the limited space, and no group reservations will be accepted.
However, family groups of up to 7 people can visit together, but each person must have their own ticket for the reserved time slot, even if they qualify for free admission.
Tour guides will not be permitted inside the bell towers, regardless of the group size.
Opening hours
The bell towers will be open during the following hours:
- 20th September – 31st October: 9 am to 11 pm
- 1st November – 31st March: 9.30 am to 5 pm
Last entry will be 1 hour before closing time.
The bell towers will be closed on 1st January (New Year’s Day), 1st May (Labour Day), and 25th December (Christmas Day). They may also close on short notice in the event of dangerous weather conditions, with refunds provided if that occurs.
Visitor experience and health & safety
Visiting the bell towers is not recommended for individuals with claustrophobia, vertigo, heart conditions, pregnancy, or for young children.
It’s important to pack light, as only small bags (up to 40cm x 40cm x 20cm) will be allowed. No pets (except service animals), bikes, scooters, or large items are permitted.
Important Rules:
- No tripods, selfie sticks, drones, or high heels.
- No smoking, vaping, or alcohol.
- Dress code: No swimwear or revealing clothing.
Final notes
The Notre Dame Bell Towers are set to offer a completely unique experience, providing visitors with incredible views and an exclusive look at the cathedral’s restored features.
Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the bell towers of one of Paris’s most iconic landmarks!
Stay tuned for further updates as the September 2025 reopening approaches!
We, two elderly people, will come to Paris and visit the Notre Dame.
It is appraciated that, if you inform us when the bell tower is to be reopened and how can we reserve ticheks to visit the bell tower. Our question is that, does the online-booking ticket for visiting the church include a visit to the bell tower ?
Shixiong Lin from Swissland.
Most likely, the online ticket for the cathedral does not include bell‑tower access—tower visits require a separate ticket when they reopen, expected in Summer 2025 (around mid‑September). Get updates here