On April 15, 2019, an infamously massive fire broke out in Notre-Dame de Paris, devastating its roof and causing the 19th century spire to collapse. In the fire, even though the great stone vaulted ceiling held and prevented the complete obliteration of the structure, much of the wooden roof framing, namely la forêt, was destroyed, in addition to extensive damage to the upper walls.
Now, after years of restoration and renovation, the twin towers of Notre-Dame Cathedral have finally reopened to the public for the first time since 2019. French President Emmanuel Macron inaugurated the reopening by climbing to its rooftop. Visitors can now once again climb the 387 steps to reach the bell towers which were closed for over six years.
Following the fire, the French government pledged a restoration to be completed “within five years.” A public agency was set up to oversee the work, with Paris and national and international donors funding the restoration. Approximately EUR 840 million was raised.
Stabilisation work began immediately—removing melted scaffolding, securing flying buttresses, and ensuring structural safety. The traditional wooden roof framework was rebuilt using oak trees selected and dried for years, matching medieval techniques. Modern fire protection systems were also installed to guard against future disasters.
The cathedral formally reopened to the public on December 7, 2024, five years and nearly eight months after the fire. However, certain parts remained closed, including the towers.
After the reopening by the French president, these towers, which house the famous bells—including the great bell “Emmanuel”—that had been off-limits since the fire can now be freely visited by the tourists.
The reopening is part of the final stages of restoration. A new visitor route was created, beginning with the south tower, leading up to the old belfry with improved stairs, refurbished viewpoints, and better safety. The bells have been restored to functionality. Entrance to the towers requires tickets (about EUR 16), with small group sizes to preserve the space and ensure safety. Online booking is required.
While the towers are open, the restoration is not entirely complete. Renovations continue on the eastern apse, stained glass windows, and certain decorative elements. Some interior spaces still require work. But with the towers now accessible, visitors can once again climb the 387 steps and enjoy sweeping views of Paris, the gargoyles, and the façade.
Notre-Dame de Paris, one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture, saw its onset in 1163 under Bishop Maurice de Sully and was largely completed by the mid-13th century. Built on the Île de la Cité, the cathedral turned into the religious and cultural heart of Paris, witnessing coronations, royal weddings, and state ceremonies. Over the centuries it underwent several alterations, suffered damage during the French Revolution, and was revived in the 19th century through Eugène Viollet-le-Duc’s celebrated restoration, which added the now-famous spire. Its twin towers, gargoyles, stained glass rose windows, and grand organ made it a symbol of France’s heritage, drawing millions of visitors annually until the devastating fire of April 2019.
Now that it has opened its doors to visitors once again, the visit must be planned ahead. Tourists would be well advised to purchase tickets online, arrive early, and expect queues. The tower tour takes around 45 minutes. Beyond the climb: the cathedral itself, free to enter, with its revived interiors, rose windows, great organ, and vast nave. Outside, the Seine, Île de la Cité, the statue of Saint Michel, the Pont Notre-Dame, and beloved Parisian cafés nearby make the area ideal for extended exploration.
Q1: When did Notre-Dame Cathedral’s towers reopen?
Notre-Dame Cathedral’s towers reopened to the public in September 2025, six years after the devastating fire that struck the landmark in April 2019.
Q2: Why were the Notre-Dame towers closed?
The towers were closed after the April 2019 fire, which destroyed the cathedral’s spire, roof, and parts of its vaulting. Restoration and safety works required a full shutdown.
Q3: What restoration work has been done at Notre-Dame since the fire?
Restoration included stabilising the structure, reconstructing the oak framework and roof, rebuilding the spire, cleaning stained glass windows, and repairing sculptures and masonry damaged by the blaze.
Q4: What can visitors see when touring the Notre-Dame towers?
Visitors can climb the medieval towers, view the Emmanuel bell, admire Gothic architecture, and enjoy panoramic views of Paris from the top.
Q5: When will the full Notre-Dame Cathedral reopen?
The full reopening of Notre-Dame Cathedral is scheduled for December 2024, in time for Paris to host the 2024 Olympic Games. The towers were reopened later in September 2025.
Q6: What else can visitors explore near Notre-Dame Cathedral?
Nearby attractions include the Seine riverbanks, Île de la Cité, Sainte-Chapelle, the Conciergerie, and the Latin Quarter with its historic streets and cafés.
(With inputs from various sources.)