Don’t let the 424 steps to the top of Notre‑Dame de Paris’s towers intimidate you — from the original stone staircase to the new double-revolution solid oak this is a journey through history. Think of the visit as a stairway to the heavens.
Air filters through windows along the well-lit stone staircase as you head to the first level. A chronological history begins on the medieval level with two original chimeras damaged by the fire and important moments in the Cathedral’s history. The terrace is your first view toward Paris and a few of the 54 chimeras; the upward staircase takes you to the Bourdon/bells: Emmanuel and Marie. When you reach the cistern courtyard, look up and see original gargoyles peering down at you or chimeras gazing onto the horizon. The courtyard is where you will find the restored oak forest, which is the nave’s framework.
The Emmanuel bell (Bourdon Emmanuel) was installed at Notre-Dame in 1686. This is the first time, thanks to this new tour, that we can get so close to this masterpiece, which only rings on special occasions.
The refreshed south tower was untouched by the 2019 fire. The north tower once the starting point for a tower visits was damaged and could not be used for visits.
What to See at Various Levels
At the first level with the history and scale models of the cathedral is a boutique. The items you find here: snowballs, Victor Hugo pillow covers, magnets, etc. and Le Styrge magnets, pillow covers and porcelain pieces. The actual Le Styrge, that sits perched on the north tower, is only visible from below or at a distance. Two original chimeras damaged by the fire are perched as if watching your movements through the boutique.
On the levels with a view through grill work the city sprawls overlooking the bridges, the busy life below, the Seine, chimney stacks on rooftops and all the monumental highlights.
Time of Day Timing
I was on the 09:15 visit. We were maybe ten people. By the time I left after 10 a.m. the levels were very crowded. For the very top level, there is a limit of how many may go up at a time. When the last person begins the descent, the next group goes up the west terrace stairs. The view of the spire and “Saint Thomas” aka Viollet-le-Duc is on the east side. Due to the morning sun, views out of some windows are difficult. The windows are dusty dirty or have scaffolding barring some views. Buy your tickets online; none are sold at the entrance.
Just before security at the south tower entrance scan the QR code for a guided visit in text form (no audio). The code works anytime; the website address may not function. For an enhanced preview, check out the Center for National Monuments’ YouTube virtual tour, complete with English captions.
By the time you reach the top, the magnificent view of Paris will make every step on the stairs worthwhile.