After more than five years of meticulous restoration following the devastating fire in April 2019, Notre-Dame de Paris is set to welcome visitors once again. The official reopening is scheduled for the weekend of December 7 and 8, 2024. To ensure a seamless experience, here is essential information on how to plan your visit.
Access and Reservations
Entry to the cathedral remains free of charge. However, to manage the anticipated high number of visitors and to enhance the visiting experience, an online reservation system has been implemented. Reservations opened on Tuesday, December 3, 2024. To book your time slot, please visit the official Notre-Dame de Paris website or use the dedicated mobile application. Upon completing your reservation, a digital ticket will be sent to your email.
While reservations are not mandatory, they are highly recommended to ensure smooth access and to minimize waiting times, especially during peak periods. Visitors without reservations may still enter, but should anticipate longer queues.
Special Opening Hours
To commemorate this significant reopening, the following special hours have been established:
- Sunday, December 8: 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM. Access to the cathedral and the 6:30 PM Mass will be exclusively by reservation.
- Monday, December 9, to Friday, December 13: Visitor hours from 3:30 PM to 10:00 PM.
- Saturday, December 14, and Sunday, December 15: Open from 3:30 PM to 8:00 PM.
Starting December 16, the cathedral will resume its regular schedule.
Practical Information
- Groups: Group visits will be available from June 2025, with reservations opening in March.
- Accessibility: The cathedral offers accessible visits, including provisions for visually impaired individuals.
- Treasury Visits: Visitors can also explore the cathedral’s treasury, with ticket prices ranging from €6 to €10.
The reopening of Notre-Dame de Paris is a monumental event in the preservation of French heritage. By planning ahead and securing your reservation, you can fully appreciate the restored splendour of this architectural masterpiece.
Background on the 2019 Fire and Restoration Efforts
On April 15, 2019, a major fire engulfed Notre-Dame de Paris, leading to the collapse of its iconic spire, the destruction of the roof, and significant damage to the wooden framework, affectionately known as the “forest” due to its dense timber structure. This tragedy prompted a global outpouring of support and initiated an unprecedented restoration campaign.
Immediate efforts focused on securing and stabilising the structure, completed by August 2021. The subsequent restoration phase involved artisans and heritage experts from around the world, employing both traditional craftsmanship and modern technology to faithfully restore the cathedral’s former glory. The project adhered to its projected timeline and budget, showcasing the dedication and expertise involved.
The December 2024 reopening of Notre-Dame de Paris stands as a testament to resilience and the commitment to cultural preservation, offering visitors a renewed opportunity to experience this Gothic treasure, which has borne witness to over eight centuries of history.