How Do You Book Notre-Dame’s Bell Towers with the Paris Museum Pass?
The Bell Towers of Notre-Dame are included in the pass, but you must reserve a free timed slot in advance through the official booking system — the pass covers entry, not the reservation. The cathedral floor itself is free and separate. Here’s the step-by-step, what to show at the gate, and how to plan the climb.
Towers on the pass, cathedral free
Two things are easily confused. Entering the cathedral nave is free for everyone, no pass needed. Climbing the Bell Towers — for the gargoyles and the rooftop views — is the part covered by the pass, and that’s what needs a timed reservation. The Treasury and the Archaeological Crypt are separate again.
Why you need to book
The towers have strictly limited capacity and a timed-entry system, so even with the pass you must reserve a specific slot in advance. The reservation is free, but spots are limited and popular, especially since the towers reopened — so booking ahead is essential to avoid disappointment.
Step by step
- Buy your Paris Museum Pass first.
- Go to the official Notre-Dame towers booking site (via the Centre des Monuments Nationaux).
- Choose the timed-entry option for pass holders (free).
- Select your date and time slot.
- Complete the free reservation.
- Save the confirmation with your pass on your phone.
What to show at the gate
On arrival, have both your Paris Museum Pass (which covers the climb) and your timed-slot confirmation (which covers the time) ready on your phone. Staff may check both, and there is security screening. Arrive a little before your slot, as latecomers may not be admitted.
The climb
Reaching the top involves climbing a narrow spiral staircase of around 400 steps, with no lift, so it’s not suitable for everyone. Your reward is a close-up view of the restored gargoyles and chimeras and a sweeping panorama over the Île de la Cité and the Seine — one of the great Paris views.
Book early — slots are limited
Tower slots sell out quickly, particularly in spring and summer and since the cathedral’s celebrated reopening. Reserve the moment you have your pass, and have a backup time in mind. If your preferred slot is gone, an early-morning or late slot is often easier and quieter.
Pair it with the Île de la Cité
Notre-Dame sits on the Île de la Cité near two more pass-covered sites — Sainte-Chapelle and the Conciergerie, both needing their own free reservations. Combine the towers with a free walk through the cathedral and these neighbours for a rich, historic half-day in the heart of Paris.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Confusing the free cathedral with the ticketed towers.
- Forgetting to reserve a tower slot.
- Arriving late for your timed entry.
- Underestimating the 400-step climb.
- Not saving the confirmation offline on your phone.
How long the climb takes
Allow around 45 minutes to an hour for the towers once you are admitted, plus the time you spend in the security queue beforehand. The visit is timed and one-way up the spiral stair, so wear comfortable shoes and be ready for the steps. Combined with a free wander through the cathedral nave below and a stroll around the Île de la Cité, the towers round out a memorable half-day at the heart of Paris.
Buy your Paris Museum Pass for the Notre-Dame towers
To climb the Bell Towers smoothly, buy your Paris Museum Pass online in advance, then reserve your free timed slot and save the confirmation — and enter the cathedral itself for free. Secure your pass and take in Notre-Dame from the rooftops.
Frequently asked questions
Are Notre-Dame’s towers included in the pass?
Yes — but you must reserve a free timed slot in advance.
Is entering the cathedral free?
Yes — the nave is free for everyone, separate from the towers.
Where do I book the towers?
On the official site via the Centre des Monuments Nationaux.
How many steps is the climb?
Around 400, with no lift.
What do I show at the gate?
Your pass and your timed-slot confirmation.
Are the Treasury and Crypt included?
The Treasury is a separate ticket; check current details for the Crypt.