How the opening of Notre Dame will impact Paris tourism

The cold of December 8, 2024 carries an air of anticipation as Paris prepares for a historic moment. The bustling streets around Île de la Cité hum with whispers of admiration, curiosity, and nostalgia. Notre-Dame de Paris, a symbol of French heritage and architectural ingenuity, is about to reopen its doors after five years of meticulous restoration. The tragedy of April 15, 2019, when flames ravaged the cathedral's heart, feels both distant and vivid, etched in collective memory. Now, as the bells prepare to ring again, the excitement is palpable — the city and its visitors are ready to embrace one of their most treasured landmarks once more.

This reopening is much more than an architectural triumph; it is a cultural phenomenon drawing global attention. Bookings for flights to Paris have risen by more than 15% for the inauguration weekend, led by Spanish travelers (32%), followed by Italians (21%) and Portuguese (12%). Hotels and accommodations in the capital are also seeing a surge, with bookings up by 5 points. This enthusiasm highlights Notre-Dame's role not just as a religious or cultural monument but also as a global tourism emblem. These figures reflect a revitalized city, a beacon inviting travelers to explore its history and ongoing evolution.

What awaits these eager visitors is a reimagined experience of Notre-Dame. Beyond the restored spire by Viollet-le-Duc and the reconstructed roof of the nave and choir, visitors will encounter a redesigned forecourt and a carefully curated pathway highlighting the cathedral’s treasures. To manage the expected influx of up to 15 million annual visitors — 3 million more than before the fire — a reservation system has been introduced. Free but strongly recommended, this system ensures smooth access to the site, which can now accommodate up to 3,000 people at a time. This initiative exemplifies a modern approach to preserving and sharing the cathedral’s legacy, balancing accessibility with sustainability.

The impact of Notre-Dame’s reopening extends far beyond its walls. Local businesses, including hotels and restaurants around Île de la Cité, are preparing for increased activity. Having endured years of slowdown due to restoration work, they anticipate a revitalization fueled by the crowds drawn to the cathedral. With this reopening coinciding with Paris’s festive winter season, Notre-Dame’s charm adds a new dimension to the city’s holiday magic. From the glittering Champs-Élysées to the decorated windows of department stores, Paris, with its reanimated heart, promises a season of wonder and renewal for both locals and visitors worldwide.