We just returned last week from a week in Paris. I am a big Rick Steves fan and use his books on my last four trips to Europe, including his 2018 Paris book this trip. This is my 3rd time to climb the bell tower at Notre Dame. We were in Paris at Easter (I would not recommend Easter weekend in Paris due to the much larger crowds than I had expected). We learned Notre Dame is using a new app called Out of the Line (there is a French name too). We were turned away (3/31/18) because we didn't have a reservation. We were able to a climb the tower later by using the app. You can only register on the app for a time to get in line for the bell tower the day of your visit starting at 9:00 a.m.. You schedule your bell tower visit on the app for free. It gives you a set time to come get in the bell tower line. Once you go inside, you can use your Museum Pass or pay for a ticket. You just need the app to get in the line and can only do it the day of your visit. Our concierge at the Hilton Opera Paris was even surprised to learn about the app. It seems to be a new requirement, as it is not in any of the Rick Steves information I read in advance of our trip. You need to know about this, especially if you are only in the city for a short period of time. I think the bell tower is must see. I would hate for travelers to miss this experience because they were not able to schedule a time and get in line.
Posted by
Brooklyn, NY
3841 posts
Thanks for the update, will files tin my notes
Posted by
OP
6 posts
This was the app we were required to use. Should have posted this link: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/out-of-the-line/id1106033906?mt=8
Posted by
Reading, PA, USA
1589 posts
Please add your information to the France/Paris Tour book update page on this website: https://www.ricksteves.com/forms/guidebook-feedback-form.
Posted by
Utah
446 posts
You can also reserve a time thru the app using wifi beginning at 7:30 am the day of visit. Worked flawlessly. Have your bluetooth turned on and the app open when you arrive at the cathedral and you get alerts for when to line up and check in.
Glad I had seen this info by chance on this forum before my visit in March.
Posted by
Ohio
19 posts
Thanks! Headed to Paris next month. Just added the app to my iPhone.
Posted by
Chicago
19 posts
Thanks for the info! We're headed to Paris the first week of June.
Posted by
1 posts
You can register for a time to climb the tower using the app, OR you can register on one of the two small kiosks on site. They are against the fence on the north side of the cathedral where you would line up to enter the tower, just underneath the signs which say, "To visit the Towers of Notre Dame, choose your time. Download the JeFile app or use the kiosks!"
Posted by
SoCal
150 posts
Thanks so much - I just downloaded the app for June's trip. Did you find any other places used this too? Great idea!
Posted by
OP
6 posts
This was the only Paris location I encountered the app, but it should show you other places. It is pretty easy to use. Hope you all have a great time. I just felt compelled to share this tip since I had not encountered this on prior trips to Paris. You really need to have the bell tower climb on your "must do" list. Bon voyage!