Ever since I first heard about the Paris Catacombs, I knew I had to see them. There’s something both eerie and fascinating about exploring the hidden depths beneath the busy streets of Paris.
So, if you’re like me and crave a unique adventure, let me walk you through how to buy Paris Catacombs tickets.
To visit the Paris Catacombs, you need to book a guided tour in advance, so I will share some handy tips for getting them and which group tours are the best ones to uncover this eerie underground maze.
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Top Pick for the Catacombs of Paris Tour
In a rush and can’t read the whole article? No worries, I’ve got you covered.
This is my top pick for your Paris Catacombs tour. Although it’s a bit pricey, it’s the most in-depth tour available. The expert guide has special permission to enter restricted areas that regular tours can’t access.
The expert guide will also spend more time sharing the fascinating history and legends related to the Catacombs in Paris.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Paris Catacombs: VIP Skip-the-Line Restricted Access Tour
✅ 2-hour small group tour with an expert
✅ get a skip-the-line guided tour of the Catacombs plus special access to closed areas
How to Buy Tickets for Paris Catacombs Tours
To visit the Paris Catacombs, you need to book a guided tour in advance through two channels:
- Catacombs of Paris tickets through the official Catacombs website, or
- Through an authorized ticketing platform like Get Your Guide or Viator.
Do not book with any other provider online or in person while in Paris due to the high probability that the tickets are a scam.
Visiting the Catacombs is extremely popular. Most often the guided tour offered through the official Catacombs website will be sold out. That is why you’re likely getting your tickets through the authorized vendors of Get Your Guide or Viator.
Tips for Buying Paris Catacomb Tickets
Here are some insider tips to make your ticket-buying experience even better:
- Book Early: The Catacombs are incredibly popular, and tickets can sell out fast, especially during peak tourist season. Try to book your tickets at least a few weeks in advance.
- Timing is Everything: If you prefer a quieter experience, aim for the first entry time in the morning or the last one in the afternoon. Midday can be very crowded. Visit on a weekday rather than a weekend to avoid the largest crowds.
Why a Group Tour is Your Best Option
I recommend a group tour because experiencing the Catacombs without an expert guide means missing out on the rich history and fascinating insights that make the visit truly memorable. The Catacombs are deeply intertwined with Paris’s history, and only a local Paris Catacombs Tour Guide can bring this connection to life. For example:
- The Paris Catacombs were originally limestone quarries used to build all the creamy stone Parisian buildings we see today. Later, they were transformed into ossuaries to accommodate the overflow of remains from the city’s cemeteries.
- The Catacombs house the remains of about 6 million Parisians, making it one of the largest ossuaries in the world. Some of the oldest bones date back to the 5th century.
- The Catacombs form an extensive network of tunnels and chambers spanning about 322 km (200 miles) beneath Paris and only a very small portion is open to the public.
- During World War II, the Catacombs served as a hiding place for the French Resistance and today there are rumoured party and gathering spots.
#2 Option: Paris Catacombs Entry & Seine River Cruise with Audio Guide
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours
What’s included:
- timed access entry ticket
- audio guide for the catacombs in French, English, German or Spanish
- 1-hour Seine River cruise
- audio commentary for the Seine River cruise
“We enjoyed visiting the Catacombs. Tickets were emailed to me immediately. We arrived 10 minutes before our start time and waited in a short line. You will need to descend a spiral staircase. The audio guide was great, and we went at our own pace. At the end you need to climb the 112 spiral stairs.”
Susan from United States
Take advantage of this exciting combo of Catacombs and River Cruise
Visiting Information
The visitors’ entrance is located at:
- 1, Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy (place Denfert-Rochereau) in the 14th Arrondissement
Opening hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday from 9:45 AM to 8:30 PM; last admission is at 7:30 PM
How to get there:
- Metro and RER B: Denfert-Rochereau | Bus: 38, 68 | Velib’: 2, avenue René-Coty
FAQs About Paris Catacombs Tickets
Are there age restrictions for visiting the Catacombs?
Yes, children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Parents need to consider the sensitivity and sometimes eerie nature of the tour.
Is the Catacombs tour suitable for people with claustrophobia or mobility issues?
The Catacombs tour involves narrow passages and stairs, and it may not be suitable for those with severe claustrophobia or mobility issues. The underground environment can be challenging for some visitors.
Are there any restrictions on photography during the Catacombs tour?
Flash photography is not allowed inside the Catacombs to maintain a respectful and solemn atmosphere. Be considerate to others when taking photos so as not to disturb the experience for others.
As a Holidaymaker
The Catacombs experience is like no other. So, if you’re planning your Paris itinerary, don’t miss the chance to explore this!
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