Paris Catacombs Tickets: How to Get Exclusive Access in 2024
If you’re gearing up for a trip to Paris and looking for that one-of-a-kind experience that’ll send shivers down your spine, let me clue you in on a must-do activity: exploring the eerie, mysterious world of the Paris Catacombs!
Here’s everything you need to know about booking your Paris Catacombs Tickets! The key is to book in advance!
Now, I know what you’re thinking – “Catacombs? Bones? Is this for real?” Absolutely, my fellow traveller! As your trusty travel friend, I can vouch for the authenticity of this extraordinary underground journey.
Picture this: a maze of tunnels adorned with human bones arranged in macabre yet mesmerizing patterns, telling tales of centuries past. Intrigued? You should be!
And trust me when I say, snagging those Paris Catacombs tickets will be the best decision you make during your Paris trip.
Let’s venture into the heart of darkness and unearth the secrets that lie beneath the city’s glamorous exterior. It’s time to put the Catacombs at the top of your to-do list and unlock the mysteries that have intrigued travellers from all over the globe!
Table of Contents
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My Top Pick for Paris Catacombs Tickets
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Paris Catacombs: VIP Skip-the-Line Restricted Access Tour
✅ 24 hr cancellation
✅ 2-hour tour
✅ restricted access
Best 4 Paris Catacombs Tours
1. Paris Catacombs: VIP Skip-the-Line Restricted Access Tour
⭐️ RATING: 4.9/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | ✅REVIEWS: 237
Uncover buried secrets on a small group VIP tour of the Catacombs. Skip the lines, explore hidden rooms, and dive into underground Catacombs in Paris.
What’s included:
- small group size of up to 6 people
- skip-the-line access
- entrance ticket
- exclusive access to restricted areas
- expert guide
Important information:
- Not suitable for people with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, claustrophobia
- Not allowed: pets, smoking, large bags/luggage
- Ability to walk 1.6km (1 mile), descend 131 steps and ascend about 112 steps
- The temperature in the catacombs is around 14 degrees Celsius
- Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
“The catacombs tour was such great value for money and I am so glad that we booked the tour rather than trying to experiencing it on our own with an audio guide. Melvin our guide was knowledgeable and passionate about the catacombs and super friendly and made the tour a highlight of our week in Paris.”
Renee from Australia
PROS:
- immediate access without waiting in line
- guided tours worth the extra price to see the restricted areas
- knowledgable guide that shared lots of extra information
CONS:
- a larger sign to find which is the right tour
- we missed out tour completely as we showed up late and weren’t able to join halfway through as no one could bring us to our group
Book your Catacombs Paris tickets now for an unforgettable adventure with this tour!
2. Paris Catacombs Skip-the-Line Guided Tour and Special Access
⭐️ RATING: 4.8/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 1.5 hours | ✅REVIEWS: 202
Skip the line, explore the macabre catacombs on an intimate small-group tour. Unravel buried secrets with your guide through the bone-laden labyrinth.
What’s included:
- small group size of up to 6 people
- skip-the-line access
- entrance ticket
- VIP access to areas not available to the general public
- expert guide
Important information:
- Not suitable for people with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, claustrophobia
- Not allowed: pets, smoking, large bags/luggage
- Ability to walk 1.6km (1 mile), descend 131 steps and ascend about 112 steps
- The temperature in the catacombs is around 14 degrees Celsius
- This activity does not offer a cancellation refund
“We could not be more pleased with our experience at the catacombs museum. With our tour guide, we saw sections of the catacombs that most people wouldn’t have access to. With learning the history of the catacombs, a huge part of Paris’ past is put into perspective for us.”
Stephanie from United States
PROS:
- immediate access without waiting in line
- worth the extra price to see the restricted areas
- knowledge guide that shared lots of extra information
CONS:
- no cancellation policy like other tours
- museum staff are not helpful if booked with a tour company
Secure your tickets now and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
3. Paris Catacombs Entry & Seine River Cruise with Audio Guide
⭐️ RATING: 4.9/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | ✅REVIEWS: 7
Get ready to dive into Paris’s hidden history with a ticket to the eerie crypts of Paris and cruise along the Seine River to bask in the city’s beauty.
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
Important information:
- Not suitable for people with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, claustrophobia
- Not allowed: pets, smoking, large bags/luggage
- Ability to walk 1.6km (1 mile), descend 131 steps and ascend about 112 steps
- The temperature in the catacombs is around 14 degrees Celsius
- This activity does not offer a cancellation refund
- Late entry cannot be guaranteed
“Very cool. Only know were many antisocial people in the catacombs. For example, there were people crawling into rooms and screaming / screaming children running through the corridor”
Shirley from Netherlands
PROS:
- allows you to do 2 Paris activities with 1 ticket
CONS:
- no live guide, audio guide only
- new activity, few reviews
Don’t miss out on this thrilling combo – book your tickets now!
4. Catacombs Skip-the-Ticket-Line Ticket and Audio Guide
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 1 hour | ✅REVIEWS: 10,243
Skip the ticket hassle and venture underground to the Paris crypts, guided by your informative audio companion, available in 4 languages.
What’s included:
- skip-the-line entry ticket
- audio guide for the catacombs in French, English, German or Spanish
Important information:
- Not suitable for people with mobility impairments (not wheelchair accessible) or claustrophobia
- Not allowed: pets, smoking, large bags/luggage
- Ability to walk 1.6km (1 mile), descend 131 steps and ascend about 112 steps
- The temperature in the catacombs is around 14 degrees Celsius
- This activity does not offer a cancellation refund
“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 back up 112 spiral stairs.”
Susan from United States
PROS:
- unique experience
- away from the Paris crowds
CONS:
- no live guide, audio guide only
- self-guided, with 60+ other people
Check availability and dates and book your tickets now!
Visiting Information
- The visitors’ entrance is located at:
1, Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy (place Denfert-Rochereau) in the 14th Arrondissement - Metro and RER B: Denfert-Rochereau | Bus: 38, 68 | Velib’: 2, avenue René-Coty
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 9:45AM to 8:30PM; last admission at 7:30PM
15 Fascinating Facts About The Catacombs of Paris
Exploring the Paris Catacombs is not only a journey into the city’s past but also a unique and thought-provoking experience that offers a glimpse into the fragility and transience of life.
- The Paris Catacombs were originally ancient limestone quarries that were later transformed into ossuaries to accommodate the overflow of human remains from the city’s cemeteries.
- The catacombs form an extensive network of Paris tunnels and chambers, spanning approximately 322 km (200 miles) beneath the streets of Paris.
- It is estimated that the catacombs house the remains of around 6 million Parisians, making it one of the largest and eeriest ossuaries in the world.
- The bones and skulls within the Catacombs are arranged in intricate patterns and designs, creating a haunting yet mesmerizing display.
- “Arrête! C’est ici l’empire de la mort” (Stop! This is the empire of death) is the chilling inscription that can be seen above the entrance to the Catacombs.
- The oldest bones in the Catacombs date back to the Merovingian period, which was around the 5th century.
- Over the years, the Catacombs have been the site of unauthorized parties and gatherings, earning a reputation as a hidden and mysterious party spot.
- The catacombs are not entirely open to the public, with only a small portion accessible for visitors to explore.
- The vast network of Paris underground tunnels extends far beyond the accessible areas, and many parts of the Catacombs remain uncharted and off-limits, making it easy to get lost.
- The Catacombs have inspired numerous works of literature, art, and cinema, contributing to their fascination and allure for people worldwide.
- During World War II, the Catacombs served as a hiding place for the French Resistance and a base of operations against German forces.
- Due to the complexity of the underground maze, visitors are required to stay on designated paths and follow safety guidelines to avoid accidents.
- To protect the delicate environment and ensure the preservation of the Catacombs, only a limited number of visitors are allowed inside at any given time.
- Over the years, the Catacombs have become the subject of various urban legends and spooky tales, adding to their mystique and allure.
- Today, efforts are being made to preserve and protect the Catacombs, including monitoring and maintaining the stability of the underground structure.
FAQs About Catacombs in Paris
What are the Paris Catacombs?
The Paris Catacombs are an underground ossuary that houses the remains of approximately six million people. It is a network of tunnels and chambers beneath the city of Paris, France.
Can I visit the Paris Catacombs?
Yes, the Paris Catacombs are open to the public for guided tours. Visitors can explore a portion of the catacombs and learn about its history and significance.
How do I book a tour of the Paris Catacombs?
To visit the Paris Catacombs, you need to book a guided tour in advance through the official Catacombs website or other authorized ticketing platforms. Booking online is recommended to secure your preferred date and time slot.
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.
What can I expect during a Catacombs tour?
During the Catacombs tour, you will descend underground to explore a section of the ossuary, where human bones are carefully arranged. The guide will share historical information about the Catacombs and its significance in a respectful manner.
How long does the Catacombs tour last?
The Catacombs tour typically lasts around 45 minutes to 1 hour, covering a distance of about 1.5 km (0.9 miles) underground.
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 not to disturb the experience for others.
Are guided tours the only way to visit the Paris Catacombs?
Yes, visiting the Catacombs is only allowed through guided tours. This measure ensures visitor safety, protects the site, and provides a more informative experience.
Paris Trip Planning Resources
Oh, Paris, the city of my dreams! With eight unforgettable trips under my belt, my love for this enchanting city knows no bounds. I hope these resources help you plan your trip to Paris like a pro! Bon voyage!
Things to Do in Paris
Now that you’ve experienced the Parisian Catacombs, here are some equally amazing activities waiting for you.
Taking a Seine River Cruise, although a wee bit touristy, it’s such an enjoyable way to see Paris from a whole new perspective. Gently sailing past the Eiffel Tower, the Musee d’Orsay and other historical landmarks.
Make sure to embrace the bohemian spirit of Saint Germain in the 6th arrondissement, where the streets ooze with artistic vibes, chic cafes, and boutique galleries. Don’t miss the allure of the historic Ile Saint Louis with its elegant 17th-century architecture and the trendy Le Marais district, where history, culture, and style converge harmoniously. As you wander through the charming cobblestone streets, you’ll stumble upon hidden gems, artisanal shops, and mouthwatering eateries that are sure to delight your senses.
If you are a wanderer like I am, you’re going to want to stroll some of the best Paris streets. There are some in almost every arrondissement, but finding the best ones like Rue de l’Abreuvoir in Montmartre is key.
Dare to uncover the secrets of Paris by venturing into its hidden passages, known as “Les Passages Couverts,” where you’ll be transported back in time amidst quaint shops and captivating architecture. It’s a great escape on a rainy day in Paris.
Lastly, for a serene escape, don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the beautiful parks and hidden gardens scattered throughout the city. Whether it’s the elegant Luxembourg Gardens or the charming Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, each green oasis offers a peaceful respite from the bustling streets.
Paris Itineraries
For all you wanderers dreaming of a Paris holiday, fret not, for there’s a wealth of resources to help you plan the perfect itinerary for your adventure.
Whether you’re organizing a trip to Paris from scratch or seeking inspiration for a jam-packed week or a weekend getaway, I’ve got lots of itinerary guides to help you.
If you’re enchanted by the holiday season, don’t miss the chance to explore Paris during Christmas, where the festive markets, adorned with twinkling lights and delectable treats, create a magical ambiance like no other.
Springtime in Paris, on the other hand, unveils a stunning spectacle of cherry blossoms, turning the city into a pink fairytale wonderland.
For solo travellers seeking fun experiences, the city opens up a world of opportunities. From leisurely walks along the Seine to exploring world-class museums and hidden gems, you’ll find endless ways to create cherished memories.
And let’s not forget the romance that permeates every corner of Paris. Share a kiss beneath the Eiffel Tower, take a leisurely boat ride on the Seine, or savour a candlelit dinner at a charming bistro – the city’s romantic aura will sweep you off your feet.
As a Holidaymaker
The Catacombs offers an experience like no other. So, if you’re planning your Paris itinerary, don’t miss the chance to explore this hidden gem for yourself!
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