Explore the captivating depths of Paris with the Catacombs tour, enhanced by an immersive audio guide. This activity takes visitors on a 1.5 to 3-hour journey through the city’s haunting underground ossuary, accompanied by breathtaking views of iconic landmarks along the Seine River. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or seeking a unique adventure, this excursion offers a remarkable opportunity to uncover the hidden wonders that lie beneath the surface of the City of Light.
Key Points
- Explore the historic Parisian Catacombs, with an audio guide provided in multiple languages to enhance the experience.
- Upgrade the Catacombs tour with an optional Seine River cruise, offering views of iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre.
- The Catacombs maintain a temperature of around 14°C (57°F), so warm clothing is recommended.
- This activity is not suitable for visitors with mobility issues, claustrophobia, or health concerns, as it involves significant stair-climbing.
- The activity is non-refundable, so check accessibility details to ensure suitability before booking.
Activity Overview
Explore a subterranean network filled with Parisian history on this activity that allows you to experience the Catacombs, with an optional Seine River cruise.
Priced from Kč 1,251 per person, this 1.5 to 3-hour tour offers access to the Catacombs and an audio guide in multiple languages.
For those seeking a more comprehensive experience, the package includes an optional river cruise to enjoy Paris from the water.
The Catacombs maintain a cool temperature of around 14°C (57°F), so dress appropriately.
This non-refundable activity isn’t suitable for certain groups, so review the accessibility details carefully.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Paris.
Highlights and Features
This activity offers a compelling exploration of Parisian history through the Catacombs.
Descend into a subterranean network filled with graves, cryptic inscriptions, and macabre remains. For those seeking a more serene experience, an optional Seine River cruise provides stunning views of iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre.
Descend into a subterranean network of graves, inscriptions, and macabre remains, or enjoy a serene Seine River cruise.
Audio commentary is included for both the Catacombs and river cruise, immersing visitors in the city’s rich history and architecture.
The Catacombs maintain a comfortable temperature of around 14°C, making it a pleasant escape from the surface.
Accessibility and Suitability
The Catacombs experience may not be suitable for all visitors.
Those with mobility issues, claustrophobia, or health concerns like heart and respiratory problems should avoid this tour. Pregnant women and wheelchair users are also not allowed.
The tour involves a significant amount of stair-climbing, with 130 steps to enter and 112 steps to exit the Catacombs. The tunnels can be narrow and slippery, so visitors must have a good level of physical fitness.
Children under 14 are welcome but must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Proper attire and footwear are essential for this underground adventure.
Meeting Point and What to Bring
Visitors can find the meeting point for the Catacombs at the entry gate.
For the river cruise, the meeting point is at Port De La Bourdonnais, pier number 3 (Bateaux Parisiens at the foot of the Eiffel Tower).
Guests should bring:
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a jacket, and comfortable clothes. No luggage or large bags as there are no lockers available.
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Comfortable shoes
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Warm clothing
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A jacket
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Comfortable clothes
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No luggage or large bags as there are no lockers available.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
The Paris: Catacombs, Audio Guide, and River Cruise Option activity boasts an impressive 4.6/5 rating based on 857 reviews.
Customers praise the must-do experience and easy-to-use combo ticket. However, some felt the river cruise was underwhelming compared to the Catacombs tour.
Reviewers noted the self-paced Catacombs exploration was enjoyable, though taller individuals may need to duck in certain areas.
With great audio commentary and a unique subterranean ambiance, the Catacombs appear to be the highlight for most.
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Exploring the Catacombs
What makes the Catacombs such a captivating experience for visitors to Paris? The Catacombs are a spellbinding subterranean ossuary, housing the remains of over 2 million Parisians.
Visitors can explore:
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A network of eerie tunnels and chambers adorned with carefully arranged bones and skulls
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Walls covered in cryptic inscriptions and epitaphs
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Graves and burial sites dating back centuries
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Insights into Parisian history and the city’s dark past
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An otherworldly ambiance that evokes a profound sense of mortality
With its atmospheric setting and macabre displays, the Catacombs offer a truly unique and unforgettable glimpse into Paris’s hidden underworld.
Cruising the Seine River
While the Catacombs offer a captivating glimpse into Paris’s macabre past, the optional Seine River cruise provides a serene alternative to explore the city’s iconic landmarks from the water.
The cruise features audio commentary in multiple languages, allowing visitors to learn about the history and significance of sights like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral as they drift along the river.
The leisurely pace of the cruise offers a welcome respite from the bustling city streets, providing a unique perspective on Paris’s renowned architecture and natural beauty.
For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the river cruise is a complementary addition to the Catacombs adventure.
Tips for an Unforgettable Experience
How can visitors make the most of their Catacombs and river cruise experience in Paris?
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Dress appropriately for the Catacombs’ cool, damp environment and wear comfortable, non-slip shoes.
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Arrive early to avoid long queues and crowds, especially at peak times.
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Download the audio guide ahead of time to make the most of the self-paced exploration.
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Consider upgrading to the river cruise option for a unique perspective of the city’s iconic landmarks.
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Be prepared to navigate the narrow, winding tunnels and stairs in the Catacombs, which may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.
Ask Away
Is the Audio Guide Available in Multiple Languages?
The audio guide is available in multiple languages, including English, French, Spanish, and German, providing a convenient and informative experience for visitors to explore the Catacombs and the optional Seine River cruise.
What Are the Security Measures in Place at the Catacombs?
The Catacombs have strict security measures in place. Pregnant women, those with mobility issues, claustrophobia, or respiratory problems aren’t allowed entry. Visitors must climb 130 steps to enter and 112 to exit the narrow, slippery tunnels.
Can I Bring Food and Drinks Inside the Catacombs?
No, food and drinks are not allowed inside the catacombs. Visitors are prohibited from bringing any consumables due to the sensitive nature of the site and to preserve the historical artifacts and environment.
Is There an Option to Visit the Catacombs Without the River Cruise?
Yes, there is an option to visit the Catacombs without the river cruise. The activity can be booked as a standalone Catacombs experience, without the need to include the optional river cruise.
Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available for the Tour?
The activity offers savings of up to 44%, with prices ranging from Kč 2,253 to Kč 1,251 per person. There’s also a non-refundable cancellation policy to consider when booking.
Final Words
The Catacombs tour in Paris offers a captivating blend of haunting history and scenic river cruising. With an informative audio guide and optional Seine River cruise, this activity caters to history enthusiasts seeking an immersive experience. While accessibility should be considered, the Catacombs tour promises an unforgettable adventure that combines the city’s subterranean wonders with its iconic above-ground landmarks.
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