Beneath the enchanting streets of Paris lies a haunting underworld waiting to be explored. The Catacombs, an expansive network of ossuary tunnels housing the remains of over 6 million people, offer a chilling yet captivating glimpse into the city’s dark history. A guided tour through this eerie labyrinth provides an intimate experience, granting visitors exclusive access and skip-the-line privileges. Led by expert guides, the tour unveils the rich legends and macabre stories that have captured the imagination of countless explorers. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a unique adventure, the Catacombs promise to leave an indelible mark on your Parisian odyssey.
Key Points
- A 2-hour guided tour of the Catacombs of Paris, priced from $155.28 per person, with skip-the-line access to avoid long waits.
- Intimate exploration limited to 200 people at a time, led by expert guides who provide insights into the Catacombs’ history and legends.
- The Catacombs extend nearly 300 kilometers and showcase walls lined with the bones and skulls of over 6 million people.
- Comfortable shoes and jackets are recommended due to the constant 14°C temperature, and the tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues or claustrophobia.
- The Catacombs tour offers a unique and memorable experience with an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 368 reviews.
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
Tour Overview and Pricing
For a guided tour of the Paris Catacombs, visitors can expect a 2-hour experience priced from $155.28 per person.
The tour offers skip-the-line access, allowing visitors to avoid long waits of up to 2 hours. Access to the catacombs is limited to 200 people at a time, ensuring an intimate and immersive experience.
Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Plus, a reserve now & pay later option is available.
The tour starts at the Catacombs of Paris, located at 36 Rue Rémy Dumoncel, 75014 Paris, France.
Experience and Itinerary
With an expert guide by their side, visitors can explore the Paris Catacombs and learn about their intriguing history and legends.
The guided tour provides skip-the-line access, allowing guests to avoid the long waits of up to 2 hours. The experience is limited to 200 people at a time, ensuring an intimate and engaging exploration.
Visitors will discover the nearly 300 kilometers of tunnels and paths, with walls lined with bones and skulls that serve as a poignant reminder of the site’s past as a burial ground for over 6 million people since the 18th century.
The tour starts at the Catacombs of Paris, located at 36 Rue Rémy Dumoncel, 75014 Paris, France.
Historical Background
The Catacombs of Paris have an intriguing historical background. Originally, they were mere limestone quarries used for construction.
However, in the 18th century, they became a burial site for over 6 million people. Today, the catacombs extend nearly 300 kilometers, with walls lined with bones and skulls.
This vast underground network was created to alleviate the overcrowding in Paris’ cemeteries. Visitors can explore this macabre yet fascinating site, learning about the history and legends surrounding this unique attraction.
The Catacombs offer a glimpse into the dark past of the city, providing a truly memorable experience for those brave enough to venture underground.
Visitor Information and Guidelines
Visitors meet at the Catacombs’ exterior near Denfert Rochereau to begin their guided tour.
It’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes and a jacket, as the temperature remains a constant 14°C year-round.
The Catacombs aren’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, claustrophobia, or wheelchair users. Bringing a baby stroller is also not allowed.
The tour is limited to 200 people at a time, ensuring an intimate and engaging experience.
Guests can expect to explore the nearly 300 kilometers of tunnels and paths lined with bones and skulls, while learning about the Catacombs’ fascinating history from an expert guide.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
Customers’ overall rating of the Catacombs guided tour stands at an impressive 4.6 out of 5, based on 368 reviews.
The tour guides receive a stellar 4.8 out of 5 rating, praised for their knowledgeability and passion in bringing the Catacombs’ history and legends to life.
Reviewers also highlight the tour’s excellent value for money, rating it 4.4 out of 5.
Highlights include the engaging and memorable experience, thanks to the expert guidance.
With skip-the-line access and limited group sizes, the Catacombs tour offers a unique and captivating glimpse into this iconic Parisian landmark.
Explore the Catacombs
Descending into the captivating world of the Paris Catacombs, visitors embark on a remarkable journey through the city’s subterranean past. Expert guides lead the way, sharing the intriguing history and legends that surround these eerie ossuary tunnels. Navigating the limited access, guests skip the lengthy queues and explore the extensive network of over 300 kilometers of underground paths, their walls lined with the bones and skulls of over 6 million people. The experience offers a unique perspective on Parisian history, blending the macabre with the educational, creating a truly memorable encounter.
| Key Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2 hours |
| Price | From $155.28 per person |
| Cancellation Policy | Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance |
| Access | Limited to 200 people at a time |
Guided Tour Details
Guided by seasoned experts, the Paris Catacombs tour provides an immersive exploration of this captivating subterranean realm.
Over the course of 2 hours, visitors skip the long lines and explore the catacombs, learning about their rich history and eerie legends. The tour is limited to just 200 people at a time, ensuring an intimate and engaging experience.
Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring a jacket, as the temperature remains a consistent 14°C year-round.
While the catacombs aren’t suitable for those with mobility issues or claustrophobia, the knowledgeable and passionate guides make this a truly unforgettable journey, showcasing the macabre beauty of this underground necropolis.
Booking and Reservations
Booking the Catacombs tour is a straightforward process, with a variety of options to suit different needs. The tour can be booked directly through the official website, with a "Reserve Now & Pay Later" option available.
Visitors can also choose to cancel their booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility. The tours are limited to 200 people at a time, so it’s recommended to book in advance to secure a spot.
With skip-the-line access, travelers can avoid lengthy waits and make the most of their 2-hour guided exploration of this historic underground world.
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
- Versailles Domain Day Bike Tour With Trianon Estate From Paris
- Versailles Domain Bike Tour With Palace and Trianon Estate Access
- Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Gourmet Lunch & Sightseeing Cruise
- Normandy D-Day Small-Group Day Trip With Omaha Beach, Cemetery & Cider Tasting
- Paris Top Sights Half Day Walking Tour With a Fun Guide
- Louvre Museum Semi-Private Guided Tour (Reserved Entry Included)
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Photography and Filming Allowed During the Tour?
Photography and filming are generally allowed during the Catacombs tour, but visitors are asked to refrain from using flash and tripods to respect the experience of others. Specific rules may vary, so it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?
The tour has a maximum group size of 200 people at a time. This allows for an intimate experience while exploring the extensive Catacombs network underneath Paris.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Limitations for the Tour?
The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, claustrophobia, or wheelchair users. However, there are no specific age restrictions. Children are welcome, though baby strollers are not allowed on the tour.
Can I Bring My Own Snacks or Water Into the Catacombs?
You can’t bring your own snacks or water into the catacombs. The tour limits personal items to help preserve the site. It’s best to stay hydrated before and after the tour.
Is the Tour Suitable for Those With a Fear of Confined Spaces?
The tour may not be suitable for those with claustrophobia, as the catacombs are a confined space. The tour guidelines note it’s not recommended for individuals with mobility impairments or fear of enclosed spaces. Visitors should consider their comfort level before booking.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
- Paris: Create Dried Flower Bell Jar Workshop in Paris
- Paris Vintage Car Half Day Tour With Le Marais and Transfers
- Sainte Chapelle & Conciergerie Private Guided Tour
- Paris: Wine Museum Guided Tour With Wine Tasting
- Oyster and White Wine Tasting in the Heart of Montmartre
- Paris: Montmartre Tour With Local Guide
- One-Day Tour to Bruges From Paris Mini-Group in a Mercedes
- The Unmissable of Paris on a Classic Open-Top Citroën DS
- Paris: City Treasures Bike Tour
- Mona Lisa and Treasures: 6-people Max Louvre Experience
- Romantic Photoshoot in Paris With Champagne & Transfers
- Paris Nightlife Experience: Party Bus & Pub Crawl in a Night
- Paris: Vallée Village Outlet Shopping Day
- Paris: Pere Lachaise Cemetery Guided Tour in French
- Paris: Dinner at The Eiffel Tower & Cruise
Sum Up
The Catacombs guided tour offers a unique and haunting experience, allowing visitors to explore the underground world of Paris’s ossuary. With expert guides, skip-the-line access, and a limited group size, this tour provides an intimate look into the city’s rich history. Visitors can expect a chilling yet captivating journey through the labyrinth of tunnels lined with the bones of over 6 million people.