Beneath the bustling streets of Paris lies a captivating and eerie underworld – the Paris Catacombs. This exclusive guided tour offers visitors a rare chance to explore the network of over 200 miles of underground tunnels and burial chambers, typically off-limits to the general public. Led by knowledgeable guides, guests can explore the site’s rich history and legends, including areas adorned with intricate bone displays. With constant temperature and convenient metro access, this tour promises an immersive experience in the atmospheric and mysterious subterranean realm. But what secrets do these ancient tunnels hold, and why are they only accessible to a select few?
Key Points
- Skip-the-line access to the Paris Catacombs, avoiding long queues.
- Exclusive guided tour with access to restricted areas typically off-limits to the general public.
- Exploration of the expansive 200-mile underground network of tunnels and burial chambers housing millions of remains.
- Insightful commentary from a knowledgeable English-speaking guide on the site’s rich history and legends.
- Atmospheric and eerie immersive experience in the subterranean realm of the Catacombs.
👉 Check out our guide to the 2 Best Guided Tours In Musee D Orsay
Contents
- Key Points
- Overview of the Tour
- Highlights of the Experience
- Included in the Tour
- Meeting Point and Directions
- Tour Duration and Difficulty
- Temperature and Recommended Attire
- Cancellation Policy
- Additional Upgrade Option
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can Children Participate in the Tour?
- What Is the Maximum Group Size?
- Are Photography and Videography Allowed Inside the Catacombs?
- Is There an Option to Visit the Catacombs at Night?
- Are There Any Special Requirements for Accessing the Restricted Areas?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Paris
- More Guided Tours in Paris
- More Tours in Paris
- More Tour Reviews in Paris
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Paris we have recnetly reviewed
Overview of the Tour
This skip-the-line guided tour of the Paris Catacombs grants visitors exclusive access to restricted areas typically off-limits to the general public, allowing them to explore the expansive network of 200 miles of underground tunnels and burial chambers while learning about the site’s rich history and legends.
Over the course of 1.5 hours, the tour provides a rundown of this unique Parisian landmark. Guests will descend 130 steps into the catacombs, where the temperature remains a cool 14 degrees Celsius, and ascend 85 steps back up.
Along the way, an English-speaking guide shares captivating insights, bringing the catacombs’ storied past to life. An optional Seine river cruise can be added to further enhance the experience.
Loving the local insights? Here are more guided experiences we recommend in Paris
Highlights of the Experience
Visitors on this exclusive tour gain access to restricted areas of the Paris Catacombs, exploring over 200 miles of underground tunnels and chambers that house the remains of millions of people.
With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, guests learn the captivating history and dark legends of this vast ossuary.
The tour provides a unique opportunity to see sights off-limits to the general public, including areas with intricate wall displays crafted from human bones.
Throughout the 1.5-hour excursion, attendees are immersed in the atmospheric and eerie ambiance of this one-of-a-kind subterranean realm.
An optional Seine river cruise upgrade allows visitors to further enhance their Parisian experience.
Included in the Tour
The tour includes skip-the-line entry tickets to the Paris Catacombs, providing direct access to this renowned underground ossuary. Guests gain VIP entry to restricted areas not open to the general public, allowing them to explore the vast network of tunnels and burial chambers.
An English-speaking guide accompanies the group, sharing the captivating history and legends of this unique subterranean world. Plus, visitors may opt to upgrade their experience with a narrated Seine river cruise, further seeing the cultural richness of Paris.
This exclusive tour offers:
- Unparalleled access to the restricted areas of the Catacombs
- Engaging commentary from an expert English-speaking guide
- An opportunity to explore the haunting history and mysteries of this underground labyrinth
- An optional upgrade for a scenic Seine river cruise to complement the Catacombs experience
Meeting Point and Directions
To begin the tour, guests meet at the Denfert Rochereau metro station, using Exit 1.
They’ll find the Catacombs entrance across the street, to the right of the small green building, identified by glass doors and signage.
The meeting point is conveniently located right at the metro station, making it easy for visitors to find.
Once at the entrance, guests will be greeted by their English-speaking guide who’ll provide access to the restricted areas not available to the general public.
With the skip-the-line ticket, guests can avoid the long queues and dive right into the underground world of the legendary Paris Catacombs.
More Great Tours NearbyTour Duration and Difficulty
This tour covers approximately 1 mile of underground tunnels and burial chambers, with 130 steps down and 85 steps back up.
Visitors should expect to be on their feet for around 1.5 hours, exploring the eerie and confined spaces of the Paris Catacombs.
The tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility issues or a fear of enclosed spaces.
The temperature in the Catacombs remains a constant 14 degrees Celsius, so dressing warmly is advised.
Comfortable, sturdy shoes are a must, as the terrain can be uneven and slippery.
Staying hydrated is important, so bringing a water bottle is recommended.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Paris
Temperature and Recommended Attire
Maintaining a constant temperature of around 14 degrees Celsius, the Catacombs’ cool climate necessitates visitors to dress warmly and wear comfortable, sturdy footwear.
This underground ossuary is a far cry from the sun-soaked streets of Paris, so layering up is a must.
The descent into the Catacombs involves a one-mile walk and navigating over 200 steps, so having the right attire is crucial for a pleasant and safe experience.
Comfortable shoes with good traction are a must, as the uneven terrain can be treacherous.
Plus, bringing a water bottle is highly recommended to stay hydrated during the tour.
Cancellation Policy
The activity is non-refundable, so customers should consider their schedule and commitment carefully before booking. Refunds aren’t available for any reason, including illness, travel delays, or personal emergencies. This policy is in place to ensure the tour operator can plan effectively and provide a high-quality experience for all guests.
Make sure your schedule is clear before reserving your spot.
Have a backup plan in case of unexpected events.
Consider travel insurance to protect your investment.
Arrive at the meeting point on time to avoid missing the tour.
The non-refundable nature of this tour allows the operator to maintain a high level of service and provide exclusive access to restricted areas of the Catacombs.
Additional Upgrade Option
Along With the guided tour of the Paris Catacombs, customers can opt to include a narrated Seine river cruise, providing a unique perspective of the city from the water.
This optional upgrade allows visitors to combine their underground exploration with a leisurely boat ride along the iconic river that flows through the heart of Paris.
The cruise, narrated by an English-speaking guide, offers stunning views of the city’s famous landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum.
This combination tour provides a well-rounded experience, giving guests a chance to discover both the hidden depths of the Catacombs and the breathtaking sights above ground.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Children Participate in the Tour?
Children are allowed to participate in the tour, but it’s not recommended for those under 12 due to the long walk, numerous stairs, and potentially claustrophobic environment of the catacombs. Parental discretion is advised.
What Is the Maximum Group Size?
The maximum group size for the Paris Catacombs tour is typically around 25 people. This allows the guide to provide a personalized experience and ensure everyone can comfortably explore the underground tunnels and burial chambers.
Are Photography and Videography Allowed Inside the Catacombs?
Photography and videography are generally allowed inside the Catacombs, but visitors must follow the tour guide’s instructions. Flashes and tripods may be restricted to prevent disturbances. Guests should check with the tour operator for any specific photo policies.
Is There an Option to Visit the Catacombs at Night?
There is no option to visit the Paris Catacombs at night. The catacombs are only open during the day, with the last entry at 8pm. Night visits are not permitted for safety and security reasons.
Are There Any Special Requirements for Accessing the Restricted Areas?
To access the restricted areas of the Paris Catacombs, visitors must be part of a guided tour. The tour provides VIP access and allows exploring areas not available to general public. Participants should wear proper footwear and be prepared for the underground environment.
Paris Catacombs Skip-the-Line Guided Tour and Special Access
Recap
The Paris Catacombs Skip-the-Line Guided Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the captivating underground world of the catacombs.
With exclusive access, a knowledgeable guide, and a comfortable temperature, visitors can enjoy the site’s rich history and eerie ambiance.
This tour provides a convenient and hassle-free experience, allowing guests to skip the lines and explore the captivating depths of the Parisian underground.
You can check availability for your dates here:
