Paris Catacombs: Skip-the-Line Special Access Tour

The Paris Catacombs Special Access Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the restricted areas of this remarkable underground ossuary. Skipping the long lines, visitors can access exclusive sections not available on regular tours, led by knowledgeable local guides. With a small group size, the experience provides an intimate insight into the history and significance of this subterranean network. However, the tour’s challenging descent and consistent temperature may not suit those with mobility issues or claustrophobia. For those intrigued by the macabre and seeking a deeper exploration, this exclusive access could be a captivating experience.

Key Points

• This special access tour allows visitors to skip long lines and explore restricted areas of the Paris Catacombs.
• The tour provides an intimate experience for 6-19 participants and lasts for 2 hours, offering exclusive access not available on public tours.
• The meeting point is at Café du Rendez-vous, accessible via Metro lines 4 or 6, with 130 steps required to descend to the entrance.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible and may be challenging for visitors with mobility limitations or respiratory/cardiovascular issues.
• The tour includes the entry fee, access to special areas, and a local guide, but excludes hotel pickup or drop-off.

Tour Overview

This special access tour of the Paris Catacombs allows visitors to skip the long lines and explore restricted areas of the underground ossuary. Visitors will learn about the captivating history of how 6 million Parisians were buried in these eerie tunnels.

The small group format, limited to 6-19 participants, ensures an intimate and informative experience led by a local guide. The tour lasts 2 hours and provides exclusive access that’s not available on the regular public tours.

Descending 130 steps, guests will navigate the cool, damp catacombs, which maintain a constant temperature of 14°C (57°F) year-round. This unique opportunity offers a fascinating glimpse into Paris’ hidden underworld.

Meeting Point and Transportation

The tour meeting point is Café du Rendez-vous, located at 2 Avenue du Général Leclerc, 75014 Paris.

Guests can reach the meeting point via Metro lines 4 or 6, getting off at the Denfert-Rochereau station. From there, it’s a short walk to the meeting point.

Since the catacombs are an underground network, there’s no elevator access. Visitors will need to descend 130 steps to reach the entrance.

The tunnels are wet and cool, maintaining a consistent temperature of 14°C (57°F) year-round.

Guests should keep in mind that there are no toilet or cloakroom facilities available during the tour.

Accessibility and Mobility

The Paris Catacombs tour isn’t wheelchair accessible due to the 130 steps required to access the underground ossuary. Visitors with mobility limitations may find the tour challenging, as there are no elevators or other accessibility accommodations available.

The tunnels are also wet and cool, maintaining a constant temperature of 14°C (57°F) year-round. This may pose difficulties for those with respiratory issues or cardiovascular problems.

Plus, the tour isn’t recommended for individuals with claustrophobia, as the confined spaces and narrow tunnels could be overwhelming.

It’s essential for potential participants to carefully consider their physical abilities and any medical conditions before booking this unique Parisian adventure.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The Paris Catacombs skip-the-line tour includes the entry fee, access to special areas of the catacombs, and a local guide leading a small group of 6 to 19 participants.

This allows visitors to bypass the long lines and explore the restricted sections of the underground ossuary.

However, the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you will need to make their own way to the meeting point near the Denfert-Rochereau metro station.

It’s important to note that the tour isn’t suitable for those with claustrophobia, heart problems, or respiratory issues, as the tunnels are wet, cool, and require navigating 130 steps with no elevator access.

Policies

To ensure a hassle-free experience, visitors can take advantage of the tour’s free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance. Plus, the company offers a ‘reserve now, pay later’ option, allowing customers to secure their spot without an immediate payment.

However, it’s crucial to recognize that the tour may not be suitable for those with claustrophobia, heart problems, or respiratory issues, as the catacombs’ wet and cool tunnels require navigating 130 steps without elevator access. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with mobility limitations.

Careful consideration of these policies and restrictions is essential for a successful and enjoyable visit to the Paris Catacombs.

History of the Catacombs

Fascinating tales surround the origins of the Paris Catacombs, an underground ossuary that houses the skeletal remains of over 6 million Parisians.

The catacombs were created in the late 18th century as a solution to the overflowing cemeteries above ground. Tunnels were built to transfer the bones from these graveyards to the underground ossuary.

Today, visitors can explore these eerie tunnels and learn about the history of this macabre site. The catacombs weren’t open to the public until the early 19th century, and they’ve since become one of Paris’ most unique and captivating attractions, offering a glimpse into the city’s darker past.

Special Access Areas

Beyond the standard tour, this special access experience takes visitors to exclusive areas of the Paris Catacombs that are typically off-limits to the general public.

Guests on this tour will delve deeper into the ossuary’s macabre history, exploring restricted sections and uncovering hidden stories that lie within the underground tunnels.

Among the exclusive areas accessible through this tour are:

• Restricted galleries housing additional skeletal remains
• Concealed ossuary chambers with intricate bone arrangements
• Restricted corridors providing a more immersive catacomb experience
• Special vantage points offering unique perspectives of the catacombs
• Areas showcasing the engineering and construction of the underground network

This elevated tour provides unparalleled access to the Paris Catacombs’ most enigmatic and captivating spaces.

Tour Duration and Group Size

This special access tour of the Paris Catacombs lasts a duration of 2 hours, allowing guests to thoroughly explore the restricted areas in a small group setting of 6 to 19 participants.

With this small group size, visitors can expect a more intimate and personalized experience as they learn about the fascinating history of how 6 million Parisians were buried in these underground ossuaries.

The tour’s compact length ensures guests can make the most of their time without feeling rushed, providing ample opportunity to take in the full scope of this unique and eerie attraction.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an immersive adventure, this special access tour is the perfect way to discover the Paris Catacombs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Catacombs?

Photography is generally allowed inside the Paris Catacombs, but visitors must check with tour operators for specific policies. Some tours may restrict or prohibit photography to preserve the somber atmosphere of the underground ossuary.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

No, visitors are not allowed to bring their own food and drinks into the Paris Catacombs. The tour does not have any facilities for storing or consuming outside provisions. Visitors should plan accordingly and rely on the tour to provide any necessary sustenance.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour may not be suitable for children due to the dark, confined spaces, 130-step descent, and 14°C/57°F temperatures. It’s recommended for children 8 and up with adult supervision, as they may find the experience overwhelming.

How Steep Are the Stairs Leading to the Catacombs?

The stairs leading to the catacombs are quite steep, with 130 steps to access the underground tunnels. The tour is not recommended for those with mobility limitations, as there is no elevator available.

Are There Any Restrictions on What I Can Wear?

Visitors should wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes as there are 130 steps to access the catacombs. Loose, breathable clothing is recommended due to the cool (14°C/57°F) and damp conditions in the tunnels. Bulky bags are not allowed.

Recap

The Paris Catacombs Special Access Tour offers an exclusive and immersive experience for adventurous visitors.

Though the challenging descent and consistently cool temperatures may not suit everyone, the tour provides unparalleled access to the restricted areas of this remarkable underground ossuary.

With a knowledgeable guide and small group size, participants can explore the captivating history and significance of this unique subterranean network.