Discover the Paris Catacombs with expert-led guided tours

Guided Tours

In the late 18th century, when the French decided to go underground with the skeletal remains of six million Parisians, they didn’t think it would become a tourist attraction.

Although the labyrinth of tunnels beneath Paris is nearly 2,000 acres, your experience of the Catacombs is limited to a one-way 1.5km route, unless you choose a guided tour which also grants you entry to two restricted areas of the Catacombs.

Highlights of a Paris Catacomb guided tour

Access to restricted areas

Guided tours unlock secret sections of the Catacombs which are not accessible on general visits. These include the Sacellum Crypt, featuring rare bone arrangements and inscriptions, and the Port-Mahon corridor, where François Décure’s sculptures can be admired up close, hidden altars and ossuary chambers.

Port-Mahon corridor

This corridor displays sculptures by François Décure, a quarryman who carved a replica of the Port-Mahon fortress entirely from memory. He spent five years, in secrecy, carving out these sculptures using simple quarrymen tools and working under torchlight. He was crushed in a cave-in at the same spot while carving a stairway to access his sculptures, from the streets above.

The quarryman’s footpath

Reminiscent of a wishing well, quarrymen used this walkway to access water for cement mixing and to wash up after work. The pathway leads to one of the most interesting sections of the Catacombs, filled with skull displays, inscriptions, graves, and chapels commemorating the dead.

The Ossuary

This section comes right after the exhibition area and is one of the interesting sections of the Catacombs. It contains the bones of over 6 million Parisians, arranged in various patterns, the most popular being–the Barrel of Passion. A welcome sign at the entrance prepares you for the ossuary–Arrête! C’est ici l’empire de la Mort which translates to “Stop! This is the Empire of the Dead”.

Frequently asked questions about Paris Catacombs guided tours

Why should I choose a guided tour over an audio tour of the Paris Catacombs?

A guided tour provides access to restricted areas, interactive Q&A opportunities, and shares stories and historical details not included in audio guides, making it a richer experience.

Are there exclusive areas of the Catacombs that are only accessible with a guided tour?

Yes, guided tours often include access to restricted sections of the Catacombs not available to general visitors, such as the Sacellum Crypt, the Grotte des Sépultures, and hidden galleries.

Do guided tours of the Catacombs have smaller group sizes compared to general entry?

Yes, guided tours are limited to 19 people, offering a more personalized and intimate experience.

Are guided tours of the Catacombs available in multiple languages?

Currently, guided tours are available only in English.

Can children join a guided tour of the Catacombs?

Yes, children can join since there are no age restrictions. However, parental discretion is highly recommended; the eerie atmosphere of the Catacombs can be harsh on a child.

Is photography allowed during a guided tour?

Yes, photography is allowed, but flash and tripods are typically prohibited.

Are guided tours suitable for people with mobility challenges?

The Catacombs are not wheelchair-accessible due to steep stairs and narrow tunnels, making them challenging for visitors with mobility issues.

What’s the difference in cost between a guided tour and a standard entry ticket?

Guided tours are more expensive but include skip-the-line access, expert insights, and exclusive access to restricted areas.