Paris Catacombs | The mysterious underground cemetery

Buried beneath the vibrant streets of Paris lies a labyrinth of narrow tunnels housing the remains of six million Parisians—the Catacombs. If exploring this eerie, historic underground world where skulls form artistic patterns intrigues you, then booking your Paris Catacombs tickets is the first step toward a truly macabre adventure!

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about ticket options, opening hours, what to expect while visiting, and more for a seamless experience at the Catacombs.

Things to know before booking your Paris Catacombs tickets

Tickets to the Paris Catacombs are timed, meaning you must choose a specific time slot for your visit. This ensures controlled entry to the Catacombs, allowing for a more enjoyable and less crowded experience.

With only 200 people allowed inside at a time and no on-site ticket sales, Catacombs tickets sell out quickly. While last-minute tickets may be available online, they are limited and typically unavailable during the busy summer months. To secure your spot, it’s crucial to book your tickets online at least 7 days in advance.

Due to the limited capacity and high demand, lines can still form outside the Catacombs, particularly during peak tourist seasons. Even with timed tickets, visitors might experience delays due to security checks, and early arrivals, which can result in waiting times of up to 2-3 hours. Skip-the-line tickets provide priority access, allowing you to bypass these queues and enter more quickly, ensuring a smoother and more time-efficient experience.

For those looking to delve deeper into the Catacombs' history, a guided tour is an excellent option. In addition to skipping the queues, these tours provide expert insights from a local English-speaking guide and grant access to special areas that are off-limits to general visitors, making your experience even more exclusive.

For a more personalized visit, upgrade to a premium guided tour. Standard tours are capped at 19 participants, but premium tours limit the group size to just 6 people, ensuring a more interactive and engaging exploration.

If you prefer a self-paced experience, the Catacombs offer an audio-guided tour available in multiple languages. The 30-minute narrated guide can be paused and resumed at your convenience, allowing you to delve into the eerie and fascinating history that lies beneath the streets of Paris at your own pace.

The Catacombs are 65 feet below ground, accessible by descending 131 steps down and later climbing 112 steps back up. The visit involves walking a 1.7 km trail through narrow, dimly lit tunnels that can be slippery. The environment may feel crowded and claustrophobic, so it’s advisable to assess your comfort level and fitness before visiting.

Note: The public tour is limited to a specific 1.5-kilometer section of the 300 kilometers of tunnels beneath the city. Stay within the designated tour areas, even while on a self-paced tour, so you can enjoy a safe and informative visit.

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The entry sign

Your visit begins with the iconic entry sign etched with the haunting inscription "Arrête! C’est ici l’empire de la Mort," ("Stop! This is the Empire of the Dead"). The chilling words mark the transition from the lively streets of Paris to the solemn depths of the Catacombs, setting the tone for the eerie exploration that awaits.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Paris Catacombs tickets

How much in advance do I need to book tickets to Paris Catacombs?

It's highly recommended to book tickets at least 7 days well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Can I buy tickets at the entrance, or is it online booking only?

You can't buy tickets to the Paris Catacombs at the entrance. Moreover, as tickets are timed, you're given a specific slot to enter the catacombs when you book online.

Are there skip-the-line or fast-track ticket options available?

Yes, there are skip-the-line tickets available that allow you to bypass the long queues and come with an audio guide.

How many visitors are permitted inside at a time?

Only 200 people are allowed inside at a time, which is strictly controlled to preserve the catacombs and ensure safety.

Is there a guided tour option available, or is the visit self-guided?

Yes, guided tours are available which help you gain a deeper understanding of the site. However, you can also go for the self-guided experience which comes with an audio guide and lets you explore the catacombs at your own pace.

How many people are allowed on a guided group tour?

To maintain an intimate and interactive experience, the guided group tours are capped at 19 or less people.

Are there any age restrictions?

While there are no age restrictions, children under 14 years must be accompanied by an adult.

Are there any health or physical restrictions for visiting the Catacombs?

The catacombs involve walking on uneven ground and climbing stairs. People with respiratory problems, heart conditions, or mobility issues might find it challenging. The experience is not suitable for pregnant women as well.

How many stairs are there, and is there an elevator?

There are approximately 131 steps to go down and 112 steps to climb up at the Paris Catacombs. Unfortunately, there is no elevator.

What is the historical significance of the street signs in the Paris Catacombs?

The street signs in the Paris Catacombs are important because they are the same as the streets above, but buried 20 meters underground. Some of the street names are no longer used, which shows how old the catacombs are.