Catacombs tours – paris, france
Paris Catacombs 2025 – A Complete Guide to Tickets, Tours & Spooky Stories
Imagine being in the City of Light, surrounded by the whispers of the cities long history. Getting your Paris Catacombs tickets offers a great (and spooky) experience that serve as a reminder of the cities past traditions.
Visiting the catacombs in 2025 is a journey that will make you think about life, the heritage of Paris, and so much more. If you want to explore the catacombs’ secrets, this guide has everything you need. From buying tickets to joining tours, we’ve got you covered.
Hi there! I’m Emily, a travel writer with a passion for exploring the great world we live in. I love to share my travel wisdom where possible to ensure people can truly make the most of the time when they visit places. One of my most memorable trips was Rio De Janeiro in Brazil, that city has some of the most wonderful, crazy energy!
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Key Takeaways
- The Catacombs of Paris house over six million deceased individuals, creating an extraordinary yet somber atmosphere.
- Access is limited; advance booking of paris catacombs tickets is highly recommended.
- Guided tours provide not only early access but also insights into the haunting history of this underground marvel.
- Expect to navigate through 2 kilometers of tunnels, with a constant temperature of 14 degrees Celsius.
- The Paris Catacombs have been open to the public since 1867, becoming a significant destination for history enthusiasts and the curious alike.
- Remember to prepare for a physically engaging visit—it takes at least 45 minutes to fully explore the catacombs.
What are the Paris Catacombs?
When you visit Paris, France you will notice there are plenty of things to do. It is for this reason the city is one of the more favoured places for digital nomads and other travellers alike. The Paris Catacombs are a hidden part of this city’s history. They hold the remains of over 6 million people. This shows a somber side of Paris. They were built in the late 18th century. This was to solve the problem of too many graves in the city.
History and Background
The catacombs started because of too many graves. The Holy Innocents Cemetery was a big problem. It was dirty and needed to be fixed. So, people moved the graves underground. They used old limestone quarries to make a network. This was a big change for Paris.
By the early 1800s, the catacombs were decorated with bones. This made them both interesting and respectful. They went from a solution to a tourist spot.
Structure and Layout of the Catacombs
The Paris Catacombs are amazing to see. Only a small part is open to visitors. It’s about 1.5 kilometers long.People walk through narrow paths and go down 131 steps. The air is cool and damp. This makes the place special.
The depth is about 20 meters. There’s a part with skulls and femurs. It shows the care put into this place.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Depth | 20 meters |
| Accessible Length | 1.5 kilometers |
| Estimated Remains | Over 6 million people |
| Average Temperature | 14°C |
| Total Steps to Descend/Ascend | 131 steps down, 112 steps up |
Location and Access to the Paris Catacombs
Visiting the Paris Catacombs is a unique experience. It starts with finding the entrance. This site shows the depths of Paris, offering a spooky adventure. The main entrance is at 1 Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, in the 14th arrondissement. You’ll go down 131 steps to about 65 feet (20 meters) below. Remember, the exit is at 21 bis Avenue René-Coty, about 1.5 kilometers away.
Public Transportation Options
Public transport is great for getting to the catacombs. The closest metro and RER station is Denfert-Rochereau. It’s in the heart of Paris. Using public transport helps you avoid parking issues and see more sights.
| Transportation Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Metro | Take Line 6 or RER B to Denfert-Rochereau station. |
| Bus | Line 38, 68, 70, and 88 also stop nearby. |
| Walking | For those within walking distance, it’s a pleasant stroll through the charming streets of Paris. |
Visiting the Paris Catacombs needs some planning. But, the journey is part of the fun. Knowing the entrance and using public transport makes your visit better.
Paris Catacombs Tickets
To see the Paris Catacombs, buy your tickets early. They are very popular and have a small space. You can buy them online up to seven days before. This way, you pick a time and don’t miss out.
How to Purchase Tickets
Buy your tickets online at the official site or from approved sellers. This saves you time. You won’t have to wait in line at the entrance.
- Visit the official Paris Catacombs website or select an activity via Get Your Guide here.
- Select your desired date and time.
- Add tickets to your cart for adults, young adults, and children.
- Complete the payment process for your chosen tickets.
Ticket Prices and Discounts
The ticket prices are:
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Adults (27 years and above) | €29 |
| Young Adults (18-26 years) | €27 |
| Children (under 18 years) | €5 |
Want to skip the long lines? Get a skip the line ticket. It saves a lot of time. Even if you wait, tickets might be cheaper last minute. But, they’re not guaranteed.
Visiting Hours and Best Times to Go
If you’re planning your trip to the Paris Catacombs, either as a group or as a solo female traveler in France, you need to know the visiting hours to enjoy it more. The right time can make your visit unforgettable. The Catacombs are open from Tuesday to Sunday. They open at 9:45 AM and close at 8:30 PM. The last entry is at 7:30 PM. They close on Mondays and some holidays. This includes January 1 and May 1.
Optimal Visiting Times to Avoid Crowds
Visit late in the day or on weekdays for fewer people. This lets you enjoy the history more. You’ll see about 2 km (1.25 miles) of tunnels. Your visit will last 45 minutes to an hour. The tunnels are even more spooky at night. Check the visiting hours catacombs paris. Pick the best time to see the Catacombs’ beauty and history.
Guided Tours of the Paris Catacombs
Exploring the Paris Catacombs with a guide is exciting. It lets you see history and mystery up close. These tours make sure you learn a lot and have fun. While looking for tours in Paris, another option for your sightseeing days out are private tours through the Louvre. An absolute must see!
Types of Tours Available
The Paris Catacombs have many guided tours. You can pick the one that fits you best. Here are some popular ones:
- Semi-Private Guided Tour: This tour has only 6 people. It’s very personal and fun.
- Standard Guided Group Tour: Up to 14 people can join. It’s perfect for groups of friends or family.
- Audio Guide: If you like to explore alone, try the audio guide. It tells you all about the Catacombs as you go.
Benefits of Booking a Guided Tour
Choosing a guided tour has many perks. It makes your visit better in many ways:
- Learn from guides like Rémy, who know a lot and tell great stories.
- See special places like the Port Mahon Gallery and the Sacellum Crypt. They’re not open to everyone.
- Get skip-the-line tickets. This saves you time and lets you enjoy more of the Catacombs.
- Get a detailed plan that teaches you about history. It makes your visit fun and educational.
- Feel safe and supported. The staff and guides are there to help you and always make sure you have some travel insurance to go with to have that extra insurance.
People love these tours, giving them 4.97 out of 5 stars. They say the guides are great and the experience is amazing. It’s a top thing to do in Paris.
What to Expect Inside the Catacombs
Visiting the Paris Catacombs is a spooky trip into history. Visitors need a strong stomach as you’ll see cool tunnels but also displays of human remains. The place is cold and dark, with low ceilings that make it feel eerie. If you suffer from claustrophobia, keep this in mind. Make sure to bring a camera with you to capture this eerie and unique experience. The Insta360 can take a 360 video of your whole experience with special light features for the dark tunnels.
Unique Features and Displays
Over six million Parisians’ remains are here, arranged in bone displays. You’ll see skulls and bones that tell stories of life and death. An audio guide adds to the experience, sharing history and facts.
Visitors find the layout interesting and educational. It shows how different cemeteries were moved here.
Visitor Experience and Duration
Your visit lasts about 50 minutes. You start by going down 131 steps. Then, you see the main tunnels, where the spooky feeling grows. Be ready for crowds, as they can make your visit longer. The air is cool and damp, keeping the atmosphere just right. Booking tickets early is a good idea, especially when it’s busy.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Ticket Price | €15 (plus €3 for an audio guide) |
| Average Duration | 50 minutes |
| Depth | 65 feet (about 20 meters) |
| Steps to Descend | 131 steps |
| Temperature | 57°F (approximately 14°C) |
| Age of Catacombs | Opened to the public in 1867 |
| Number of Remains | Over 6 million |
| Underground Area | Around 800 hectares (nearly 2,000 acres) |
Spooky Stories and Legends surrounding the Catacombs
The Paris Catacombs are famous for their history and spooky tales. These stories add to the mystery of this underground place. They give us a glimpse into the supernatural side of this site.
Ghost Stories and Folklore
People often hear scary stories of ghosts and strange happenings. It’s said that at night, the catacombs are filled with whispers. Some say a man went mad in the dark tunnels in the 1990s. These stories make the tunnels feel even more thrilling. You’ll walk through ancient paths with the remains of over 6 million souls.
Historical Events Related to the Catacombs
The Paris Catacombs have a rich and sometimes sad history. In the French Revolution, a man named Philibert Apsairt disappeared for 11 years. His body was later found in the tunnels. In 2004, police found a secret cinema and living space in the catacombs which adds to the intrigue of these underground areas.
| Legend | Description | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Philibert Apsairt | Lost in the catacombs for 11 years, discovered after his death. | 1793 |
| Madman Video | Footage of a man believed to be lost within the tunnels. | 1990s |
| Police Discovery | Secret area with a cinema and living quarters found in the catacombs. | 2004 |
| Midnight Whispers | Accounts of eerie sounds and voices after midnight. | Ongoing |
Conclusion
Exploring the Paris Catacombs is a unique chance to learn about its history and stories. When you plan your visit, buying tickets early is key. This is because there are only a few spots each day, especially when lots of tourists come. Whether you choose to explore on your own or with a guide, you’ll find something new at every turn. This place is both spooky and beautiful, showing Paris’s past in a special way.
Your visit to Paris in 2025 will be both fun and make you think. You’ll see rooms filled with the bones of many people (so not for the feint of heart). To get the most out of it, think about getting tickets with audio guides. This way, you can hear the stories of the Catacombs more clearly. Don’t miss this chance to see a big part of Paris’s history. Visit the Paris Catacombs and let their stories stay with you.
Paris Catacombs Tickets and Tours FAQ
Buy Paris Catacombs tickets online up to 7 days early. Pick a time slot to avoid long waits. Tickets sell out fast because it’s so popular.
Adult tickets cost €29. Young adults aged 18-26 pay €27. Kids under 18 get in for €5. You can also get skip-the-line tickets for a quicker visit.
The Catacombs are open Tuesday to Sunday. They’re open from 9:45 AM to 8:30 PM. The last entry is at 7:30 PM. They close on Mondays and some holidays.
Yes, the Denfert-Rochereau metro and RER station is nearby. It’s easy to get there from central Paris.
You’ll spend about 45 minutes to an hour in the tunnels. This depends on how fast you go and how much you look at.
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