Paris Catacombs
Experience the dark and mysterious world of the Paris Catacombs – a breathtaking labyrinth deep beneath the City of Lights. This historical masterpiece is a must-see for anyone interested in history, architecture, and the unexplained.
Paris Catacombs – Information on Admission Prices, Opening Hours, Waiting Times, and More Tips
Experience the dark and mysterious world of the Paris Catacombs – a breathtaking labyrinth deep beneath the City of Lights. This historical masterpiece is a must-see for anyone interested in history, architecture, and the unexplained.
The Paris Catacombs, known as "Les Catacombes," are an underground ossuary collection that originated in the 18th century. Initially created to address the shortage of burial sites in the city, they now serve as a dark reminder of Paris's past. These deep tunnels are filled with the bones of over six million people, stretching over a length of about 200 kilometers and lying about 20 meters below the city.
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the shadowy underworld of Paris by visiting this remarkable attraction. The entrance is located at Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, near Denfert-Rochereau Square. As space is limited, it's recommended to book your ticket in advance.
Don't forget to bring a good flashlight and wear comfortable shoes, as the ground is uneven and the paths are dark. You will also descend some steep stairs, so be prepared for that. Despite the dark atmosphere, it's important to remain respectful as you are on sacred ground.
The Paris Catacombs are a unique and thrilling place where you can discover another side of Paris. They offer an immersive experience that transports you to another time and space, allowing you to contemplate the transience of life.
So come and get under the skin of Paris, experiencing a side of the city many visitors never see. Experience the allure of the Paris Catacombs and let yourself be enchanted by their somber beauty. In the Catacombs of Paris, history meets mystery, and darkness meets beauty. Will you uncover the secret of the catacombs? Book your visit now and dive into the dark side of the City of Lights.
How to Get to the Catacombs in Paris?
Access to the Paris Catacombs is located at Denfert-Rochereau Square. The Denfert-Rochereau metro station serves lines 4 and 6. The RER B train line also stops at this station. The catacombs can also be reached by various bus lines. Since the stops are in the middle of Paris, there is no need to buy a special ticket for public transport; a normal Ticket+ or a time card (e.g., day pass) for Zone 2 can be used.
Address | Transportation |
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1 Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy 75014 Paris | Denfert-Rochereau |
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Denfert-Rochereau |
What is the Entrance Fee to the Paris Catacombs?
Visitors over 26 years of age pay an entrance fee of 29.00 Euros for the Catacombs. Young adults aged 18 to 25 can purchase a discounted ticket for 27.00 Euros. Children and teenagers between 4 and 17 years pay only 5.00 Euros for entry. The ticket price for everyone over 18 includes an audioguide.
Additionally, on less busy visiting days (which is very rare), so-called "Last Minute Tickets" are available. These can only be purchased on the day of the visit. For these "Last Minute Tickets", adults over 26 years pay an entrance fee of 15.00 Euros. Young adults up to 25 years of age get into the Paris Catacombs for a discounted entry price of 13.00 Euros. Those who want to rent an audioguide pay an additional 5.00 Euros. The tickets can be bought directly at the entrance of the Catacombs.
For quick entry without queuing, online tickets without waiting times including an audioguide can be purchased.
Ticket Price (On-Site) | Skip-the-Line Ticket (Online Only) | Last Minute Tickets | |
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Adults (26 years and above) | €29.00 | from €29.00 | €15.00 |
Youth (18 - 25 years) | €23.00 | from €29.00 | €13.00 |
Children (4 - 17 years) | €5.00 | from €5.00 | Free |
Audioguide | Included | Included | €5.00 |
Please note that children and teenagers under 14 years of age must always be accompanied by an adult to visit the Catacombs.
Where Can I Buy Tickets for the Paris Catacombs?
Tickets can be purchased directly on-site at the ticket counters at the entrance area of the Catacombs. However, it is unlikely that you will still get tickets for the same day. Entrance tickets for the Paris Catacombs are almost always booked out several weeks in advance. For this reason, we recommend booking your tickets online in advance. This should be done at least 3-4 weeks before your visit. For weekend dates, we recommend booking at least 6-7 weeks in advance. This ensures that you can visit and admire the Catacombs on your desired day. Another advantage is that you can go directly to the entrance without having to queue. All tickets have a fixed entry time for the Paris Catacombs.
Additionally, extended tours of the Catacombs can be booked online. These last about 2 hours and take you to areas of the Paris Catacombs with restricted access.
Book Paris Catacombs Tickets Combo: Catacombs & Seine River Cruise
What are the Waiting Times at the Paris Catacombs?
The Paris Catacombs are a very popular attraction in Paris and are visited by a large number of people. Since only a maximum of 200 people are allowed in the Catacombs at the same time, long waiting times (2 hours and more are not uncommon) usually occur at the ticket counters or at the entrance of the Catacombs. It also happens often that all entrance tickets for the day are sold out, and you can only buy tickets for one of the following days, sometimes weeks, at the counters. For this reason, we recommend purchasing an online ticket without waiting times. When booking, you will also see the current availability for the next days and weeks. With your online ticket, you get guaranteed entry at your booked time, no matter how many people are already waiting on-site for their ticket.
What are the Opening Hours of the Paris Catacombs?
The Paris Catacombs are open daily throughout the year except Mondays, from 09:45 AM to 08:30 PM. The last admission is at 07:30 PM. The Catacombs are additionally closed on May 1st and August 15th. Admission is at fixed times every 15 minutes.
Day of the Week | Opening Hours |
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Monday | Closed |
Tuesday | 09:45 AM - 08:30 PM |
Wednesday | 09:45 AM - 08:30 PM |
Thursday | 09:45 AM - 08:30 PM |
Friday | 09:45 AM - 08:30 PM |
Saturday | 09:45 AM - 08:30 PM |
Sunday | 09:45 AM - 08:30 PM |
May 1st & August 15th | Closed |
Are There Any Additional Tips and Information About the Paris Catacombs?
Firstly, don't be surprised to find yourself not at the starting point when you exit. The exit is located about 700 meters away from the entrance. Also, when visiting the Catacombs, consider bringing a thin jacket or sweater, as the temperature inside is a constant 14 degrees Celsius. Additionally, it's important to note that taking "souvenirs" from the Catacombs is prohibited. Any theft, even an attempt, will be prosecuted. Bag checks are conducted at the exit. There are no toilets or cloakroom facilities inside the Catacombs.
The following people are advised against visiting the Paris Catacombs, or it may not be possible for them:
- People with limited mobility (wheelchairs, walking aids, etc.)
- People with heart failure or respiratory problems
- Pregnant women
- Individuals sensitive to enclosed spaces or who have claustrophobia
- Children under 10 years old
Children under 14 years of age must always be accompanied by an adult.
Eating and drinking within the Catacombs is also prohibited, as is bringing animals.
How Long Does a Tour Through the Paris Catacombs Take?
The standard tour through the Catacombs is about 1.5 kilometers long and lasts on average 45 to 60 minutes. The guided tours are a bit longer, lasting on average 2 hours.
How Deep are the Paris Catacombs?
The Catacombs are located 20 meters below the streets of Paris. Access is via 130 steps downward, and you reach the exit via 83 steps.
Is It Permitted to Take Photos and Videos in the Paris Catacombs?
Yes, it is possible. But only for personal use and only without a tripod and without using flash. Additionally, other visitors must not be disturbed while taking pictures or videos.