Paris: Catacombs Special Access Tour

If you’re visiting Paris and craving something a little different from the usual Eiffel Tower or Louvre sightseeing, a tour of the Paris Catacombs is an intriguing choice. This particular experience promises a mix of history, mystery, and a touch of the macabre, all wrapped in a well-organized, small-group package. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a fascinating way to explore the hidden depths beneath the City of Light.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the skip-the-line entry saves you a lot of waiting around. Second, the small-group setting—with as few as 6 guests—means more personalized attention and fewer crowds. Lastly, the special access to restricted areas, such as a secret chapel decorated with bones, elevates the tour from a typical visit to an insider experience.

Of course, there are some considerations. The tour involves 130 steps and no elevator access, so it’s not suited for those with mobility issues or severe claustrophobia. Also, note that there are no toilets or cloakroom facilities underground, so plan accordingly.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who love history, enjoy slightly spooky adventures, and don’t mind a bit of physical activity. If you’re after a memorable, intimate look at one of Paris’s most mysterious sites, this could be just what you’re searching for.

Good To Know

• Skip the lines and gain exclusive access to rare areas of the catacombs
• Small group tours ensure a more personalized and engaging experience
• Guides are praised for their knowledge, humor, and passion
• Physical demands include stairs and uneven passages, not suited for everyone
• Price point offers good value considering access to restricted zones and expert insights
• Not wheelchair accessible and limited facilities underground

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Practicalities of the Paris Catacombs Special Access Tour

The tour kicks off at the Café du Rendez-Vous, where your guide greets you with a friendly smile and a quick briefing. From there, you’ll begin your descent into the tunnels—an adventure that lasts about 2 hours. The small-group format varies depending on the start time you select: either a very intimate 6-person group at 1:30 PM, 4:30 PM, or 5:30 PM, or larger (up to 14 guests) at 12:30 PM and 5:00 PM.

The skip-the-line entry allows you to bypass the long queues that often snarl up the regular tickets. Once underground, you’ll explore miles of tunnels lined with the bones of around 6 million Parisians, laid out in eerie patterns and bone decorations. The guides do a fantastic job of explaining the history of the ossuary, including the civil engineering feat it represented in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

Since your group has special access, you’ll get to visit areas normally closed off to the public—a definite highlight. For instance, a secret chapel decorated with skulls and femurs offers a haunting yet awe-inspiring glimpse into the purpose and symbolism of the site. The guides often share fascinating stories, answered questions with enthusiasm, and even throw in some humorous anecdotes, which break the gloom just enough to keep the atmosphere engaging.

What to Expect During Your Tour

The Descent and Initial Impressions: As you step into the tunnels, expect a descent of about 130 steps. The underground passages are uneven and narrow, so sturdy shoes are a must. Many reviewers note that the experience can be quite atmospheric, with some describing it as “spooky” but safe, thanks to clear guidance and a professional attitude.

Bone Decorations and Art: Each chamber reveals increasingly intricate and sometimes grotesque bone arrangements. Reviewer comments highlight the “fascinating facts” learned about how bones were collected and arranged. The guide, often portrayed as passionate and well-informed, discusses how 6 million bones came to rest here over 2000 years, and how the project transformed Paris’s civil landscape.

Special Access Areas: Unlike typical visits, this tour opens doors to restricted zones, including a decorated chapel. Several reviews commend guides like Leo, Amber, and Johnny for their knowledge, humor, and friendliness—they’re known to answer questions thoroughly and keep the pace lively.

The Experience’s Emotional Impact: For some, the visit is genuinely moving and even emotional, as it brings home the scale of death and remembrance embedded in Paris’s history. One reviewer described it as “interesting, but personal,” emphasizing the powerful feeling of being in such a solemn space.

The Value of This Tour

At $163 per person, this tour is pricier than standard entry tickets, but the added value is significant. The special access alone provides a window into parts of the catacombs most visitors will never see, making it worth the extra expense for those hungry for a deeper experience. The small group setting enhances the educational aspect, with guides able to answer questions more freely and give more attention to each guest.

Several reviews highlight that guides are the real highlight—their passion, humor, and detailed explanations transform a dark, underground maze into a captivating story of Paris’s past. For example, a guest who called their guide “brilliant” noted that the guide’s background in history added depth, making the experience both fun and educational.

However, the physical demands shouldn’t be overlooked. If you’re prone to claustrophobia, have mobility limitations, or prefer a more relaxed experience, this tour may not be suitable. No elevators or toilets underground also mean it’s best suited for those comfortable with some physical activity and basic planning.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Your journey begins at the Café du Rendez-Vous. Arriving 15 minutes early ensures smooth check-in, as the guide will be holding a green Walks sign.

The Walk to the Entrance: The short walk from the meeting point to the underground entrance sets the tone for the experience. The anticipation builds as you head toward the historic site, located at 2 avenue du General Leclerc.

Skip-the-Line Entry & Descent: The guide helps you bypass the usual queues, which can be quite long, especially during peak hours. The descent involves 130 steps, a test of stamina and balance, but many reviewers mention that the effort is well worth it.

Exploring the Catacombs: Once underground, expect miles of tunnels adorned with bones arranged in elaborate patterns. The guide will narrate the story of how bones were transferred from other cemeteries and laid in the ossuary, turning a public health solution into an eerie cultural monument.

Restricted Areas & Special Access: The highlight for many is entering areas normally closed to the public, such as a secret chapel decorated with skulls and femurs. These zones add a layer of intimacy and exclusivity rarely experienced in standard tours.

Learning and Questions: Throughout the tour, guides like Leo, Amber, and Johnny stand out for their enthusiasm and extensive knowledge, often sharing fascinating stories and answering questions with patience. Many guests highlight their guides’ ability to make history engaging, sometimes even humorous.

End of Tour: After two hours of exploration and storytelling, you’ll re-emerge near the meeting point or nearby, often feeling a mix of awe and reflection about the scale and purpose of this underground city of bones.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Final Thoughts and Who This Tour is Perfect For

This special access tour of the Paris Catacombs offers a rare glimpse into a side of Paris that’s usually hidden. It combines practical convenience, such as skip-the-line access, with a deeply educational and somewhat haunting experience. The small-group format ensures you won’t get lost in a crowd, and the guides’ expertise makes the history come alive.

It’s an ideal choice for history buffs, curious travelers, and those who enjoy atmospheric, slightly spooky adventures. If you’re comfortable walking down stairs and in confined spaces, you’ll find this tour both fascinating and memorable. However, if mobility or claustrophobia are concerns, you might prefer a more accessible alternative.

In the end, this tour offers more than just bones; it reveals a creative civil engineering achievement and a profound story of Paris’s past. It’s a genuinely unique experience that transforms a somber site into a vivid, captivating story you’ll remember long after resurfacing into the bright Paris daylight.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour involves 130 steps and no elevator access, so it’s not suitable for guests with mobility limitations or severe claustrophobia.

Does the tour include access to restricted areas?
Yes, the special access includes areas normally closed to the public, such as a decorated chapel with skulls and femurs, thanks to the guide’s permission.

What should I bring?
Wear comfortable shoes and warm clothing, as the underground tunnels can be cooler and uneven. Large bags or strollers are not permitted.

Is there a bathroom underground?
No, there are no toilets or cloakroom facilities at the site, so plan your restroom needs accordingly before descending.

How long is the tour?
The guided experience lasts approximately 2 hours, including descent, exploration, and storytelling.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Reserving now and paying later offers flexibility for your travel plans.

To sum it up, this Paris Catacombs special access tour delivers an enriching, atmospheric, and exclusive underground adventure. For those who enjoy history, a touch of mystery, and intimate group settings, it’s a rewarding way to see a different side of Paris—one that’s both humbling and hauntingly beautiful.

You can check if your dates are available here: