Paris Catacombs Tour with VIP Access to Restricted Areas
At a glance
Paris Catacombs Tour with VIP Access to Restricted Areas is a 2h small-group experience in Paris, France, operated by City Wonders Ltd. Travellers rate it 4.6 out of 5 across 1,107 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor. Prices start from $285.17 per person. Included: Local English-speaking expert guide, Special access to restricted areas closed to general public, Small groups to ensure an intimate experience.
Highlights
- Rated 4.6/5 by 1,107 travellers
- Skip-the-line entry saves time at busy sights
- Small group of up to 15 people for a more personal experience
Quick facts
- Duration
- 2h
- Group
- Small group, up to 15 travellers
- Languages
- English
- Pickup
- Meet at the start point
- Confirmation
- Instant confirmation
- Ticket
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Cancellation
- See cancellation policy
Overview
Venture below the avenues and Metro tunnels of Paris and into the Catacombs, whose population of skeletons far outnumbers the living city above. This small-group tour includes access to areas of the Catacombs that are normally closed to the general public, giving you a deeper and more immersive experience. Exclusive sights include the Sacellum Crypt, where bones were blessed before beginning their rest in the tunnels.
What's included
What's included
- Local English-speaking expert guide
- Special access to restricted areas closed to general public
- Small groups to ensure an intimate experience
- Guided visit of the Paris Catacombs
Not included
- Gratuities
- Hotel pick-up/drop-off
- Food/Beverages
Itinerary
-
Stop 1 · 2h
Your guide, an English-speaking local expert, will lead your group into the 200-mile labyrinth of bone-lined galleries and former quarry tunnels. At the entrance, an inscription reads, “Arrête! C’est ici l’empire de la mort” – “Stop! Here lies the empire of death.” Here, you’ll see remains of dignitaries like Rabelais and Robespierre, among over 6 million former Parisians.
While standard visits stick to public routes, your guide takes you beyond the usual path. Discover hidden sites like Gilbert’s Tomb and the Port Mahon Gallery, where an 18th-century quarry worker secretly carved sculptures over five years before a tragic cave-in. You’ll also see the Quarryman’s Footbath and the Sepulchral Lamp, whose flame reassured workers that the air was safe.
As you explore, your guide brings to life the history, legends, and mysteries of this underground world. After this journey 65 feet beneath Paris, you’ll never see the city the same way again.
Meeting point
Meet at the entrance to the Catacombes de Paris. He/She will be holding a sign. To arrive at the Catacombs by Metro please take Line 4 or Line 6 to the Denfert-Rochereau metro stop and exit using “Sortie 1”; the entrance to the Catacombs can be found directly across the street from this exit.
Good to know
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Not wheelchair accessible.
- We regret that we are unable to accommodate pushchairs or strollers on our tours.
- Please note that Special Access areas may be closed on some days.
- Not recommended for travelers with claustrophobia
Cancellation policy
If you cancel at least 2 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Paris Catacombs Tour with VIP Access to Restricted Areas take?
The experience lasts about 2h.
How much does it cost?
Prices start from $285.17 per person. The final price depends on the date, time and number of travellers, and is confirmed on Viator before you pay.
What's included?
Local English-speaking expert guide; Special access to restricted areas closed to general public; Small groups to ensure an intimate experience; Guided visit of the Paris Catacombs.
Where does it start?
Meet at the entrance to the Catacombes de Paris. He/She will be holding a sign. To arrive at the Catacombs by Metro please take Line 4 or Line 6 to the Denfert-Rochereau metro stop and exit using “Sortie 1”; the entrance to the Catacombs can be found directly across the street…
Can I cancel?
If you cancel at least 2 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is guided in English.
Is it worth it?
Travellers rate it 4.6 out of 5 across 1,107 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor, which places it among the top-rated experiences in Paris.