Catacomb Paris Tour: Tickets, Times, Costs and What to Expect in 2026
A catacomb paris tour covers the 1.5 km underground route of stacked bones for 45 to 75 minutes. Official tickets cost 31 euros for adults with audioguide included and must be booked 7 days ahead.
How Much Does a Catacomb Paris Tour Cost?
Official adult entry is 31 euros and includes the audioguide. Reduced rate for ages 18-26 and students is 25 euros. Children 8-17 pay 15 euros. Under 8 enter free. No museum passes are accepted.
Guided special-access tours range from 80 to 195 euros and reach extra areas. These sell further ahead when official slots fill. Standard self-guided with audioguide remains the lower-cost choice for most visitors.
What Are the Opening Hours and Booking Rules?
The site opens Tuesday to Sunday from 9:45 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Last entry is 19:30. It closes Mondays plus January 1, May 1 and December 25. Tickets release exactly 7 days in advance and sell out fast on weekends in peak season.
Only 200 visitors are allowed underground at once. Book the morning the window opens for popular slots. Weekday afternoons hold longer. The entrance sits at 1 Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy near Denfert-Rochereau metro.
What Is the Route Like Underground?
The one-way circuit runs 1.5 km. Visitors descend 131 steps and climb 112 steps at the end. The path is narrow, graveled and uneven in places. Average time is 45 to 75 minutes while listening to the audioguide.
Temperature stays around 14°C (57°F) year-round so a light layer helps. No elevator exists so the site is not accessible for reduced mobility. The route passes stacked bones arranged in patterns with historical plaques.
Do I Need a Guided Tour or Can I Go Alone?
Independent visits with the included audioguide work for most people. The audioguide comes in English, French, Spanish and German. Guided tours add deeper stories and sometimes access beyond the standard path.
Special tours cost more and book earlier. Official tickets stay the cheapest option when available. Groups of children under 13 must have an adult. The site is not ideal for very young kids due to the setting and stairs.
What Should You Wear and Bring?
Sturdy closed-toe shoes handle the uneven ground. Bring a light jacket or sweater for the cool temperature. Cameras are allowed but flash may be restricted in some areas. Leave large bags at your hotel as space is tight.
No food or drinks inside. Water is fine before entry. The walk is one-way so you cannot turn back. Plan 1 to 2 hours total including entry and exit lines. Nearby free sites include the Liberation of Paris Museum across the street.
How Do Special Access Tours Differ?
Some operators offer guided visits to restricted sections for 80 to 195 euros per person. These last about 90 minutes to 2 hours. They include the standard entry ticket. Availability is limited to certain weekdays and times.
These suit visitors who want extra history or cannot secure official slots. Standard tours remain sufficient for the main bone displays. Compare recent reviews for the exact operator. Most meet at the entrance or nearby.
| Ticket Type | Price | Includes | Booking Window |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult official | 31 euros | Audioguide | 7 days ahead |
| Reduced | 25 euros | Audioguide | 7 days ahead |
| Child 8-17 | 15 euros | Audioguide | 7 days ahead |
| Special guided | 80-195 euros | Entry + guide | Further ahead |
Is the Catacomb Paris Tour Suitable for Everyone?
The stairs and narrow path exclude visitors with mobility issues. The bone displays may unsettle some children or sensitive adults. Youths 13 and under need an adult. The cool, dark setting and one-way route require basic fitness for the steps.
Most adults complete it without issue. Allow extra time if you stop often for photos. The experience focuses on history rather than thrills. Read the official site rules before you book.
Final Thoughts
A catacomb paris tour gives a clear look at the underground ossuary for 31 euros with audioguide. Book exactly 7 days ahead for official tickets. Wear sturdy shoes and a light layer. Check the official site the morning tickets release if you want the standard entry.
FAQs
How much is a catacomb paris tour?
Official adult tickets cost 31 euros with audioguide included. Reduced rates are 25 euros and children 8-17 pay 15 euros. Guided special tours range from 80 to 195 euros and include entry.
When do tickets go on sale?
Official tickets release exactly 7 days before the visit date. Weekend morning slots sell out within hours in peak season. Book as soon as the window opens for the best times.
How long does the visit take?
The 1.5 km one-way route takes 45 to 75 minutes with the audioguide. Total time including entry is about 1 to 2 hours. Guided versions run closer to 90 minutes or 2 hours.
Are there stairs?
Yes. Visitors descend 131 steps and climb 112 steps at the exit. There is no elevator. The site is not accessible for people with reduced mobility.
What is the temperature inside?
The underground temperature stays around 14°C or 57°F year-round. A light jacket or sweater is recommended even in summer. The path feels cool compared with the street above.
Can I take photos?
Yes, cameras are allowed. Flash may be limited in certain sections. The narrow path and low light make steady shots helpful. Large tripods are not practical.
Is it suitable for children?
Children 8 and older can enter. Those 13 and under must be with an adult. The bone displays and stairs may not suit very young kids. Most families with older children visit without issue.
Do museum passes work?
No. The Paris Museum Pass and similar cards are not accepted. You must buy a separate ticket. Free entry exists only for specific qualifying groups with proof on the day.
Where is the entrance?
The entrance is at 1 Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, 75014 Paris. The nearest metro is Denfert-Rochereau on lines 4 and 6 or RER B. Allow a short walk from the station.
What should I wear?
Sturdy closed-toe shoes handle the uneven gravel path. Bring a light layer for the cool temperature. Comfortable walking clothes work for the short circuit.
Can I visit without a tour?
Yes. Independent entry with the included audioguide is the standard option. Guided tours are optional and cost more. The audioguide covers the main history in several languages.
How far ahead should I book?
Book the morning the 7-day window opens. Peak weekends fill in hours. Weekday slots last longer. Special guided tours can be reserved further in advance.
