How to buy tickets for the Paris Catacombs

When you think of Paris, images of a city filled with beauty and romance often come to mind, thanks to its many world-class cultural attractions. What could be better than a cruise on the Seine or taking in the view from the Eiffel Tower? Yet, there’s another side to the city—a fascinating and eerie one—hidden deep below: the mysterious Paris Catacombs, stretching beneath the French capital.

Visiting the Paris Catacombs offers a unique opportunity to see the remains of millions of people entombed in secret tunnels. Whether you find it sinister, moving, or a bit of both, it’s undeniably an unforgettable attraction. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you how to buy tickets for the Paris Catacombs so you can enjoy your visit to the fullest.

In a hurry? Here’s how to buy tickets for the Paris Catacombs: If waiting in long lines isn’t your idea of a perfect holiday, we highly recommend booking your Paris Catacombs entrance ticket here in advance. Or, if you’d prefer an in-depth experience with a guide, reserve a guided tour here.

Best ways to buy Paris Catacombs tickets

Like many major tourist attractions, there are several ways to get your Paris Catacombs tickets. Options depend on how far in advance you want to plan and how you wish to visit. Here are the main ways to buy tickets so you can pick what suits you best.

1. Buy on site (Not recommended)

Although it’s possible to purchase Paris Catacombs tickets directly at the ticket office on the day of your visit, this is not the approach we suggest. Ticket availability is limited and waiting until you arrive could leave you empty-handed.

You’ll also have to waste time in sometimes lengthy ticket lines, especially during peak tourist seasons. For these reasons, we don’t recommend waiting until arrival—and a better last-minute option exists, as you’ll soon see.

2. Book online (Recommended)

Instead, we strongly recommend purchasing your Paris Catacombs tickets online ahead of time. Tickets can be booked months in advance or—if available—for the same day, though same-day tickets are very limited. Either way, you’ll gain skip-the-line entry at an assigned time, allowing for smooth access without the queues. Knowing your arrival slot also helps you better organize your day in Paris.

Tickets can be purchased via the official catacombs website (note: non-refundable). For more flexibility, we suggest booking in advance here, as these tickets are similarly priced but offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before your visit.

3. Book a guided tour

A guided Catacombs tour is the ideal option for visitors who want to make the most out of their experience. Plenty awaits beneath Paris and having an expert answer your questions adds real value.

The official guided tour is offered only once a week, in French and with very limited spots. That’s why we recommend joining one of the frequent English-language tours. Tickets for these tours also allow full refunds up to 24 hours before your visit.

Useful information for visiting the Paris Catacombs

What’s the best time to visit the Paris Catacombs?

If you want to visit the Paris Catacombs when they’re less crowded, there are better times than others. Still, as one of Paris’s most popular attractions, expect there to be other visitors at any hour. One thing you don’t need to worry about: weather and light—the entire site is underground.

In general, the best times to visit are early in the morning or later in the evening. The crowds peak in the early afternoon. As for days, Tuesday and Wednesday are usually quieter, while weekends are the busiest.

Paris Catacombs opening hours

The Paris Catacombs are open every day except Monday. They close on certain public holidays, like January 1, May 1, and December 25. Normal opening hours are 9:45 am to 8:30 pm, with last entry one hour before closing. Summer hours may be extended for late-night visits.

How to get to the Paris Catacombs

While the Catacombs are not as central as some top attractions, they are easy to reach if you know where to go. They’re within walking distance of the Jardin du Luxembourg and the Tour Montparnasse. Still, public transport is the most practical choice.

The easiest way is by Metro or train: Denfert-Rochereau station is right by the entrance. Subway lines 4 and 6, or RER B train, take you there. Several buses also serve the catacombs—the most useful are bus 38 from Cité–Palais de Justice and the 68 from Pyramides.

How do Paris Catacombs tickets work?

Understanding how Paris Catacombs tickets work helps you get the most from your experience. While purchasing tickets is straightforward, there are a few important planning tips.

On the official website, there are two ticket options. One is for advance bookings—you can reserve months ahead. The other is a last-minute option for a handful of same-day tickets.

When booking, you’ll select an available time slot. Entries are limited to 200 visitors at a time, with access every 15 minutes. After purchasing tickets, you’ll receive a digital ticket to print or show on your smartphone upon arrival.

How much do Paris Catacombs tickets cost?

Ticket prices for the Paris Catacombs depend on the type you select. Advance purchase tickets, which guarantee your entry and include an audio guide, are more expensive. Pre-booked tickets cost €29 for adults, €27 for reduced fares, and €5 for children. Last-minute tickets are €15 for adults, €13 for reduced fares, and free for children (though a reservation is still required). Audio guides, when purchased separately, are €5. Discounts are available for students and 18–26-year-olds with valid ID. Children’s prices apply to those under 18.

Best hotels near the Paris Catacombs

If you want an alternative neighborhood for your Paris stay, consider the area around the Catacombs. The 14th arrondissement and nearby districts offer plenty of shops, eateries, and cafés—perfect to fill the time between sightseeing. Here are a few hotel recommendations to get you started.

For an upscale stay, it’s hard to go wrong with the Hotel Le Six, a four-star boutique with stylish, spacious rooms and modern amenities like a gym and hammam. Hotel Max is a great pick for travelers seeking comfort and value, just a 10-minute walk from the catacombs entrance.

Budget options are limited in this area, making FIAP Jean Monnet an especially good choice. This hostel offers dorms and private rooms, plus a restaurant, bar, garden, and common lounge. See our Paris hostel guide for more ideas.

Paris Catacombs visitor safety

As a delicate and sacred site, all visitors must go through security at the entrance and follow a set of rules.

The most important is never to touch the remains—they are fragile and once belonged to Paris residents. Another key rule: only small bags worn at the front are allowed. Suitcases, large bags, and strollers are not permitted, and as there’s no cloakroom or luggage storage, plan ahead.

Personal photos—including flash—is allowed, but no tripods or professional equipment. Food, drinks, and alcohol are also prohibited.

Visiting the Paris Catacombs with a disability

Given their underground nature, the Catacombs are difficult to access for those with reduced mobility. However, visitors with disabilities and one companion are entitled to free admission.

The tour involves navigating old tunnels and 243 steps—wheelchair access is not possible, and the visit is not recommended for anyone with mobility issues. Guests with intellectual disabilities may find the environment overwhelming. Visually impaired visitors must be accompanied, and white canes are not allowed, though guide dogs are permitted.

Paris Catacombs facts

What are the Paris Catacombs?

The Catacombs are an underground ossuary, with human remains stored in part of Paris’s old tunnel network.

When were the Paris Catacombs built?

The first human remains were moved into the Catacombs in 1785.

When were the Catacombs consecrated?

The ossuary was officially consecrated as Paris’s Municipal Ossuary on April 7, 1786—making it centuries old.

Who created the Paris Catacombs?

City officials decided to use the former Tombe-Issoire quarries beneath Paris to create the catacombs.

Why were the Paris Catacombs created?

The Catacombs answered a public health crisis caused by overflowing city cemeteries.

How many bodies are in the Paris Catacombs?

The remains of over six million people rest in the Catacombs.

Where are the Paris Catacombs?

The Catacombs are in Petit-Montrouge, a neighborhood in the 14th arrondissement, south of central Paris.

Activities related to the Paris Catacombs

After you’ve explored the tunnels and ossuaries, you may want to delve deeper into Paris’s spooky side. The Museum of Arts and Crafts, with its collection of torture and execution devices, is a fitting addition to your itinerary. Or if you’re fascinated by Paris’s dark history, consider a haunted sites tour for genuine chills and a new outlook on the city’s past.

Prefer something lighter? Pair your catacombs visit with a food tour of Montparnasse for delicious local specialties and one of Paris’s liveliest neighborhoods. Another perfect match: a cruise on the Seine, offering unique views of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

Whatever you choose, your visit to the Paris Catacombs will be an unforgettable highlight during your Parisian adventure.

Final tips

To wrap up, here are a few extra tips to make the most of your Catacombs visit:

• Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for cool, damp underground tunnels.
• Bring a small flashlight or power bank for your phone—to take photos with ease.
• Prepare questions for your guide if taking a tour, so you can deepen your understanding.
• If you have claustrophobia or reduced mobility, carefully consider whether to visit the Catacombs.
• Take time to explore Montparnasse afterwards for great restaurants, cafés, and shops.