Catacombs tours and tickets
Descend beneath Paris into a hidden world of shadows, tunnels, and bones.
Hours of operation
Open 9:45 AM to 8:30 PM, last entry at 7:30 PM. Closed on Mondays and some holidays.
Ticket required
Online tickets required 7 days in advance. Timed entry.
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings or later in the evening.
Most popular Catacombs tours
Get an insider’s view of the Catacombs in Paris.
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About the Catacombs
The Catacombs of Paris were created in the late 18th century to address a public health crisis caused by the city’s overflowing cemeteries. Below the streets, the remains of more than six million Parisians rest in limestone quarries—arranged into walls and structures that reflect the city’s enduring relationship with loss and memory.
Top highlights for your visit
The quarry heritage route
Before reaching the bones, the circuit takes you through the limestone quarries from which Paris was built. You’ll pass sculptures carved directly into the stone, including the Port-Mahon sculptures, created by a quarryman who spent years shaping the rock by hand.
The warning sign
At the entrance to the ossuary, a stone lintel bears the inscription, “Arrête ! C’est ici l’empire de la mort,” or, “Stop! This is the empire of death.” It marks the precise location where the ancient quarry tunnels give way to the burial chambers.
The barrel of the passion
One of the most recognizable formations in the galleries, this large pillar-like structure is built entirely from skulls and tibias. It’s a perfect example of how the bones throughout the ossuary were arranged with deliberate care rather than simply stacked.
6 million Parisians
The ossuary holds the remains of more than 6 million people, transferred here from the city’s overflowing cemeteries beginning in 1786.
Catacombs FAQs
When will the Catacombs of Paris be open for visitors?
The site reopened in April 2026 after undergoing major renovation work to help preserve its historic structure.
Why were the Catacombs originally built?
The Catacombs were created in the late 18th century in response to a serious public health crisis. Paris’s cemeteries had become dangerously overcrowded, so city officials decided to transfer the remains of millions of people into the ancient limestone quarries beneath the city. What began as a practical necessity became one of the most remarkable historic sites in the world.
How many people are buried in the Catacombs?
The ossuary is estimated to hold the remains of more than 6 million Parisians. Their remains were transferred gradually over a period stretching from the late 18th century to the mid-19th century, making this one of the largest and most significant burial sites in the world.
Is the tour suitable for visitors with limited mobility?
Because the Catacombs are located deep underground within historic quarries, the site is not wheelchair accessible. There is no elevator, so you’ll need to descend 131 steps to enter, and climb 112 steps to exit. If you or someone in your group has limited mobility, consider these factors before planning your visit.
How long does a visit to the Catacombs take?
The route through the Catacombs covers about 1.5 kilometers, which is roughly one mile. Most visitors complete the circuit in about an hour, though you’re welcome to move at whatever pace feels right for you.
What should I wear for the tour?
No matter what the weather is above ground, the temperature inside the tunnels stays at a steady 14°C (57°F) year-round. You’ll want to bring a jacket or sweater and wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes, since the ground can be uneven and slippery in places.
Are there restrictions on what I can bring inside?
To help protect the ossuary, large bags and suitcases are not allowed inside, and there is no cloakroom on-site to store them. You’re welcome to bring a small bag, as long as it measures no more than 40x30x20 cm and can be carried in front of you or held in your hand throughout the visit.
Is the experience scary? Is it suitable for children?
The Catacombs are a place of history and quiet reflection rather than a theatrical experience. That said, being surrounded by the remains of millions of people can be overwhelming for some visitors, including children. The experience is generally not recommended for young kids or anyone uncomfortable with enclosed underground spaces or human remains.
Things to know before visiting the Catacombs
Entry and access
- The site has reopened as of April 2026 after closing for renovation.
- Book your tickets online in advance. Walk-up entry is not available.
- Reduced rates are available for children and students with valid ID.
Dress code
- The tunnels stay at 14°C (57°F) year-round. Bring a jacket or sweater, even in summer.
- Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes with good grip.
- Only small bags (maximum 40x30x20 cm) are allowed inside.
Additional information
- The site is not wheelchair accessible. You will descend 131 steps to enter.
- Your admission typically includes an audio guide, available in multiple languages.
- Photography for personal use is permitted.