Catacombs of Paris, Paris Travel Guide

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Explore the eerie beauty of the Catacombs of Paris, a historical ossuary housing millions of bones beneath the City of Light, blending history with haunting intrigue.

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Catacombs of Paris

Delve into the haunting beauty of the Catacombs of Paris, where the echoes of the past resonate among the ancient bones of millions beneath the City of Light. This unique underground ossuary serves as a window into Parisian history, offering a chilling yet captivating experience for every visitor.

A brief summary to Catacombs of Paris

1 Av. du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, Paris, 75014, FR
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Tuesday 9:45 am-8:30 pm
Wednesday 9:45 am-8:30 pm
Thursday 9:45 am-8:30 pm
Friday 9:45 am-8:30 pm
Saturday 9:45 am-8:30 pm
Sunday 9:45 am-8:30 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Catacombs of Paris.

Book your tickets online in advance to avoid long lines.
Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking on uneven surfaces.
Bring a light jacket; it can be chilly underground.
Consider a guided tour for deeper insights into the history of the Catacombs.
Be prepared for limited accessibility; there are many steep stairs.

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Paris Catacombs Ticket with Optional Seine River 1-hour cruise

$60.16

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Getting There

Metro

To reach the Catacombs of Paris, start by finding the nearest metro station. If you are near a metro line, take Line 4 (the dark blue line) towards Mairie de Montrouge. Alight at the 'Rennes' station. From there, transfer to Line 6 (the light blue line) towards Nation. Get off at the 'Denfert-Rochereau' station. Once you exit the metro, follow the signs for 'Les Catacombes'. The entrance is located at 1 Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, which is a short walk from the station.
Bus

If you prefer to travel by bus, locate the nearest bus stop that services lines 38, 68, or 88. Board the bus and travel towards 'Denfert-Rochereau'. Once you arrive at the Denfert-Rochereau stop, exit the bus and walk towards Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy. The Catacombs will be just a couple of minutes' walk away.
Walking

If you're staying nearby, walking to the Catacombs can be a pleasant option. From the Luxembourg Gardens, head southeast towards Rue de Médicis. Continue onto Boulevard Saint-Michel, then turn left onto Rue de la Gaîté. Follow this street until you reach Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy. The Catacombs will be on your left.
Bicycle

For the more adventurous, you can rent a bicycle using the Vélib' bike-sharing system. Find a nearby Vélib' station and rent a bike. Head towards the Catacombs by cycling along the Boulevard Raspail, then take a left onto Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy. There are bike racks available near the entrance for you to park your bike safely.

Discover more about Catacombs of Paris

The Catacombs of Paris are a mesmerizing and eerie historical site that draws visitors from all around the globe. Located beneath the bustling streets of Paris, this underground ossuary houses the remains of over six million Parisians, making it a significant chapter in the city’s history. Originally created in the late 18th century to alleviate the overcrowded cemeteries above ground, the Catacombs provide a haunting yet fascinating glimpse into the past. The winding tunnels and dimly lit corridors are lined with neatly arranged skulls and bones, arranged in artistic displays that tell stories of lives lived long ago. As you walk through the cool, stone passages, the atmospheric surroundings provoke a sense of reflection and appreciation for the history that shaped modern Paris.In addition to its chilling allure, the Catacombs are steeped in historical significance. They serve as a reminder of the city's past struggles with disease, overcrowding, and mortality. Guided tours often delve into fascinating anecdotes about the lives of those interred here and the turbulent history of Paris itself, enriching your visit with context. The site also features intriguing sculptures and inscriptions, adding layers to the experience. Open daily, with specific hours, it’s advisable to book tickets in advance, as this popular attraction can draw large crowds. Whether you are a history buff or simply looking for a unique adventure, the Catacombs of Paris offer an unforgettable exploration of the depths of this iconic city.