Catacombs of Paris

Thing to Do in Paris Catacombs

Explore the Underground Maze

Begin your Paris Catacombs tour by walking through a deep, dark maze of tunnels beneath the Left Bank. You'll descend over 130 steps into ancient limestone quarries filled with echoes of Parisian history. Follow the official Paris Catacombs map to stay on route and avoid getting lost.

Discover Artistic Bone Arrangements

Admire the eerie beauty of bones and skulls stacked into patterns, symbols, and walls inside this massive ossuary. The remains of over six million Parisians, including those from Les Innocents, are arranged in artistic displays you won't see anywhere else. You'll find crosses, hearts, and shapes that turn death into design.

Read the Histrical Inscriptions

Read the chilling carved inscriptions along the walls, left by quarry workers and past visitors. Some lines are poetic, while others warn you of the dead below -- reminders of centuries of history during and after the French Revolution. These words bring a personal, human voice to the dark tunnels.

Explore the Hidden Art of Port-Mahon Corridor

Visit the Port-Mahon Corridor, where you'll see stunning stone carvings made by a former quarry worker and prisoner. The tiny buildings and detailed reliefs offer a surprising artistic touch in this somber space. It's one of the few parts of the Catacombs of Paris where art and death meet face to face.

Embrace the Macabre Atmosphere

Embrace the spine-tingling mood as you wander through the Catacombs Paris France, surrounded by silence, dust, and the weight of millions of lives. The low ceilings, dim lights, and smell of earth make this a place unlike any other in Paris. If you love dark history and eerie spaces, this is a one-of-a-kind experience!

Popular Attractions Near Paris Catacombs

Louvre Museum

After your Catacombs Paris adventure, take about 25 minutes by metro to reach the Louvre Museum to explore art and artifacts that celebrate life. It's home to the Mona Lisa, ancient sculptures, and royal treasures. Located near the Right Bank, the museum contrasts sharply with the death-filled tunnels below Paris.

Eiffel Tower

In just 30 minutes by metro, you can go from the dark Paris Catacombs to the bright heights of the the Eiffel Tower. After your underground tour, head above ground for sweeping views of the city. Standing tall over the banks of the Seine, the tower is a perfect place to relax and reflect. Bring a picnic and enjoy the sunshine after the dark journey through the Catacombs of Paris.

Notre-Dame Cathedral

A short 20-minute metro ride from the Catacombs of Paris brings you to the majestic Notre-Dame Cathedral of Paris, a church known for its gothic towers and stunning stained glass. It stands in contrast to the Catacombs, offering a spiritual look at life, death, and faith. It's a peaceful follow-up to your Paris Catacombs tour.

Arc de Triomphe

In about 30 minutes by metro, travel from the burial ground below Place Denfert-Rochereau to the proud symbol of national triumph at the Arc de Triomphe, a towering tribute to France's military heroes. This massive monument offers views of the Champs-Élysées and the city's layout from above. It's a stark contrast to the burial ground below Paris, reminding you of the triumphs that followed even the darkest times.

Champs-Élysées

Just 30 minutes by metro from the Catacombs Paris France, the Champs-Élysées welcomes you with bright lights, cafés, and luxury shops. Being one of the most famous streets in the world, it's full of life and light -- perfect after a visit to the Catacombs Paris France. While yuou're there, grab a coffee, do some shopping, and enjoy the Parisian energy! This lively street is the ideal way to end a day of exploring the deadly tunnels below.

Tips before visiting the Paris Catacombs

Book Tickets in Advance

The Paris Catacombs attract hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, so lines can get long. Book your Paris Catacombs Tickets online in advance to secure your entry ticket and skip the wait. and make your visit smooth and hassle-free.

Take a Guided Tour or Audio Guide

Explore the Catacombs Paris France with a guided tour or audio guide to fully understand its centuries-old history. You'll learn about the French Revolution, limestone quarries, and how million Parisians came to rest here. For a richer and safer experience, book your preferred Catacombs of Paris tours in advance through Klook and skip the long lines!

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The Catacombs of Paris stretch through tunnels with uneven ground, dust, and over 130 stairs to climb. Wear comfortable shoes so you can walk safely through the burial ground without slipping. You'll thank yourself when exploring this massive maze beneath the streets of Paris.

Dress Appropriately for the Temperature

It's chilly underground, around 14°C (57°F), so bring a light jacket even on warm days. The Catacombs of Paris location is deep below the Left Bank, and it stays cool year-round. Dress in layers to stay comfortable during your entire Paris Catacombs tour.