Best Time to Visit Paris Catacombs: A Complete Guide

I remember the first time I planned a trip to the Paris Catacombs. I was excited but clueless about the best time to visit Paris Catacombs. The result? Long lines, packed spaces, and a rushed experience underground. It felt less like an adventure and more like a mistake. Worse, I didn’t get to explore its eerie history fully.

That frustration stuck with me. But here’s the good news—you don’t have to make the same error. In this article, I’ll share the perfect times to visit and avoid the crowds. Let’s make your visit unforgettable!

Overview of the Paris Catacombs

The Paris Catacombs are a big network of underground tunnels. They are located in Paris, France. These tunnels are symbols of history and dark fascination. They have become a famous tourist attraction in modern times. Around 550,000 people visit the catacombs each year. The tunnels are about 280 kilometers (about 174 miles).

Brief History of Paris Catacombs

The history of the Paris Catacombs started in the 18th century with a major public health concern. At that time, a major problem arose about the overflowing cemeteries in the city. Paris authorities decided to transfer the millions of dead bodies from the overflow cemeteries to old limestone quarries beneath the streets to manage the problem.

From 1785 to 1787, the work began, and it continued for many years. They created large underground ossuaries, which we called catacombs. In 1809, the catacombs opened to the public. Within some time, it gained popularity as a unique site of historical significance.

Why Visit the Paris Catacombs?

Visiting the Paris Catacombs can experience a rare and unique part of Paris’s history. The catacombs are a mixture of history, architecture, and macabre intrigue. Here’s why you should visit:

• Historical Significance: The catacombs reflect the interesting history of Paris’s responses to public health crises.
• Architectural Wonder: The tunnels of the catacombs themselves are a unique engineering marvel. The bones are often arranged in artistic patterns. They present a beautiful appearance.
• Macabre Curiosity: The atmosphere of the tunnels is eerie, with walls of skulls and bones. It attracts those who love dark history. The juxtaposition of life and death in such a confined space leaves visitors with a unique sense of awe.

Pro Tips: If you facing a problem with Tickets, Read Last Minute Paris Catacombs Tickets for a solution.

How to Visit Paris Catacombs

Entrance Museum: The main entrance to the catacombs has a small museum explaining the context and information about the catacombs’ history. It is situated near Place Denfert-Rochereau in the 14th arrondissement of Paris.

The Tour: When you visit the catacombs, you need to enter the area through a spiral staircase. It will take you about 20 meters (65 feet) below ground. After some time, the dark, narrow passageways and chambers lined with bones will come.

Visitor Experience: Don’t worry about the guide. I can help you with the audio guide. You can explore the Catacombs by yourself. The atmosphere is good and respectful, with interesting lighting.

Practical Information: You need 45 minutes to an hour for exploring the catacombs.

Key Attractions:

• The Ossuary: The ossuary is a place in the Catacombs where the bones of six million people are kept.
• The Quarry Tunnels: The bones of the people are stored within former limestone quarries. Any visitors can also explore them. These give you the feeling of ancient times.

Tips for First-Timers: Buy tickets online. Wear sturdy shoes and dress warmly. Be ready for narrow, dark passages.

Catacombs of Paris Visiting Hours and Tickets

Paris Catacombs Opening Times

• Tuesday to Sunday, from 9:45 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
• The last time for entry is 7:30 p.m.

Special Notes:

• Despite being a holiday, the Catacombs stay open on July 14, August 15, November 1, and November 11.
• The closed days are Mondays and certain holidays, like January 1, May 1, and December 25.

Paris Catacombs Ticket Prices (Official)

• The general ticket price of the Paris Catacombs is €29.00.
• The discount rate for the tickets is 23.00 EUR, but it is only for 18- to 26-year-olds, students, and teachers.
• Child rate (5 to 17): 10 €
• Children under 5: free entry.
• Guided tours are on Tuesdays at 6 p.m. and Thursdays at 1 p.m.

Attractions Tips: Are you in Paris? Don’t miss the chance to Visit Orangerie Museum.

Last Minute Tickets for Paris Catacombs (Reseller)

The chance of getting an instant Paris Catacombs ticket availability is very low. But don’t be sad; several trusted platforms sell last minute tickets. Below, I am giving you a list of last minute tickets:

Best Times to Visit Paris Catacombs

The best time to visit Paris Catacombs to avoid crowds has various time slots. It depends on you which time you prefer for a visit. I am going to explain the best times on weekdays vs. weekends, morning vs. afternoon, and seasonal suggestions.

Best Months to Visit Paris Catacombs

Spring (March to May): The weather in spring is mild, and the number of tourists is low compared to summer. It is a wonderful time to visit Paris. Sometimes, April and May can be busier. Spring is considered the Paris Catacombs off-peak season.

Winter (December to February): If you are okay with cold weather, winter is the best time to visit the Paris Catacombs. During this time, the place is the least crowded. It allows visitors to enjoy the peace because the Catacombs are indoors.

Fall (September to November): During fall, the city of Paris has a cozy atmosphere. This season offers fewer crowds than summer. Early fall might have fewer crowds due to school holidays.

Worst Time to Visit Paris Catacombs

Summer (June to August): Summer is the Paris Catacombs peak season. The Catacombs can become extremely crowded. Tourists from around the world come to Paris to enjoy the Catacombs.

Holidays and Peak Tourist Periods: The holidays and major events in Paris bring large crowds. Avoid these dates.

Pro Tips: In Summer Days, from 11 AM to 4 PM, Catacombs sees its highest number of visitors.

Paris Catacombs Visitor Tips

Essential Tips

• Buy your tickets in advance: Try to book your tickets in advance. It can save you time and ensure fast entry. If you miss your ticket, buy last-minute Paris Catacombs tickets.
• Clothing and Shoes: You need to walk inside the catacombs. The temperature is cold at around 14°C (57°F). It is better to wear comfortable clothes and shoes for a better experience.
• Health Concerns: If anyone has claustrophobia, limited mobility, or heart or respiratory problems, it is recommended that they not visit the catacombs.

Paris Catacombs Guided Tours

• Guided tours: Guided tours help you learn the history of the catacombs. Book your audio-guided tour.
• Self-guided visits: If you have an explorative mind, a self-guided visit is a good option for you. A self-guided tour allows you to spend time on your own choices.

Skip-the-Line Tickets

If you are visiting in peak season, the lines for entering the catacombs can be very long. From my experience, booking skip-the-line tickets gives you fast access and saves you time.

Paris Catacombs Weather Considerations

The weather in Paris is very nice. It is not too hot and not too cold here. Winter has mild weather and summer has warm weather. The Catacombs of Paris are fully underground. They are approximately 20 meters (65 feet) below the surface of the city.

The internal climate inside the Catacombs is 14°C (57°F) year-round. The humidity inside is hovering around 80%. It is advisable to wear warm clothing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the Paris Catacombs’ opening hours?

The Catacombs are open Tuesday to Sunday, 9:45 AM to 8:30 PM, with last entry at 7:30 PM. Closed on Monday and certain holidays: January 1, May 1, and December 25.

When is the peak tourist season for the Catacombs?

Summer is the busiest time for Paris tourism. The Catacombs can become extremely crowded at this time. 

Are the Catacombs less crowded during weekdays?

Yes, weekdays are the best days for visiting the catacombs because the crowds remain smaller than on weekends.

Is it necessary to book tickets in advance?

Advance booking is recommended to avoid long queues and ensure entry. But if you failed to buy tickets, buy last minutes tickets for Catacombs.

What is the temperature inside the Catacombs?

The temperature is consistently around 14°C (57°F) year-round.

Conclusion

The Catacombs of Paris are unique compared to other Paris attractions. They have a fascinating history and offer a unique experience to visitors. For the best experience, visit on weekdays to avoid crowds.

Morning visits are also best for a quieter experience. The Catacombs get busier in the afternoon. Winter months (November to March) provide the best experience with a small crowd size.