Paris Catacombs Tour with VIP Access to Restricted Areas

Discover the Paris Catacombs with VIP Access and Expert Guides

The Paris Catacombs Tour with VIP Access to Restricted Areas offers a compelling glimpse into one of the city’s most intriguing underground sites. Priced at $235.80 per person and lasting approximately 2 hours, this small-group experience is ideal for travelers eager to explore the darker, lesser-known parts of Paris beneath its bustling streets. With a rating of 4.5/5 based on over 1,000 reviews, and 90% recommending it, this tour combines historical insight with exclusive access, making it a standout for those interested in the macabre and underground stories of Paris.

What sets this tour apart is the VIP access to areas normally closed to the public, adding a layer of intimacy and exclusivity. Led by local English-speaking guides, the tour ensures personalized attention and detailed storytelling. The tour begins at the Catacombs of Paris, where a knowledgeable guide leads you through a 200-mile labyrinth of tunnels and galleries hidden beneath the city. It’s an experience that appeals most to those with moderate physical fitness, given the walking and stair climbing involved, and who aren’t claustrophobic.

Key Points

• Price: $235.80 per person, including a guided tour
• Duration: Around 2 hours
• Group size: Limited to 14 travelers for an intimate experience
• VIP Access: Special entry to restricted areas usually off-limits
• Highlights include the Gilberts Tomb, Port Mahon Gallery, and other hidden sites
• Guides like Laurence and Saeed receive praise for their knowledgeability and engaging storytelling

Starting Point: The Entrance to the Paris Catacombs

The tour begins at the Catacombs of Paris, located at 1 Av. du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, 75014 Paris. This site is easily accessible near public transportation, making it straightforward to reach for most visitors. The meeting point is clear, and the activity ends back at the same location, providing a smooth start and finish to the experience.

Once at the entrance, an inscription reading, “Arrête! C’est ici l’empire de la mort” (“Stop! Here lies the empire of death”) marks the beginning of your underground journey. The guide leads the group inside, where a labyrinth of tunnels and galleries stretches for over 200 miles beneath Paris.

Walking Through the Historic Bone-Lined Galleries

The core of this experience involves exploring the famous bone-lined galleries, where the remains of over 6 million Parisians are buried. The bones are neatly arranged along the walls, creating a haunting but fascinating display. The tunnels were originally limestone quarries, which were repurposed in the late 18th century as Paris’ cemeteries overflowed.

Unlike standard visits, your guide takes you off the usual public routes to visit sites like Gilberts Tomb, where sculptures were secretly carved over five years by an 18th-century quarry worker before a tragic cave-in, and the Port Mahon Gallery. These hidden sites offer a deeper, more nuanced look at the history and stories behind the underground city of death.

Exploring Restricted and Off-Limit Areas

A major highlight of this tour is access to restricted zones, which many typical visitors never see. These areas include the Quarrymans Footbath, and other secret chambers, which add a layer of exclusivity to the experience. This special access is a significant value addition, as it allows a more comprehensive understanding of the catacombs’ history and layout.

While some of these VIP areas may sometimes be closed, the opportunity to see sections that are normally off-limits makes this tour stand out. Buyers should be aware that certain areas could be unavailable on some days, but the guides are skilled at providing rich context for what is accessible.

The Guides: Knowledge, Personality, and Storytelling

Reviews frequently praise the guides, with Saeed, Laurence, and Vic cited as exceptional storytellers and educators. These guides are English-speaking locals who bring the history of the catacombs to life with engaging, detailed tales. They excel at providing personalized attention, especially since the group is limited to 14 participants.

Guides like Laurence are celebrated for their deep knowledge of Parisian history and their ability to share captivating stories, making the experience both educational and entertaining. Many reviews mention that the guides explain the significance of each site clearly, ensuring visitors leave with a richer understanding of the catacombs’ history.

Navigating the 200-Mile Network of Tunnels

The tour covers about a mile of walking within the tunnels, which include stairs and uneven surfaces. The pace is generally comfortable but requires moderate physical fitness. The dimly lit environment and tight passages mean the tour is not suitable for those with claustrophobia.

Your guide will illuminate the labyrinth of tunnels, shedding light on how the bones were arranged, the purpose of different chambers, and stories of historical figures like Rabelais and Robespierre, whose remains are located within the catacombs.

Unique Sites: Sculptures and Hidden Carvings

One of the most intriguing aspects of this tour is the discovery of sculptures and carvings hidden within the tunnels. Gilberts Tomb features carvings made secretly over five years, showcasing the artistry and clandestine efforts of quarry workers. These artistic details add a layer of human effort behind the macabre setting, making the underground space feel more personal and historically rich.

The Experience’s Pacing and Crowd Levels

With a maximum of 14 travelers, the small-group format ensures a more personal and less crowded experience. This setup helps improve audibility and engagement, especially important in the narrow, echoing tunnels. However, some reviews note that crowd noise can still be an issue during busy times, and some sections might feel crowded.

The tour generally progresses at a steady pace, with enough time to listen to the guide and observe the details. The stairs at the beginning and end of the experience can be challenging for some but are manageable for most physically fit visitors.

Value for Money and Overall Impression

At $235.80, this tour is priced higher than many standard catacomb visits, but the VIP access and small-group format justify the cost for many. The tour’s expert guides and exclusive locations enhance the experience, making it worth the investment for those seeking a deeper, more personal exploration of Paris’ underground.

While some reviews mention the price as a concern, most agree that the quality of guiding and access makes it a worthwhile addition to a Paris itinerary. Note that food and beverages are not included, and hotel pick-up and drop-off are not provided, so plan your logistics accordingly.

Final Verdict: An Unusual and Insightful Underground Tour

The Paris Catacombs Tour with VIP Access offers a well-rounded experience combining history, artistry, and exclusive access. It’s especially suited for visitors interested in the lesser-known stories of Paris, those who value small-group interaction, and anyone fascinated by the macabre side of history.

While the cost might be a factor for some, the guides’ expertise, hidden sites, and special access provide a compelling reason to choose this tour. It’s a thoughtful, engaging way to explore Paris’s underground world beyond the usual tourist paths.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the VIP access to restricted areas included in the tour price?
Yes, the tour includes special access to restricted zones normally closed off to the public, offering a more in-depth exploration of the catacombs.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 2 hours, covering about a mile of underground tunnels.

Is the tour suitable for people with claustrophobia?
Given the dim lighting, narrow passages, and confined spaces, it is not recommended for travelers with claustrophobia.

What is the meeting point for the tour?
The tour starts at Catacombs of Paris, 1 Av. du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, 75014 Paris, and ends back at this location.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and beverages are not included in the tour price.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are possible up to 2 days in advance for a full refund, according to the provider’s policy.

Who provides this tour?
The experience is operated by City Wonders Ltd, known for their guided experiences in Paris.