Beneath the dazzling lights of modern Paris lie the devilishly dark catacombs. On this small-group tour have skip-the-line entry and exclusive access to restricted areas. Explore the 200-mile maze of remains from roughly 6 million Parisians with an expert guide. Begin with a bone-chilling descent down the complex’s 133-step staircase. Your guide will explain how these tunnels were used in the 13th-century to quarry limestone for buildings as grand as Notre Dame. As you make your way through the narrow tunnels, learn why bad weather in the 1780s forced Parisians to bury their dead here. During the tour, have plenty of time to admire the Catacombs’ disturbingly detailed bone decorations. From religious iconography to hearts, workers found many ways to “beautify” the bones housed in this complex. There is, however, one decoration that will really make your spine tingle. Inside the popular Crypt of the Passion take a few moments to gaze at “The Barrel,” which is constructed out of various skeletal remains. In addition to housing the dead, the Catacombs played an important role during many significant historic events. Your guide will tell you tales of the German Wehrmacht and the French Resistance who both used part of the Catacombs as wartime bunkers during World War II. Also, learn about its relationship to the French Revolution. If you are not afraid of ghosts, then ask your guide about the grave of the doorman Philibert Aspairt who passed away in the Catacombs in the 18th century. Learn about the cataphiles who have caused a stir in recent years for hosting huge raves, swimming parties, and an extensive network in this underground city of the dead. Keep your eyes peeled for graffiti left by cataphiles on your Catacombs Tour.
May/02/2026 09:16:47
Apr/30/2026 14:48:32
One of the best activities I’ve done in Paris - and a really insight into a lesser known France. It is more expensive than most but it’s money well spent - this is highly recommended. My guide Adam, was excellent and highly knowledgeable - and dare I say a little funny too lol He made the tour and made the time fly past.
Apr/29/2026 10:56:04
Très intéressante Guide trilingue très compétent et aimable : Bravo René En petit groupe, ce fut un régal entre visiter, apprendre, comprendre. Fortement recommandé
Apr/25/2026 22:12:25
Renee was a five star fabulous guide! We enjoyed his tour so much!
Apr/24/2026 21:36:23
Super :)
Apr/22/2026 12:03:38
The guide was wonderful with interesting and in depth information. It was also good to be able to see parts that the general public could not acccess. Highly recommend. Be prepared to climb down stairs at the start and up stairs at the end!!
Apr/18/2026 06:23:40
Jan/06/2026 15:03:03
Nov/01/2025 09:23:25
This was honestly a bucket list sight seeing moment for me and Leo was absolutely fabulous! It’s obvious that she cares deeply about the Catacombs and their history, she was a wonderful tour guide. Our initial small group became even smaller and I nearly had a private tour with just one other person and Leo, I definitely recommend booking a small group guided tour so you get the most info and more of a private experience at times. I will absolutely tell any family or friends coming to Paris about LivTours!
Oct/31/2025 08:56:00