Catacombs Paris
ParisParis Catacombs Tickets: Skip-the-Line Entry, Best Time Slots, and What to Book
Last updated: January, 2026
The Paris Catacombs are one of the city’s most visited and most capacity-limited attractions. Entry is strictly controlled, group sizes are capped, and tickets regularly sell out days in advance. Because of this, queues without reservations can be long, and same-day access is often impossible.
This guide explains how skip-the-line tickets work at the Paris Catacombs, which ticket types actually save time, the best time to visit, and how to avoid common mistakes that lead to missed entry.
What “Skip-the-Line” Means at the Paris Catacombs
At the Paris Catacombs, skip-the-line means entering with a pre-booked, timed ticket instead of waiting at the ticket office or being turned away due to sold-out slots.
Because entry capacity is tightly limited, the main time-saving benefit is:
- guaranteed access at a specific time
- avoiding the on-site ticket purchase queue
All visitors must still pass security checks, but timed-ticket holders enter in a controlled flow that is significantly faster than walk-up access.
Do You Really Need Skip-the-Line Tickets?
In most cases, yes. The Paris Catacombs sell out frequently, especially:
- on weekends
- during school holidays
- from late morning through mid-afternoon
If the Catacombs are on your must-see list, advance booking is essential. Arriving without a ticket often results in long waits or no entry at all.
How Timed Entry Works at the Paris Catacombs
Timed entry is strictly enforced:
- Your ticket is valid only for your selected entry time.
- Late arrivals are often refused entry.
- Group sizes are limited to keep the underground tunnels safe and manageable.
Arriving 15 to 20 minutes early is strongly recommended so you can clear security and start on time.
How Long Does a Visit Take?
The visit route through the Catacombs is one-way and underground.
- Standard visit: 45 to 60 minutes
- With guided tour: up to 90 minutes
Once inside, you cannot shorten or skip sections, so plan accordingly.
If you are also planning major sights such as the Louvre Museum, it’s best to avoid stacking them back-to-back on the same day.
Paris Catacombs Ticket Options Explained
Standard Timed-Entry Ticket
- Reserved entry time
- Self-guided visit
- Best option for most visitors
Skip-the-Line Guided Tour
- Guided visit with historical context
- Smaller group sizes
- Often uses dedicated entry handling
Special Access or After-Hours Visits
- Limited availability
- Quietest experience
- Higher price
Which Paris Catacombs Ticket Should You Choose?
| Ticket type | Best for | Why it works | Things to consider |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard timed-entry ticket | Most visitors | Guaranteed access and best value | Sells out quickly |
| Guided tour | First-time visitors | Context and smaller groups | Higher price |
| Special access visit | Quiet experiences | Lowest crowd levels | Very limited availability |
Our recommendation:
- Most travelers: standard timed-entry ticket booked in advance
- Best overall experience: guided tour
- Quietest visit: special access if available
Where Is the Entrance and How Early Should You Arrive?
The entrance to the Paris Catacombs is at Place Denfert-Rochereau. Entry lines are clearly organised by time slot.
Arrive 15 to 20 minutes early to avoid missing your entry window.
Typical Waiting Times
- Early morning: minimal waiting with timed tickets
- Midday: long waits without advance booking
- Peak season: entry often sold out entirely
Common Mistakes That Cost Time
- Arriving without a pre-booked ticket
- Missing your timed entry slot
- Assuming same-day tickets will be available
- Underestimating the physical nature of the visit
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Paris Catacombs visit timed?
Yes. All tickets are sold for specific entry times.
Do skip-the-line tickets really work here?
Yes. They are the only reliable way to guarantee entry and avoid long waits.
Is the Catacombs suitable for everyone?
The visit includes many stairs and narrow passages and is not suitable for all visitors.
Many visitors combine the Catacombs with landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, but spacing visits across the day helps avoid fatigue.
Final Advice
The Paris Catacombs are one of the most capacity-restricted attractions in Paris. Booking a timed-entry ticket in advance and choosing an early slot is the most reliable way to enjoy the visit without stress or disappointment.
Opening Hours & Best Time to visit Catacombs Paris
The Paris Catacombs are generally open daily, with typical hours from 9:45 am to 8:30 pm, and last entry usually around one hour before closing.
Hours can vary by day, and occasional closures do occur. Always check the available time slots for your visit date when booking.
Because capacity is limited, timing matters more here than at most attractions.
- Best overall: first entry slots of the day
- Good alternative: late afternoon or early evening
- Most crowded: late morning to early afternoon
Early visits feel calmer underground and reduce waiting at security.
How To get to Catacombs Paris
Bus
The entrance is across the street from the Denfert-Rochereau station. You can reach this by bus via line 38 & 68.
Metro
You can reach the Catacombs in Paris via metro line 2
Train
Take the RER line B train to reach the Catacombs in Paris
