The comparison at a glance
| Offer | Length | Price "from" (read 3 Nov 2026) | What is included | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Catacombs special access tour | 2 h | From about $162 | Guided visit with special access; groups of 14, sometimes 6 at early slots; 4.6 out of 5, 989 reviews | Most visitors | See |
| Small-group tour (City Wonders) | 2 h | About $249 to $280 | Skip-the-line entry and restricted areas; 4.7 out of 5, 408 reviews | Those who want a well-known operator | See |
| Skip-the-line guided tour and special access | 1.5 h | From about $158 | Guided visit with access to areas closed to the public; 4.8 out of 5, 413 reviews | Shorter visit | See |
| Tour with restricted rooms | 1.5 h | About $185 to $226 | Two restricted areas, groups of up to 19; 4.8 out of 5, 81 reviews | Mid-size group | See |
| Restricted access tour, 6 people at most | Not read | About $117 to $221 depending on the page | Small group of 6; 4.9 out of 5, about 500 reviews | Smallest group | See |
What you are really buying
You buy a guided visit with reserved entry and a few rooms that the standard ticket does not open. The Catacombs let in about 200 people at a time and the line for visitors without a booking can be long, so a timed tour also saves waiting. Those rooms are the only difference: the main ossuary route is the same as on the standard ticket. Read our Catacombs ticket comparison first if you are not sure you need a guide.
Our pick and the others
The special access tour has by far the most reviews, which makes its score the most reliable. The 1.5-hour tour costs about the same and is shorter. The 6-person tour is the one for a quiet group and good questions. Always check on the listing which restricted areas are visited: the offers do not all open the same rooms.
Which offer to choose?
- First visit, curious about the hidden rooms: the special access tour.
- Short on time: a 1.5-hour tour.
- Small group, family or friends: the 6-person tour.
- No interest in restricted areas: a standard ticket with audio guide.
- Also visiting the neighbourhood: see the Catacombs page.
Practical tips
- The tour is not suitable for people with claustrophobia or reduced mobility, and there are about 130 steps and no elevator.
- Take a valid ID: one listing says it may be requested at entry.
- There are no toilets or cloakroom, and large bags are not allowed.
Frequently asked questions
Is a restricted-areas Catacombs tour worth it?
Yes if you want a guide and a bit more than the standard route. The main ossuary is the same, so a standard ticket is enough for most people.
How long does it take?
Between 1.5 and 2 hours depending on the offer.
Is it suitable for children or wheelchair users?
Not for wheelchair users, and the stairs make it hard with strollers. Check the age limit on the listing before booking with children.
