I will be visiting Paris the first week of September and was wondering if it is "worth" it to take a guided tour of the Catacombs versus taking a self guided-tour. If yes, can you recommend a tour group/company?
Posted by
Chicago
8047 posts
I cannot imagine any value being added by a guide -- but then I am not a devotee of guided tours. I'd get a timed ticket and do it myself. Here is the trip:
https://janettravels.wordpress.com/2013/01/12/catacombs-a-creepy-paris-stroll/
Don't see the advantages of a guide for those who can do a little reading and prep.
Posted by
Seattle
199 posts
Myself and daughter took in the Catacombs unguided this past May. Took us 2 tries as on first attempt, striking attendants/personnel resulted in a closed site. Folks with prepaid tickets had to request refund or change of date due to the unplanned closure. We went early, queuing an hour before 10 a.m. opening and purchasing both entry and audioguide at that time. Folks who had their tickets allowed entry first and we were not far behind. Most people appeared to need tickets than had them prepaid. At a leisurely pace, taking the route allowed and listening to the completely worth-the-expense audioguide (though, its narration does have a slower pace/less succinctness than I liked) it was a compelling and fascinating ramble below ground. Darkish in places, dusty underfoot, some dripping/seepage of water in a spot or two but incredibly patterned and impressively constructed skeletal remains of 6 million people in a surprisingly respectful way. I was jealous for the people who were to attend the music concert (in the Catacombs!) occurring the next month. We set our own pace, choosing to linger in certain areas while listening to our device, taking our individual journeys without staying paired with each other. Gift shop at exit is easily either gotten through without a glance or a pleasant diversion while choosing among the varied offerings.
Posted by
OP
Maryland
2 posts
Thank you for your comments. They are very helpful.
Posted by
Reno, Nevada
1025 posts
30 minutes research into the creation of, and the filling of the catacombs will be helpful to a complete understanding of what you are seeing. It is a creepy, fun walk that is worth the price of admission.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catacombs_of_Paris
I agree with Janet. I cannot imagine how the experience I enjoyed would have been improved by a blow by blow description of and/or explication of the venue and its history.