The Paris Catacombs, Paris

We came to visit the catacombs because it stated on their website that you could purchases tickets for the catacombs and the crypt (offsite of the catacombs) for 17 euro. It also stated on the website these tickets could only be purchased on site. We arrived ahead of time to wait on line prior to opening. The staff arrived right at opening while there was a line of people outside. The head staff member was very rude to us as he did not want to hear what we had to say. He stated tickets could only be purchased prior to arriving online. He then pointed to a sign to buy tickets online and a moment later came back with a sign stating all tickets were sold out. I understand that things do not always work out the way you want them to. However, I would suggest that they update their site to reflect the accurate information so that people such as myself do not make a trip unnecessarily and waste their time. Additionally, a little courtesy will go along when. The main staff member simple blew us off as much as we tried to communicate with him. It was very evident he does not enjoy his job or interacting with tourists. I wonder if he appreciates getting treated in the manner that he did when he is traveling.

This is a fascinating yet macabre tourist ‘attraction’; not to be missed, so book in advance online. The personal headsets tell the history of the original limestone miners, extracting the materials from which much of Paris is built. Hundreds of years later in 1786, due to the cemeteries within the city overflowing and becoming insanitary, the decision was made to empty them and inter the remains of six million people in these former mine tunnels 20m beneath the city. The route in and out of these tunnels is via modern-day spiral stairwells that require a reasonable level of fitness to climb. An experience you won’t forget!