7 Ghost Tours in Paris That Will Send Shivers Down Your Spine
As the sun sets and darkness descends, Paris reveals a more spectral side hidden in the shadows of its iconic monuments and cobbled lanes. These Ghost Tours in Paris take you through forgotten alleyways, unearthing chilling tales that take you back through the centuries.
Are you brave enough to discover what awaits you under the streets of Paris, in the graveyards and in the deserted buildings that hold the echoes of the past? As the nights draw in and Halloween approaches the city unveils her darker side.
My Top 3 Picks: Ghost Tours in Paris
Père Lachaise Cemetery – the Most Haunted Paris Tour
✅ Discover ghostly secrets of the graves
✅ See celebrity graves most people miss
✅ Tour with an English-speaking guide
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Phantom of the Opera – a Paris Ghost Story
✅ Bespoke tour completely personalised
✅ Behind the scenes look at all areas of the Opera House
The Catacombs – a Scary Thing To Do In Paris
✅ 950+ Reviews from happy tourists
✅ Behind-the-scenes access to restricted areas
7 Ghost Chilling Tours in Paris to Add to Your Itinerary
Time to leave the Eiffel Tower behind and take some time out to see the darker side of Paris. Take a night walking tour, reveal the secrets of the French Revolution, and hear the stories of the Louvre as you dive into the world of Paris Ghost Tours.
No. 1 – Père Lachaise Cemetery – the Most Haunted Paris Tour
If you want to see the most famous graveyard in Paris, and not miss any of the celebrity graves, then you need to book this Private Tour of Père Lachaise Cemetery.
⭐️ RATING: 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 Hours | ✅ Check Rates & Availability!
WHY YOU’LL WANT TO BOOK THIS TOUR
In case you didn’t know, Père Lachaise isn’t just any graveyard. Opened in 1804 and named after King Louis XIV’s adviser, Father François d’Aix de la Chaise, this place is pretty much a who’s who from back in the day.
Inside, you’ll find graves of big names like Edith Piaf, Oscar Wilde, Marcel Proust, Jim Morrison, and Frédéric Chopin.
But Père Lachaise isn’t just about graves. It’s filled with sculptures, and detailed tombstones and mausoleums, all set in a green space that feels more park than a cemetery.
Here’s a heads-up: it’s massive, and you will get lost without a map. If you’re after Oscar Wilde’s grave, head to Division 89, while Edith Piaf’s is a bit further in 97. And Jim Morrison? He’s in Division 6, and attracts more visitors than any other grave.
Oh, and a fun fact: as you walk around, you might spot some names you recognize from street signs in the city.
If you want to make the most of your visit and get the real story of the celebrities buried there, this is hands down the best tour to take.
WHAT OTHERS HAVE SAID
We had a wonderful tour with Alberto, who was very knowledgeable and engaging and spoke perfect English. He shared many stories of the cemetery, which we would never have been able to find out on our own.
PAUL (read more reviews)
No. 2 – Phantom of the Opera – a Paris Ghost Story
Bring the story of the Phantom of the Opera to life with this personalized private guided tour of Opera Garnier.
⭐️ RATING: 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 1 Hour 30 Minutes | ✅ Check Rates & Availability!
Craving a touch of drama and suspense? Then you’ve got to check out Opéra Garnier Tour and its famous tale of the Phantom of the Opera. This grand Opera House, also dubbed Palais Garnier, sits proudly in the 9th arrondissement.
Fun fact: it’s here because of a close call. Emperor Napoleon III and his wife were nearly killed at the old opera house. Though they dodged that bullet, eight of their crew weren’t so lucky. So, they thought, “Why not build a safer and fancier place?“
And what a place it is. We’re talking a jaw-dropping marble staircase, chandeliers that make you go “wow,” and a ceiling from Marc Chagall himself. It quickly became Paris’s top spot for the rich and fabulous to flaunt their cash while catching a show.
But what really put it on the map, was the whole Phantom of the Opera buzz. Big thanks to Gaston Leroux for spicing things up with his novel. And, of course, to the films and that smash-hit musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber.
Erik (aka The Phantom), is a musical genius with a disfigured face, lurking below in the opera’s creepy maze. He falls in love with Christine Daaé, a singer in the opera chorus. Their tangled tale has it all: awe-inspiring songs, heartbreaking mishaps, and a romance that was doomed from the start.
As part of the tour, you can visit the Phantom’s old haunts. Think dark, twisty corridors and secret spots. And you can’t miss the legendary Box No. 5, Erik’s personal no-go zone for shows.
For a slice of Phantom drama, I recommend booking the Private Guided Tour. Trust me, you’ll want to catch every juicy bit.
WHAT OTHERS HAVE SAID
We enjoyed our private tours with Nick so much. He was knowledgeable and friendly. He answered all my questions and customised the tours to my interests. Nick was a wonderful part of our vacation.
TRACY. (read more reviews)
No. 3 – The Catacombs – a Scary Thing To Do In Paris
If you want to discover the darker side of Paris and the underground tunnels running beneath the city, take the VIP Catacombs Tour with Restricted Access.
⭐️ RATING: 4.5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 Hours | ✅ Check Rates & Availability!
WHY YOU’LL WANT TO BOOK THIS TOUR
Ready for a deep dive (literally) into Paris’s underground? Check out the Paris Catacombs – a twisty maze below the streets with a backstory that kicks off in the late 1700s.
Here’s the scoop: Back in the day, Paris had a real mess on its hands. Cemeteries were bursting at the seams, and it wasn’t just creepy – it was a health nightmare.
So, the government thought, “Why not move the remains to the old limestone pits down below? Starting in 1786, they shifted a whopping load of bones underground, crafting what we now call the Paris Catacombs.
The vibe? Straight out of a horror flick. Dim lights, haunting echoes, and a stillness, that’s just kind of eerie.
You’ll find the entrance to the tunnels in the 14th arrondissement. Go down a spiralling staircase, and welcome to spooksville.
The main event is the ossuary. Imagine over six million bones stacked up like artwork – some even getting all artsy with skull sculptures and whatnot.
Though the catacombs run for around 200 miles under Paris, you’ll only get to see a small part of that.
Fun fact: during WWII, the French Resistance used these tunnels as hideouts.
WHAT OTHERS HAVE SAID
Georgia was the most amazing tour guide. It was definitely worth it to go places the regular walk-up patrons couldn’t explore.
james (read more reviews)
No. 4 – Dark Myths & Legends Walking Tour
Dive deep into the shadowy tales of Paris on the Dark Myths & Legends Walking Tour that peels back the layers of the city’s enigmatic history.
⭐️ RATING: 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 Hours 30 Minutes | ✅ Check Rates & Availability!
WHY YOU’LL WANT TO BOOK THIS TOUR
Wander through the city at night on the Dark Myths & Legends Walking Tour, exploring spots like Ile de la Cite and Ile Saint-Louis, while your local guide spills the beans on Paris’s murkier moments.
By nightfall, the romantic charm of Paris subtly shifts, revealing tales of restless spirits, long-held secrets, and ancient mysteries. The streets echo with stories of spectral appearances, such as the ghostly figures said to wander the winding lanes of Montmartre.
The historic Île de la Cité, where ancient tales of grim events come alive in the dead of night. And if you listen closely, you might hear the distant cries of Marie Antoinette from the Conciergerie, or perhaps the lingering lament of a broken-hearted lover by the Seine.
So, if you’re looking for more than just love stories in Paris, venture out after dark, and uncover the city’s spine-tingling past. It’s a journey of chills, thrills, and timeless tales that will linger long after the dawn breaks.
WHAT OTHERS HAVE SAID
Great guide, had lots of fun. Many interesting details that are hard to find anywhere else, and lots of fun local legends.
sofya (read more reviews)
No. 5 – Murder Mystery at the Louvre
Discover some of the gruesome stories and secrets behind the paintings on the Murder Mystery at the Musée du Louvre in Paris Tour.
⭐️ RATING: 4 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 Hours | ✅ Check Rates & Availability!
WHY YOU’LL WANT TO BOOK THIS TOUR
Ready for a spin on the classic Louvre tour? Murder Mystery at the Louvre takes you on a trip into the museum’s shadowy side. Trust me, this isn’t your average art museum stroll. We’re talking secrets, rituals, and tales so wild they might make you see those timeless masterpieces in a whole new light.
Take a stroll through the Louvre, once a fortress and a palace dripping with scandal (and the occasional murder), and let your guide take you on a whirlwind journey. From the ancient to the Renaissance, uncover the sometimes-spooky, often terrifying stories behind the art.
Ever looked at Mona Lisa and wondered why she’s smiling like that? Or felt a shiver down your spine staring at some of the museum’s more haunting pieces? There’s a tale for every expression frozen in time and every eerie sculpture.
With this tour, you’re not just part of any crowd. It’s a small group, capped at six, so it’s personal and immersive.
Plus, after your tour, you can stick around, ticket in hand, and discover more of the Louvre’s wonders at your own pace.
WHAT OTHERS HAVE SAID
Romane was outstanding! He took our interests and the Murder/Mystery of the Louvre and ran with it. We saw a diverse collection of art. This was our first visit into the Louvre and they entire family had a great time.
susan (read more reviews)
No. 6 – The Ghosts of the French Revolution
Stride down the very streets where history was made on the French Revolution and Concierge Tour, and let Paris tell you its tale.
⭐️ RATING: 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 Hours 30 Minutes | ✅ Check Rates & Availability!
WHY YOU’LL WANT TO BOOK THIS TOUR
Alright, history enthusiasts, get ready for a journey back in time that’s way cooler than any high school history class on the French Revolution and Conciergerie Tour.
Ever been fascinated by the stories of the French Revolution? Then step right up, this tour is tailor-made for you.
You’ll walk through the cobbled backstreets of the Marais district, listening to tales of political turmoil, passion, and the dramatic climax leading to the execution of poor Louis XVI.
But wait, there’s more. Remember Marie Antoinette. and her famous line, “Let them eat cake?” (though she never really said that). Well, you’ll actually go into her prison cell at the Conciergerie.
Now, you might think, “I’ve got my guidebook; I know this stuff.” But trust me, there’s nothing like hearing those juicy tidbits and lesser-known anecdotes in person. The ones you’d likely miss skimming those books.
You’ll visit the sleek Opera Bastille – the modern heart of Parisian ballet and opera, the iconic Le Marais, and the striking Hôtel de Ville. Oh, and don’t forget the Tour Saint-Jacques – a piece of Gothic architecture that’s the last testament to a church brought down during the revolution.
WHAT OTHERS HAVE SAID
After 25 years in the tourism industry, I can honestly say, it is not often you encounter such an exceptional guide as Adam. His thoughtful, well-researched and insightful tour of the French Revolution brought this period of history to life.
j.Bruce (read more reviews)
No. 7 – A Ghostly Walking Tour of Paris
Here’s your invite to an unforgettable journey as you discover the darker side of the City of Love on the Darkest Secrets of Paris Tour.
⭐️ RATING: 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 Hours | ✅ Check Rates & Availability!
WHY YOU’LL WANT TO BOOK THIS TOUR
Think you know Paris? Think again. Sure, Paris is all romantic sunsets and cute cafes during the day, but what about when the sun goes down?
Move over love stories; let’s dive deep into chilling tales and spine-tingling legends on the Darkest Secrets of Paris Tour.
Your guide, who knows the city’s darkest secrets, will be your beacon through the shadowy streets. As you walk, every corner will whisper tales of intrigue, and every stone will echo with history.
You’ll visit the haunting Ile de la Cité, hearing about poor Marie Antoinette’s imprisonment. Learn the chilling tale of secret societies and their fateful end at Pont-Neuf.
From the Latin Quarter’s twisting alleys to the iconic Pont-Neuf, you’ll see Paris in an entirely new light – or, should I say, shadow? By the end, you might just believe Paris is more the “City of Frights” than the “City of Lights.“
You’ll have stories that’ll be the hit of any dinner party. Paris by day is a dream, but Paris by night? An unforgettable mystery waiting to be discovered. Don’t miss out!
WHAT OTHERS HAVE SAID
Our tour guide Jade, did a great job, very entertaining. The tour gives a different perspective of Paris.
maxine (read more reviews)
FAQS: The Most Haunted Places in Paris
Is the Paris Catacombs tour worth it?
Yes, the Paris Catacombs are definitely worth it. If you love history, aren’t easily spooked and want to see something you won’t see anywhere else, it’s a great place to visit.
What time of day is best to go to the Paris Catacombs?
I recommend going to the Paris Catacombs as late as possible as it’s a tour that is more fun at night. The last entrance is at 7.30 pm, so don’t leave it any later than 7 pm to get there to make sure you can get in.
It’s also a great thing to do on Halloween if you’re in the city.
Can you tour Paris without a guide?
Yes, you can absolutely tour Paris without a guide. However, if you’re short on time or have specific things you want to see and do, a tour guide can make sure you don’t miss anything.
👻 TOP PICK – Most Haunted Ghost Tour in Paris Tour
The Pere Lachaise Cemetery Private Tour
- Discover the ghostly secrets behind the graves
- See celebrity graves most people miss
- Avoid missing anything with an English-speaking guide
Final thoughts on Ghost Tours in Paris, France
Paris – the city where love, art, and history converge. But as our journey has shown, there’s a darker side, one that brings history to life in the most spine-tingling of ways. Ghost tours in Paris provide a unique lens through which to view this iconic city, revealing chilling tales and eerie locations you won’t find in typical guidebooks.
It’s a reminder that every city has its shadows, and in those shadows, the past lingers, waiting to share its stories. And no more so than in Pere Lachaise cemetery.
As you sip your café au lait the morning after your ghostly adventure, you’ll see Paris in a new, slightly more mysterious light.
And isn’t that the beauty of travel? To constantly discover, to be surprised, and to embrace every facet of a destination, including the legends and traditions.
So, the next time you find yourself wandering the charming streets of Paris, don’t forget to spare a thought (and perhaps a nervous glance) for the tales and spirits that might be wandering with you.
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