The Ultimate Guide to Getting Around Paris | Paris Public Transport, Travel Apps, Tips & More

Paris is well-connected through its public transport system which is safe, affordable, and reliable. It consists of the Métro (underground), Tram, RER suburban express train (which interconnects with the Métro inside Paris), bus, and Noctilien (night bus) - which are all operated by RATP (Régie Autonome des Transports Parisiens). The RER lines that go through Paris connect it to other cities, and the Transilien (suburban train) lines are run by the state-owned rail company SNCF (Société Nationale des Chemins de Fer Français). E-scooters and e-bike rentals are quite popular in Paris amongst locals and tourists alike. Taxis are also available in Paris for your convenience.

Getting Around Paris

Paris Public Transport - Metro
Paris Public Transport - RER
Paris Public Transport - Transilien
Paris Public Transport - Tram
Paris Public Transport - Bus
Paris Public Transport - Night Bus
Paris Public Transport - Rented Bikes
Paris Public Transport - Taxi Cabs

Taxi Cabs

From:  € 7.10


Good For: Convenient commute, round the clock
Timings: 24 x 7

Paris has over 20,000 licensed taxi cabs on its streets 24 x 7. You can find them in various colors with the ‘Taxi Parisiens’ signage on top of the car. You may hire a taxi at one of the 500 official cab stands in the city, or wave one down on the road. You can alternatively get a cab by calling 0145303030.

  • Make sure the taxi you get into has a meter in place.
  • The base taxi fare is € 2.60, with a minimum service fee of € 7.10.
  • From Monday to Saturday, the charge per kilometer is € 0.96 between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. and € 1.17 after that. On Sundays between 7 a.m. and 12 a.m., the rate is € 1.21.
  • On Sunday nights and public holidays, the rate per kilometer is € 1.47.
  • Taxi drivers prefer getting paid in cash for short-distance trips and accept cards only for long distances.

Paris Transportation Zones

Paris Public Transport - Paris Transportation Zones

The city of Paris and its surrounding suburbs are divided into 5 zones, to measure the distance and pricing of public transport in Paris. These zones are marked on the map as circular rings starting with the city center and radially moving out towards the suburbs.

It is important to know which zones you would be crossing to reach your destination, in order to take the right ticket. All modes of public transport in Paris except the metro and taxis follow the zonal map. It is therefore advised to keep a transportation map handy while planning your itinerary and also buying your tickets.

Most of the tourist destinations and highlights in Paris like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, Arc de Triomphe, Paris Opera House, etc. are within zone 1 which is accessible by the same ticket or pass. The most visited places outside this zone include The Château of Versailles and Orly airport in zone 4, and the Charles de Gaulle Airport, Fontainebleau Palace, and Disneyland in zone 5.

Airport Connectivity in Paris

Paris Public Transport - Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)

Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)

RER Train: The fastest and cheapest way to get to the city from Charles de Gaulle Airport, and vice-versa, is by taking the RER train. The RER - B line connects two different terminals of the airport to the city. The trains to Paris usually leave from platforms 11 & 12 at the airport. The ticket costs about € 7 for children aged 4 - 9 and € 10 for an adult and others.

Bus: The Roissybus Service by RATP is the cheapest airport bus transfer option available between Charles de Gaulle Airport and Paris city center. The bus ticket prices at about € 11. Lines 350 and 351 of the public bus network also connect various parts of the city to Charles de Gaulle Airport, which is in zone 5.

Taxi Cab: Taxis are readily available to and from Charles de Gaulle Airport at all times, on all days. It is the most convenient mode of transport if you are traveling with a lot of luggage. They charge a flat fare of € 50 to places towards the right bank (north of the Seine) and € 55 towards the left bank (south of the Seine) from the airport.

Paris Public Transport - Orly Airport (ORY)

Orly Airport (ORY)

RER Train: The RER train is connected to Orly airport at Antony station along the RER - B line. You can take the Orlyval shuttle train from the airport to get to the station. These trains are available every 4 - 7 minutes and take about 25 - 35 minutes to reach the city. The journey costs € 13.25, including the shuttle ticket.

Bus: Taking the bus is the cheapest way to get to the city from Orly Airport. Buses numbered 183 and 285 of the public bus network connect the airport in zone 4 to the city. You can board the bus from in front of Terminal Sud and head towards Porte de Choisy station in Zone 1, which is quite central. The commute costs € 2 and takes about 50 minutes to complete.

Taxi Cab: You can commute between Orly Airport and any part of Paris in a taxi, around the clock. Taxis charge a fixed rate of € 35 to places towards the right bank (north of the Seine) and € 30 towards the left bank (south of the Seine) from the airport.

Driving in Paris

Paris Public Transport - Know Before Driving in Paris

Know Before Driving in Paris

Non-residents and tourists are allowed to drive in Paris as long as they possess an international driving license. It is important to carry the license along at all times to avoid fines if asked.

International drivers above the age of 18 are also allowed to hire cars in Paris. Although, while hiring a car, make sure the rental company provides you with a warning triangle and reflective vest, which are mandatory in France.

If you choose to drive your own car in Paris, it is important to obtain a ‘Crit'Air’ badge that shows that your car adheres to anti-pollution standards enforced in certain zones of the city.

  • Road Rules: When in Paris, you must drive on the right-hand side of the road, and always give way to vehicles approaching from the right. 
  • Speed Limit: The speed limit on interior roads within the city is 50 km/hr. On highways and freeways in and around Paris, the minimum speed on the fast lane is 80 km/hr, which is reduced to 50 km/hr in case of poor road visibility or weather conditions.
  • Legal Driving age: You must be at least 18 years old to drive or rent a car in Paris.

Travel Passes in Paris

Paris Public Transport - T+ Ticket

T+ Ticket

Cost: € 1.90

Valid For: 2 hours on the metro and RER | 90 minutes on bus and tram

T+ ticket is a single-journey ticket issued for all modes of public transport operated by RATP in Paris. These tickets can be purchased through vending machines at stations or on board a bus or tram (for an extra € 0.20). A single T+ ticket costs € 1.90, while a carnet of 10 tickets comes at a discounted price of € 14.90 (€ 7.45 for children under 10 years).

Paris Public Transport - Carte Mobilis

Carte Mobilis

Cost: Check Here >

Valid For: 1 day

Carte Mobilis is a one-day travel pass that lets you make unlimited trips on any public transport vehicle, within your selected zones in Paris. The card is valid from midnight to midnight irrespective of when it is purchased or first used. You can buy the card at any RER or metro stations, some bus stations, or registered RATP ticket retailers.

Paris Public Transport - Paris Visite Travel Card

Paris Visite Travel Card

Cost: Check Here >

Valid For: 1, 2, 3, or 5 days

The Paris Visite travel card grants you unlimited use of the public transport system in Paris, for a valid period. The validity is calculated from midnight on day 1 to midnight on the last day. The travel pass can be purchased for two different zones: 1-3 (for commuting within the city center) and 1-5 (required to travel to the airports or Disneyland).

Paris Public Transport - Navigo Découverte Travel Card

Navigo Découverte Travel Card

Cost: Check Here >

Valid For: 1 day, week, or month

The Navigo Découverte travel card offers the cardholder unlimited travel using public transport, across all zones of Paris, for a day, a whole week, or a month, as subscribed. You can purchase the plastic or electronic card and top it up with a daily, weekly, or monthly pass. Do keep in mind that a weekly pass is valid from Monday to the Sunday of the week, irrespective of when it is bought.

Must-Have Paris Travel Apps

Paris Public Transport - CityMaps2Go (Ulmon)

CityMaps2Go (Ulmon)

Good For: Offline Maps

This app by Ulmon gives you access to detailed city maps even when offline. It also shows you hotels, restaurants, landmarks, and other attractions based on your personal interests, along with their reviews from locals and other travelers. Moreover, the app comes with articles, blogs, and travel tips to help you make the best out of your trip.

Paris Public Transport - Citymapper

Citymapper

Good For: Finding Best Routes and Public Transport Costs

Citymapper is an app that helps you best navigate a new city. Just type in your destination, and the app will list out the various ways you can get there. It shows you the routes to take, the costs, and the time required to reach your destination by walking, cycling, using various modes of public transport, and taking a cab.

Do’s & Don’ts While Getting around Paris

If you are an avid traveler and have traveled extensively, you might be used to the fact that every country has its own rules and regulations that must be complied with. As a tourist, it becomes your duty to respect the culture, laws, and rules of the country you are in.

Paris Public Transport - Do's

Do's

  • Do get a carnet of 10 single-ride tickets instead of buying individual tickets for each ride, if you know you will be spending a few days in Paris and would be taking a few rides within the city. You will save some money this way.
  • Do have a look at the public transport maps and get an idea of the various zones in Paris before buying your ticket or pass.
  • Do ask at a ticketing counter for a map of the Paris public transportation system. They may not be freely displayed, but come in very handy while commuting, especially if you do not have one saved on your phone.
  • Do look for free wifi spots while at the metro stations, train stations, and bus terminals.
  • Do take care of your belongings while traveling using public transport in Paris as pickpocketing is very common.
Paris Public Transport - Don'ts

Don'ts

  • Do not use public transport in Paris without a valid ticket. The fines are very high if you are caught traveling without a ticket.
  • Do not throw away your ticket until you leave the station as you may require to show it to exit the station.
  • Do not stand on the left-hand side of the escalator, as this side is used by commuters who are in a hurry, to run their way up or down.
  • Do not forget to lock the bicycle correctly and swipe out of the system when returning rented Vélib' bikes.
  • Do not buy the Navigo Découverte monthly travel card if visiting Paris after the second week of a month. It is better to get the weekly pass instead.

Hacks & Tips to Get Around Paris

  • While planning your itinerary using public transportation, keep a margin of 15-30 minutes as it may be a little confusing for first-timers to figure out the stations and trains.
  • Most modes of public transport in Paris offer airport transfers at a fixed fare, generally higher than the usual ticket prices.
  • Please note that some drivers may refuse to give you a ride if you are carrying a lot of luggage or if they find the destination to be very far.
  • Beware of Taxi scams. Make sure the cab you get into has a ‘Taxi Parisiens’ board on top and a working meter inside. It is also advised to track your journey on Google Maps to be sure your driver is not taking you around in circles.
  • Beware of pickpockets in crowded buses, trains, and streets. Make sure you always keep your bags with you and store your valuables in a safe place.
  • Most local taxi drivers may not speak or understand English. It is best advised you carry a piece of paper with the address written on it, or show the driver your destination on Google Maps.
  • If you have alternate itineraries to reach your destination, try to choose the one with fewer transfers.
  • Note that 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. is the rush hour in Paris. Buses and trains are expected to be fully packed during this time.
  • Wear a pair of comfortable walking shoes as a lot of Paris is best seen on foot and also you may have to walk your way to the nearest station.
  • Carry a refillable bottle with you as the tap water in Paris is safe to drink and you will find a lot of drinking fountains across the city.

Frequently Asked Questions About Getting Around Paris

What is the best way to get around Paris?

The best way to get around Paris is by using its well-connected network of public transport. The city offers many different options such as the metro, RER trains, Transilien trains, trams, buses, and taxis to get around the city. E-scooters and e-bikes are widely available for rent, to ride around Paris. You can also hire a car if you are older than 18 years and have a valid international driver's license.

What are the various public modes of transport available for getting around in Paris?

The various modes of public transport available in Paris include the underground metro, RER suburban express trains, Transilien regional trains, trams, buses, and Noctilien or night buses - which are all operated by RATP (Régie Autonome des Transports Parisiens). There are also taxis, bicycles, e-scooters, and e-bikes available for hire.

What is the safest mode of transportation in Paris?

Locals and tourists alike agree that the Paris metro is the safest mode of transportation in the city.

Is public transport in Paris affordable?

All modes of public transport run by RATP have an affordable standard rate of € 1.90 per journey. You can also buy a carnet of 10 tickets with a discount of 25% for € 14.90.

Is public transport in Paris safe?

Public transport in Paris is generally safe, although one must be aware of pickpockets in crowded buses and trains. Make sure you always keep your bags with you and store your valuables in a safe place.

Is public transport in Paris safe for women and children?

Most of the public transport in Paris like the metro, RER trains, Transilien trains, trams, and buses are safe for women and children. However, taxi cabs, especially at night, may not always be safe for women. You can download and use Heetch, a taxi booking app that operates from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m., aimed at helping people commute safely at night.

Are taxis affordable in Paris?

Taxis in Paris run with a meter that starts with a base fare of € 2.60 and a minimum service fee of € 7.10. From Monday to Saturday, the charge per kilometer is € 0.96 between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. and € 1.17 after that. On Sundays between 7 a.m. and 12 a.m., the rate is € 1.21. On Sunday nights and public holidays, the rate per kilometer is € 1.47.

Is traveling by metro cheap in Paris?

The Paris Metro is one of the fastest, cheapest, and most convenient modes of travel in the city. The tickets are affordably priced at € 1.90 per trip or € 14.90 for ten trips. There are also daily, monthly, and weekly travel passes that offer metro rides at discounted rates.

What are the different types of tickets used for public transport in Paris?

There are four different types of tickets or passes used by tourists for public transport in Paris. The T+ Ticket is a single-journey ticket with a validity of 90 minutes. The Paris Visite travel card is valid across three or five zones, for 1, 2, 3, or 5 days. Carte Mobilis is a one-day travel pass while daily, weekly and monthly travel passes are available with the Navigo Découverte travel card. All of these tickets are acceptable for all modes of public transport operated by RATP.

Where can I get tickets for public transport in Paris from?

All types of tickets for public transport in Paris are available through vending machines and ticket counters at all metro stations, RER train stations, and airports. They can also be bought on board the vehicle at a slightly higher price. Some bus terminals, tourist information desks, and authorized retailers also sell public transport tickets and pass.

Do cab drivers in Paris speak English?

Most taxi drivers in Paris may not speak or understand English. You are therefore advised to carry a piece of paper with the address written on it or show the driver your destination on Google Maps.

Is there connectivity to the airport by Paris public transport?

Both Charles de Gaulle Airport and Orly Airport are connected to the city through public transport lines. You can choose to travel to and from these airports either by RER trains or buses. Taxis are also available at fixed rates for airport transfers.

Is public transport in Paris accessible by people in wheelchairs?

All modes of public transport in Paris are accessible by people in wheelchairs. The metro line M14, 90% of the RER trains, and all of the public buses in Paris are made wheelchair friendly with automatic ramps, lifts, broad doors, and other facilities. You can find the map of all wheelchair-accessible lines of public transport in Paris here.

Is there any dress code for getting around in Paris?

Although France is a free country without any restrictions on clothing, try to avoid wearing tight-fitting clothes and really short dresses, as Parisians tend to look down upon the showing of too much skin. Wearing casuals, smart casuals, and business attire will make you look less touristy and more local.

What are a few must-have travel apps in Paris?

Some of the must-have travel apps in Paris are Paris Metro Map and Routes and Next Stop Paris – RATP for public transport convenience, Uber, Allocab, and Heetch for hiring a cab, Bird, Lime, and FREE NOW (Kapten) for renting e-scooters and e-bikes, CityMaps2Go for offline city maps, and Citymapper for finding the best routes and the most affordable means of public transport in Paris.