Confused about using the Metro in Paris? The Metro is the cheapest and easiest way to get around Paris, there are 16 lines and over 300 metro stations so you can get to all corners of the city. Metro stations are obvious thanks to the large ‘M’ signs outside the front of the station entrances.

The Cost

Single metro tickets cost €1.80 and can be bought at ticket machines inside the stations. Ticket machines accept cash or card payments and can be changed from French into English, Spanish, Italian etc.

Need to know

Trains run from around 6am until around 1am from Monday to Thursday and on Sunday, it runs until around 2am on Friday and Saturday.

You don’t need your ticket at the exit barriers, but inspectors can ask to see it it at any time, if you can’t show it, you risk a heavy fine.

Each line has a colour and number, with the final stop indicating the direction of travel.

Line 6 offers incredible views, especially when travelling over the River seine, overlooking the Eiffel Tower.

Double check your train is heading in the correct direction because once you take the metro in one direction, it’s impossible to change directions without exiting the turnstile and going through again, thus having to pay for another ticket.

Using the metro is pretty safe but you must be aware that pickpockets do operate underground so always use bags that can zip fully closed and keep your wits about it.

You can find an interactive metro map here.

Accessibility

Not all stations offer wheelchair access so please check before you travel. Each year the government are upgrading stations to make them wheelchair friendly but there is still a fair way to go.

Paris Visite Pass

The Paris Visite Pass is valid for either 1, 2, 3 or 5 days for unlimited use on all RATP services (métro, suburban trains, trams, buses etc). Fares vary according to number of days and travel zones selected; children 4 to 11 years old are half-price. You can buy a Pass that covers either Zone 1 to Zone 3 or Zone 1 to Zone 6. The latter will allow you to go all the way to Disneyland, Château de Versailles and both Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports.

Useful links

Train bookings in Europe: Trainline

Car hire: RentalCars

Hotel bookings: Booking.com

Airport transfers: Kiwi taxis

Book trips and attractions: Getyourguide

Holiday home rentals: Vrbo