How to Use the Paris Metro: The Ultimate Guide
Paris is one of the most walkable cities in the world, but when your feet start protesting after hours of strolling through charming streets, you’ll likely start wondering how to use the Paris Metro. Luckily, it’s efficient, affordable, and faster than any taxi or Uber stuck in traffic, making the Paris Metro the best way to get around. If you’re a first-time visitor wondering whether navigating the metro is a headache, the good news is: it’s easier than you think!
This guide will cover everything you need to know — from ticket types to safety tips — so you can ride the Paris Metro like a seasoned local.
Should Tourists Use the Paris Metro?
Short answer: Absolutely!
If there’s one regret I have about my first trip to Paris, it’s not researching how to use the Metro and instead taking Ubers the entire time, which really started to add up on a two-week trip. On the other hand, the Paris Metro is hands down the most cost-effective and practical way to get around the city. While taxis and Ubers are convenient if you prefer “door-to-door service”, traffic can be brutal — especially near major landmarks like the Champs-Élysées or around rush hour. Plus, with a single metro ticket costing a fraction of what you’d pay for a short rideshare trip, you’re saving both time and money.
For tourists, the metro is surprisingly easy to use. The signs are clear, Google Maps will tell you exactly which lines to take, and once you get the hang of the system, you’ll be zipping around the City of Light like a pro.
The only exception? If you have heavy luggage or mobility concerns (more on that later), the Paris Metro may not be your best option. Additionally, Paris is known for its frequent transportation strikes (grèves), which can cause delays, reduced service, or even complete Metro line shutdowns at times. While these strikes are often announced in advance (the French have mastered the art of the grève), they can still throw a wrench into your travel plans. It’s always a good idea to check the Bonjour RATP website, app, or the local news before heading out, just in case you need to adjust your route.
Otherwise, embrace the Metro — it’s a quintessential part of the Paris experience!
Paris Metro Ticket Types & How to Purchase
The Paris Metro is one of the most budget-friendly ways to explore the city, but choosing the right ticket or pass can feel overwhelming. Here’s a breakdown of what’s available and which option might be best for your trip.
Single Tickets
Ticket Métro-Train (€2.50) – Valid for a single, one-way journey within the Metro and RER network in central Paris (Zone 1). It allows transfers within two hours, but cannot be used for separate trips.
Ticket Bus-Tram (€2.00) – Works for buses and trams, allowing unlimited transfers within 90 minutes from the first validation. Unlike the Métro-Train ticket, it is not valid for metro or RER journeys.
Multi-Trip & Day Passes
Navigo Jour (1-Day Pass) (€12.00) – Unlimited travel across the Metro, RER (Zone 1), buses, and trams for one day (excluding certain tourist buses and direct airport lines).
Navigo Weekly (€31.60) – Unlimited use of the Metro, RER, buses, and trams for a calendar week (Monday 12:00 AM to Sunday 11:59 PM). Ideal for longer stays, but not valid for airport transfers.
Tourist & Airport Passes
Paris Visite Pass (1, 2, 3, or 5 consecutive days) – Unlimited rides on all Parisian transport (Metro, RER, buses, trams) plus airport transfers. It’s more expensive but useful for travelers planning multiple rides per day, especially those needing airport transfers.
1 day – €29.90
2 days – €44.45
3 days – €62.30
5 days – €76.25
Child rates (ages 4-9) available at half price.
One-Way Airport Ticket (€13.00) – Covers a single journey to/from Charles de Gaulle (CDG) or Orly Airport, using the Metro, RER, or bus network (except RoissyBus). Valid for two hours from activation.
How to Buy & Use Metro Tickets
Paris offers multiple ways to buy and store Metro tickets:
Mobile Ticketing (recommended!) – If you have an iPhone or an Android phone, you can use the Bonjour RATP app to buy and store Metro tickets digitally. This allows you to tap your phone at the turnstile instead of using a paper ticket or Navigo card. Keep in mind that, unlike some other major cities whose public transportation turnstiles are equipped with Apple Pay, you will need to actually download the app and pre-purchase a ticket before tapping your phone to enter.
Navigo Easy Card (€2, reloadable) – A convenient, reusable card that can be loaded with single tickets or multi-trip bundles at ticket machines or RATP service booths. This is recommended for visitors who plan to take multiple trips but don’t need a multi-day pass.
Paper Tickets – Still available in single fares, but being phased out. You can buy them at ticket machines or counters in Metro stations where they’re still available, but keep in mind that not all turnstiles still accept paper tickets. Hold onto your ticket until you completely exit the Metro — ticket inspectors do random checks, and losing it could mean a hefty fine.
How to Use the Paris Metro Like a Pro: Navigating Routes & Signs
Now that you’ve got your ticket sorted, let’s talk about how to actually get from Point A to Point B without looking like a lost tourist (even if you are one—no shame).
Finding Your Route
The easiest way to figure out which Metro line to take is Google Maps. Just type in your destination, and it will tell you which Metro line(s) to take, where to transfer, and even what exit to use when you arrive. You can also use the Bonjour RATP app, which provides real-time Metro updates in both French & English, but Google Maps is usually just as effective, if not more.
If you prefer the old-school method, Metro stations have large maps posted near the entrances and on platforms. You can also grab a pocket Metro map from any ticket booth.
Understanding Metro Lines
The Paris Metro has 16 numbered lines (1-14, plus two bis lines: 3bis and 7bis), each color-coded for easy navigation. The lines run in two directions, labeled by their final stop. When checking signs in the station, look for the end destination of the line to make sure you’re heading the right way.
Example: If you’re taking Line 1 from Louvre-Rivoli to Bastille, check the signs for Line 1 – Direction Château de Vincennes (the final stop at that end of Line 1). If you’re going the other way, follow signs for Line 1 – Direction La Défense (the final stop at the opposite end of Line 1).
Inside the Metro Station
Here are a few tips for finding your way around once you’ve entered the station:
Follow the signs – The Metro stations have clear signage, usually in both French & English, directing you to platforms, transfers, and exits.
Look for “Sortie” (Exit) – Paris stations often have multiple exits, some of which can save you a long walk. Google Maps will usually specify which exit to take to get closest to your destination.
Metro frequency – Trains run every 2–5 minutes during peak hours and every 5–10 minutes in the evenings. Some lines (like 13) are notorious for being much more crowded during weekday rush hours than others.
Paris Metro Hours & Last Train Times
The Metro runs from about 5:30 AM to around 12:30 AM on weekdays and until about 1:30 AM on weekends. If you’re planning a late night out, keep these in mind:
The last train usually departs the starting station at 12:30 AM (weeknights) or 1:30 AM (Fridays and Saturdays). This means the last train at your station could be a little later, depending on where you are in the network.
If you miss the last Metro, your options are night buses (Noctilien), taxis, or Uber — but keep in mind that prices surge late at night, especially on weekends.
RER trains (which connect Paris to the suburbs) generally stop running earlier than the Metro, so double-check if you’re staying outside the city center.
Accessibility & Stairs in the Paris Metro
If you have mobility concerns, be prepared — the Paris Metro is unfortunately not a very accessible public transportation system. Many stations have only stairs, with limited elevators and escalators. The RER system (which connects to the Metro) has more accessibility features, but even then, not all stations are equipped.
If luggage, strollers, or mobility concerns are an issue, consider:
Checking for RER stations instead of Metro stops (RER has more elevators).
Using buses, which are far more accessible than the Metro and have wheelchair ramps.
Opting for taxis or Uber if Metro accessibility is a challenge.
Staying Safe on the Paris Metro
The Paris Metro is generally safe, but like any big city transit system, it has its share of pickpockets and tourist scams, so it’s crucial to be aware of your surroundings.
Pickpocketing & Scams
Pickpockets target crowded Metro lines, especially near tourist spots like the Eiffel Tower (Line 6), Louvre (Line 1), and Montmartre (Line 12).
Keep your bag in front of you and zipped at all times. DO NOT keep valuables in your pockets, especially back pockets!
Watch out for distraction scams – Someone might “accidentally” spill something on you, ask for directions, or try to get your attention while an accomplice swipes your belongings.
Ignore street vendors inside the Metro – If someone is aggressively trying to sell you something on a train or platform, just say “Non, merci” and move on.
Late-Night Metro Tips
The Metro is safe at night, but certain lines (like 13) can feel sketchier due to crowds and occasional loitering.
If you’re traveling alone late at night, sit near other passengers and avoid nearly empty train cars.
Trust your gut — if a train car feels off, switch to another one.
Additional Tips for Navigating the Paris Metro Like a Local
Riding the Paris Metro is pretty straightforward, but there are a few unspoken rules that will make your journey (and everyone else’s) much smoother. Here’s how to avoid making le faux pas and keep things moving like a true Parisian:
Let people off before you get on – This one should be common sense, but you’d be surprised how often people plant themselves directly in front of the doors like they’re guarding a castle gate. Step to the side, let passengers exit, then board. Otherwise, prepare for some dramatic sighs and well-placed shoves from seasoned commuters.
Keep it moving – When you step off the train, resist the urge to stop dead in your tracks to check Google Maps or debate with your travel buddy about which way to go. People behind you are trying to exit, too. Same goes for walking through the station — if you’re distracted by your phone or staring off in the opposite direction of where you’re walking toward, expect to get bumped.
Mind your luggage – If you’re hauling suitcases, be mindful of the people around you. Dragging a rolling suitcase through a packed Metro station during rush hour is already a bold move — just make sure it’s not tripping people up or blocking the escalator.
Eating is technically allowed, but… – While it’s not illegal to eat on the Metro, it’s definitely not the norm. Discreetly sipping a coffee? Acceptable, but uncommon. Unwrapping a full-on burger and fries? You’ll earn yourself some serious Parisian side-eye.
Escalator etiquette is a thing – Stand on the right if you’re just chilling, walk on the left if you’re in a hurry. If you forget this rule and block the left side, expect someone to let out an impatient pardon behind you.
Follow these tips, and you’ll blend in (or at least avoid annoying the locals) while navigating the Paris Metro like a pro.
Scan Your Ticket and Hop on the Paris Metro
The Paris Metro is one of the easiest and most efficient ways to get around the city, and after a couple of rides, you’ll feel like a pro. As long as you keep an eye on your belongings, plan ahead for late-night travel, and embrace the occasional quirk of the system, you’ll navigate Paris like a seasoned traveler.
So grab your Navigo card, check your route, and dive into the Metro experience — because Paris is best explored one Metro ride at a time.
