Paris has an extensive public transport network (Métro, RER trains, buses, trams) managed by RATP and SNCF. The Navigo system is the key to public transport in Paris — a reusable card you can top up with tickets or passes. Note: Paris works differently than London — no automatic capping!
iOS: Bonjour RATP | Android: Bonjour RATP
1. NO automatic daily cap! Unlike London, in Paris you must manually load a day pass (Navigo Jour €12,30) onto your card. The system does NOT automatically calculate the best price. Plan ahead!
2. Ticket t+ does NOT work for Metro → Bus transfer! A Ticket t+ (single ticket) is valid for Metro-Metro transfers within 2 hours, but NOT for transfers from Metro to Bus. For bus transfers you need a separate ticket or a day pass.
3. Old metros: pull handle up! On older metros you have to pull the lever up to open the door. Not all doors open automatically.
4. Airports are in Zone 4/5! CDG and Orly are outside Zone 1. Regular metro tickets are NOT valid there. You need a special "Paris Région–Aéroports" ticket (€14,00 for both CDG and Orly).
Paris has fully stopped using paper tickets (discontinued November 2025). You need a Navigo Easy card (€2 purchase) or use the app.
| Option | Time | Price | Best for... |
|---|---|---|---|
| RER B | 35-50 min | €14,00 | Fastest connection to Gare du Nord/Châtelet |
| RoissyBus | 60 min | €16,60 | Direct to Opéra |
| Taxi (Fixed Fare) | 45-60 min | €56-65 | Door-to-door convenience |
| Option | Time | Price | Best for... |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro Line 14 | 25 min | €14,00 | Fastest option |
| OrlyBus | 30 min | €11,50 | To Denfert-Rochereau |
| Taxi (Fixed Fare) | 30 min | €36-44 | Groups/Luggage |
Why 2/5? The Paris metro is old and only 9% of stations are accessible (3% if you don't count Line 14). BUT: the bus network is 100% accessible and Metro Line 14 (including Orly Airport connection) is excellent. If you embrace the bus, Paris is doable.
When the metro stops, the Noctilien night buses take over. They depart in large numbers from hubs like Châtelet and Gare de Lyon.
On weekends, the metro runs an hour later (until ~01:30 or 02:00).
In Paris you can use the app umob. With this you can easily book and pay for all shared transport (bikes, scooters, cars) from different providers in one handy app. Convenient, because you no longer need separate accounts.
Paris has an excellent 5G network, but free WiFi in the metro is often unreliable. An eSIM is essential for live navigation in the complex metro network.
Recommended for most travelers. Quick activation and reliable coverage across Paris.
The perfect safety net. Get free basic data for essential apps like WhatsApp or Maps.
Best for power users. Never worry about data limits while navigating or streaming.
Don't drag your suitcases! In Paris there are 3 reliable options to store your luggage safely.
The lockers at major Paris stations (Gare du Nord, Gare de l'Est, Gare de Lyon) are often FULL or CLOSED due to security measures. Do NOT count on them being available. Commercial luggage storage services are more reliable.
Safe luggage storage in local shops and hotels. Best choice for flexibility and coverage.
The 'Airbnb for luggage', working with reputable hotel chains and shops across the city.