sean.blunk Hey, there fellow travelers! Are you planning a trip to Paris soon? If so, you’re probably already aware of the importance of the Paris Metro system in getting around the city. But did you know that there are some tips and tricks to getting the most out of your Metro ticket? Paris was our first experience with a metro/subway system.
If this is your first time using the metro in Paris it can be overwhelming if you are not prepared, especially if you have no experience with the language. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. As someone who has spent a fair amount of time navigating the Paris Metro system, I’ve picked up a few things along the way. So, without further ado, here are my top tips and tricks for making the most of your Metro ticket:
Understanding the Ticket Types
- First things first, make sure you know what type of ticket you need. It’s not rocket science, but it’s easy to get confused when you’re standing in front of a ticket machine and all you can think about is how badly you need a croissant.
- My advice? Stick with the basic ticket or the “carnet” of 10 tickets. The other options are for fancy people who have their lives together, and let’s be real, that’s not most of us.
- When you buy tickets in bundles/bulk it’s important to know what ticket you’ve used & when. The metro will require an “out” ticket.
Navigating the Metro System
- The Paris Metro map can be overwhelming, especially when you’re already jet-lagged and don’t speak a word of French. Take a deep breath and remember that it’s just a colorful spaghetti noodle.
- The Metro has 14 different lines that are all color coded.
- The Paris Metro does run a similar method to the London Tube, north to south & east to west. But unlike London, Paris does not have any lines that complete a loop around the inner city. So chances are you will have to change trains at least once.
- Pro tip: If you’re not sure which direction to go, follow the crowd. They probably know where they’re going, or at least they’ll make you feel better about your lack of direction.
- The metro does have direct lines from both airports located in Paris, Oryl & Charles de Gaulle so this could be very convenient for your travels.
Maximizing Your Time and Money
- Don’t waste your precious vacation time standing in line for a Metro ticket. You can buy them at most newsstands, grocery stores, and even some bakeries. Imagine, buying a croissant and a Metro ticket at the same time. Mind-blowing.
- If you want to avoid crowds, try taking the Metro during off-peak hours. Yes, that means waking up before noon. Sorry, I don’t make the rules.
Other Helpful Tips
- Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded Metro stations. Pickpockets are sneaky little devils, but they can’t outsmart you if you’re wearing a fanny pack like it’s 1993. My husband had an experience with a pickpocketer coming out of a station once. It was a huge blessing that I was a little paranoid at the time (you know first international trip) that I had his wallet/passport in my purse! So stay vigilant!!
- If you’re traveling with a lot of luggage or a stroller, be prepared for some awkward moments. You’ll probably have to carry your bags up and down stairs, and you might get stuck in a turnstile. Just embrace the chaos and know that you’ll have a great story to tell when you get home. This is not like the London Tube, escalators are not always available at each station.
Metro Activities
Now that we have a better understanding of how to navigate the Paris Metro, let’s talk about some ideal locations you can check out using the system!
Major Attractions:
- Line 6:
- Eiffel Tower – on stop Bir-Hakeim. This stop is a couple of blocks from the tower on the south side of the river so your walk will bring you up through Champ de Mars which is a beautiful greenway on the south side of the tower.
- Arc de Triomphe – on stop Kleber. The Arc is in the middle of a GIANT roundabout so there is no metro station that stops right in the middle. But there are pedestrian tunnels that can take you to the Arc without having to figure out how to cross traffic!
- Line 4:
- Notre Dame – this beautiful cathedral is on an island within the Seine river. We were fortunate enough to see the cathedral before the fire in 2019. They have made a lot of headway on the restoration, so don’t mark this off your list. It is still very beautiful and grand! Absolutely a must!
- BUT one of the most iconic metro stops is the St. Michel Notre-Dame – this is off line 4 as well, but will give you a better experience as you walk up to the famous cathedral! If you don’t mind some extra steps I would definitely recommend this line!
- Notre Dame – this beautiful cathedral is on an island within the Seine river. We were fortunate enough to see the cathedral before the fire in 2019. They have made a lot of headway on the restoration, so don’t mark this off your list. It is still very beautiful and grand! Absolutely a must!
- Line 7:
- The Louvre – This museum is iconic and massive! But here is a tip to avoid the crowds. When traveling the metro you are looking for the end destination Palais Royal Musee de Louvre. This station will take you to the underground entrance to the Louvre and you can beat the crowds.
Attractions Off The Beaten Path
- Line 1:
- Hotel de Ville – This beautifully situated building houses Paris’ city hall. The work that is completed in the building is of no significance to the average tourist, it is definitely a must-see especially at Christmas when the grounds house a Christmas market & ice rink.
- Bastille – In the center of the square, the famous “Génie de la Liberté” (Spirit of Freedom) stands which commemorates the revolution of 1830, but is well known for the 1789 revolution. At the time the square occupied Bastille Prison which was a huge power symbol.
- Line C:
- Chateau Versaille – this is one of the most historical sites in France. With over 1900 thousand acres, this palace, garden, and museum used to be the seat of power within France. Marie Antoinette ring a bell? Between the Hall of Mirrors and the fountains, you really can’t go wrong with spending half a day here!
Well, there you have it, folks. My best tips, tricks, & stops for making the most of your Metro ticket in Paris. Remember, it’s just a subway system, not the Hunger Games. With a little bit of preparation and a lot of croissants, you’ll be just fine.
Bon voyage!
If you are looking for other content on France please check out this post: Paris At Christmas!
