Using the Metro in Paris
We have some tips to help you make the most of your trip to Paris. It is a smart idea to learn how the metro (subway) works when you visit Paris. Paris has 301 metro stations and is the largest underground transportation system in the world. Keep reading our article to be a confident and metro-savvy traveler during your stay in Paris
Metro in Paris 101
The metro in Paris starts running at 5:30 a.m. and stops running at 1:15 a.m. (or around 2:00 a.m. on Friday/Saturday). You won't have to wait longer than five minutes for your next train as trains arrive every few minutes. The metro in Paris has 6.75 million passengers every day, but it is often crowded during rush hour. Avoid Metro lines 1 and 4 during rush hour if you can. There is also the RER which is like the Metro but is a different train service that serves mainly the suburbs. When you travel around the city, make sure to use the Metro and not RER. Metro stations will have a large "M" on their signs. Every Metro line is identified by a number. The direction of each line corresponds with its terminal station. You don't have to worry if you accidentally board a train that is going in the wrong direction. You can always get off at the next station and take the correct train, without purchasing another ticket.

Metro in Paris tickets
To ride the metro in Paris, you will need a ticket. Most people buy tickets at the stations. You'll find ticket windows at most stations. Sometimes there can be long lines at busy stations. Each station will have a ticket machine to save time. Automated machines can take cash, coins and credit cards. However, you will need a chip card to use the machine.
There are many languages available, so you don't have to worry. You can also buy tickets at tabacs (places where cigarettes are sold) or newsstands. To ensure that the ticket you purchase is appropriate priced, always note where you are going to travel. You could be fined if you're caught on the metro in Paris without a ticket, or with a ticket that doesn't cover your trip. Keep your tickets with you for the entire ride.
You can buy multiple types of tickets, but we recommend buying a zone 1-1-2 carnet (a 10 ticket book). It costs 12.70 euros and is good on the metro, bus, tram, Montmartre funicular and RER (within the zone 1). An unlimited 1, 2, 3 or 5 day travel pass is also available.
- Famous Foods in Paris
- Essentials Bistros In Paris
- Best Hotels In Paris
- Best Restaurants In Paris
- Using the Metro in Paris
- Best Times to Visit Paris
- Top-Rated Day Trips from Paris
- How long is a New York - Paris flight?
- Best Luxury Hotels in Paris
- Where to stay in Paris ?
- Cost of a Trip to Paris
- Best Bakeries In Paris
- Best Things to Do in Paris
- Where to go out at night in Paris ?
- Best Museums in Paris
- Is Paris Safe to Visit ?
- Time difference with Paris
- Best neighbourhoods in Paris
- Taxi in Paris
- Guide To Paris Airport Transfert
Frequently Asked Questions
✈ What's the price for a flight to Paris ?
French bee offers extremely advantageous fares, with the aim of making distant destinations more accessible. Keep total control of your budget without compromising on comfort... That’s the French bee way! ? Find out more
✈ What type of airplane aircraft does French bee fly ?
French bee operates an all A350 fleet. Designed especially for long-haul flights, French bee’s A350 is full of new technologies that are designed to ensure passenger comfort. ? Welcome aboard of the first French low-cost & long-haul airline !
✈ What are our different types of fares ?
The custom-made French bee is 3 fares to choose from: BASIC, SMART or PREMIUM. Our travellers can fully customize their trip according to their desires and budget, by selecting options from a wide range of services and products. ? Make your choice !
✈ What are the payment methods on Frenchbee.com ?
100% secure online payment, group payment, multi-card payment, time to think etc., we offer several payment options adapted to your needs and arrangements. ? Find out more !