Frequently Asked Questions

The métro (and other modes of transportation) are very big and complex, which also means that they're confusing. I admit myself I have to look back at the website because there is so much stuff to the network! Below are frequently asked question that I have even seen people ask me while riding it.

If you need help, go ask a question.

General

How to plan my trip?

Just ask for a printed map at any station booth and you're all set! Or use the online trip planner.

Is the métro safe?

For the most part, yes it is very safe. The one main problem is pickpockets, especially during rush hour. To avoid being a victim:

• Don't put anything valuable in your back pocket.
• Avoid using your phone. If you have to wait until the train doors close.
• Remove your backpack and if you're sitting, put it on your lap. If you're standing, put it in between your legs.

Also if anyone offers you to buy a ticket or pass from them, never accept it. They are selling it at a higher price or it has already been used. If you need help, ask an employee at the information booth.

What should I expect?

• On some lines, you will need to turn a handle or push a button (on the train door) to open the door.
• None or very few elevators (lots of stairs).
• Passengers jumping or climbing over faregates, not paying the fare.
• People begging for money

Fares

How much does it cost to ride?

A single ride on the bus, tramway, métro, or RER within fare zone 1 is 1,90. A book of 10 (called a carnet) costs 14,90 with a Navigo Easy card or 16,90 without one.

If you travel outside of Paris (i.e. to Versailles, Disneyland, CDG or Orly Airport) the fare depends on your origin and destination. Go here to calculate your fare.

Unlimited passes like the Paris Visite and Mobilis could save you money if you travel frequently.

What are métro tickets? Can they be used on the RER?

Métro tickets are just another word for t+ tickets. To be specific, they can be used on:

• Bus
• Tramway
• Métro
• RER within Paris (fare zone 1)

So yes, they can be used on the RER within fare zone 1. If you want to take the RER into the suburbs, see below.

What are RER tickets?

RER tickets are another word for Origin-destination tickets. Their main purpose is to travel on the RER and express trams outside of Paris into the suburbs. To be specific, you can use them on:

• RER
• Express Tram
• Métro (see below)

Transfers to the métro and other RER lines are free with the same ticket, however, to transfer to the bus or regular tramway, you must use another t+ ticket.

What are fare zones?

Fare zones only matter when you take the RER or train outside of Paris. Fare zones decide how much your fare will cost, because when you travel outside of Paris, the fare can vary based on the distance you travel. There are 5 different fare zones, explained:

• Zone 1: Paris city limits
• Zone 2
• Zone 3
• Zone 4: Palace of Versailles, Orly Airport
• Zone 5: Disneyland Paris, CDG Airport

Even though the métro goes outside of Paris, the fare on the métro is always the same. This is why you must show your ticket or card when you exit an RER station (even if you stay with Paris).

Can I use the same ticket to transfer between lines?

It depends. First, if you are using an unlimited pass, such as Paris Visite, Mobilis, etc. these passes have unlimited rides, meaning you can transfer as many times as you want.

For single use tickets, like t+ tickets (métro tickets) and origin-destination tickets (RER tickets), here's what you need to know.

• Transfers within the métro and RER network are free as long as you stay inside the paid area. 

• If you have to transfer above ground (like between Solférino on line 12 and Musée d'Orsay on RER C), you'll need to show your ticket again, but the same you used before should work. You have 2 hours to complete the transfer. These transfers are marked with a dotted line.

• Transfers on the street level network (bus and tramway) are also free within 90 minutes. You'll need to show your ticket again as you board. Note that a round trip on the same line is not possible with the same ticket.

• Transfers between the street level network (bus and tram) and the heavy rail network (métro and RER) are not possible. You must use another ticket for this.

If you still can't find the answer to your question, go ask a question.