How the Paris Metro works – A practical guide to easy transportation

The Paris Metro – easy and convenient

The Paris Metro is one of the world’s most efficient and comprehensive public transportation systems. With 16 lines and over 300 stations, it’s the fastest and cheapest way to get around the city. Here’s everything you need to know about how the metro works and how to get the most out of your journey.

How to use the metro

The metro lines are numbered from 1 to 14, with two additional lines (3bis and 7bis). Each line has a unique color on the maps and runs in two directions, marked with the name of the end station. When you enter a station, signs will indicate which direction and which line to take.

Tickets can be purchased from vending machines or at ticket booths at stations. To enter the metro, insert your ticket into an automatic gate or scan your transportation card. Remember to keep your ticket for the entire journey, as there are often ticket checks.

Prices and tickets

• Single ticket (Ticket t+): One ticket costs approximately €2.10 and allows you to travel on the metro, bus and tram for 90 minutes.
• Discounts: Buy 10 tickets together(carnet) for a reduced price.
• Transportation pass: Consider a Navigo card or a Paris Visite pass, which provides unlimited travel for a set period of time.

Practical travel tips

• Opening hours: The metro runs from 5:30 am to around midnight. On weekends some lines run until 1:30am.
• Avoid rush hour: Trains can be crowded between 8-10am and 5-7pm.

Apps and maps for navigation

For easy navigation, it is recommended to download an app or get a map of the metro:

• RATP App: This official app gives you detailed routes, live updates and a map of the entire Paris metro and bus network.
• Citymapper: A popular app that combines metro, bus, bikes and walking distance in one intuitive platform.
• Google Maps: Perfect for quick planning and live navigation. Set your destination and Google will guide you through the subway with detailed directions.
• Offline PDF maps: Many hotels and tourist centers offer free maps of the metro, which are useful if you don’t have an internet connection.

Benefits of the metro in Paris

The speed and accessibility of the metro makes it perfect for sightseeing. You can easily reach the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and Montmartre without any hassle. With a little planning and the right app, the metro will be your best friend in Paris.

By Tommy Sverre – 2025