Paris Metro and Subway System
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Elegant architecture, efficient service and essential for travelers to Paris, the Paris Metro is as inimitable as the city of light itself. From the classic Art Nouveau entrances designed by Hector Guimard, to over 130 miles of track, 16 lines, over 380 stations and upwards of 4 million passengers a day, the Paris Metro is a refined behemoth. Since its opening in 1900 the Paris Metro has been shuttling locals and tourists alike around an unforgettable city that defies convention. Where else in the world does the Metro connect a major airport, four hundred year old palaces and Disneyland all on one map? None other than the Paris Metro.
Despite the confusing look of the Paris Metro map, the subway system is actually quite easy to navigate. Most stations on the Paris Metro map are named for the landmark, popular attraction or sight they stop closest to. For those stations that aren’t named as such, a simple Paris travel guide will help identify where you need to go. The Metro map makes it super easy for travelers to plan their sightseeing with ease. Plus, if you leave the tour planning to when you’re actually standing in a Paris Metro station, there are digital kiosks that will show you different routes to your destination. A nice feature for those who forget to print out a Paris Metro map beforehand.
Tickets for RATP, a.k.a. Paris Metro, are available in every station, RER stations, tourist agencies and airports. Paris Metro maps are available in all of these locations as well. Travelers can decide to buy one-off tickets, multi-day passes or a 10 pack of tickets known as a “carnet”. Even though your single-fare ticket is valid for the length of your continuous ride on the Paris Metro, be sure to hang onto your ticket. There are stiff fines for not having your ticket while riding the Paris Metro, payable on the spot.