Transfer Options
Luggage Storage
Train and Metro
The Metro is the fastest way to navigate the city. A single ticket costs €2.50 (flat rate).
- Purchase: Use the white and green RATP machines. Select “Navigo Easy” to buy a reloadable card or “Tickets for Paris” for paper tickets.
- Validation: You must tap your card or insert your ticket at the turnstile to enter.
Keep Your Ticket & Watch Transfers
You must keep your ticket until you have fully exited the station. Inspectors frequently check tickets behind gates, and fines range from €35–€50. Note: Transfers at major hubs like Gare du Nord and Châtelet often involve long walks and stairs. If you have heavy luggage, prioritize a Taxi or G7 over a complex RER transfer.
Bus
City Buses
A single bus ticket costs €2.00. Board through the front door and validate your ticket immediately. You can also buy a “Ticket SMS” (€2.50) by texting Bus + [Bus Number] to 93100 (requires a local SIM).
Boarding & Stops
On Parisian buses, local etiquette strongly favors giving up blue-marked “Priority” seats to visitors with limited mobility. Newer buses have digital screens showing the next stops; on older buses, use Google Maps to track your location so you don’t miss your stop.
Rideshare
- G7 is the most reliable app in Paris, offering professional drivers who can use bus lanes, often shaving 20 minutes off trips during traffic.
- Uber and Bolt are available but use standard pricing and cannot use bus lanes.
Pickup Points
The G7 Advantage
For visitors with limited mobility, the G7 app allows you to book an “Access” vehicle with a lower step-in. You can also book a “Meet & Greet” service where the driver waits at the end of the train platform or arrivals hall with a sign to assist with luggage.
Official Taxi
Price and Appearance
Look for the “Taxis Parisiens” sign on the roof.
Ignore the 'Hustlers'
In Arrivals halls and train stations, men may approach you asking “Taxi?”. Ignore them. These are unlicensed drivers. Always follow the blue “Taxi” floor decals to the official outdoor rank where a dispatcher will assist you.
ATMs and Currency
Conversion Trap
When a machine asks to charge you in “USD” or your “Home Currency,” choose “Charge in EUR.” This prevents the machine from applying a predatory exchange rate (DCC) that can cost you an extra 5–8%.
Accessibility
Elevator vs. Escalator
In Paris, “Ascenseur” means elevator. Many older stations have “Sortie” (Exit) signs that lead only to stairs. Check the Bonjour RATP app’s “Traffic” section before travel to ensure station elevators are not out of service.
Safety
- Common Scams: The “Petition” scam (signing a fake charity form) or the “Helpful Stranger” at ticket machines.
The 'Helpful' Stranger
At ticket kiosks, be wary of anyone offering to “help” you buy a ticket. They may buy a child-fare ticket but charge you full price, or swap your cash. Only accept help from uniformed SNCF or RATP staff or use the official “Vente” desks.
Transfer Options
Luggage Storage
Train and Metro
The Metro is the fastest way to navigate the city. A single ticket costs €2.50 (flat rate).
- Purchase: Use the white and green RATP machines. Select “Navigo Easy” to buy a reloadable card or “Tickets for Paris” for paper tickets.
- Validation: You must tap your card or insert your ticket at the turnstile to enter.
Keep Your Ticket & Watch Transfers
You must keep your ticket until you have fully exited the station. Inspectors frequently check tickets behind gates, and fines range from €35–€50. Note: Transfers at major hubs like Gare du Nord and Châtelet often involve long walks and stairs. If you have heavy luggage, prioritize a Taxi or G7 over a complex RER transfer.
Bus
City Buses
A single bus ticket costs €2.00. Board through the front door and validate your ticket immediately. You can also buy a “Ticket SMS” (€2.50) by texting Bus + [Bus Number] to 93100 (requires a local SIM).
Boarding & Stops
On Parisian buses, local etiquette strongly favors giving up blue-marked “Priority” seats to visitors with limited mobility. Newer buses have digital screens showing the next stops; on older buses, use Google Maps to track your location so you don’t miss your stop.
Arrival Time
Check-in & Boarding
Security & Screening
VAT Refunds
Accessibility
Elevator vs. Escalator
In Paris, “Ascenseur” means elevator. Many older stations have “Sortie” (Exit) signs that lead only to stairs. Check the Bonjour RATP app’s “Traffic” section before travel to ensure station elevators are not out of service.
Safety
- Common Scams: The “Petition” scam (signing a fake charity form) or the “Helpful Stranger” at ticket machines.
The 'Helpful' Stranger
At ticket kiosks, be wary of anyone offering to “help” you buy a ticket. They may buy a child-fare ticket but charge you full price, or swap your cash. Only accept help from uniformed SNCF or RATP staff or use the official “Vente” desks.