Getting Started on the Paris Métro
The Paris Métro is the fastest and most affordable way to get around Paris. The network covers 302 stations across 16 lines and 226 km of track, connecting the city's key neighbourhoods, transport hubs, and attractions. Around ~4.2 million journeys are made every day.
The Paris Métro (Métropolitain) is one of the world's most iconic urban transit systems. Opened on 19 July 1900 for the Universal Exposition, it now operates 302 stations across 16 lines and 226 km of track, carrying over 4 million passengers every day.
How to Pay
The best way to pay is with the Navigo Pass — faster boarding, no queue at the machine, and usually a discount on fares. Everything about the Navigo travel card: weekly and monthly passes, how to buy one, top up, and whether tourists need one in 2026.
All payment options: Navigo Liberté+ (contactless pay-as-you-go) · t+ single ticket · Navigo weekly pass · Navigo monthly pass · Paris Visite tourist pass.
💡 The Navigo weekly pass (€30.75) covers all zones — buy it from Monday and it pays off after just 15 single rides. For short visits, the Paris Visite pass includes airport zones.
Peak hours: No peak pricing — flat fares at all times.
Getting from the Airport to Paris
How to reach central Paris from Charles de Gaulle Airport — the RER B train is the fastest and cheapest option at €11.80, with step-by-step instructions and journey times. Journey time: ~35–45 min to central Paris (Gare du Nord / Châtelet). Estimated fare: €11.80 single ticket (RER B, CDG to Paris).
Full airport connection guide →
Key Stations
These are the most important and useful stations on the Paris Métro for visitors:
Lines Overview
Essential Tips for Visitors
- Always tap out — some European metros require you to tap your card at exit as well as entry. Failing to do so results in a maximum fare charge.
- Validate your ticket — in cities like Paris and Madrid, ticket validation at the barrier is mandatory. Keep your ticket until you exit.
- Travel off-peak — No peak pricing — flat fares at all times. Fares are lower off-peak and trains are less crowded.
- Operating hours — hours vary by city and day. Most European metros run reduced hours on Sundays. Check the operator app or website.
- Multi-trip cards save money — Navigo Pass Guide is cheaper than buying single tickets. Recommended for any visit of 2+ days.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I buy a Paris Métro ticket?
Buy at any station ticket machine (accepts card and cash) or via the Île-de-France Mobilités app. The standard single t+ ticket costs €2.15. For stays of a week or more, a Navigo weekly pass (€30.75, all zones) is far better value.
What is the Navigo pass and do I need one?
The Navigo is a rechargeable travel card used by Parisians for unlimited travel. A weekly pass costs €30.75 and covers all zones Mon–Sun. A monthly pass costs €86.40. It's worth it for any visit longer than 3–4 days with frequent travel.
What time does the Paris Métro close?
The Métro runs until approximately 00:30 on weekdays and Sundays, and until 01:30 on Fridays and Saturdays (nights before a public holiday also until 01:30). Night buses (Noctilien) cover the gaps.
How do I get from CDG Airport to Paris by Métro?
The Paris Métro does not reach CDG directly. Take the RER B train from CDG Terminal 1 or 2 to central Paris (Gare du Nord or Châtelet). Journey time is 35–45 minutes, fare is €11.80. Line 14 is being extended to CDG but is not yet complete.
Is the Paris Métro tourist-friendly?
Yes — maps are in French and English, announcements are bilingual on newer lines, and the network is extremely dense (no point in Paris is more than 500 m from a station). Lines 1 and 14 are automated and have platform screen doors, making them the most modern.
What is the Paris Visite tourist pass?
Paris Visite is an unlimited travel pass sold for 1, 2, 3, or 5 consecutive days. The zones 1–3 version (€13.95/day) covers all Métro, RER within Paris, buses, and trams. It also covers CDG airport via RER B. Useful for short intensive stays.
How many lines does the Paris Métro have?
The Paris Métro has 16 services: lines 1–14 plus two short branches, line 3bis (4 stations) and line 7bis (8 stations). Lines 1 and 14 are fully automated and driverless. The network covers 226 km and 302 stations entirely within greater Paris.
Can I use contactless payment on the Paris Métro?
Yes — via the Navigo Liberté+ system, you can tap a contactless Visa, Mastercard, or phone at the gate for pay-as-you-go fares (€2.15 per trip). It is available at all stations. Weekly spending caps apply automatically.
Fare Guide
See the full Paris Métro ticket prices guide for all fares, the Navigo Pass Guide discount, and payment options.
Source: RATP (Régie Autonome des Transports Parisiens) and Wikipedia. Information is for general guidance — verify with the operator before travel.