Metro
First locate entrances:
All entrances will have signs, "METRO" or "METROPOLITAIN." Most require going down steps or an escalator. Make sure you enter the correct side: first confirm if it is the right metro number. The name next to the number indicates the direction. Some metros will force you to pay again if you are on the wrong side, especially the smaller side entrances. Consult Google Maps as it will tell you which is the preferred entrance.
Where to buy tickets:
2021 commenced the discontinuation of paper tickets. There are a few stations and turnstiles that are accepting physical “billets.” Ile-de-France Mobilites reported single tickets will also be available at 1.90 euros through the smartphone until 2024. But the best bet for tourists is to pick up the Navigo Easy card at the information/ticket booth, costing 2 euros for the card itself. The single journey is still priced at 1.90 euro, however if you know you will be using the metro frequently, purchase the “carnet” of rides for 14.90 euros. Once you obtained a Navigo Easy card, you can reload your card at any of the touch screen or a manual kiosks. Don’t fret, there is an option to display instructions in English. Make sure you purchase T+ tickets which can be used on the metro, tram, RER and buses. If you are coming from the airport, you will need a separate ticket. Once you have the correct fare, head to the turnstile, tap the card on the purple section and pass through the turnstile. Keep in mind once you leave the station, you will need to tap your card again to re-enter.
Ensure you are heading to the right platform:
Typically on the walls, there are labels indicating which direction the metro is heading to. At the top next to the metro number will be the destination or last stop of the line. This will tell you the direction the train is heading to. Below will list the station you are currently at, following the subsequent stops in order. We recommend using Google Maps, which lists step by step where to get on and off.
On the platform:
Hanging from the ceilings are signs displaying the arrival times of the next two trains. Once the train comes to a stop, you either lift a handle or push a button to open the doors. The same goes if you are getting off at a stop.
In the train:
Above the train doors you can once again consult the rail line route. Keep track of the number of upcoming stops, as it is easy to daydream and miss your destination. Remember metro etiquette is universal: allow all passengers to exit off the train before entering; offer seats to children, the elders, women who are pregnant and individuals who have disabilities; maintain appropriate sound conversation levels; if you are sitting in the folding seats and the train becomes crowded, stand up to allow more space for other passengers.
Once you get off the train:
To connect to another line, follow the arrows to your next train. Be prepared to walk for a few minutes. Especially at bigger metro stations, you may walk for a good five minutes before reaching your connection.
To leave the station, look for the signs "Sortie." There are multiple exits depending on which street you want to be on. Consult Google maps, which it usually points out the preferred exit route with a number next to the street name.
