Paris is compact and walkable, with a dense metro network that makes almost everything reachable in under half an hour. The arrival stage is the only part that needs planning.
From the airport
- Charles de Gaulle: RER line B to Gare du Nord and Chatelet, around 35 minutes, or the Roissybus to Opera.
- Orly: the Orlyval light rail to Antony then RER B, or the tram and metro combination, or the Orlybus.
- Beauvais: a dedicated coach to Porte Maillot, taking about 75 minutes plus traffic. Budget flights often use this airport, which is well outside the city.
- Taxis from CDG and Orly to central Paris use official flat fares, displayed at the rank.
Use the official taxi rank only. Anyone approaching you inside the terminal offering a ride is not authorised and will charge considerably more.
Paying for transport
Paris has moved to a simplified ticket system with a single fare for metro journeys in the city. You can buy tickets on your phone, use a rechargeable Navigo Easy card, or in many stations tap a contactless bank card. Paper tickets are being phased out but still exist in places.
Getting around
The metro is fast and stations are close together, so short hops are often quicker on foot. Line direction is shown by the terminus name, which is the one thing to memorise for each line you use. RER lines are faster suburban trains and are useful for crossing the city or reaching Versailles.
Where to stay
- The 5th and 6th for classic Left Bank walking and cafes.
- The 3rd and 4th, the Marais, for food, galleries and central location.
- The 9th for good transport and slightly lower prices.
- The 11th for a more local neighbourhood feel and strong food options.
Practical notes
A service charge is included in restaurant prices, so tipping is optional and small. Many shops and some restaurants close on Sundays or Monday lunchtimes. Museums are often shut one day a week, usually Monday or Tuesday, so check before making the trip.
Pickpocketing is a genuine issue on crowded metro lines and around the main sights. Use a zipped bag worn in front and be alert in station passages, which is where most incidents happen.
Common questions
- Is a museum pass worth buying?
- If you plan three or more major museums in a few days, usually yes, and it can save queueing time as well.
- Should I book restaurants?
- For dinner in popular areas, yes. Lunch is usually easier to walk into.
- How do I get to Versailles?
- RER line C to Versailles Chateau Rive Gauche, then a short walk. Buy the correct zone ticket, since the city fare does not cover it.
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