On 31 January 1904, a second concession was granted to the Socit du chemin de fer lectrique souterrain Nord-Sud de Paris (Paris North-South underground electrical railway company), abbreviated to the Nord-Sud (North-South) company. Your opinion of its relative safety will depend on where you are visiting from. Thursday to Thursday visit. To make it even easier, here are our Top 5 tips for using the metro to make your journey run as smoothly as possible: If you know where youre going in advance, plan ahead and get to know the metro network before you travel. The author of this guide uses it all the time. Lines7, 8 and 9 would connect commercial and office districts around the Opra to residential areas in the north-east and the south-west. In 1979, the SNCF developed Line C by joining the suburban lines of the Gare d'Austerlitz and Gare d'Orsay, the latter being converted into a museum dedicated to impressionist paintings. [20] Berlier recommended a special track gauge of 1,300mm (4ft3+316in) (versus the standard gauge of 1,435mm or 4ft8+12in) to protect the system from national takeover, which inflamed the issue substantially. With this, you can enjoy unlimited rides on any Metro, RER, and public bus. About 50 stations, generally current or former termini, are exceptions; most have three tracks and two platforms (Porte d'Orlans), or two tracks and a central platform (Porte Dauphine). Also, Montparnasse, Trocadero, etc. A number of stations have original decorations to reflect the cultural significance of their locations. [46][44] RATP notes that buses and trams in Paris are fully accessible, and many RER & Transilien stations are accessible. Every train stops at every station. Many lines have very sharp curves. There certainly aren't any issues like that in the central part of the city. Distances between stations on the lengthened line 13 differ from that on other lines in order to make it more "express" and hence to extend it farther in the suburbs. Often confused with the Paris Metro, the RER is a high-speed train that caters more to suburban dwellers. Avoid big station interchanges to save time. Line C was built and renamed Line14; that line was reorganised in 1937 with Lines 8 and 10. Paris Metro network supplies WiFi so if you get your smartphone out to connect, be careful that you dont draw extra attention to it. If you are uncomfortable on a train, get off and wait for the next one. [38][39] The 13 stations of Line 14 (which first opened in 1998) are fully accessible, and extensions of lines since 1992 have included lifts. As of the end of May 2022, there are a total of 308 stations on 16 different lines. This post on the, Looking to get the perfect Instagram spot? However, trains are less frequent late at night so waits can be closer to 10 minutes. The last Nord-Sud train set was decommissioned on 15 May 1972.[25]. . Access provided would be free, with a premium paid alternative offer proposed for a faster internet connection. The free RATP mobile app (in English) and the more user-friendly Kemtro app ($2) can estimate Mtro travel times, help you locate the best station exit, and tell you when the next bus will arrive, among other things. The platforms of the two lines are of standard configuration, two in number per stop, separated by the metro tracks located in the centre. Exploring Paris by Metro can be a bit daunting, especially when over 1.5 billion passengers travel across the network every year. The intersection it is near has several bus lines. Make any fare inspector show proof of identity (ask locals for help if youre not certain). We'll help you avoid some of the common tourist traps and travel mistakes in Paris. The Ligne de Sceaux, which served the southern suburbs and was bought by the CMP in the 1930s, would be extended north to merge with a line of the SNCF and reach the new Charles de Gaulle Airport in Roissy. On the metro, you miss all the terrific scenery. A four-stop sidearm connecting Gambetta with Porte des Lilas, this line is the least-used in Paris, meaning you won't have to worry about crowds! If a thief cannot pick you out as a tourist, he will probably leave you alone. Be vigilant and aware of your surroundings. It extended north in encompassing the already-built portion between Invalides and Duroc, initially planned as part of the inner circular. Thanks to newer trains and better signalling, trains ran more frequently. A huge Mtro-RER hub was created at ChteletLes Halles, becoming one of the world's largest underground stations.[27]. Plan your journey ahead of your trip with our handy guides below. Mtro is the abbreviated name of the company that originally operated most of the network: the Compagnie du chemin de fer mtropolitain de Paris S.A. ("Paris Metropolitan Railway Company Ltd."), shortened to "Le Mtropolitain". Europes best subway system allows you to hop from sight to sight quickly and cheaply. Stations on the newest sections (Line 14), built at depth, comprise 120m (394ft) platforms for eight-car trains, high ceilings and double-width platforms. Paris Metro Line 3bis - Locals-Only Line. It took a long time to recover after liberation in 1944. 10 Gorgeous Paris Metro Stations That Are Destinations In Their Own The Paris Metro is one of the oldest metro systems in the world. On 11 May 1872 the Council endorsed the plan, but the French government turned down the plan. Walk along the front of the station and keep going straight ahead for 300m, over two . The "Rabbit of Paris Mtro" is an anthropomorphic rabbit visible on stickers on the doors of the trains from 1977 to advise passengers (especially children) of the risk of getting one's hands trapped when the doors are opening, as well as the risk of injury on escalators or becoming trapped in the closing doors. Keep your eyes peeled for a huge letter M (just not the McDonald's one) or the word "Metro" in red. The Eiffel Tower is accessible to all publics on public transport and cars. In zones 4 and 5, youll find Disneyland Paris, the Palace of Versailles, and the Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports. [42][43], The Law on Equal Rights and Opportunities, Participation and Citizenship of Persons with Disabilities of 2005[fr] does not require the Mtro to be made accessible. If youre not that familiar with the French language, at least make sure you know the simple signs to look out for to help you travel the Paris Metro. The exit from all stations is clearly marked as to the point beyond which possession of a ticket is no longer required. Explore Paris the easy way with a free Paris Metro Map to help you get around the city. [45] [39] As of 2022[update], there are no plans to retrofit existing stations with lifts. George V, Franklin Roosevelt, Champs-Elyses Clmenceau, - alternative stations which are less busy than Charles de Gaulle toile for visiting Champs Elyses. An average interstation trip takes 58 seconds. I am sure I will be fine!! Chatelet is the prime example, and one to avoid. Thefts of backpacks on RER from CDG to Paris. [22] The first line, Porte MaillotPorte de Vincennes, was inaugurated on 19 July 1900 during the Paris World's Fair. There are exceptions to the rule of near-surface vaulting: Several ghost stations are no longer served by trains. ", "30 things about the Paris Metro that even Parisians don't know", "Cration des nouvelles lignes reliant le Nouveau Grand Paris", "Trafic annuel entrant par station du rseau ferr 2018", "Mtro 11, prolongement Mairie des Lilas > Rosny-Bois-Perrier", "Grand Paris Express, the largest transport project in Europe", "Prolongement de la ligne 14 Mairie de Saint-Ouen", "La Socit du Grand Paris ractualise le calendrier du Grand Paris Express", "Prolongement du Mtro ligne 1 Val de Fontenay, le projet en bref", "Prolongement de la ligne 10 Ivry Gambetta", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Paris_Mtro&oldid=1163301904. 13 must-see events in Paris to bookmark for your next trip. Make sure to check out, We love Disney! The rolling stock has steel wheels (MF for matriel fer) and rubber-tyred trains (MP for matriel pneu). The Paris Mtro (French: Mtro de Paris [meto d pai]; short for Mtropolitain [metplit]) and operated by the Rgie autonome des transports parisiens is a rapid transit system in the Paris metropolitan area, France. The city commissioned renowned engineer Jean-Baptiste Berlier, who designed Paris' postal network of pneumatic tubes, to design and plan its rail system in the early 1890s. Alternatively, you may use, Curio Collection by Hilton Hotels in Paris, Hotels near Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Paris, Hotels near Basilique du Sacre-Coeur de Montmartre, Pickpockets are active on the Metro network ( particularly in line 1 : the most touristic one), Certain stations have become known as crime 'hot spots', Thieves are good at what they do. Gazing out the window into the darkness and recalling the Lara on the tram scene from Dr. Zhivago, I accidentally make eye contact with the reflection of the lady across from me. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-10705557', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Paris Metro is very easy to negotiate. Starting from 7.50 euros, the price of the pass depends on how many zones you travel through. These stops feature beautiful, art nouveau-style entrances that are sure to warrant a photo or two. The Navigo Dcouverte pass costs 5 euros and can contain Navigo day, weekly, or monthly passes. If you are carrying a whole bunch of luggage, what happens when you come to a staircase? Read on and learn how to use the Metro like a pro. With one of the busiest underground systems in Europe (and the world!) Dont worry! Police said looters broke into a shop selling guns in the city and ran off with several hunting rifles. The nearest metro station to Galeries Lafayette in Paris is a 2 min walk away. The number of cars in each train varies line by line. Line 1, 1st arrondissement. Directions to Roland Garros (Paris) with public transportation. Paris Metro Map - The Paris Pass Do not even think about carrying your wallet in your back pocket when on a Metro train. She is passionate about travel and lifestyle, and still dreams of visiting Bora Bora someday. In 2018, the busiest stations were Saint-Lazare (46.7 million passengers), Gare du Nord (45.8), Gare de Lyon (36.9), Montparnasse Bienvene (30.6), Gare de l'Est (21.4), Bibliothque Franois Mitterrand (18.8), Rpublique (18.3), Les Halles (17.5), La Dfense (16.0) and Bastille (13.2).[54]. Alex Butler. It's also one of the oldest in the world. A handful of entrances have original architecture (Saint-Lazare); a number are integrated into residential or standalone buildings (Pelleport). Mr Lienard added that his client's detention was being used to try to calm rioters. These Metro lines stop near Galeries Lafayette: 3, 8, 9. . On 1 January 2006, a test was done with few lines opening at night on main stops only. And budget travelers the kind who eat too much at a buffet delight in the thought that you could go around and around forever on just one ticket! Mtro doors close automatically. As in most French mtro and tramway systems, trains drive on the right (SNCF trains run on the left track). Daily, weekly, and monthly passes are available for users of a Navigo card, an RFID-based contactless smart card. Keep your bag close, and never show anyone your wallet. Clashes were reported in several other cities, including Lyon in the southeast. Plan your visit in advance and familiarise yourself with the stations around Paris. Power is from a lateral third rail, 750 V DC, except on the rubber-tyred lines where the current is from guide bars. Here is the full list of stations in the Paris Metro, as well as the lines they serve and zones they cover: Plan your trip to Paris in advance once youve downloaded the Paris Subway Map. I would be interested to hear of any "no go" stations. Prep your ticket before getting to the fare gate so you dont hold up the line. Happy blue and white signs announce sortie (exit). Its ideal for those who will be spending a few weeks in Paris. It runs from 12:30 a.m. to 5:30 a.m., but with limited coverage. I am travelling to paris on 17 - 19 April on my own. 10 Of The Most Beautiful Art Nouveau Metro Stations in Paris - Culture Trip It offers full access to public transport within zones 1 to 3. This neighborhood map generally offers a few unexpected sightseeing treats. [citation needed]. It is possible that "Compagnie du chemin de fer mtropolitain" was copied from the name of London's pioneering underground railway company,[13] the Metropolitan Railway, which had been in business for almost 40 years prior to the inauguration of Paris's first line.[14]. Bookmark this nifty Paris Metro guide for your next Parisian vacay. Consider a Paris Rail day trip and tour the city with your Paris Visite pass. Bienvene's project was nearly completed during the 1920s. Below is a list of the top Paris attractions and their nearest metro stations to help: download our printable Paris transport map in PDF format, Asnires Gennevilliers Les Courtilles, Metro 1 & 7 Palais Royal - Musee du Louvre, Metro 4 Cite / RER B & C Saint Michel Notre Dame, Metro 1, 2 & 6 / RER A toile Charles de Gaulle, Metro 12 Solfrino / RER C Muse dOrsay, Metro 4, 6, 12, 13 Montparnasse-Bienvene, Metro 5 / RER C Champ de Mars-Tour Eiffel. Met people who wanted to take us to other parties, and dance clubs. Like the New York City Subway, and in contrast with the London Underground, the Paris Mtro mostly uses two-way tunnels. The network reached saturation after World War II with new trains to allow higher traffic, but further improvements have been limited by the design of the network and, in particular, the short distances between stations. Another good-to-have is the Bonjour RATP app for live timetable updates. If possible, leave passports, flight tickets and personal information in a safety deposit box at your hotel. When leaving a station, hold the door for the person behind you. Explore exciting things to do in Paris by Metro-hopping across the five main train zones. However, the RER developed by the SNCF would never match the success of the RATP's two RER lines. [49] Trains travel on the right. Between 1948 and 1967 the RATP installed standardised coloured metallic wall casings in 73 stations. There was also looting reported earlier in Strasbourg in broad daylight, including from an Apple store and several supermarkets. From Bobigny, Bobigny 52 min From Le Flandrin, Paris 45 min From Ibis Budget, Issy-Les-Moulineaux 51 min From Novedia, Boulogne-Billancourt 36 min From Stade de France K To Z, Saint-Denis Abbesses is fine - just use the elevator. It is the second busiest metro system in Europe, after the Moscow Metro, as well as the tenth-busiest in the world. The Paris Metro has extensive coverage and is easy to use once youve untangled the cobweb of lines and zones.
