As a flight attendant constantly on the move, I’ve mastered the art of navigating new cities quickly. In Paris, the trick isn’t owning a car—it’s knowing which train to hop on, when to avoid the metro crush, and how to make the most of your time. Here’s your no-fuss guide to getting around Paris —just like a seasoned traveller (or a jet-lagged crew member!).
Main Public Transport Options
- Metro/Subway: The Paris Métro, or subway system, has 16 lines. These lines are numbered 1 to 14, with two additional lines, 3bis and 7bis. The Métro also has 321 stations, with 61 having transfers between lines.
- Timings: On weekdays, metro lines run approximately from 5:30 a.m. to 1:15 a.m. On Friday and Saturday evenings, and on the eve of public holidays, metro lines operate until 2:15 a.m. RER lines run every day from approximately 5:30 a.m. to 1:20 a.m.
- Most Scenic Route: Line 6 is the metro line with the best views of Paris, as it runs mostly above ground. After stopping at the Trocadéro, between stations Passy and Bir Hakeim, it crosses the Seine and offers amazing views of the Eiffel Tower
- Regional/Express Trains: Called Réseau Express Régional (RER), a mix of commuter rail and rapid transit. Operates in the city centre and is faster than the Metro with fewer stops. Used for travelling to Charles de Gaulle Airport, Disneyland and Versailes, among other destinations. The RER has five lines (A, B, C, D, E) and connects the city center with its surrounding suburbs.
- Tip: Be aware that there are normal and express trains on the RER, and the express trains do not stop at all stations. Also, the same RER line may have different destinations, so pay attention to the displays on the platform to avoid getting on the wrong train.
- Buses: The RATP (Régie Autonome des Transports Parisiens) operates a large network of bus routes, complemented by private operators in some suburban areas. Buses generally operate from around 6:30 am to 8:30 pm, with some routes extending their service until 12:30 am, particularly those serving metro/RER interchanges or originating from train stations.
- Extensive Network: The RATP bus network covers the entire city of Paris and a large portion of its near suburbs.
- Operating Hours: Buses typically operate from 6:30 am to 8:30 pm Monday to Saturday, with some lines running later.
- Night Service: The Noctilien night bus service operates from 12:30 am to 5:30 am, offering an alternative way to travel after dark.
- Ticket Validation: Remember to validate your ticket (or use a Navigo pass) as you board the bus.
- Stop Request: To ask for the bus to stop, you can press the red buttons located throughout the bus.
- Ticket Costs: A single bus ticket in Paris costs 2.00€, or 2.50€ if purchased on-board.
- Navigo Pass: The Navigo pass (monthly, weekly, or one-day) provides unlimited travel on buses and other public transport in Paris, as well as other areas of Île-de-France, depending on the type of pass.
- Bus Maps: You can find bus maps at bus stops and online, which can help you plan your route.
- Traffic Conditions: Paris traffic can be a factor in bus travel, so it’s recommended to check for real-time traffic updates.
- Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Buses:
- Big Bus Paris: Offers multiple routes with stops at major attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Notre Dame.
- Tootbus Paris: Features a Paris Discovery tour with 10 stops and commentary in French and English.
- Trams: The city and its surrounding region, Île-de-France, have 13 tram lines that primarily serve the outskirts of Paris. These tram lines are integrated with the city’s other public transport systems, including the metro and RER.
- Montmartre Funicular (Paris only)
- Skip the stairs and glide your way up to Sacré-Cœur — this two-minute ride is included in your metro fare and saves time (and your legs).
- Night Transport: Noctilien buses
- Taxis & Rideshare: Taxis are available 24/7, but they can be pricey compared to public transport. I usually save them for late arrivals or when I’ve got too much luggage in tow.
- Bikes: See here for information on seeing Paris by bike.
Passes & Tickets
- Paris Visite Pass – For unlimited travel on metro, RER, buses, trams, and suburban trains within your chosen zones. Ideal for quick city explorations and layovers. Unlimited rides (zones explained)
- Navigo Easy Card – A reloadable card that’s simple, budget-friendly, and great for frequent visitors. Buy one at any metro station and top it up as needed. Reloadable & ideal for short stays
- Ticket t+ – Single trip.
- Metro–Train–RER Ticket: Valid for zones 1–5 — including central Paris and airports.
- Bus–Tram Ticket: Also for zones 1–5, but separate from metro tickets.
- Combo Tickets – Metro/RER/Bus/Tram bundles
📝 Pro Tip:
“Crew trick: Grab a Navigo Easy and load 10 rides at once—it saves time and cash.”
Navigation Apps & Tools
- Citymapper – My go-to
- Bonjour RATP – For real-time Paris info
- Google Maps – Accurate for metro routes
- RunnrZ – A free app that creates customised walking, running, and biking routes in just 3 seconds, based on your current location.
Insider Tips
- 🚇 “Avoid Line 13 at 8 a.m.—it’s a crush!”
- 🗓 “Sunday buses come less often—plan for walks.”
- ⛲ “Take the #69 bus for a scenic city tour.”
Most Instagrammable Transport Spots
- Line 6 is the metro line with the best views of Paris, as it runs mostly above ground. After stopping at the Trocadéro, between stations Passy and Bir Hakeim, it crosses the Seine and offers amazing views of the Eiffel Tower
- Bus 69: This line covers major attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Les Invalides, Musée d’Orsay, and Louvre.
- Bus 67: Offers a route through lesser-known areas, passing through the Louvre, Comédie Française, and more.
- Bus 42: Passes by the Eiffel Tower, Avenue Montaigne, Champs-Élysées, and other key landmarks.
- Bus 89: Explores the Left Bank (Rive Gauche) with stops at Jardin du Luxembourg, Panthéon, and more.
Metro Map
Whether you’re chasing croissants or Cartier, navigating Paris is easier than you think. Grab your travel pass, stay alert, and keep your camera ready—you’ll get around like a local in no time.
My Flight Attendant Travel Tips
- Get a Paris Visite Pass if you plan to do lots of sightseeing in 1–3 days.
- Use the Montmartre Funicular — trust me, your legs will thank you.
- Ride the bus when you want to enjoy the city views — it’s like a mobile postcard.
- Download Citymapper before you land — it works offline with preloaded routes.
Navigating Paris doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right pass and a bit of planning, it’s smooth sailing (or rather, gliding down metro tracks). Whether I’m racing to a rooftop bar at golden hour or catching a sunrise shot by the Seine, this city always makes moving around feel seamless.
When in Paris, let the city carry you — just make sure your shoes are comfy and your Navigo card is loaded.
Want ideas on what to do in 48 hours in Paris? see our post here.
