# What types of transportation are there in Paris?

> Paris has the Métro, RER trains, buses, trams, night buses, Vélib' bikes, taxis and ride-hailing; the Métro is the fastest way around the city.

Paris has one of the densest public transport networks in the world: the Métro, the RER suburban trains, buses, trams and night buses, all run under one ticketing system by Île-de-France Mobilités. For most visitors the Métro is the fastest way around the city, while buses, Vélib' bikes and walking are good for short hops and sightseeing.

## The main options

1. **Métro** — 16 lines (numbered 1 to 14, plus 3bis and 7bis) and more than 300 stations. Trains run roughly from 5:30 a.m. until just after 1 a.m., about an hour later on Friday and Saturday nights. Look for the "M" signs.
2. **RER** — five express lines (A to E) that cross central Paris with few stops and continue to the suburbs. Useful for Versailles (RER C), Disneyland Paris (RER A) and Charles de Gaulle Airport (RER B).
3. **Transilien trains** — suburban trains from the main railway stations to towns around Paris.
4. **Buses** — a large network with good views of the city; slower than the Métro in traffic.
5. **Trams** — mostly on the edge of the city and in the suburbs, so less useful for tourists.
6. **Noctilien** — night buses that run after the Métro closes.
7. **Vélib'** — the city bike-share system, with classic and electric bikes and many protected bike lanes.
8. **Taxis and ride-hailing** — official taxis use a roof light and meter; fixed fares apply between central Paris and the airports. Uber and similar apps also operate.
9. **River boats** — the Batobus hop-on hop-off boat on the Seine is more sightseeing than practical transport.

## Tickets

The simplest option for visitors is a rechargeable **Navigo Easy** card or the official Île-de-France Mobilités app, which lets you load tickets onto many phones. If you stay a full week (Monday to Sunday), a weekly **Navigo** pass can pay off. Fares and ticket types changed in 2025, so check current prices on the official site before you go: [iledefrance-mobilites.fr](https://www.iledefrance-mobilites.fr/).

## Getting to and from the airports

- **Charles de Gaulle (CDG):** RER B to central Paris, or the Roissybus.
- **Orly:** Métro line 14 now runs to Orly, and the Orlyval shuttle connects with RER B.

## Driving in Paris

Driving is not recommended for visitors. Central Paris is a low-emission zone that requires a Crit'Air sticker on vehicles, parking is scarce and expensive, and speed limits are low on most streets.

For a day out at the parks, see [where Disneyland Paris is and how to get there](https://inyourtravel.com/where-is-disneyland-paris-located/).

## FAQ

**What is the cheapest way to get around Paris?**
Walking and the Métro. Central Paris is compact, and a single Métro ride gets you across the city quickly. Vélib' is also inexpensive for short trips.

**What are the zones in Paris?**
The region is divided into five fare zones: zone 1 is central Paris, and zones 2 to 5 spread outward to the suburbs and airports. Single tickets have been simplified, but zones still matter for some passes.

**What is the most popular mode of transport in France?**
For trips between cities, the train. France's SNCF network, including high-speed TGV lines, links Paris with most major cities.

**Is it worth renting a car in Paris?**
Only for trips outside the city. Inside Paris, public transport is faster and far less stressful.

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https://inyourtravel.com/what-types-of-transportation-are-there-in-paris/ · In Your Travel · Checked 2026-10-30