Buying Tickets the Easy Way (2026)

This video shows how to purchase your Paris metro tickets Paper tickets no longer exist. The easiest solution for most visitors is a Navigo Easy card (€2, bought once at any station machine or ticket window). You then load single tickets (€2.55 each) or day passes onto it. Alternatively, buy digital tickets directly on your phone with the free Bonjour RATP app and validate by tapping your phone at the gate. One card or phone per person.

Finding the Metro Entrance

Do not expect to always see prominent Metro signs. About a half of Metro entrances in Paris are very discreet, like the one on the picture above. Watch a short video below to see other types of Paris Metro signs.

Do not expect to always see prominent signs, about a half of Metro entrances in Paris are very discreet.

How the Metro Lines Work – Numbers, Colors

Every line has a number and a colour. The direction of the train is shown by the name of the final station (terminus). Look at the platform signs: they always show the line number the terminus name. If you are going the wrong way, simply get off at the next station and cross to the opposite platform — no extra ticket needed. Watch the very helpful short video above to understand better how to navigate Paris Metro system.

Using Google Maps for Paris Metro

You do not need any special app to navigate Paris Metro, Google Maps is enough. Just enter your destination, click Directions and choose Public Transport icon. Illustrated here is trip from Louvre to Palais Garnier opera house. On the screenshot above you can see that Google Maps suggests Metro line 7.

When you scroll to the trip details, you can see the name of the Metro station you should enter, "Palais Royal - Musee du Louvre", and then the instruction to follow the sign M7 La Courneuve to arrive at the right platform.

When you scroll further down, you will see that the Metro ride will take 2 minutes and that you should leave the train at Opera station. Then Google Maps suggests that you use exit "3 rue Scribe". Watch very useful video below about changing to another Metro line and exiting Metro.

Exiting Metro and Transfers

Follow the orange “Correspondance” signs when changing lines. Keep your ticket or card until you fully exit the system (you may need it again for some exits or inspections). Big stations such as Châtelet or Montparnasse have long walks — give yourself a couple of extra minutes the first time. Station maps near the exits show which sortie is best for your street.

Practical Tips for a Comfortable Ride

Beware of pickpockets. Keep backpacks in front of you when the train is crowded. Avoid the absolute peak (8–9:30 and 17:30–19:00) if you can. Last trains run around 00:40 on weekdays and 01:40 on Fridays