Surviving the Paris Metro
The metro system in Paris is by far the cheapest way to get around the city. A one week pass is a little over €20- even one cab right could cost you much more than that. To an outsider, the 14 line subway system along with the countless bus and streetcar lines can often appear intimidating and confusing. In this column I will be offering some tips on how to properly navigate and use the Paris metro systems.
1) Always know which like the stop you’re going to is on.
Once you know what like you need to get to it is easy to follow the signs in the station or ask someone where you can find it.
2) Learn how to say “Do you know where *insert stop name here* is?” in French.
While Parisians often come off as intimidating or busy, they appreciate it when you try to speak to them in their native tongue. If you make even the smallest effort to speak to them in French they will be much more willing to help you.
3) Pick up a metro map and highlight the stops you’ll be using.
If you do this, even if you can’t speak French and you get lost you can use your map to show someone where you’re trying to go.
4) Invest in a metro pass.
As I said above, the metro is by far the cheapest way to get around Paris. Individual tickets cost a little more than €1 and full week passes cost a little more than €20. I would defiantly suggest buying a pass over individual tickets because some stations don’t sell tickets, this fact could leave you stranded.
5) Watch your belongings.
The Paris metro, much like the rest of Paris, is full of pickpockets. Subways are a popular place for pickpockets because of the crowds and the amount of tourists. Remember to always keep you bags closed and close by.