Do: Choose the Right Paris Metro Ticket

For a single day in Paris, a billet à l’unité (a single ticket) will work just fine. But for a weekend or longer stay, a carnet (a bundle of 10 tickets) offers better value.

For unlimited travel across the metro, bus, and RER networks, the Navigo Découverte Pass is your best bet—especially if you’re staying for several days. This pass is valid from Monday to Sunday. You can now buy digital tickets directly from the Bonjour RATP app and load them onto your smartphone or Navigo card.

Don’t: Forget to Validate Your Ticket (Avoid Fines!)

This is the most important rule. Before you board, make sure to validate your ticket at the entrance gates. And don’t throw it away after you’ve used it! Metro inspectors often check for valid tickets, and getting caught without one can result in a hefty on-the-spot fine of up to 80 euros.

Do: Stay Alert and Protect Your Belongings

The metro can get very crowded, especially during rush hour. To stay safe, keep your bag zipped and wear it in front of you. Avoid putting valuable items in your back pockets or the outer compartments of your bag.

Don’t leave your valuables unattended. Phones, wallets, and bags are easily forgotten or stolen if you’re distracted. Always double-check that you have all of your belongings before you exit the train.

Do: Respect Shared Public Space

The Paris Metro is a shared space. Be mindful of others and keep the flow moving for everyone. Keep your voice down, avoid blocking doors, and always let passengers off the train before you get on. Some unwritten rules like placing your feet on the seats can even attract a fine. On escalators, remember to stand on the right and walk on the left.

Don’t: Expect the Paris Metro to Always Be on Time

While the Metro is generally reliable, delays do happen, especially during strikes (grèves), which are common in France. To stay updated, download the Bonjour RATP app. Other great alternatives like Citymapper or Google Maps are also handy for checking delays or planning your best route.

Don’t: Eat or Drink on the Metro

Eating and drinking are considered rude on the metro. It can make the space uncomfortable for other passengers, especially in tight, crowded cars. Save that croissant for when you’re back above ground.

Do: Ask Questions and Read the Signs

The Paris Metro is well-labeled, but it moves quickly. Don’t hesitate to ask a staff member for help if you’re unsure—they’re there to assist. A little courtesy goes a long way, so remember to start with a polite “Bonjour.”

Look for these key signs:

  • Sortie = Exit
  • Correspondance = Transfer
  • Prochaine station = Next stop

A Few More Things to Know about the Paris Metro

So, what time does the Paris metro close? It generally runs from approximately 5:30 a.m. to 1:15 a.m. Sunday through Thursday. On Fridays, Saturdays, and the night before public holidays, service is extended to around 2:15 a.m.

The Métro isn’t just a way to get around—it’s part of Paris’s charm. Some stations are miniature works of art. Take a moment to appreciate the copper, steampunk-style decor at Arts et Métiers, or the tiled walls at Concorde that spell out lines from the Declaration of the Rights of Man. You’re not just commuting; you’re catching glimpses of underground culture.

Ready to master the metro? For a more detailed, step-by-step walkthrough on how to navigate the system, check out our Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide to the Paris Metro.

While navigating the metro is part of the adventure, we know it’s not for everyone. If you’d rather leave the logistics to a local and just soak up the sights, Astra Via Tours has you covered. We offer smooth, thoughtfully curated private and small-group tours around Paris so you can spend less time stressing over transfers—and more time soaking up the magic of the City of Light.Ready to explore Paris like a pro? Download our free Paris Travel Guide for more insider tips, hidden gems, and exclusive discounts!