Getting around
How to Navigate Paris: Transportation Guide for US and Canadian Travelers
Updated Sun, Dec 28, 2025
Paris excels in public transit with extensive Metro coverage. Walking and biking offer scenic exploration. Cars suit day trips but avoid city center.
Overview
Ease of getting around
Paris offers exceptional transportation options for North American visitors. The Metro system connects every neighborhood with 14 lines and over 300 stations. Walking remains the best way to discover the city's charm, with most attractions within reasonable distances. Velib bike-sharing provides scenic routes along the Seine. Rental cars work for day trips but prove challenging in dense city center traffic. Taxis and ride-sharing fill gaps when public transport stops running. A Navigo weekly pass covers all zones for extended stays, while single tickets work for short visits. Download the Citymapper app for real-time navigation across all transport modes.
Public transit
The Metro operates 14 lines serving 300+ stations from 5:30am to 2:15am weekdays. RER trains connect suburbs and airports. Bus network covers areas Metro misses. Purchase Navigo weekly passes or single tickets at stations. Download Citymapper or RATP apps for schedules and directions. All stations accept contactless payment.
Driving
Major agencies like Hertz, Avis, and Europcar operate from airports and city locations. Expect narrow streets, limited parking, and congestion fees in central zones. Daily rates start around 40 euros. International driving permits required for US licenses. Best for Normandy, Loire Valley, or Champagne day trips outside the city.
Walking
Paris rewards walkers with stunning architecture and hidden courtyards every few blocks. Most major sites sit within 30 minutes of each other. Sidewalks accommodate pedestrians well, though watch for cyclists and scooters. Comfortable shoes essential for cobblestone streets. Evening strolls along the Seine offer magical city views.
Biking
Velib bike-sharing stations appear every 300 meters citywide. Protected bike lanes connect major attractions safely. Avoid rush hour traffic and weekend crowds. Electric bikes available for hills like Montmartre. Seine riverbanks offer car-free cycling paths. Download Velib app to locate stations and check bike availability.
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