Mastering the Paris Metro System with Kids!

One of my favorite tips for families visiting Paris is to embrace the public transportation system. It’s in general the fastest, cheapest and safest (meaning for your physical bodies.. not necessarily for your belongings thanks to pickpockets... more on that later though :)) way to get from point A to point B in the city.

Here is all the info you need to hopefully feel at ease tackling the Paris subway system.

For starters, download the Citymapper app - I promise this is one app that’s actually worth getting, since it consolidates all forms of transport in one platform, and very clearly spells out the metro steps, AND includes up to date routes that are 'strike safe' in the event of a metro strike!

When you’re ready for your outing, check City Mapper and head to the metro station to buy your tickets. Paris has not made the process simple - big surprise! The city has phased out the old paper tickets, you you now have two options - either using your phone to purchase tickets via the IDF Mobilités App OR buying a plastic Navigo Easy card (2 euros each; available in most machines, or at the counter).

Each paying person needs their own card or phone (meaning kids cannot enter the metro system on their parent's phone). Purchase however many tickets you think you'll need, either via the app or loaded onto the plastic card.  Once you have the card, you can upload more tickets via the app IDF Mobilités.

Ticket prices - Adults are 2.50 euros, Kids 3 and under are free, kids 4-9 are 1/2 price (so 1.25 / ticket) and 10+ pays full fare. Note that metro tickets are different from bus tickets (2 euros) and you will need to purchase different tickets to use the bus system.

Also, just a note on getting to Versailles or Disney with public transportation - these metro tickets work for the entire metro system, so you can go to these destinations with a normal metro ticket! Count about 1 hour for both Versailles and Disney. The one destination that requires a special ticket is the airport.

OK, now that you have your tickets, you're ready to take the metro!

Here are some pointers:

• Pay attention to which line you need - it will be a colored circle with a number in it, and the lines are referred to by their number. You’ll also want to pay attention to the direction, which is designated by the last stops.

• Scan your card or phone and head on into the metro system! Note that your card or phone act as proof that you have paid, and there can be checks in the metro system.

• When the metro pulls up, wait on the side of the doors until everyone has exited. Then enter the metro. If it’s crowded, avoid sitting in the folding seats.

• Once in the metro, be aware of your surroundings, keeping an eye on your purse, bag and pockets. I do use my phone on the metro, but am very aware anytime the doors are open, or if I am standing right next to the door. Pickpockets take advantage of crowded peak hours to be extra sneaky and dig around in pockets and bags!

Some tips when taking the metro with kids

• If you have two adults, send an adult through first, then children, then the second adult. If you are alone with kids, I send them through first and follow.

• Never rush to catch the metro - another will come along soon!

• Have a game plan in case you get separated. For instance my kids know that if they get on without me, they exit at the next station and wait for me on the platform.

• Turn following the colored signs into a game and let the kids lead the way!

• Lines 1, 4 and 14 are automatic line, and if you get in the first or last car, kids can 'drive' the metro thanks to a pretend dashboard:)

Voila! Did I forget anything? Did you use the public transportation in Paris? Or would you?

If you want more tips like this, consider booking one of my travel planning consultation calls!