Do you plan to visit Paris? Even if you have a ton of cash to spare, getting a taxi isn’t necessarily the best option to get around the city. Sure you want to walk, but you’ll need to move quickly from one side to the other, and that’s where Paris’ awesome metro system comes in. Here’s what you should know to better get around it…
Realize just how comprehensive it is
Paris has one of the best metro systems in the world, if not the best. It consists of 14 metro lines, plus a couple or RER lines which serve the suburban areas. Yes, you’ll need a map to get around — just take a look at the image above to get a glance at all the metro lines. Or if you have a smartphone…
Get a Paris metro app
There are a number of apps available for multiple platforms, including iOS, Android, BlackBerry and Symbian. In order to find the right app for your particular device, open the app store you use (Android Market, AppStore, App World, Marketplace, Ovi/Nokia Store, etc) and search for “paris metro.” You *must* try the application before visiting the city to see whether it requires mobile data or not. You want the one which doesn’t include data roaming charges and since such apps are available, get them.
How to use a metro app
Now I don’t know which app you’ll download, but generally here’s how it works:
- Type in the station name you’re departing from (it’s written on the station)
- Enter destination which could be either Point Of Interest (POI) or other metro station.
- Tap “Go” or “Submit”
You’ll get a list showing you which metro line to take to where (direction), and if you need to change lines, where to take off to take some other metro line. It’s actually pretty easy, no matter how complicated it may sound…
Now you should repeat this process for every city you’re visiting. You’ll thank me later. 😉