Getting To Your Destination In Downtown Paris

After arriving at your hotel for the first time, you will face the next challenge: transportation from your hotel to the various engagements you will have during your time in the city. If you are not lucky enough to be provided a company car with driver, you will have three main options for your travel needs.

The first is the Metro system, an underground train network with a fairly broad reach. The second is the bus system, which is comprehensive but can get mired in traffic. The last is a taxi, which has the advantage of taking you to any point within the city and not stopping in between, but which can be expensive and suffers from traffic congestion.

The Paris Metro

This subway network is easy to find, with street signs reading "Metro", "Metropolitain", or "M" signifying an entrance. Once inside the station, there are different lines which lead to different destinations. The online map is easy to read in English or French, and is available to travelers ahead of time.

In addition, the RATP (Paris' travel authority) provides an easy route planner for visitors. Be sure to have the appropriate ticket, which is usually available for purchase in the station. They can also be purchased ahead of time through conciergerie.com.

Be wary of riding the Paris subway during rush hour, as trains can be crowded. Also watch for a sometimes dirty or unpleasant train; maintenance is far from perfect, although most cars are well maintained.

Bus Transportation in Paris

Oddly, buses in Paris can be cleaner and faster than the Metro. The system is well designed and organized, with many interconnecting routes and frequent hubs. Furthermore, they can be scenic, and are used by some tourists as a less expensive alternative to paid bus tours. Bus routes can be planned in the same way Metro routes can be planned with the use of the RATP itinerary finder.

Taking a Taxi

If you are uncertain of your route, a taxi is certainly the way to go. Although you will likely lose time and spend more money compared with the Metro or a bus, having no doubt about reaching your destination more than compensates. Taxis also tend to be cleaner than some public transit vehicles, making them a nicer ride before a big meeting or presentation.

Walking

In addition to the Metro, the buses, and taxis, there is always the option of walking to nearby destinations. If you don't have far to travel and can map out the sidewalk route ahead of time, this is often the fastest method. There is no traffic on the sidewalks, and Paris weather is usually pleasant. Just be certain you know where you are going, and that the neighborhood through which you are traveling is safe during the time you will be walking through it.