I first travelled on the Paris Metro in October 1975, and my most recent trip was in September 2025. During those 50 years of travel across Paris by Metro, I’ve travelled on most of the lines and visited many of the central stations.
The Paris Metro offers efficient, reliable, safe and affordable travel across the French national capital. Almost all of central Paris is less than a 500 metre walk from a Metro station. Indeed, average distances between station are around 700 metres, less than 1,450 metres between London Underground stations. This does mean that Metro train speeds are comparatively slow - usually just 20 km/h. Walking at street level can be faster for shorter journeys. I’ve walked between Gare du Nord and central landmarks in around 30 minutes or less.
The author of this answer at Les Halles Metro station. The station is part of the wider Châtelet–Les Halles complex which served by five Metro lines and three RER lines. Note the ‘secteur’ signage.
The Metro network has noteworthy features. As well as frequent station stops, there also several lines with rubber tyred trains - offering a distinctive sound and travel experience. The tunnels are twin track, as opposed to the single line tracks for each direction on many London deep level lines. Metro lines are numbered and direction is marked by each line’s destination. Several Paris Metro stations are enormous - including the legendary Châtelet–Les Halles. Other mega station complex are Saint-Lazare-Auber-Have Caumartin and Montparnasse with its long passageways.
The enormous network hub at Saint-Lazare, Auber, Opera and Have Caumartin.
Paper tickets have been scrapped. Passenger now either use a rechargeable card (costing €2) or the Bonjpour RATP mobile app. The base fare is €2.50 and €12 for day pass covering most transport across the fives concentric zones of Île-de-France region.
A personal favourite is line 4 - the Metro’s second busiest. The line connects three large SNCF railway stations and popular city centre landmarks. Full automation was introduced at the end of 2023, and driverless train allow passenger to sit in seat at the front of the train - allowing forward views.
Paris Metro line 4 is now automated and with driverless trains. Stations have platform edge door and passengers have great view from the front carriage. Picture taken by Nicholas Stone, the author of this answer.
The dash across Paris between grand terminal stations using the Metro offers additional railway excitement when travelling across France. Between arrival into Paris on one long distance train, and departure on the next, you should make time for lunch and a glass of wine. For me, it’s a always highlight.
The Paris Metro ticketing now digital and paper tickets were scrapped. Passengers use either the RATP mobile app or Navigo rechargeable card. Picture taken by Nicholas Stone, the author of this answer.
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