What are the disadvantages of the Paris Metro?

Paris enjoys a dense public transport network with trains, buses, and trams that mostly operate efficiently and to schedule. Nothing is perfect, however, and there are drawbacks such as overcrowding on buses and trains during peak hours and a Metro service that lacks air-conditioning.



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The Paris metro really is quite easy to use and even if you end up going the wrong way or if you need help finding the right platform, other passengers are happy to point you in the right direction. Just be sure to start with a simple “Bonjour, excusez-moi”!

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The Metro trains run on rubber wheels for the most part, so the trains themselves are quiet. It is the enclosed spaces with lots of people, the occasional accordian player and seller of chocolates or tissues who add to the noise. But in tunnel, compared with a train in Sydney's underground areas, much quieter.

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Paris is a very safe city; the metro is full and hopping at all hours. The only real risk you face is pickpockets. Be sure your valuables are not in pockets or carelessly held purses or backpacks. If you make yourself pickpocket proof then you are good to go at any hour.

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Yes, tap water in Paris is perfectly safe to drink and is readily available wherever you go, even at public water fountains. As long as taps aren't labeled eau non potable—meaning “not for drinking” in French—everything else is potable. In fact, drinking water from the fountains of Paris has been encouraged.

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While the metro subway system is extensive, it's generally safe and easy to use once you familiarize yourself with it a bit. Trains usually arrive on time; buses are well-appointed and spacious, and commuter express (RER) trains service the city's most important stops in record time.

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It is also one of the world's oldest train systems, having been opened in 1900. Luckily, Paris has renovated the metro several times since it's opening, making it easier and easier to use for non-French speakers. Signage is both French and English, as are voice announcements.

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There are two ways to buy Paris Metro tickets: at station ticket windows or vending machines. If you're using the vending machine, pay with euro coins, or a European debit or credit card that has a smart chip. If you're carrying euro bills or a non-European credit card, head to the staffed ticket windows for payment.

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Can you take and travel with your luggage on the Paris Metro ? Yes, you can travel on Paris Metro with luggage. Paris Metro is one of the oldest and most used underground railways in the world. Its reliability, safety and frequency make it a top choice for travelers.

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Complete your plans today by reserving a ride with Uber in Paris. Request a ride up to 30 days in advance, at any time and on any day of the year.

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Unless weather conditions or special safety considerations prevent it, you can visit the tower up to midnight from mid-June to early September and up to 11:00 pm the rest of the year.

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Metro. The Paris Metro is our preferred way to get around the city when we travel around central Paris. This is because it is fast, affordable, has a regular service, and it covers the majority of the attractions in the city centre. The Paris metro system is currently made up of 16 lines and 302 stations.

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The best way to get around Paris is on foot and by metro. The elegant arrondissements are practically made for pedestrians. Still, Paris is very big, so you should take the efficient metro to travel long distances.

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Tipping is not considered etiquette by French people in French restaurants, but if you enjoyed your meal, it's nice to leave 5 - 10%. If you really enjoyed the meal, or plan on returning to the restaurant and want the wait staff to like you, 15% is a generous tip.

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Spring (especially April and May) and autumn (particularly September and October) are ideal for visiting Paris, as crowds will be thinner, but the weather will be nice.

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First thing to do: ask for a carnet of Métro tickets (group of ten). Don't buy Métro tickets one by one. Also, consider a Navigo transit pass. The Paris Métro is among the great transport bargains of the world: over 300 stations all over the city, and you can travel from one to another for 1.90€—or even less.

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