Transport: Paris has an excellent public transport system. It is divided
into five zones radiating out from the centre and ticket prices
vary according to the number of zones required. Public transport
consists of buses, an underground metro and express trains (RER).
Taxis are also available. The easiest way to get around is on the
metro and the subways are generally safe at all times. It is
possible to transfer between the metro and the RER trains at no
extra cost. The bus system is also extensive, but is slower, less
frequent and often more expensive than the metro. Various passes
are available for public transport and can be good value if staying
for a longer period. The Paris Visites pass is valid for
one, two, three or five days and also allows discounts at certain
museums, shops and restaurants, but will not necessarily save
money, depending on how much one travels. There is also the cheaper
weekly or monthly Carte Orange (passport photo required),
but this is technically only available for Ile de France residents.
Both allow unlimited travel in the chosen zones on the metro, RER,
buses and the funicular to Montmartre. The cheapest option if only
in town for a day or two is the Carte Mobilis, which allows
unlimited travel for a day in Zones 1 and 2. From May to September
a passenger boat, the Batobus, offers sightseeing trips on the
Seine stopping at the main attractions, and from April to September
a Balabus bus service loops around most of the major sights in
Paris every Sunday and on public holidays. A nightbus service,
Noctambus, covers the city between 1am and 5.30am. Only think about
renting a car if planning excursions from the city as aggressive
driving, confusing one-way streets and impossible parking can be
testing for visitors. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed
or caught at taxi ranks.
