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I think it stinks, transferring among lines is a major pain in the ass(Chatelet-les-Halles, for example, is hell. I was just there like 3 hours ago and gurl it was terrible), the pickpockets are scary, the image of all those beggars is unpleasant, the signs and directions are confusing, and the trains have no AC.
But for a system of its age, I guess it's good enough, and it is indeed really extensive.
True. But incredible cheap in comparison to London, NYC or Tokyo. For 70 euros per month you have access to ALL the RER, metro, bus, trams and plenty of transilliens. Which mean everywhere in Paris and its suburbs.
Being old is just an excuse. It's not like the trains running today are actually 100 years old.
Besides, Tokyo's metro system is only 20-30 years younger yet it's much better kept than the one in Paris, and way more extensive, due to the gigantic size of the city.
The Paris Metro is generally around 50-70 years older than Tokyo Metro. Most of Tokyo Metro dates from the 1960's through 1980's.
And Tokyo Metro is hardly attractive. It's probably the ugliest system in Asia. Looks horrible compared to the new systems in China, HK and Singapore. But it's also probably the best system in the world.
True. But incredible cheap in comparison to London, NYC or Tokyo. For 70 euros per month you have access to ALL the RER, metro, bus, trams and plenty of transilliens. Which mean everywhere in Paris and its suburbs.
London's system is very expensive, but NYC's system costs about the same as in Paris. Tokyo, I have no idea.
I think it stinks, transferring among lines is a major pain in the ass(Chatelet-les-Halles, for example, is hell. I was just there like 3 hours ago and gurl it was terrible), the pickpockets are scary, the image of all those beggars is unpleasant, the signs and directions are confusing, and the trains have no AC.
But for a system of its age, I guess it's good enough, and it is indeed really extensive.
It sounds like you're easily rattled. Maybe you should avoid city life?
It sounds like you're easily rattled. Maybe you should avoid city life?
No, what he said is true. It is worst if you have to commute every day in it. That being said, it is efficent and quick. But the bus is better (and not only in Paris IMO).
As a tourist, I would advise you to take the bus instead of the metro. Cleaner, same price, just a bit slower and you get nice views of the city.
Most buses in Paris do not have AC, have super small window openings, so it gets very hot inside in Summer. I would absolutely not recommend taking the bus in Summer.
Besides, Parisian buses have ridiculously little seating and little space inside (for some reason the city refuses to buy double-decker buses like in London), so they are often very crowded, and finding a seat is next to impossible.
Location: God's Gift to Mankind for flying anything
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To the OP !!
Regardless of all the other OFF topic messages
(which have absolutely nothing to do with *your* question)
even with comparing the Paris Metro system and other public transportation systems,
good or bad, clean or not, old or whatever ... ,
it still is a good way to get around for a couple of days or however long you will be there.
I have no idea what your other plans are,
but if you do want to see more of the immediate surroundings of Paris,
then yes, use the public transportation system
Yes you can walk, but only so far.
Get used to what Europe is like.
After all it is way older than wherever you come from so do not expect the *same* conveniences.
If you insist on getting that *laminated* map from Amazon, do that.
It is your choice. I have found that in Paris, you can get maps the size of a pocket book.
Falk is a brand which, in my opinion, has the best maps in Europe.
They fold a certain way and after you get used to it, rather ingenious !!
Or ..., again download a metro map of Paris.
Metro usage, really easy.
In the station find the map on the wall,
find the place where you want to go to,
push that button and the map will show you how to get there.
Just remember where to change !!
LBNL, a French phrase book ?
Use your phone and get a free APP !!
Poke the link into your home computer, read the ratings and the comments,
and then decide which one you would like to use.
I have no suggestions because I do speak French ...
Thanks again for the suggestions. I never expected that my question would generate so much discussion! I appreciate the comments.
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