5 Tips for the Paris Metro with Kids

Tips for the Paris Metro with Kids. 

Overall we found the Paris Metro easy to use. Rainy and cold weather are the perfect reason to head underground and get around Paris using the Metro.

Here are a few tips to make it easier to navigate with kids.

1. Kids Tickets. Kids under 4 travel for free. 
2. Buy in Bulk. Buy your tickets in packs of 10 – they are cheaper. We easily went through 10 and never had to worry about buying a ticket each time. You can purchase these packs from a machine or from a ticket window. 
3. Ticket Holders Only. Some Metro entrances are for ticket holders only. They are marked on the signs above the entrance, so make sure to check before you head down the stairs. (See number 2.)
4. Strollers. The stations are large so a stroller may help your little ones but stations are filled with stairs.  Newer stations may have elevators, but do not count on that. We found wearing our littlest one in the carrier and using the stroller by folding and unfolding it for the four-year-old worked best. H was able to ride in the stroller on the long walks, but gets easily in and out to navigate the stairs. Further, some Metro entrances do not have entrances for strollers. The automatic gates are too narrow. Be prepared to fold the stroller to lift it over the gate.
5. Know Where You Are Going.  The app Paris Metro Map and App Planner can help you plan your routes. Make sure you know the number and color of your train, the last stop in the direction you are going and your stop name and you are good to go. 

The Paris Metro is a great way to get around. It is cheap. It is fast. And it is pretty dependable. You just need to spend a little time getting to know the system and then you can enjoy all the conveniences.