We are planning to take the funicular either up or down going to the Sacre Couer area. I have read that some people have been fined either by employees or scammers.
What have other’s experienced with the funicular and how can we be sure not to be stopped even though we have valid tickets?
Thanks.
Posted by
1278 posts
The funicular is about 2 minute ride up or down to the street below and probably costs $2 euro. We rode it last year. Some guy was just standing out there at the gate with tickets next to the machine for same price as posted. It was easier to buy if from him than fight the machine. Seems like it would slow things down too much if everyone tries to get them out of the machine. Did he work there; does he buy tickets and sells them? Who knows. He opened the gate to let everyone in, so I'm guessing he worked there? The price was the same. It's really not a big deal and I think you might be over thinking it. Other than the guy with the tickets, there was the funicular driver; that's it. He didn't get out; look at anyone or care who was on the funicular. The scammers are busy trying to sell everyone locks to lock on the fence near Sacre Coeur. Who could possibly be fining anyone? It's the equivalent of getting on the merry go round; not exactly a high risk activity. You can also walk down the steep stairs down to the street instead. Either way, it's a wonderful area to explore! Enjoy!!
Posted by
Panguitch, Utah
2862 posts
No one will bother you if you have the correct ticket, which is a métro/RER ticket at 2.50€. You can also use the 12€ Navigo day pass (or any Navigo pass which includes zone 1).
Scammers do not fine people and only uniformed RATP controllers issue fines. Just keep your tickets with you for the entire (short) trip.
Posted by
Ontario, Canada
6118 posts
The funicular is part of the Paris public transportation system. You can use a valid Navigo Decouverte or Navigo easy card or a t+ paper ticket. If you use any of these, you won't have a problem. If you are concerned, have your paper ticket before you get to the funicular. You can't be fined if you have validated before boarding and keep it with you.
Posted by
Paris
10696 posts
I absolutely would not buy from some guy selling tickets near departure.
Since it's just a regular ticket for metro/RER, just make sure you have one (or a day or week pass) before arriving to the Funicular area.
Posted by
Greeley, co, usa
2704 posts
I was offered tickets by a guy when I went to the ticket machine. I had several of my used tickets in my pocket that probably would have worked as well as the ones he offered to sell me.
Posted by
Chicago
8981 posts
I cannot imagine people buyiing tickets from 'some guy' hanging out at the machines. Lessons will be learned.
Posted by
Historic Savannah, GA
1442 posts
Frankly it's amazing what people do when they visit a foreign country. All common sense goes out the window.
Posted by
38 posts
You use a subway Metro ticket to ride the funicular. So just buy an extra Metro ticket for it. The Metro is a great way to visit different parts of the city.
I do not recommend using taxis as they get stuck in the city traffic with one red light after another…
Be aware of the petty scams and pickpockets.