I would like to purchase a pass that will provide access to the major museums in Paris. I also need a pass that provides access to getting around the city (Visite?)
Can anyone recommend trusted resources for purchasing these? I see a lot of sites, but I’m worried about buying something that is not usable.
Thank you.
Most people will recommend that you stick with the museum pass. Last year we purchased the pass at the Pantheon, which was near our hotel.
You don't need to buy anything in advance. You can buy the Museum Pass at any of the participating sites, plus some of the information desks at places like CDG or Gare du Nord.
For the Metro/buses, either buy a Navigo Decouverte card if your stay is long enough ( good for a week, starts each Monday), or just buy a carnet (10 tickets). You can get these at just about any metro station from a machine ( or from a ticket window- the easier way if you are buying the pass- if you get a sympathetic attendant, they'll put it together for you. Requires a photo). This website can explain it all https://parisbytrain.com/paris-train-metro-week-pass-navigo-decouverte/
If you want one-stop shopping, you will pay a hefty price over what you would pay if you bought items individually. Even the Visite, sold to tourists by the RATP, is not a very good deal compared to other types of tickets they sell, like the carnet (10-pack of tickets that you pay 21% off of the individual ticket price), Mobilis (day pass that pays off if you do 4 or more trios in a day), Navigo Decouverte (unlimited travel in the Paris region for 1 calender week beginning on a Monday).
The Paris Museum Pass is a good time-saver, and can be a good money-saver if you have the energy to use it efficiently. It doesn't cover any transportation. I wouldn't recommend any other kind of pass for museums or sights. Others know more than I about the Navigo Decouverte for Metro and buses, but if it doesn't work for you then try packets of ten carnets (individual tickets) which are cheaper and quicker than buying individually.
The Museum Pass can be bought at any of the attractions it covers, and at various stores and airport locations. No need to order in advance. Don't fill in the start date till you start actually using it.
