Please sign in to post.

web site to get around Paris on the subway

Hi to the forum,
I saw a reference to either a website or app to help to get from place to place in Paris. However, I can't find it now. Anyone know about that site or app?

Thanks.

Posted by
10067 posts

CityMapper does the best job, I have found, of integrating live-time information of all the options out there. Available for Android and iOS.

Posted by
2675 posts

The RATP website has evolved into one of the most confusing, poorly organized, and incompetently designed sites on the entire world wide web. It is next to impossible to find the desired information.. The app is not much better.

Citymapper is the app you need. I use it real time but if you do not have G3/4, try to download the map interface when you do have a wifi connection. Program your hotel address as your ¨home¨ and the app will give you bus, métro, RER, bicycle, walking, Kaptan, and a few other options allow you to return with ease.

Citymapper is a gem.

Posted by
86 posts

Yep, CityMapper. We used it last week and it was THE best!

Posted by
1057 posts

I used the RATP app and it was pretty good. My only real criticism is that because they also run the RER train system it would sometimes put you on the RER instead of the metro. The only time to take the RER inside central Paris is RER C if you want get right next to the Musée d'Orsay. If the app ever tries to put you on the RER double-check because there's a better way.

Google maps mass transit does a good job with non-metro transportation but is mediocre at metro trips.

I really like the "new" redesigned Metro map and site: http://metromap.fr/en

Have a great trip,
=Tod

Posted by
8136 posts

on 2nd thought if you've been to a city like Chicago or DC or NYC you really do not need an ap to get around on the metro/subway in Paris as there are transit maps everywhere

Posted by
2675 posts

The RATP operates most of the RER A and RER B. The SNCF operates the other RER lines including RER C. If an app suggests your taking an RER within Paris, why ignore the advice?

Googlemaps are fine for walking the city. I would not suggest using them for public transportation.

Posted by
10067 posts

The only time to take the RER inside central Paris is RER C if you want get right next to the Musée d'Orsay

Except not during the summer, as they have the central section of the RER C closed, so there is no service to/from the Musee d’Orsay station . . .

Posted by
102 posts

Just looked at City Mapper. Yes, it does look like a good resource. I'm going to Paris soon. Does anyone know if one can download City Mapper and use offline? I realize the information would not be "real-time".

Posted by
12313 posts

I've used the RATP app "Next Stop Paris" and have been really happy with it. Sometimes I use data when I'm out. Sometimes I just use it with WiFi before I go out then stick with those directions.

Posted by
2184 posts

I'm looking at the Paris Metro app on my phone as I type. It is from mapway. It is adware, but you can turn off the ads for $3.99.

We found it very useful on our visit. You can put in a point of interest and it shows you the route, including any line changes. It also estimates the trip time, which was very accurate.

Posted by
8 posts

I Second they Citymapper app. It was essential for my last trip to Paris. I couldn’t have gotten around without it!

Posted by
270 posts

Find a good schedule/map app, but get paper! Metro, train & bus maps with info are readily available. They are usable underground, in buildings & in bright sunlight. They don't break when you drop them & don't need recharging. You can mark them up as you wish or use them as a placemat. For a good all-around map, I recommend the Michelin "Paris par Arrondissement". Small pocket sized booklet with great street mapping, an index, attraction info, and oodles of transportation maps & info. Bon Voyage!

Posted by
4087 posts

https://www.ratp.fr/en

The RATP website has gradually improved. I use its interactive function each morning to plan the day's trips, through my hotel's WiFi. I'm pretty sure those with smart phones can gain access and use it on the go. Google Maps also offers suggestions, for a comparison.

And don't forget that the new NavigoEasy card makes transit easier, taking the old carnet of tickets electronic.

https://parisbytrain.com/navigo-easy/