Getting to & around Paris

Travelling within France, the fastest and cheapest way to Paris is usually the train (from about €55); arriving from abroad, you'll normally fly in and then continue by train, bus or a pre-booked transfer.

How to get to Paris

Paris is well connected by multiple transport modes, catering to different origins and travel needs. If you're travelling from within France or nearby European cities like Bordeaux, Berlin, Madrid, Munich, or Cologne, the train is often the quickest and most cost-effective option. With about 16 train routes into Paris, fares can start from roughly €55 for journeys within France or the surrounding regions. Trains offer city-centre arrivals and frequent departures.

For budget-conscious travellers within the region, the bus or coach lines provide a cheaper alternative, with fares from approximately €20. Though typically slower than trains, buses operate on about 3 main routes, connecting Paris to various French and nearby European cities.

If you are arriving from farther afield, such as from North America or Asia, flying into one of Paris’ airports is the usual choice. Flights from London or other major European cities typically take 1–3 hours, while long-haul flights from continents like North America can exceed 8 hours. Once you arrive, continuing your journey by train, bus, or pre-booked transfer helps complete your trip comfortably. More details are available on flying to Paris.

Driving into Paris is an option for road-trippers or those planning to visit rural areas outside the city. Parking and traffic in central Paris can be challenging, but driving features flexibility for regional travel.

Getting around Paris: how do you navigate the city?

Paris has an extensive public transport network including metro, buses, trams, and regional trains (RER). The metro is often the fastest way to get around the city centre, with stations spaced closely together. Buses and trams complement the metro, offering access to neighbourhoods beyond the central areas.

Walking is a practical option within central Paris, where many attractions and neighbourhoods lie within a few kilometres of each other. This also lets you see the city at a comfortable pace.

Generally, you don’t need a car to get around Paris itself as public transport is reliable and dense. Cars may be useful if you plan to see outside the city or visit rural destinations nearby.