Public transport in Paris is a great way to get around the city with kids. The metro is the fastest option, with most attractions just a short walk from a station. Children under 4 travel for free, and children aged 4-10 enjoy reduced fares. Consider buying a day or week pass for the whole family to save time and money.
Buses in Paris are a fun option with kids because they offer great views of the city, making the ride feel like a mini sightseeing tour. Kids love pressing the stop button and watching the city streets go by, keeping them entertained.
For short trips, walking is often the most enjoyable option—especially with beautiful parks and wide boulevards perfect for families.
To get started, I highly recommend downloading the Citymapper app. It’s one of those apps that really makes a difference, as it brings together all the transportation options (metro, bus, train and other options) in one place and offers clear, easy-to-follow directions for getting around the city.
Where to buy tickets for kids
You can buy tickets from the ticket vending machines inside metro and train stations or purchase them online through the IDF Mobilités and Bonjour RATP apps.
I recommend getting a Navigo Easy Card, a contactless card that costs €2, which you can load with multiple tickets. It’s a great option if you’ll be using public transport frequently.
Ticket prices (2024)
- Single T+ ticket: €2.15, valid for one trip on the metro, RER (within Paris), buses, trams and the Montmartre Funicular.
- Carnet of 10 tickets: €17.35 for adults, €8.65 for children aged 4-10. Children under 4 travel for free.
- Navigo Day Pass: €8.65 for unlimited travel in zones 1-2 (central Paris). It goes up to €20.60 if you’re traveling across all zones (e.g., to Disneyland Paris or Charles de Gaulle Airport).
How to use the tickets on public transport
- On the metro and RER, simply validate your ticket at the turnstiles. Children can pass through the gate with you, but make sure each person (except those under 4) has their own ticket.
- On buses and trams, validate your ticket using the onboard machine. Tickets are valid for transfers between buses and trams for 90 minutes from the time of validation.
Travelling with strollers
Navigating the metro with strollers can be challenging since not all stations have elevators or escalators. Buses can be a better option, as they have designated stroller spaces and offer scenic views of Paris. I found it easier to enter the bus via the back door, park the stroller, and secure the brakes before heading to the front to validate my pass.
On the metro, most stations have wide gates next to the turnstiles for passengers with strollers, wheelchairs, or large luggage. You can ask the ticket vendor to open the gate, or press the buzzer near the gates for assistance.
Tips for taking the Paris metro with kids:
- Know your line: Metro lines are identified by numbers inside colored circles. Pay attention to both the line number and the direction, which is indicated by the final station on that route.
- Boarding etiquette: When the metro arrives, step aside and wait for all passengers to exit before entering. If it’s crowded, avoid sitting in folding seats, as they are reserved for busy times.
- Disembarking: At some stations, doors open automatically, while at others you’ll need to push the button to exit.
- Stay alert: Be mindful of your belongings—keep an eye on your purse, bag, and pockets, especially when the metro doors open. Pickpockets are more active during crowded times, so stay aware of your surroundings.
- Have a separation plan: If you get separated, have a plan. For example, instruct kids to exit at the next station and wait for you on the platform.
- Special lines for fun: Lines 1, 4, and 14 are automated. Sit in the first or last car, and kids can pretend to “drive” by watching through the front window. For the best view, stand on the far-right side of the platform and grab a front-row seat in the driverless car.
I hope you’ve found this article on public transport in Paris with kids useful. Check out my Paris Itineraries with Kids for ideas on what to do and see in Paris with kids.
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