Paris

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Buses

Sections

1. Overview of the Paris Bus System

  • Network: Paris has over 60 bus lines operating within the city and additional lines serving the suburbs. Each line is numbered and has a specific route.
  • Hours of Operation: Most buses run from 5:30 AM to 12:30 AM. For late-night travel, the Noctilien night bus service operates between 12:30 AM and 5:30 AM.
  • Coverage: Buses cover areas not served by the metro, including smaller streets and neighborhoods. They also connect to major metro and RER stations.

2. Tickets and Costs

  • Ticket Types:

    • T+ Ticket: The standard ticket for buses, metro, trams, and RER within central Paris.
    • Navigo Pass: A weekly or monthly pass for unlimited travel on all public transport in Paris (including buses).
    • Paris Visite Pass: A tourist pass offering unlimited travel for 1-5 days.
    • Carnet of Tickets: A bundle of 10 T+ tickets at a discounted price.

  • Ticket Costs (as of 2023):

    • Single T+ Ticket: €2.10 if purchased onboard the bus (cash only, no change given) or €1.90 if purchased in advance.
    • Carnet of 10 Tickets: €16.90.
    • Navigo Weekly Pass: €30.00 (valid Monday to Sunday).
    • Navigo Monthly Pass: €84.10.
    • Paris Visite Pass: Prices vary depending on the number of days and zones (e.g., €13.55 for 1 day in central Paris).

  • Important Notes:

    • T+ tickets allow transfers between buses and trams within 90 minutes of the first validation. However, transfers between buses and the metro or RER are not allowed with a single T+ ticket.
    • Tickets must be validated when boarding the bus using the machine near the driver.

3. How to Purchase Tickets

  • Before Boarding:

    • At metro or RER stations: Purchase tickets from ticket machines or counters.
    • At tobacco shops (Tabacs): Many sell T+ tickets and Navigo passes.
    • Online: Rechargeable Navigo cards can be topped up via the RATP app.

  • Onboard the Bus:

    • You can buy a single T+ ticket directly from the driver, but it costs slightly more (€2.10) and must be paid in cash. Exact change is preferred.

4. Schedules and Routes

  • Finding Schedules:

    • Bus stops display route maps, schedules, and estimated arrival times.
    • Use the RATP app or website to check real-time schedules and plan your journey.
    • Google Maps and Citymapper are also reliable tools for navigating the bus system.

  • Key Routes:

    • Line 42: A scenic route passing landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Champs-Élysées.
    • Line 69: Popular with tourists, connecting the Eiffel Tower to Père Lachaise Cemetery.
    • Line 96: Runs through the Marais district and ends at Gare Montparnasse.

  • Frequency:

    • During peak hours: Every 5-10 minutes.
    • Off-peak hours: Every 10-20 minutes.
    • Sundays and holidays: Reduced frequency.

5. Using the Bus

  • Boarding:

    • Enter through the front door and validate your ticket using the machine near the driver.
    • If you have a Navigo card, tap it on the reader.
    • Exit through the rear or middle doors.

  • Stops:

    • Buses only stop if someone signals to get off or if there are passengers waiting at the stop. Press the red "Stop" button on the bus to request a stop.

  • Accessibility:

    • Most buses are wheelchair accessible and have designated spaces for strollers and wheelchairs.

6. Tips and Local Considerations

  • Plan Ahead: Use the RATP app or Google Maps to check routes and schedules, especially if traveling during off-peak hours or late at night.
  • Avoid Rush Hours: Buses can get crowded during peak commuting times (8:00-10:00 AM and 5:00-7:00 PM).
  • Be Patient: Traffic in Paris can delay buses, especially during rush hours or in busy areas.
  • Keep Your Ticket: Hold onto your validated ticket for the duration of your journey, as inspectors occasionally check for valid tickets.
  • Be Aware of Strikes: Public transport strikes (grèves) are common in France. Check the RATP website or app for updates.
  • No Eating or Drinking: It’s considered impolite to eat or drink on public transport in Paris.

7. Night Buses (Noctilien)

  • Service: Operates from 12:30 AM to 5:30 AM when regular buses and the metro are not running.
  • Routes: Cover central Paris and the suburbs, with major hubs at Gare de Lyon, Gare Montparnasse, and Châtelet.
  • Tickets: The same T+ ticket or Navigo pass can be used on Noctilien buses.

8. Cultural Considerations

  • Politeness: Greet the driver with a polite "Bonjour" (Good morning) or "Bonsoir" (Good evening) when boarding.
  • Priority Seating: Offer your seat to elderly passengers, pregnant women, or those with disabilities.
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Keep conversations and phone calls quiet to respect other passengers.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the Paris bus system efficiently and enjoyably. If you have any specific questions or need help planning a route, feel free to ask!