There are many ways to get around every day in France and, as a student, you can often subscribe for a reduced rate.
Public transit
In most French cities, the public transit system is made up of buses and tramways. Networks are usually dense in city centers.
With 14 lines, the Paris Metro is one of the most extensive in the world. It operates until 1am during the week and until 2 am on Fridays and Saturdays. A night bus network then takes over.
Outside of Paris, five French cities have metro lines: Marseille, Lille, Lyon, Rennes and Toulouse.
There often are automatic tellers at metro stations and tram stops where you can buy tickets or passes.
Public transit tips
Students and/or people under 26 qualify for special fares when subscribing for public transit. To get these fares, you usually have to show your student card or identity card when subscribing.
In Paris and Île-de-France
- The Imagine'R card: unlimited trips throughout Île-de-France for less than 350 euros per year for students who live in Île-de-France;
- The ticket jeune: valid for 24 hours on a Saturday, Sunday or bank holiday, it lets you travel freely within a limited zone for just 4 euros if you are under 26;
- For more information about public transit, visit the RATP website (Parisian Transit Authority).
Self-service bikes
Vélib’ in Paris, Vélov’ in Lyon and Vélo Bleu in Nice: most big French cities have self-service bike rental. An annual subscription – between 15 and 30 euros on average – makes it very easy to use it.
Taxis
In France, taxis are safe. Don't hesitate to use them to get around.
The fares are strictly regulated and are rather high compared to international averages. Crossing Paris will cost about 30 euros. All taxis must have a meter that measures the price of the trip. If there isn't one, it is a fake taxi: make sure you avoid those.
