Metro in Paris
May 3rd, 2002 | 10:03 AM
#2
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When buying metro tickets, unless you buy one of the passes, you should probably ask for a carnet (10 metro tickets). But, if you’ll be in Paris for 4-7 days, don’t bother with a carnet and opt for a “coupon hebdominaire.” This is a week pass, and you can get it at the machines in most stations, using a credit card or cash, as well as at the customer service window. (the machine accommodates multiple languages). This week pass is only 87F ($11-12USD) for unlimited travel on metro and RER, for seven days—Monday to Sunday—so it’s a great deal, even if you’re not there an entire week.
May 3rd, 2002 | 01:19 PM
#6
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The "coupon hebdomadaire" (simply means "weekly coupon") is part of the Carte Orange. When you buy it you ask for the coupon hebdomadaire, E13,25 for zones 1-2, or the coupon mensuel (monthly), E44,35 zones 1-2. Of course, most tourists would want the weekly version. Years ago, when I was a student in Paris, I bought the monthly coupon and it was a great savings for me.<BR><BR>There is also a RATP ticket called a Carte Hebdomadaire, which is good for 12 trips in a week. I guess this might be useful for commuters, but is not something a tourist would find useful, IMO. Don't confuse the two.
May 3rd, 2002 | 04:21 PM
#8
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The Carte Orange consists of a gray plastic folder containing an orange card with your photo (any 1x1 will do), name and a number (it's free). When you buy the "coupon hebdomadaire," you write the number of the carte orange on it. There is also a slot for the coupon in the little folder. You actually use the coupon in the Metro, but in buses, just flash the carte orange and coupon at the driver.
