Stephanie_Hise

Hello there,
I am traveling alone to Paris and would like to know the best way to get to my hotel. I know there have been many posts back and forth about the RER and taxis but I would like to know your thoughts regarding a single woman traveling with one large suitcase and a carry-on. Is a taxi a safe bet for me? I should be getting there at about 12:00 or so and am staying in the 4th district.
Thanks for all your help fodorites

adrienne

Yes taxis are safe. I'm curious...what would the safety factor be that you are concerned about.

Christina

I think safe bet is just a term, not sure.

I am a single woman and take taxis a lot from CDG, it's just one thing I prefer to splurge on compared to other things (ie, I don't spend a lot on restaurants or expensive hotels). It just starts a trip off nicer for me when I have an easier and more comfortable arrival given I never sleep anyway on the flight.

It's just a matter of money, that's all it gets down to. Are you okay with spending that much on a ride from the airport or not versus the alternatives. It's a trade off of what that money means to you and what you get by saving or spending it. I consider my time and energy valuable and worth the cost to me. Also, I would never take the RER if I weren't staying in a hotel within about a block of an RER stop, which I never am. I would take the RER if I were, though. I'm not into group shuttle vans and all those arrangments.

I guess I prefer not having to make arrangements and just being able to go to the curb to get a cab whenever I am ready, just seems easier to me, one less thing to worry about.

it will probably cost you around 45 euro.

Michel_Paris

The RER has stops that intersect with the metro system.

I would see no security issues if taking it during the day.

Depending on where you are staying in the 4th...if for example on one of the Islands, there is a stop on Ile de la Cite.

I have taken it with a large bag on wheels. Part of the answer is are you OK with maneuvering a large bag. My last trip I did RER and Metro to my hotel. Based on the number of Metro station, you are likely to be near one for your hotel.

Some also say that when you land jet-lagged it is something you should not have to worry about (how to use RER, Metro, finding hotel,etc..), take a cab.

ellen75005

The past several times I've gone to Paris I've taken the RER in with no problem (this past time I was alone). I got off at Cite (in front of Notre Dame) and walked the short distance to my apartment. There was an escalator at the station, though, and you'd want to be sure you don't have to carry your bag up stairs if you have to switch to the metro. All in all, a taxi is easier. The RER is 8.70 Euros one-way compared to 50+ Euros for a taxi. If money isn't an option, you might as well take a taxi.

Sarastro

If this is your first time visiting Paris, take the taxi. It will take you from the customs/baggage claim exit to the front steps of your hotel faster than any other option. The RER or the bus options are fine if you are familiar with exactly where you are going but I believe that the 50€+ that a taxi will cost is money well spent and will give you a stress free introduction to this wonderful city.

Write your hotel name and address on a piece of paper and hand it to the drive to preclude any misunderstanding.

denisea

Take the taxi, especially since you said you will have a large suitcase. Make sure to get one outside at the queue....don't accept a "taxi" from the hustlers inside the terminal who solicit you.