What is the Paris subway called?

Unraveling the Parisian Underground: What is the Paris Subway Called?

When navigating the enchanting streets of Paris, you’re bound to need a fast and efficient way to traverse the city. While taxis and buses have their place, for many Parisians and visitors alike, the answer lies beneath the surface: the Paris Métro.

While “subway” might be a perfectly acceptable and widely understood term for an underground railway, in Paris, the preferred and official name for their system is Métro. The word itself is a shortened version of “chemin de fer métropolitain,” which translates to “metropolitan railway.” It perfectly captures the essence of the system: a comprehensive railway network serving the entire metropolitan area of Paris.

The Paris Métro is more than just a means of transportation; it’s a cultural icon. With its distinctive art nouveau entrances, designed by Hector Guimard, it’s a beautiful glimpse into the city’s rich history. Stepping onto the Métro feels like stepping back in time, even as you’re being whisked forward with impressive speed.

The system boasts an impressive network of 14 interconnected lines (with more planned for the future), allowing you to reach nearly any corner of the city with ease. This intricate web, coupled with its seamless connection to the RER regional express network, solidifies the Métro’s position as an indispensable element of Parisian daily life. The RER offers longer distance travel to areas outside the city center, making the combination of the Métro and RER a powerhouse of Parisian public transportation.

So, the next time you find yourself lost in the romantic labyrinth that is Paris, remember that the key to unlocking the city lies beneath your feet. Don’t just call it the “Paris subway,” embrace the local lingo and hop on the Métro. You’ll be one step closer to experiencing Paris like a true Parisian.