Paris Visite Pass: Fares and How to Use

If you're looking for an easy and cost-efficient way to travel on the Paris metro, the Paris Visite pass may be the right choice for you. This pass, unlike individual metro tickets, allows for unlimited travel in Paris (Metro, RER, bus, tramway, and regional SNCF trains) and the greater Paris region for 1, 2, 3 or 5 days. The pass will also give you discounts at several museums, attractions, and restaurants (see list here).

Tip: You should choose the zone 1-5 card to see attractions outside Paris including the Chateau de Versailles or Disneyland Paris. Choose a card covering all 8 transport zones only if you wish to spend a significant amount of time exploring the greater Paris region.

How Much Does the Paris Visite Pass Cost?

Note that these fares may change without notice.

Adult Prices

1-day pass:

• Zones 1-3: 9 Euros
• Zones 1-6: 18.90 Euros

2-day pass:

• Zones 1-3: 14.70 Euros
• Zones 1-6: 28.90 Euros

3-day pass:

• Zones 1-3: 20 Euros
• Zones 1-6: 40.50 Euros

5-day pass:

• Zones 1-3: 28.90 Euros
• Zones 1-6: 49.90 Euros

Buy direct at Rail Europe

Prices for children age 4-11

1-day pass:

• Zones 1-3: 4.50 Euros
• Zones 1-6: 9.45 Euros

2-day pass:

• Zones 1-3: 7.35 Euros
• Zones 1-6: 14.45 Euros

3-day pass:

• Zones 1-3: 10 Euros
• Zones 1-6: 20.25 Euros

5-day pass:

• Zones 1-3: 14.45 Euros
• Zones 1-6: 24.70 Euros

Buy the Paris Visite pass direct at Rail Europe

How to Use the Paris Visite Pass

Once you have purchased your Paris Visite pass online or from an agent in a Paris Metro ticket stand (do not purchase through the automatic machines as these will not provide you with the required card component) make sure to take the following steps before using the pass:

1. Write your first and last name on the card.
2. Look for the serial number on the back of your non-transferable card and write this number on the magnetic ticket accompanying the card.
3. If you do not see a start and end date on the magnetic ticket, write these on yourself. This will prevent unnecessary hassles if a Metro agent asks to see your card.

You're now ready to use your Paris Visite pass. Remember that the pass may only be used by the person it's attributed to by name, and may not be transferred.

Lost Card? Pass Not Working Properly? Other Problems?

If you run into any problems using you card, have lost it or wish to change your number of zones, see this page from the official RATP site for help.

Why can't I use the digital "Navigo" metro passes I've see Parisians using?

Technically, tourists can get a Navigo pass, which is indeed less expensive than the Paris Visite Pass (and also offers no frills). My personal take is that it's not worth the red tape unless you'll be in Paris for at least a month or come to the city on a regular basis, since you'll need to provide a photo of yourself and formally apply for the card at one of several agencies. It can be a nice choice for travelers who come to Paris often, since you can keep the card and recharge it whenever you wish. My colleague James Martin at About.com Europe Travel has written an excellent primer on how to crack the Navigo system, if you decide it's worth a try.

Submit a Review of the Paris Visite Pass

Have you had a good or unpleasant experience with the Paris Visite metro pass? Would you recommend the pass to fellow visitors in Paris, or is it smarter to simply buy individual metro tickets? What advantages and disadvantages are there in purchasing the pass? Please share your insight by writing a review of the Paris Visite Pass.

Read more about how to ride the Paris metro and where to buy tickets