Is Uber Cheaper Than Taxi in Paris?

By Alice Nichols

When it comes to getting around Paris, there are many options available. From the traditional taxi to newer ride-sharing services like Uber, it can be difficult to determine which option is the best for your budget. In this article, we will take a closer look at whether Uber is cheaper than a taxi in Paris.

Uber vs. Taxi in Paris: The Basics

Before we dive into the cost comparison between Uber and taxi in Paris, let’s take a quick look at the basics of each service.

Taxi: Taxis are regulated by the French government and are required to charge a set fare based on distance traveled and time spent in the taxi. Taxis can be hailed on the street or found at designated taxi stands throughout Paris.

Uber: Uber is a ride-sharing service that allows users to request a driver through their smartphone app. The fare is calculated based on distance traveled and time spent in the car, and payment is made through the app.

The Cost Comparison

Now that we understand how each service works, it’s time to compare costs. According to recent data, Uber is generally cheaper than taking a traditional taxi in Paris.

Price per kilometer: The average price per kilometer for an Uber ride in Paris is around 1 euro, while taxis charge around 1.50 euros per kilometer.

Base fare: The base fare for an Uber ride in Paris is 1 euro, while taxis charge 2.60 euros as a starting fee.

Waiting time: If you get stuck in traffic or need to make a stop along the way, taxis will charge extra for waiting time. This fee can quickly add up and make your trip more expensive than expected. With Uber, there’s no extra fee for waiting time – you only pay for time spent driving.

Other Factors to Consider

While cost is an important factor when choosing between Uber and taxi in Paris, there are other factors to consider as well.

Availability: Taxis can be difficult to find during peak hours or in certain neighborhoods. With Uber, you can always request a ride through the app and have a driver arrive within minutes.

Language barriers: If you don’t speak French, communicating with a taxi driver can be challenging. With Uber, you can communicate with your driver through the app and avoid any language barriers.

Safety: Both Uber and taxi drivers in Paris are required to have a professional driver’s license and undergo background checks. However, some people may feel safer using Uber because they can track their ride through the app and share their trip details with friends or family.

The Bottom Line

In general, Uber is cheaper than taking a traditional taxi in Paris. However, cost is not the only factor to consider when choosing between these two services. Depending on your needs and preferences, either option could be the right choice for your next trip around Paris.