How Much Does It Cost to Ride the RER in Paris?

By Robert Palmer

When planning a visit to Paris, it’s essential to consider transportation costs. The Réseau Express Régional (RER) is a convenient and efficient way to travel around the city and its outskirts. But how much does it cost to ride the RER in Paris?

Standard Fares

The cost of riding the RER in Paris depends on several factors, including the distance traveled and the number of zones crossed. The city is divided into five fare zones, with Zone 1 covering central Paris and Zone 5 encompassing the outer suburbs.

Single Journey Ticket:

  • A single journey ticket within Zone 1 costs €1.90.
  • For each additional zone crossed, an extra €0.20 is added to the fare.

Carnet:

  • A “carnet” is a pack of ten single journey tickets.
  • The price of a Zone 1-2 carnet is €16.
  • For each additional zone, the price increases by €0.20 per ticket.

T+ Ticket Integration

If you have already purchased a T+ ticket for travel within central Paris (within Zone 1), it can be used to transfer onto an RER train at no additional cost as long as you stay within Zone 1. However, if you need to travel beyond Zone 1, you will need to purchase an appropriate ticket or upgrade your existing T+ ticket by paying the fare difference.

Ticket Validity

Standard Ticket Validity:

  • A single journey ticket allows you to travel on the RER within the selected zones for up to two hours from the time of validation.
  • A carnet ticket is valid for ten separate journeys, and each ticket must be validated before boarding the train.

Navigo Pass:

  • If you plan to use public transportation frequently during your visit, it may be more cost-effective to purchase a Navigo pass.
  • The Navigo pass provides unlimited travel on the entire RER network within selected zones for a week or a month.

Additional Considerations

It’s worth noting that children under four years old can travel for free on the RER. Additionally, children aged four to nine receive discounted fares. Students and seniors may also be eligible for reduced fares upon presenting their valid identification cards.

Remember to always validate your ticket before boarding the train by using one of the yellow validation machines located in the stations. Failure to do so may result in a fine if caught by an inspector during your journey.

In conclusion, riding the RER in Paris can be an affordable option for getting around the city, especially if you plan your trips strategically and consider purchasing a carnet or a Navigo pass. By understanding the fare structure and ticket validity rules, you can make informed choices that suit your travel needs and budget.