How Much of the Paris Metro Is Underground?

By Robert Palmer

The Paris Metro is one of the most efficient and extensive public transportation systems in the world. It has been serving the city of Paris since 1900, and it currently consists of 16 lines covering over 200 kilometers of track. The metro network is operated by RATP, which stands for Régie Autonome des Transports Parisiens.

One common question that people have about the Paris Metro is how much of it runs underground. The answer to this question is that a significant portion of the network is underground, but not all of it.

In fact, about 90% of the Paris Metro system runs underground. This includes all of Line 1, which was the first line to be built, as well as Lines 2 through 14 and Line 3bis. These lines run through tunnels that were dug beneath Paris during different periods in history.

The tunnels were excavated using various methods, including cut-and-cover techniques and tunnel boring machines. Some sections of the tunnels are at a shallow depth, while others are deep enough to require elevators or escalators to reach them.

One interesting fact about the Paris Metro is that some parts of it were built using existing infrastructure. For example, Line 6 runs along an old elevated railway viaduct known as La Petite Ceinture (the Little Belt). This line also runs through a tunnel that was originally built for a water supply system.

While most of the metro network runs underground, there are some sections that run above ground. These include Line 6 between Passy and Trocadéro stations and Line 2 between Porte Dauphine and Victor Hugo stations.

Overall, the Paris Metro system is an impressive feat of engineering that has helped millions of people get around the city over the years. Its extensive network provides easy access to many parts of Paris, both above ground and below ground.

If you’re planning a trip to Paris and want to experience the city like a local, be sure to take advantage of the Paris Metro. With so much of it running underground, you’ll get to explore the city from a unique perspective and avoid traffic and crowds above ground.

So, whether you’re visiting Paris for the first time or you’re a seasoned traveler, the Paris Metro is an excellent way to get around and see all that this beautiful city has to offer.