Essential Métro Phrases
The Paris Métro is the fastest way to get around the city. These phrases cover everything from buying tickets to handling delays and strikes.
Finding Your Way
On the Train
Tickets & Disruptions
These 15 phrases are just the start. ParleFlow has 50 métro & transport phrases plus 950 more across 20 categories — all with audio.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ask "C'est quelle ligne ?" (Which line is it?) or "C'est dans quel sens ?" (Which direction is it?). Paris Métro lines are numbered 1-14.
The Carte Navigo is the rechargeable transit pass used in Paris for the Métro, RER, buses, and trams. To top it up, say "Je dois recharger ma carte Navigo". You can buy and recharge them at any Métro station.
Say "Je descends à la prochaine" (I get off at the next stop). If you're with friends, say "On descend" (We're getting off).
"Il y a une grève" means "There's a strike". Strikes are a regular part of life in France. If service is disrupted, you'll hear "C'est perturbé" (Service is disrupted).
Vélib' is Paris's bike-sharing system. Say "Je prends un Vélib'" (I'm taking a Vélib'). You can rent bikes at stations across the city. It's a great alternative during strikes or when the Métro is packed.