Practical info Paris, France
Getting around the city
Paris has an excellent public transport system, divided into five zones radiating out from the centre; ticket prices vary according to the number of zones required. Public transport consists of buses, an underground metro, and express trains (RER). Taxis are also available. The easiest way to get around is on the metro and the subways are generally safe at all times. It is possible to transfer between the metro and the RER trains at no extra cost. The bus system is also extensive, but is slower, less frequent and best used for getting to destinations the metro does not cover. A nightbus service, Noctilien, covers the city between 1am and 5.30am. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed or caught at taxi ranks. Vélib' bicycle rentals are also popular for getting round town: pick up a bike at one of over 1,200 stations and return it at any other.
Time
GMT +1 (GMT +2 between last Sunday in March and last Sunday in October).
Electricity
Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. European two-pin plugs are standard.
Currency
The Euro (EUR) is the official currency in France. Currency can be exchanged at banks, bureaux de change and some large hotels, though you will get a better exchange rate at the ATMs. Major credit cards are widely accepted, particularly in major tourist destinations. Foreign currency is not accepted.
Communication
The international access code for France is +33. Most public telephones accept phone cards, which are available in newsagents. Mobile phones can be used in France, but be sure to check roaming costs before travelling. It is often cheaper to get a local sim card from providers such as Orange or Bouygues. Free wifi is available in most hotels, cafes, restaurants and similar establishments.
Emergency number
112 (General)
Travel documents and health
Paris Charles de Gaulle International Airport
Getting to the city
There is a good train service with the RER B line that serves the airport with connections to the city centre and the Metro station. From the airport RER B can be accessed from Terminal 2 railway station on the airport shuttle. The RER B line is serviced every fifteen minutes Monday through Friday and takes 35 minutes to the city centre. The Roissy bus line also connects to the city centre for the 60-minute drive. Buses depart every 15-20 minutes between 6am and 12.30am. Air France also runs buses to certain city destinations. The Noctilien night bus runs between 12.30am and 5am with fares depending on destination.
Car rental
All major car rental companies are represented.
Airport taxi's
There are taxis outside the baggage reclaim area of the arrival terminals. Surcharges of up to 15 percent apply at night and on Sundays and public holidays.
Transfer between terminals
The three terminals are linked by free shuttle buses.
Facilities
There are ATMs, banks and bureaux de change in all terminals as well as a wide selection of shops, restaurants and bars.
Parking
Short-term parking is available in lots P1, P3, and PAB, nearest to Terminal 1 and rates range from €3 for a 15 minute stay up to €39 for a full day's parking. The first 10 minutes parked are free. Lots PCD and PEF are located near Terminal 2 and offer similar rates. Lot PR has lower long-term parking rates and the lot is connected to all terminals via a free shuttle.
Internet
Free wifi is provided. Faster and more reliable Premium Wifi is also avaliable at a cost.