Living in a car-centric city like San Diego, California, I have never really used public transportation such as trains and buses, as they are often unreliable with inconvenient routes for getting to the places I need to get to. However, since arriving in France, I have learned how to navigate the Metro, bus and city bikes (which are called Velib in Paris) as they are generally the best way to get around a crowded city like Paris. Even though it was intimidating at first, with helpful resources like maps, apps and signs, it turned out to be a piece of cake!
In a lively and cosmopolitan city like Paris, there are many different options for getting around. First, the free and healthy option is walking! I know that it may seem silly, but neighborhoods and sights are so close to each other that for many, walking is the go-to way to explore Paris! Unlike the Metro (subway) which mostly runs underground, it is a great way to become familiar with the city as you actually get to see the neighborhoods, shops and sights as you move around the city. Even though the Metro can whisk you quickly to all the different areas of the city, I have been able to get to know the city and how to find my favorite spots by walking instead!
Next, we have the Metro, bus and Velib.
