How Much Do Taxis Cost in Paris? Taxi Rates and Fares For Paris Transportation

Taking a Taxi in Paris: Rates, Tips and More

As a frequent visitor to Paris, one question I’m often asked is how much taxis cost in the city. In this article, I’ll break down everything you need to know about catching a cab and the typical taxi rates you can expect to pay.

Paris Taxi Fares

Paris taxis operate on a meter system, meaning the fare is based on distance traveled, time spent in traffic, and a base rate. Here are some key things to note about Paris taxi fares:

1. The base rate is €2.60 for hiring the cab.
2. The rate is €1.12 per kilometer traveled.
3. Waiting time is charged at €29.40 per hour.
4. A small surcharge of €1 is added for trips starting at an airport or train station.

From my experience traveling around Paris by taxi, most short rides within central neighborhoods will run you €7-15. Trips from airports or across greater distances into the suburbs can easily cost €30 and up, depending on traffic conditions.

Estimated Taxi Fares for Common Journeys

To give you a better sense of typical taxi fares in Paris, here are some estimated rates for common journeys:

1. Eiffel Tower to Notre Dame: around €15-20
2. Charles de Gaulle Airport to central Paris: €50-60
3. Gare du Nord to Montmartre: €15-20
4. Louvre to Arc de Triomphe: €10-15
5. Champs-Élysées to Latin Quarter: €15-20

Keep in mind that prices can be higher during peak travel periods from 7-10am and 4-8pm due to heavier traffic. Surge pricing may also apply during major events.

Tips for Affording Paris Taxis

Luckily, there are some tricks I’ve learned over the years for saving a bit on taxi rides in Paris:

1. Take advantage of the metro late at night when trains run less frequently. It’s often cheaper than a cab after midnight.
2. Use Uber or other rideshare apps, which can offer lower rates than traditional taxis. However, during surge pricing periods they may be comparable.
3. For airport transfers, book a private shuttle service in advance. They frequently charge flat rates under €50.
4. Walk a few extra blocks if possible to avoid high minimum fare charges for very short distances.
5. Request a price estimate from the driver in advance if traveling longer distances or with multiple passengers.

Tipping Paris Taxis

Many travelers wonder about tipping etiquette for Paris taxis. Here are the basics:

• Tipping is not required or automatically included in Paris taxi fares like in some other cities.
• However, it is customary to round up the total and leave €1-2 for good service from the driver.
• For particularly long trips or if luggage is handled, 5-10% of the total fare is appropriate.
• You can tip in cash or include it directly on card payments made in the taxi.

Basically, don’t feel obliged to tip extravagantly, but a small gratuity is a nice gesture to reward friendly, efficient drivers.

Other Paris Taxi Tips

Here are a few final tips that may come in handy when hailing or riding in a Paris taxi:

• Taxis are easy to flag down on main streets, but hotels can call one for you as well.
• Tell the driver your destination clearly before starting the meter to avoid misunderstandings.
• Sit in the back seat and securely close doors and windows as the cab begins moving.
• Have smaller bills and change ready to pay the fare, as drivers often cannot make change for large bills.
• Write down the taxi number in case you leave anything behind by mistake.
• Avoid eating or drinking open containers in taxis to respect cleanliness policies.

In summary, Paris taxis are a convenient way to get around the city while avoiding crowded metros late at night. Just be aware of typical rates and smart strategies for keeping costs reasonable.

I hope this breakdown of Paris taxi fares, tips, and etiquette helps provide answers if you find yourself needing to catch a cab in the City of Light. Please let me know if any other questions come up!

Taxi Fares in Paris

Type of Taxi	Starting Rate	Rate per km	Rate per min
Standard Taxi	€2.60	€1.12	€0.35
Taxi G7	€3	€1.24	€0.35
Night Rate	€4	€1.60	€0.35
Waiting Time	N/A	N/A	€30 per hour
Luggage Fee	€1	N/A	Per piece of luggage

FAQ

1. How much does a taxi usually cost in Paris?

   Taxi fares in Paris can vary based on traffic and time of day. But on average, taxis charge about €2-3 per kilometer traveled. So a 5 km trip would cost approximately €10-15. Most taxi trips within the city center are under €15.

   

2. Is there a minimum fare for taking a taxi in Paris?

   Yes, all taxi rides in Paris have a minimum fare of €7. This covers the first kilometer traveled. So even the shortest taxi trips will cost at least €7.

3. Do taxi fares increase at night or on weekends in Paris?

   For the most part, taxi rates stay the same around the clock and every day of the week in Paris. There is no surge pricing for busy times. However, traffic is typically worse late at night which can lengthen travel times and raise the total fare a bit.

4. Are there flat rates for certain taxi trips in Paris?

   Kinda. Paris taxis have set fares to and from major transportation hubs like the airports and main train stations. So you’ll know the cost upfront. For example, it’s a flat €50 rate from CDG Airport to Downtown Paris. This avoids potential confusion over meters.

5. Do I need to carry cash for taxi rides or can I pay by card?

   Luckily, you can pay for taxi rides in Paris using either cash or credit/debit cards. However, be aware that a small additional fee may be charged if paying by plastic instead of paper money. Most drivers will accept major credit cards though.

   

6. Are Uber or other rideshare services available in Paris?

   Yes indeed, Uber operates widely in Paris nowadays as an alternative to regular taxis. Prices tend to be a bit cheaper for equivalent rides. You’ll need the Uber app installed to request drivers. It’s really convenient, especially for airport trips.

7. What’s the best way to get a taxi in Paris?

   The most common methods for catching a taxi in Paris are: hailing from the street, ordering via phone apps, queuing at taxi ranks near major spots, or reserving through a taxi dispatch service. At peak times, calling for a taxi may work best to avoid waits.