The massive transit strike in Paris started on December 5th, when public transit drivers walked off the job in protest of new pension reforms. Today, it is the longest strike in history, and it will probably go on until the end of January. Many drivers are back behind the controls now, with only one-third of them on strike at this time.
Some people are wondering if it is worth visiting Paris at this time, and some are even thinking of canceling their trips to Paris, worried that they will be stranded and that it isn’t safe.
There are protests going on the city from time to time. There is one coming up on January 9th, but they tend to be fairly orderly. It’s usually a small group of trouble-makers who usually make it onto the evening news, giving us the impression that the protests are chaotic.
Getting Around Paris
Certain metro lines, like lines 1 and 14 are automated so they are running on a normal schedule, and other lines are running, but less frequently, as with the train service also.
If you are planning to come to Paris in January, don’t fear, you can still enjoy the city to its fullest. Luckily, Paris is a small city, geographically speaking. The entire city only spans an area of 105 square kilometers (41 square miles). It’s a place to stroll through, so walking is a great alternative.
By the way, if you take a tasting tour with Flavors of Paris, you will most likely be eager to take a good jaunt afterward to burn off those calories you consumed.
And, of course, if you are walking everywhere, you won’t have to feel guilty about indulging in all of the gastronomic treasures that Paris has to offer.
Le Parisian has a map with the times it takes to walk to and from different points, which will give you an idea of how to plan your walking time.
The metro is running with slower service, and city buses are running normally. Just avoid traveling at rush hour if possible because transit is more crowded than usual. The same goes if you take a taxi or an Uber because the traffic is heavier than normal.
You also have the option of renting bicycles, and scooters which are a fun way to get around the city. Paris is a bike-friendly city with paths running everywhere for cyclists and scooterists.
To and From the Airport
If you take a taxi from the airport into Paris, be sure to take one from a designated taxi stand because there are rogue taxis and those drivers will try to solicit a ride from you while you are walking in the airport. It is a flat rate to and from the Charle de Gaulle Airport: 50 euros to any destination on the right bank of Paris and 55 euros to any destination to the left bank.
From the Orly airport, it’s 35 euros to anywhere in Paris. It doesn’t matter how heavy the traffic is or how long it takes; the driver has to honor that rate.
Take a Breath
So as long as you give yourself a little extra time to get around, and prepare yourself that you may feel a little sardine-like on the transit from time to time, you can still take in city and have an enjoyable stay.
