Public transport in France — what locals actually use

Apps, local services, useful places and traveler tips — the practical answer, in one place.Buses, metro and trains

11 picksUpdated May 4, 2026

Quick answer

Use a contactless transit card or the official operator app for France. Avoid third-party "tourist pass" sellers — they usually upcharge for the same ticket.

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11 picks

Tools locals use

Apps, websites and services we've vetted for public transport in France.

Tools locals use

11 picks

11 results

Local Pick

App

Google Maps

Beyond navigation, Google Maps allows users to message businesses directly and share locations, fostering social interaction around places.

App

Bonjour RATP

Official app for public transport in Paris and Île-de-France, including journey planner, real-time info, and ticket purchasing.

App

Île-de-France Mobilités

The official app for public transport in the Île-de-France region, including Paris, offering journey planning, ticket purchasing, and real-time information.

App

SNCF Connect

The official app for booking train travel within France and neighbouring countries, including services connecting to Monaco.

Official site

Rome2Rio

A travel planning website that provides information on how to get between any two places worldwide by combining flights, trains, buses, ferries, and car travel.

App

Trainline

An international platform to search, compare, and book train and bus tickets across Europe, including Belgium.

App

Citymapper

A comprehensive public transport app providing trip planning, real-time departures, and maps for various cities, including Riga.

App

FlixBus

A popular intercity bus network offering affordable travel between cities within Belgium and internationally.

App

Transports en Commun (various local apps)

Official apps developed by local transport authorities in French cities outside of Paris, offering specific journey planning and real-time updates for their networks.