Don't use public transport in Paris.
0.5
0.5
Date of visit: August 2011
I have experience of challenges around: moving around
Overall Rating
Bad
When I was in Paris five years ago there was no disabled access at any of the underground stations we used and there were no lifts to the platforms. I was in a fold-up wheelchair and my husband held me in the wheelchair going up the escalators. I got out and stood when going down. Appalling.
Disabled Access In and Around
0The Louvre and The Eiffel Tower were great but I'll write separate reviews for those. Public transport? Don't bother.
Parking & Transport
0We didn't drive.
Accessible Toilets
0Not used.
Staff
0At the Gare d'Ouest the main lift was out of order so we couldn't get to the toilets. I was overheard, speaking in English, by a Frenchman who directed us to a lift inside a restaurant we wouldn't have known about. He travelled with us in the lift so he could show us exactly where the toilets were. I didn't use an accessible toilet. Don't be put off by Parisians; they all look grumpy but they can be very helpful.
Additional Information
It helps to know a little French. Not everyone speaks English. My French was so rusty I was embarrassed but the few people I met and chatted with in French said it was very good so they appreciated my efforts. If you don't speak French, ask first if they speak English rather than just assuming they do.
Comments
surrey_steve
05 Jun 2023
Five years later and parts of the Metro have lifts but there is no information as to which station has safe and suitable access. All the buses are accessible, as in the UK but you often have to shout "Ramp s.v.p" to the driver. You might not be able to get on the first bus if its full and standing! The trams are very good, fast and easy to use. They are roll on / roll off but don't serve touristicy areas. You might find it difficult to access a ticket vending point.
