I am visiting paris for 5 days. is easy to travel on metro/rer/bus with a pushchair and a toddler? thanks?

Question

I am visiting paris for 5 days. is easy to travel on metro/rer/bus with a pushchair and a toddler? thanks?

Answer 1

I agree with Rillifane, neither metro nor bus are made for pushchair or even wheelchairs.

You will find plenty of people stopping to help you carry the pushchair down or up stairs, that's very unusual when it doesn't happen but it is still a hassle, the metro was built more than a century ago with plenty of stairs everywhere, even if it is only a dozen steps that's still an obstacle. There's very few automatic stairs and lifts (mostly in the RER).

As well, in the crowded tourist areas it is a real problem. Better use a backpack (? those kiddy seats you carry like a back pack).

Answer 2

Frankly, no.

Most Metro and RER stations require negotiating stairs.

Duriing periods of high utilization the metro and RER cars can be very crowded.

The aisles are narrow and would be difficult to negotiate with even a relatively few people in the cars.

Buses would be equally difficult.

Answer 3

It's not easy but it's possible : I do it everyday !

There are three things you should know about the Paris métro and RER :

1. Sometimes, you'll have to CARRY the pushchair because in some stations there are no lifts nor escalators. If you're alone, people usually offer to help you (but not always).

2. In some stations, you must pass through a turnstile to get to the trains. It's impossible with a pushchair. So you have to go to the counter, show your ticket and the pushchair and ask the person behind the counter to open you the door for pushchairs.

3. Every subway station has several entrance. Never take an entrance that's too small. Take a main entrance (that will lead to a counter with an employee that will open for you the door...)

In the bus, there's a special place to park your pushchair, it's indicated by a logo.

Hope that's clear. Forgive my poor English and have a great time in Paris