On a first trip to the French capital, many visitors feel a bit confused by the public transport network. They often arrive in Paris at the Gare du Nord station via the airport, on a train called ‘RER B’. This may lead them to assume that the train in question is part of the city’s main metro network, when in fact it is part of a separate regional system. But what exactly is the difference between the metro and the RER , and why is it important for visitors trying to get around the city as efficiently as possible?
What “RER” means
“RER” is an acronym for Réseau Express Régional , or Regional Express Network, and refers to the rapid transit system that serves Paris and its surrounding suburbs. The RER currently has five lines, AE, and is operated by a completely different company than the Paris metro. For this reason and a few others, travelers often find the RER a confusing system and a bit difficult to use; However, it can be very useful for moving quickly from one side of the city to the other or for day trips outside of Paris.
Learn all about how to navigate the RER without stress or confusion by reading more.
Pronunciation : In French, RER is pronounced “EHR-EU-EHR.” It’s a bit tricky for non-native French speakers, no doubt! You can pronounce it like you would in English when addressing transportation staff, but be prepared to hear it in French, when in Rome, and all.
Where do the trains and RER lines go?
The five high-speed lines of the RER transport thousands of travelers and tourists every day to nearby destinations, including the La Defense Business District; the castle of Versailles and Disneyland Paris. They are an excellent option for day trips near Paris.
In addition, RER line B serves the two main airports in Paris, Charles de Gaulle (about an hour north) and Orly (about 30 minutes south of the city center).
Check out our comprehensive guide to Paris airports for more information on using the RER as a way to enter the city and return to the airport using this mode of transport.
More about the RER and public transport in Paris
To avoid unnecessary stress and ensure you get around the city like a true pro, make sure you have a good handle on public transport in the French capital before your next trip. Read the following resources to get an idea of how the city’s transportation systems work, and learn more about purchasing daily and weekly passes to suit your needs and budget.
- How to ride the RER in Paris
- All about the Paris metro
- Paris metro tickets: the Paris Visite Pass
For even more practical information on how to visit the City of Light, and tons of tips on where to go and what to see, as well as helpful manuals on Parisian culture and the French language, check out our complete beginner’s guide to Paris.
