Last updated on March 27th, 2026 at 03:44 pm
Table des matières:
What Is a Carnet Ticket in Paris?
What is a carnet ticket?
A carnet ticket in Paris is a bundle of 10 single-use public transport tickets sold at a discounted rate. Instead of buying one Metro ticket at a time, you purchase a pack—called a carnet—which costs less per ride and saves both money and time.
If you’re visiting Paris, understanding how a carnet works can make using the Metro easier and cheaper—especially for short stays.
This guide explains exactly what a carnet ticket is, how it works, when it’s worth buying, and when it’s not.
What Does “Carnet” Mean?
“Carnet” is a French word meaning:
-
Small booklet
-
Pack
-
Bundle
Traditionally, it referred to a small booklet of paper tickets. Today, it simply means a group of 10 tickets sold together at a reduced price.
What Is Included in a Carnet?
A carnet includes:
-
10 individual tickets
-
Valid for Metro, bus, tram, and some transfers
-
Use one ticket per journey
Each ticket works like a regular single ticket (often called a “t+” ticket).
Why Buy a Carnet Instead of Single Tickets?
The biggest reason: price savings.
Buying 10 tickets as a carnet:
-
Costs less per ride
-
Reduces time spent at machines
-
Keeps you from overpaying for individual tickets
If you plan to use public transport more than a few times, a carnet is usually the better choice.
Who Should Buy a Carnet Ticket?
A carnet is ideal for:
-
Visitors staying 2–4 days
-
Travelers who expect moderate Metro use
-
Couples or small groups (tickets can be shared)
-
People not staying long enough for a weekly pass
It offers flexibility without committing to unlimited travel.
Can You Share a Carnet?
Yes.
Each ticket in the carnet is separate, so:
-
One person can use multiple tickets
-
Multiple people can each use one
For example:
-
Two people riding together can use two tickets from the same carnet.
This makes it convenient for families or couples.
Where Can You Buy a Carnet?
You can buy a carnet:
-
At Metro ticket machines
-
At staffed ticket counters
-
Sometimes via official transport apps
Machines offer English language options, making the process straightforward.
How Do You Use Carnet Tickets?
Using a carnet ticket is simple:
-
Take one ticket from the bundle (or activate digitally).
-
Insert it at the Metro gate.
-
Retrieve it after the gate opens.
-
Keep it until your journey ends.
For buses or trams:
-
Validate the ticket at the onboard machine.
Is a Carnet Valid for Airport Travel?
Usually no.
Airport trips often:
-
Require special tickets
-
Involve extended zones
-
Use RER lines beyond central Paris
Always check if your route goes outside the standard zones before using a carnet ticket.
How Long Is Each Ticket Valid?
Each ticket in a carnet is valid:
-
For one continuous journey
-
Including transfers between Metro and bus/tram (within limits)
You cannot:
-
Exit and re-enter the Metro using the same ticket
-
Use it for multiple separate trips
It’s one journey per ticket.
When Is a Carnet Not the Best Option?
A carnet may not be ideal if:
-
You’re staying 5–7 days and riding frequently
-
You’re using transport heavily each day
-
You qualify for a weekly pass
In those cases, unlimited passes may save more money.
Common Tourist Mistakes With Carnet Tickets
Avoid these errors:
-
Losing unused tickets
-
Throwing away a ticket before finishing the journey
-
Using it for airport routes without checking zones
-
Buying single tickets repeatedly instead of a carnet
Small planning saves both money and stress.
Is the Carnet Still Available in Paper Form?
Paris has been gradually modernizing tickets.
In some cases:
-
Carnets may be digital
-
Paper tickets are being phased out
-
Contactless cards or passes are encouraged
But the concept of the carnet—10 discounted rides—remains.
Is a Carnet Worth It for a Weekend in Paris?
For most weekend visitors, yes.
If you:
-
Take the Metro 2–4 times per day
-
Stay centrally
-
Explore different neighborhoods
A carnet often strikes the perfect balance between cost and flexibility.
Final Answer: What Is a Carnet Ticket?
A carnet ticket is a discounted bundle of 10 public transport tickets in Paris, allowing you to pay less per ride than buying single tickets individually. It’s ideal for short stays and moderate Metro use, flexible enough to share, and simple to use once purchased.
It’s not unlimited—but it’s efficient.
For many visitors, it’s the smartest way to move around Paris without overthinking transport.
