Paris Ride Guide: Taxis, Uber, and Bolt Explained

While the Paris Metro is the most efficient way to navigate the City of Light, sometimes you need a door-to-door ride—whether you’re rushing to a train, arriving late at the airport, or simply treating yourself after a long day of walking.

Understanding the difference between an official Parisian Taxi, VTC services like Uber, and the popular budget alternative Bolt is crucial for a smooth and cost-effective journey.

1. Official Paris Taxis (The Reliable Choice)

Parisian Taxis are easily identified by the white ‘TAXI PARISIEN’ sign on the roof. They are the most reliable option for time-sensitive trips due to a distinct advantage.

Key Advantages

Bus Lane Access: Taxis are legally allowed to use bus lanes, which can significantly cut down travel time during peak Paris rush hours (approx. 8:30 AM – 9:30 AM and 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM). This speed advantage is often worth the extra cost.
Airport Fixed Fares: Official taxis offer fixed, non-negotiable rates for airport transfers, guaranteeing the price regardless of traffic. This eliminates surge pricing stress.

Paris Airport Fixed Fares (As of 2025)

CDG to Paris Right Bank (Rive Droite): €56
CDG to Paris Left Bank (Rive Gauche): €65
Orly (ORY) to Paris Right Bank: €45
Orly (ORY) to Paris Left Bank: €36

How to Book/Hale

Taxi Stand: The easiest way. Go to a designated taxi stand (found outside airports, train stations, and major hotels). Look for the blue illuminated light on the roof (meaning the taxi is vacant).
G7 App (Recommended): The largest and most reliable taxi company in Paris. Download the G7 app, which works just like Uber, allowing you to book in advance, track your driver, and pay via the app.

2. Uber & Bolt (The Budget & Familiar Choice)

Uber is the main ride-hailing app (known as VTC—Vehicule de Tourisme avec Chauffeur) in Paris, with Bolt being its most popular, and often cheaper, competitor.

Key Advantages

Competitive Pricing: VTCs are generally a few euros cheaper than metered taxis for short-to-medium rides outside of rush hour. Bolt is often priced slightly lower than Uber.
Familiar App: You know the app interface, payment method, and GPS tracking system.
Upfront Pricing: You see the final cost before you confirm the ride, eliminating meter anxiety.
Payment: Payments are handled automatically through the app, requiring no cash or card exchange with the driver.

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Key Disadvantage: No Bus Lane Access

VTCs cannot use bus lanes, meaning they will be stuck in the same traffic as private cars. During rush hour, this can make a 15-minute taxi ride a 30-minute Uber ride.

Who Should Choose Uber/Bolt?

Budget Travelers: When every euro counts and you are not time-constrained.
Groups of 4+: Both apps offer “Van” or “XL” options, which are easier to book than finding a rare large taxi van on the street.
Off-Peak Travel: Ideal for late-night rides (after 9:00 PM) or midday travel when traffic is light.

3. Taxi, Uber, or Bolt? Comparison Summary

Feature	Official Taxi (Metered/G7)	Uber/Bolt (VTC)
Airport Transfers	Fixed Rates (€56/€65). Highly reliable from designated stands.	Price is variable (dynamic/surge pricing). Pick-up locations are often less convenient than the taxi stand.
Rush Hour Speed	Fastest. Can use bus and taxi lanes to bypass traffic.	Slowest. Must stay in regular traffic lanes.
Payment	Cash or Credit Card (must be working). Can also pay via G7 App.	Always pay via the app (easy).
Reliability	Excellent, especially when booked via G7.	Can suffer from cancellations during high demand/low pricing periods.
Cost (In-City)	Metred. Usually slightly higher than VTCs, especially for short hops.	Upfront price. Often cheaper than metered taxis when traffic is light.

Final Tips for a Smooth Ride

Tip: Tipping is not mandatory in Paris. Service is included. Rounding up the fare to the nearest euro or leaving a small amount (€2–€5) for exceptional service is a kind gesture but not expected.
Avoid the Scammers: At CDG and Orly, only take taxis from the official, clearly marked taxi rank. Never accept a ride from someone approaching you inside the terminal offering a “private car.”
Metro is Still King: For zipping between tourist sites (Louvre to Eiffel Tower), the Metro remains the fastest and cheapest option. Use taxis/VTCs for early morning, late-night, or poor-weather trips.