How to call a taxi in Paris
Another option for calling a taxi in Paris is to download an application on your smartphone. There are several apps available, including:
- Uber: the most popular app worldwide.
- Bolt: a valid alternative to Uber.
- Kapten: a local option that also offers luxury cars.
After downloading the app and creating an account, enter your current location and select your desired destination. The app will show you the estimated price of the trip and give you the option to choose from different vehicle options and rates.
In addition, taxi apps often offer promotions and special discounts to new users or during particular events, so you may save money by using this option.
Remember that if you do not have internet access or your smartphone, this option may not be available to you. In this case, consider other options such as calling a taxi from a public phone or looking for a nearby taxi stand.
Calling a taxi by phone
If you prefer to call a taxi by phone, there are several options available. Most taxi companies in Paris have dedicated phone numbers that you can call to request a taxi.
Find the taxi company's number
Before you can call a taxi, you need to find the taxi company's number that you want to use. You can search online or in a tourist guide for the most reliable and convenient taxi companies' numbers.
Alternatively, if you are in a tourist area such as Montmartre or Champs-Elysées, you can easily find an area with several taxi pick-up points. In these places, there is usually also a board with the numbers of the main taxi companies.
Call the taxi company
After finding the taxi company's number, take your phone and dial it. Wait for someone to answer the call and then provide the following information:
- Your location: Provide the exact address from where you want to be picked up. If you are in a public location like an airport or train station, indicate the name of the terminal or platform.
- Your destination: Tell the operator the exact place where you want to be dropped off.
- The number of passengers: Provide the number of people who will be traveling with you. This way, the taxi company can send an appropriate vehicle to meet your needs.
After providing this information, the operator will give you an indication of how long it will take for your taxi to arrive at your location. Make sure that you have enough cash or a credit card to pay for the ride when your taxi arrives.
Taking a taxi from a station or airport
Taking a taxi from a station or an airport can be very convenient, but there are some things to keep in mind to avoid problems.
Choosing the Right Taxi
First and foremost, it's important to choose the right taxi. Try to take an official taxi, recognizable by the logo on the car and the meter inside. Avoid unofficial taxis that may try to charge you more.
Knowing the Fare
Before getting into the taxi, make sure you know the fare. In France, taxi fares are set by the government and depend on the area you are in. Always check the meter to ensure that the fare corresponds to the one established by the government.
Get Information about Distance and Travel Time
If you need to arrive at a certain time, inform the driver of the distance and expected travel time to reach your destination. This way you can avoid unpleasant surprises at the end of your journey.
Payment
Taxis accept both cash and credit cards, but it is best to check with the driver beforehand which method they prefer. Also, make sure you have enough cash with you in case your credit card is not accepted.
Calling a Pre-Booked Taxi Service
If you prefer to pre-book a taxi in advance and don't want to risk having to wait too long, there are some taxi services in Paris that offer this option. Here's how it works:
1. Choose Your Taxi Service
Search online for taxi services in Paris that offer advance booking. Make sure to choose a reliable company with good reviews.
2. Book Your Taxi
Usually, you can book your taxi through the service's website or by calling the company directly. You will need the following information:
- Date and time of booking
- Starting and destination addresses
- Number of passengers and luggage
- Your name and phone number
3. Confirm Your Booking
After providing all the necessary information, confirm your booking with the taxi service. Make sure to receive a written confirmation of your booking via email or SMS.
4. Wait for Your Taxi
You will be informed by the service when your taxi is on its way. Usually, you should only wait a few minutes before your taxi arrives at the starting point.
5. Get on Board
When your taxi arrives, get on board and enjoy the ride!
Remember that pre-booked taxi services may be more expensive than traditional taxis, but they offer the convenience of advance booking and guaranteed service.
Tips for Taking a Taxi in Paris
Taking a taxi in Paris can be a confusing and expensive experience if you don't know what you're doing. Here are some useful tips to make your journey more enjoyable:
Choosing the Right Place to Call a Taxi
In many cases, it's best to call a taxi from an official taxi stand or from a hotel. These places often have a line of taxis waiting and the drivers are generally reliable. Avoid calling a taxi from the street, as there are many scamming drivers who try to take advantage of tourists.
Knowing the rates
The taxi rates in Paris can vary greatly depending on the time of day, distance and traffic. It is important to know the rates before getting into a taxi to avoid unpleasant surprises at the end of the trip. In general, the base fare is €2.60, with an additional cost for each subsequent kilometer.
Clear communication of destination to driver
Many taxi drivers in Paris do not speak English or only speak it limitedly. Make sure to have the address written down on paper or phone and show it to the driver. Alternatively, learn some French phrases to communicate the destination.
Verify trip details
Before departing, make sure that the driver has turned on the meter and that it has been set correctly. Also, check that the destination on the meter matches the address provided to the driver. If you suspect being cheated, do not hesitate to ask for help from the police or another passenger in the taxi.
Pay correctly
In general, taxis only accept cash payments. Therefore, make sure to have enough money with you to pay for the trip. It is not necessary to leave a tip, but if desired, 10% of the trip cost is considered appropriate.
- Choose a safe place to call a taxi such as an official station or hotel.
- Know the rates before getting into a taxi.
- Clearly communicate destination to driver.
- Verify trip details before departing.
- Pay correctly and don't forget to tip if desired.
Conclusion
Taking a taxi in Paris can be a very enjoyable experience if the right tips are followed. Remembering to choose the right place to call a taxi, knowing the rates, clearly communicating the destination to the driver, verifying trip details and paying correctly are all important things to do to avoid problems during the trip. By following these simple tips, it is possible to fully enjoy the beauty of the city without worries.
Michael Anderson - Software Engineer
My name is Michael Anderson, and I work as a computer engineer in Midland, Texas.
My passion is sharing my knowledge in various areas, and my purpose is to make education accessible to everyone. I believe it is essential to explain complex concepts in a simple and interesting way.
With GlobalHowTo, I aim to motivate and enrich the minds of those who want to learn.
