The Paris Metro celebrated its 125th anniversary, reminding citizens and visitors of the importance of a transport system that moves millions of passengers daily and continues to modernize rapidly. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The Paris Metro celebrated its 125th anniversary, reminding citizens and visitors of the importance of a transport system that moves millions of passengers daily and continues to modernize rapidly
Photo: RATP

Paris Metro and Its Historical Growth

The first line opened on July 19, 1900, and in its first year carried 17 million passengers. It connected the west and east of the city in just 30 minutes.

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Between 1900 and 1939, the network expanded quickly, and by the outbreak of World War II its length exceeded 90 kilometers. Since 1949, RATP has managed the system.

Today, the Paris Metro operates 16 lines stretching 226 kilometers, serving 309 stations across the capital and suburbs. Annual ridership exceeds 1.5 billion, making it the backbone of the city’s transport network.

Paris Metro and Its Future Prospects

In recent years, lines 4, 11, 12, and 14 have been extended, while plans for further expansion of lines 1, 9, and 10 are under discussion. At the same time, the Île-de-France region is advancing the ambitious Grand Paris Express project. It includes four new automated lines — 15, 16, 17, and 18.

The project also adds 68 new stations and 200 kilometers of track, designed to increase efficiency and reduce travel times across the metropolitan area.

Modernization also focuses on rolling stock. In February 2025, Île-de-France Mobilités unveiled the first MF19 train built by Alstom. A total of 147 units will be delivered by 2033, replacing the aging MF67, MF77, and MF88 fleets.

Earlier, Alstom delivered MP14 trains for rubber-tired lines, underlining the Metro’s commitment to innovation and passenger comfort.

In addition, since April 2025 more than 140 stations have stopped selling paper tickets. Navigo smart cards, reloadable at kiosks or via mobile apps, have become the standard.

The Paris Metro remains not only a symbol of the French capital but also a modern system that unites historic heritage with advanced technology.

FAQ

What is the Paris Metro?

It is the largest urban transport system in France’s capital, operating 16 lines, 309 stations, and carrying over 1.5 billion passengers annually.

Can passengers still buy paper tickets in the Paris Metro?

Since April 2025, more than 140 stations have ended paper ticket sales, replacing them with Navigo smart cards.

When will Paris Metro trains be fully upgraded?

The first MF19 train was unveiled in February 2025, with the full fleet replacement expected by 2033.

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