The Navigo Découverte card gives you unlimited access to Paris’ public transport. It’s ideal for tourists or short-term visitors who plan to move around frequently.
With a fixed weekly fare, you can explore all zones without worrying about ticket limits. This guide shows how to get it, use it, and make the most of its benefits.
What Is the Navigo Découverte?
Navigo Découverte is a non-personalized travel card for visitors to Paris. It gives you access to unlimited rides within specific zones.
You can use it on metro, bus, tram, RER, and suburban trains. The card remains valid for repeated weekly recharges.
You don’t need to be a French resident to buy it. It’s designed for non-locals who plan to stay a few days or weeks. Once you buy it, you keep it for future visits. Just recharge it as needed.
Who Can Use It?
Anyone over the age of four can use the card. It’s available to both residents and non-residents.
You don’t need a French address or ID to qualify. Visitors just need to provide a photo and basic details.
It works well for tourists who will stay in Paris for more than four days. People visiting friends, attending short programs, or on a business trip will also benefit. It’s especially valuable if you’re using multiple transport modes daily.
What Transport Modes Are Covered?
The card offers full access to the Île-de-France public network. That includes metro, RER, trams, city buses, and suburban SNCF trains.
You can travel across all five zones, from central Paris to the suburbs. It even covers airport buses like RoissyBus and OrlyBus.
Transport is available seven days a week. The card works from Monday to Sunday, regardless of when you buy it.
No daily cap is required—you travel as much as you like. Just scan your card on entry machines each time.
Cost and Duration
The card itself costs €5 as a one-time purchase. The weekly fare for zones 1 to 5 is €30.00.
That covers unlimited rides within the week. It’s far cheaper than buying single tickets.
You can use the card indefinitely by recharging it weekly. There is no expiration for the plastic card.
If damaged, you will need to purchase a new one. No monthly plan is available for the Découverte version.
How to Buy Navigo Découverte?
You can get it in person at major stations and transport counters. It’s not available online for tourists.
Bring a passport-sized photo to complete the setup. Once printed, the card is handed to you with your name and image.
It’s sold at metro stations, RER counters, SNCF agencies, and some airport desks. Availability may differ between stations.
Staff will help you load the first weekly fare. After that, you can recharge it yourself.
Where to Recharge the Card
There are many easy ways to reload the pass. Recharge stations are available in metro and RER terminals.
You can also visit manned counters for assistance. Some kiosks offer English instructions. Use contactless payment or cash to reload.
Machines will ask you to select your travel zone and confirm. The card will be updated instantly. Be sure to keep the receipt.
What Is Navigo Liberté+?
Navigo Liberté+ is a pay-per-use alternative to the weekly plan. It works with the same card but only charges you for what you use.
At €1.60 per trip, it’s cheaper than single paper tickets. You receive one invoice at the end of the month. It is ideal for light or irregular travel.
You still tap your card as usual. No need to preload funds in advance. Activation and billing are done through your Navigo account.
Available Discounts for Eligible Users
Some users can benefit from reduced fares. These discounts are not for tourists but may apply to residents.
- 50% discount: For State Medical Aid recipients
- Free or reduced rate: For people with disabilities and their companions
- Amethyst package: Free access for seniors, disabled adults, and veterans
- Anti-pollution fare: Unlimited travel for €4 during pollution alerts
You must present official proof to access these programs. Registration is often required.
Discounted cards are separate from the Découverte version. Conditions vary depending on eligibility.
Tips to Maximize Value
There are simple ways to get more out of your Navigo Découverte card. Use these tips to maximize convenience, cost-efficiency, and coverage.
- Start using the card on a Monday to get the full weekly value.
- Avoid activating the card midweek as it still expires on Sunday.
- Always scan the card on entry and exit points, especially on RER and Transilien trains.
- Use Bonjour RATP or similar transport apps for planning efficient routes.
- Recharge the card only at official Navigo kiosks or transport agencies.
- Keep the card safe and secure to avoid replacement costs.
Navigo Découverte vs. Paris Visite Card
The Paris Visite card is another option for short-term travel. But it’s often more expensive and comes with discounts for attractions.
Navigo Découverte is cheaper for longer stays and includes airport bus access. Paris Visite has daily pricing, while Navigo is weekly.
Navigo covers more transport modes, but not Orlyval. Visiting can be better for museum lovers. Navigo is best for high-frequency travelers.
Limitations to Consider
The weekly pass is only valid Monday to Sunday. You can’t set a custom 7-day range.
It’s not refundable if plans change or the card goes unused. Lost cards are not replaced without a new purchase.
You need a printed photo for the card. Digital uploads aren’t accepted at purchase.
You must use the same card on every trip—it can’t be shared. Be prepared for French-language menus at machines.
Customer Service and Contact Details
For help, visit RATP counters at most metro and train stations. Agents speak English at major stops.
Customer support by phone is available at +33 1 58 78 20 20. You can also get help at airport transport desks.
The official website provides schedules, updates, and fare changes. Updates are frequent, so check before you travel. Staff can assist with lost or damaged passes.
Disclaimer: Information in this article is accurate as of publication. Prices, rules, and benefits may change over time. For the most current information, visit the official website.
Final Thoughts: A Smart Card for Smart Travel
The Navigo Découverte card gives you reliable and affordable travel access in Paris. It’s the perfect solution for visitors who want to explore the region easily.
You get unlimited transport for a fixed price each week. It’s simple to use, cost-effective, and ideal for any Paris adventure.
