Internet & Connectivity in Paris

Mobile Data Options

Having mobile data in Paris is important for navigation, translation, and accessibility apps. There are two main ways to get mobile data: eSIMs (digital SIM cards) and physical SIM cards.

eSIM Providers

An eSIM is the easiest option if your phone supports it. You buy and activate it online before your trip, and it starts working as soon as you land. No need to visit a shop or swap physical cards.

• Airalo offers European data plans starting around 5 euros for 1GB over 7 days. Larger plans with 5GB or 10GB cost 10 to 15 euros for one to two weeks.
• Holafly provides unlimited data eSIMs for Europe. A 7-day plan costs around 19 euros. This is a good choice if you rely heavily on video calls, GPS navigation, or streaming for accessibility tools.

Both providers have apps that walk you through the setup. You can install the eSIM before you leave home and activate it when you arrive.

Physical SIM Cards

If your phone does not support eSIM, you can buy a physical prepaid SIM card in Paris. The three main carriers are Orange, SFR, and Free Mobile.

• Orange sells tourist SIM cards called "Holidays" at their airport shops and city stores. Plans start at about 10 euros for 10GB and go up to 20 euros for 30GB, valid for 14 days.
• SFR offers prepaid SIMs at airport kiosks and electronics stores. Similar pricing to Orange.
• Free Mobile has a 2 euro plan that includes basic data. For more data, their 10 to 20 euro plans work well for short visits. You can buy SIMs at Free vending machines (bornes) found in some shopping centers.

Free WiFi in Paris

Paris offers free public WiFi in many locations. This can be useful as a backup or if you prefer not to buy mobile data.

Paris WiFi Network

The city of Paris provides free WiFi in all public parks, gardens, and municipal buildings. Look for the network called "Paris Wi-Fi" or "PARIS_WI-FI." Connect and accept the terms in your browser. Sessions last two hours, but you can reconnect as many times as you like.

This network covers over 400 locations across the city, including parks like the Jardin du Luxembourg, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, and the Champ de Mars near the Eiffel Tower.

Cafes and Restaurants

Most cafes and restaurants in Paris offer free WiFi to customers. Ask the staff for the password when you order. Chains like Starbucks and McDonald's have open WiFi networks that do not require a password. Many brasseries and independent cafes also provide WiFi, though signal strength can vary.

Metro and Train Stations

Some metro stations and all major train stations (Gare du Nord, Gare de Lyon, Gare Montparnasse) offer WiFi. In metro stations, the service is limited and often slow. Train station WiFi is generally more reliable and connects automatically through a portal page.

Hotel WiFi

Most hotels in Paris include WiFi in the room rate. This applies to budget, mid-range, and luxury hotels. However, quality varies widely.

• Speed: If you need reliable internet for video calls, screen readers that require online access, or streaming, ask the hotel about their WiFi speed before booking. Some older buildings have weak signals in certain rooms.
• Cost: The majority of hotels offer WiFi for free. A few budget hotels or hostels may charge 2 to 5 euros per day for premium or high-speed access. Always confirm before booking.
• Coverage: WiFi usually works in the lobby and common areas. In-room coverage depends on the building. If your room has a weak signal, ask at reception whether a different room or a closer access point is available.

Useful Apps for Accessible Travel

Once you have an internet connection, these apps will help you get around Paris more easily. All of them are free to download.

RATP App

The official Paris public transport app. It covers metro, bus, tram, and RER lines. The app shows which stations have elevators and can plan routes that avoid stairs. Available in English. Download it from the App Store or Google Play by searching "RATP."

Citymapper

A route planning app that includes accessible route options. It can filter for step-free routes and shows real-time departure information for buses and trams. It also gives walking directions with distance and estimated time, which is helpful for planning energy and mobility needs.

Google Maps

Google Maps has a "wheelchair accessible" filter for public transit directions. When you search for transit routes, tap "Options" and select "Wheelchair accessible." This filters out stations without elevators. The walking directions also show street-level imagery so you can check for steep hills or obstacles.

Jaccede

A French app and website that provides accessibility reviews of restaurants, shops, hotels, and public buildings. Reviews include details about step-free entry, accessible toilets, and door widths. The app is mostly in French, but the photos and icons are easy to understand. It is the most comprehensive accessibility review platform in France.