Paris, the City of Light, is a bustling metropolis with a rich history and culture. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to navigate the city’s public transportation system. That’s where car sharing comes in. Car sharing, also known as carpooling, is a cost-effective and eco-friendly way to get around the city. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a closer look at car sharing in Paris, including the top companies and apps available.
What is Car Sharing?
Car sharing is a type of transportation where individuals share a car to get from one place to another. It’s an alternative to traditional car rental services, which can be expensive and require a lot of paperwork. Car sharing is often more affordable and convenient, as users can rent a car for a short period of time and return it when they’re done.
Why Choose Car Sharing in Paris?
Paris is known for its traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. Car sharing can be a great way to avoid traffic and get to your destination faster. It’s also a cost-effective alternative to taxis and rental cars, especially if you’re only using a car for a short period of time.
Top Car Sharing Companies in Paris
There are several car sharing companies operating in Paris, each with its own unique features and pricing. Here are some of the top car sharing companies in Paris:
1. BlaBlaCar
BlaBlaCar is a popular car sharing company in Europe, including Paris. It’s a ride-sharing service that connects drivers with passengers who are traveling in the same direction. BlaBlaCar is different from traditional car rental services, as it’s based on a peer-to-peer model. Drivers can earn money by offering rides, while passengers can save money by sharing the cost of the ride.
2. Car2Go
Car2Go is a global car sharing company that has a strong presence in Paris. It offers a fleet of Smart cars that users can rent by the minute, hour, or day. Car2Go is a great option for short trips around the city, as users can pick up and drop off the car anywhere within the designated service area.
3. Zipcar
Zipcar is a popular car sharing company in the US, and it has recently expanded to Paris. It offers a variety of cars, including hybrids and electric vehicles, that users can rent by the hour or day. Zipcar is a great option for longer trips outside of the city, as users can take the car out of the service area.
4. Ubeeqo
Ubeeqo is a European car sharing company that offers a variety of vehicles, including electric cars and vans. It offers a pay-as-you-go model, where users can rent a car for as little as 30 minutes or as long as several days. Ubeeqo also has a mobile app that makes it easy to find and reserve a car.
Top Car Sharing Apps in Paris
In addition to traditional car sharing companies, there are also several car sharing apps available in Paris. These apps make it easy to find and reserve a car on the go. Here are some of the top car sharing apps in Paris:
1. Uber
Uber is a popular ride-sharing app that operates in several cities around the world, including Paris. It offers several ride options, including UberX, UberPool, and UberPOP. Uber is a great option for short trips around the city, as users can easily find a driver and pay through the app.
2. Cityscoot
Cityscoot is an app-based scooter sharing service that operates in Paris. It offers a fleet of electric scooters that users can rent by the minute or hour. Cityscoot is a great option for short trips around the city, as users can easily find a scooter and park it anywhere within the designated service area.
3. Vélib’
Vélib’ is an app-based bike sharing service that operates in Paris. It offers a fleet of bicycles that users can rent by the day or week. Vélib’ is a great option for exploring the city on two wheels, as users can easily find a bike and park it at any of the designated stations throughout the city.
Tips for Using Car Sharing in Paris
If you’re planning on using car sharing in Paris, here are some tips to help you get started:
- Research the different car sharing companies and apps before you arrive in Paris to find the best option for your needs.
- Make sure you have a valid driver’s license and credit card that can be used for payment.
- Familiarize yourself with the local traffic laws and regulations before getting behind the wheel.
- Be aware of the designated service areas for each car sharing company or app, and make sure you return the car or scooter to the designated location.
- Always lock the car or scooter when you’re not using it, and keep your personal belongings with you at all times.
Conclusion
Car sharing in Paris is a cost-effective and convenient way to get around the city. Whether you’re looking for a ride-sharing service like BlaBlaCar, a car rental service like Car2Go or Zipcar, or a scooter or bike sharing app like Cityscoot or Vélib’, there are plenty of options available. By following these tips and doing your research, you can make the most of your car sharing experience in Paris and explore the city on your own terms.
