Taxis in Paris are hard to come by, and it isn’t easy to just waive one down. You’ll be able to find one at special taxi stations throughout the city but, if you know you need to get somewhere by a certain time, it’s easier (and smarter) to have your hotel arrange a taxi for you.
By day, it’s easier – and faster – to walk or use the Métro, but come nighttime, when traffic is light, taxis aren’t all that expensive.
To hire a taxi, watch the sign on the roof:
• If the white sign is lit, the cab is on duty & available,
• If the white sign is off and a colored light is lit under it (blue, orange), it has a passenger
• If the white sign is off and no colored light is on, the taxi’s off duty.
Taxi stations are usually near train stations, big hotels, hospitals, and large crossings. When a taxi stops, he might roll down his window and expect you to tell where you need to go. Don’t be surprised if they tell you they can’t go there, using “end of shift” as an excuse. And by law, taxes don’t allow passengers to sit in the front seat.
Also keep in mind that there’s a €5.50 minimum on all taxi rides (this is a city law), so if you’re taking just a short ride, you may end up paying more than is on the meter.
The tip is included in the price of your fare, but if you’re particularly satisfied with the service, you can give the driver a little extra (10% or round up). It’s not expect, though. Also note that there’s an additional cost added for suitcases.
It’s a good idea to have the address and arrondissement number written down, since many taxi drivers claim not to speak English.
