I’m visiting Paris and tried using public transportation to go to Versailles on my first full day. After coming from London, where transit is simple and contactless, I found Paris much more confusing with multiple apps and ticket options.
After some research, I decided to buy individual tickets through the app. I purchased a couple and then boarded a tram near my hotel based on directions from Citymapper. When I tried to validate my ticket by tapping my phone, it showed a red error.
While I was trying to figure out what went wrong, the tram started moving. Shortly after, a person wearing an orange RATP armband approached me. I thought they were there to help, so I explained that I had already bought tickets and showed them on my phone. They asked me to scan my phone on their device but didn’t clearly explain anything.
Then another staff member joined and told me I had the wrong type of ticket and was in violation of transit rules, accusing me of fare evasion. Despite explaining that I had purchased tickets, I was issued a €70 fine and required to pay it immediately.
When I asked if I could just get off and buy the correct ticket, I was told I couldn’t leave because I was being fined. After paying, I was given a receipt and told that it now counted as my ticket.
The whole situation left me confused and frustrated. I’m unsure whether this was handled properly, if I misunderstood the system, or if I was taken advantage of as a tourist. It completely ruined my first day in the city.
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