Unfair Fine for a Tourist – A Disappointing Experience in Paris
I recently visited Paris and, unfortunately, my trip was soured by an unfair fine issued at the Châtelet Metro station on May 6, 2025. At 14:57, I was stopped by a metro officer who asked to see my ticket. I provided my valid 5-day subscription, which the officer confirmed as legitimate. However, she then asked to see an additional ticket that accompanied my subscription.
I showed her the additional ticket, which was given to me when I purchased the subscription at the metro counter, with assistance from an employee. To my surprise, the officer fined me for not having a photograph attached to this second ticket. I explained that I was never informed that a photo would be required at the time of purchase, and no previous inspector had pointed this out during my stay.
What made the situation even more frustrating was that this occurred just as I was heading to Gare de Lyon for my train home. I find it utterly unfair that a tourist who stays for only a few days in the city should be fined €35 for something as trivial as a missing photo on a ticket. What's more, I saw other tourists in the same situation being allowed to pass without issue.
I was genuinely shocked by the lack of understanding and empathy shown by the staff. It felt as though tourists were being targeted for unnecessary fines, which, in my case, left a negative and lasting impression on my entire trip.
In short, my experience with the Paris Metro was marred by this incident, and it has certainly affected my overall view of the city. I hope that improvements are made in how tourists are treated in the future.
