Planning a trip to Paris? Chances are, you’ll be arriving by plane. With two major international airports and excellent connections from around the world, flying into Paris is simple and convenient. But to make the most of your arrival, it helps to know a few key things before you land.
Here’s a complete guide to coming to Paris by air, including airport tips, transport options, and travel hacks to start your trip smoothly.
The Main Airports: CDG and ORY
Paris is served by two main airports:
- Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) – Located about 25 km northeast of the city, this is Paris’s largest airport and the main hub for long-haul international flights, especially from North America, Asia, and the Middle East. Most major airlines, including Air France, Delta, and Emirates, fly into CDG.
- Orly Airport (ORY) – Situated about 15 km south of central Paris, Orly handles mainly domestic and European flights, as well as some international routes. It's a popular choice for budget airlines and shorter-haul trips.
💡 Tip: Check which airport you’re flying into—CDG and ORY are not close to each other, and transfer times can vary significantly.
Getting from the Airport to Paris
Once you land, you’ll need to make your way into the city. Fortunately, both airports offer a variety of transportation options:
From Charles de Gaulle (CDG):
- RER B train: Fast and affordable. Gets you to Gare du Nord or Châtelet-Les Halles in around 30–40 minutes.
- RoissyBus: Direct shuttle to Opéra, great if you have luggage.
- Taxi: Flat rate of €55 (to Right Bank) or €62 (to Left Bank).
- Private transfer or rideshare: More comfortable, especially after a long flight.
From Orly (ORY):
- Orlyval + RER B: Connect via Antony station for access to central Paris.
- OrlyBus: Direct shuttle to Denfert-Rochereau in the 14th arrondissement.
- Taxi: Flat rate of €41 (to Left Bank) or €35 (to Right Bank).
- Tram + Metro combo: Budget-friendly but longer.
💡 Hack: If you're traveling light and want to save money, the train or bus options are excellent. For convenience after a long flight, a pre-booked transfer is worth the extra cost.
Arriving Stress-Free
- Passport control and baggage claim can take time, especially at CDG. Be patient and allow buffer time between landing and your first activity.
- If you arrive early, consider leaving your bags at a luggage storage service so you can explore right away.
- SIM cards and transport passes are available at airport kiosks, making it easy to get connected and mobile immediately.
- In my opinion, the best network is Orange everywhere in France.
- Buy your e-SIM
