31/12/2017
Paris Orly Airport (ORY) stands as a pivotal gateway to the enchanting French capital, welcoming millions of travellers annually. For many arriving passengers, the immediate concern is securing reliable and efficient transport to their final destination. While various options exist, taxis remain a perennially popular choice, offering unparalleled convenience and direct access to hotels, residences, or business premises. Navigating the taxi system at a bustling international airport can seem daunting, but with the right information, securing a seamless journey from Orly is straightforward. This comprehensive guide will illuminate everything you need to know about picking up a taxi at Orly Airport, from designated ranks and fare structures to types of services available, ensuring your Parisian adventure begins on the right note.
- Understanding Orly Airport: A Brief Overview
- Official Taxi Ranks: Your Designated Pickup Points
- Navigating the Two Taxi Types: Paris vs. Suburban
- Understanding Taxi Fares and Surcharges
- Booking Your Orly Taxi: Advance Reservations & Safety
- Accessibility Services: Taxis for All Travellers
- Why Choose a Taxi from Orly? Convenience and Comfort
- Frequently Asked Questions About Taxis at Orly Airport
Understanding Orly Airport: A Brief Overview
Paris Orly, often referred to simply as Orly, is France's second-largest airport, strategically located approximately 13 kilometres south of the vibrant city centre. It plays a crucial role alongside Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport in serving the vast number of tourists and business travellers visiting Paris and the surrounding Île-de-France region. Handling over 25 million passengers each year, Orly is a well-equipped facility boasting modern amenities and a robust transport infrastructure. The airport is comprised of two primary terminal buildings: Paris-Orly South and Paris-Orly West, named for their geographical orientation within the airport grounds. Regardless of which terminal you arrive at, well-marked and easily accessible taxi ranks are readily available to whisk you away to your desired location. The airport's official code, ORY, is widely recognised, making it easy to identify in travel plans. Its proximity to various communes and departments, including Wissous, Athis-Mons, and Orly itself, underscores its central role in regional connectivity.
Official Taxi Ranks: Your Designated Pickup Points
Upon arrival at Paris Orly Airport, it is paramount to seek out the official taxi ranks to ensure a safe and legitimate journey. Unlike some destinations where rideshare pickups might be less formal, Orly prioritises regulated taxi services for passenger security and transparency. You should never accept offers for transport from individuals approaching you within the arrival halls. These are typically unauthorised operators, and engaging with them can lead to inflated fares, uninsured journeys, or other unwelcome complications. Legitimate taxi operators will always be found at the designated taxi stands, waiting patiently by their vehicles.
For passengers arriving at Paris-Orly South Terminal, official Paris taxis can be found conveniently at Exit M. Should your destination fall within the suburban zones, the suburban taxi ranks are located at Exit L.
If your flight lands at Paris-Orly West Terminal, both Paris taxis and suburban taxis share a common pickup point, located just outside Exit B, on the arrivals level. Clear signage throughout both terminals will direct you effortlessly to these official pickup zones, ensuring a hassle-free transition from air travel to ground transport. Always look for the official taxi signs and queue for the next available vehicle.
Orly Airport operates with two distinct categories of taxi services, each catering to specific geographical areas: Paris taxi companies and suburban taxi companies. Understanding the difference is key to selecting the correct service for your destination.
Paris Taxis
Paris Taxis are primarily designed for journeys within the city of Paris itself, along with three immediately bordering departments:
- Hauts-de-Seine (department 92)
- Seine-Saint-Denis (department 93)
- Val-de-Marne (department 94)
Prominent Paris taxi companies include:
- Alpha Taxis: 01 45 85 85 85
- Les Taxis Bleus: 0 891 70 10 10
- Taxis G7: 01 47 39 47 39
Suburban Taxis
Suburban Taxis, on the other hand, are the appropriate choice for destinations located in the outer ring of departments surrounding Paris. These include:
- Essonne (department 91)
- Val-d’Oise (department 95)
- Yvelines (department 78)
- Seine-et-Marne (department 77)
The primary suburban taxi association is the Association des entrepreneurs de taxis de banlieue d’Orly, reachable at 01 46 87 12 00.
Choosing the correct type of taxi from the outset can save time and potential confusion. If you are unsure which category your destination falls into, it's always best to ask an airport information desk official or the taxi dispatcher at the rank.
| Feature | Paris Taxis | Suburban Taxis |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Coverage Area | City of Paris and 3 bordering departments (92, 93, 94) | 4 outer bordering departments (91, 95, 78, 77) |
| Pickup at Orly South | Exit M | Exit L |
| Pickup at Orly West | Exit B (Arrivals) | Exit B (Arrivals) |
| Sample Companies/Association | Alpha Taxis, Les Taxis Bleus, Taxis G7 | Association des entrepreneurs de taxis de banlieue d’Orly |
| Contact Numbers (examples) | 01 45 85 85 85 (Alpha Taxis) | 01 46 87 12 00 |
Understanding Taxi Fares and Surcharges
Taxi fares in France are primarily calculated using a meter, a device within the vehicle that precisely records the distance travelled. This ensures a transparent and fair pricing system based on the journey's length. However, it's crucial to understand that the metered fare is not always the final price you will pay. Several additional costs and surcharges can apply, and it is highly advisable to discuss these with your driver before the journey commences. This proactive approach can help avoid any misunderstandings or surprises upon arrival at your destination.
Common additional costs may include:
- Airport Surcharge: A specific fee for pickups originating from the airport.
- Luggage Fees: If you have an excessive amount of luggage or particularly bulky items, an additional charge may apply.
- Passenger Surcharge: For groups of more than four passengers, a supplementary fee is often added.
Furthermore, the time of day and day of the week significantly impact taxi fares. You can expect to pay higher rates during:
- Sundays and Public Holidays: Journeys on these days typically incur an increased charge.
- Late Evening and Early Morning Hours:
- In the suburbs, fares are higher between 19:00 and 07:00.
- In Paris, increased rates apply from 17:00 to 10:00.
During these peak times, passengers can anticipate paying approximately 15% more for their journey.
While the metered system provides a base, knowing approximate fares to popular destinations can help you budget and ensure you are not overcharged. Here are some indicative fares (for weekdays and Saturdays) from Orly:
| Destination | Approximate Fare |
|---|---|
| Porte Maillot | €51.00 |
| Notre Dame | €39.00 |
| Gare de l’Est | €48.00 |
| Porte de Versailles | €40.00 |
| Gare Austerlitz | €39.00 |
| Roissy-Charles de Gaulle Airport | €77.00 |
| Destination | Approximate Fare |
|---|---|
| Evry – Gare RER | €26.30 |
| Versailles Château | €43.00 |
| Massy – Gare TGV | €28.00 |
| Juvisy – Gare Centrale | €15.00 |
| Disneyland Paris Hotels | €72.00 |
It's important to note that these are approximate fares and actual costs may vary based on traffic conditions, specific routes taken, and any applicable surcharges. Always confirm with your driver before setting off.
Booking Your Orly Taxi: Advance Reservations & Safety
While there are always taxis readily available at Orly Airport's designated ranks, passengers do have the option to call and reserve a taxi service in advance of their arrival. This can be particularly useful during peak travel times or if you have specific requirements. The contact numbers for the main Paris taxi companies and the suburban taxi association were provided earlier in this guide. Booking ahead can offer peace of mind, knowing your transport is secured before you even land.
However, as reiterated earlier, the most critical aspect of securing a taxi at Orly is safety and legitimacy. Stick exclusively to the services of official Paris Orly Airport taxis. Any other company or individual attempting to solicit transport from the airport premises is not permitted to do so. If someone approaches you in the arrival halls offering a ride, politely decline and, if you feel it's necessary, report the incident to the appropriate airport officials. The legitimate taxi operators will be at their designated ranks, identifiable by their official markings and presence at the queue. Prioritising these authorised services ensures you receive a metered fare, a licensed driver, and a vehicle that meets all safety standards.
Accessibility Services: Taxis for All Travellers
Paris Orly Airport is committed to providing accessible transport options for all passengers. For those with disabilities or reduced mobility, the taxi company Taxis G7 offers a specialised service known as "Horizon." This service is specifically designed to accommodate passengers wishing to travel within the Île-de-France region, ensuring a comfortable and appropriate vehicle for their needs.
To arrange the Horizon service, passengers can contact Taxis G7 directly at 01 47 39 00 91. More information about their services, including the Horizon offering, can also be found on their official website. It is highly recommended to book this specialised service in advance to guarantee availability and ensure a smooth transfer.
Why Choose a Taxi from Orly? Convenience and Comfort
Despite other transport options like buses, trains, and rideshares, taxis remain a highly favoured choice for many travellers departing from Orly Airport. Their appeal lies primarily in the unparalleled convenience and directness they offer.
Unlike public transport, which often involves multiple changes, navigating unfamiliar routes, and handling luggage on crowded platforms, a taxi provides a direct, door-to-door service. Whether your final destination is a hotel, a private residence, or a business premise, a taxi will take you directly to the curb side, eliminating the need for further transfers or walking. This is particularly advantageous for:
- Families with Young Children: Managing children, pushchairs, and luggage on public transport can be stressful. Taxis offer a private, contained space, making the journey much easier to organise and less taxing.
- Business Travellers: Time is often of the essence. Taxis provide the quickest and most efficient way to get from the airport to a meeting or accommodation, allowing for uninterrupted work or relaxation.
- Passengers with Heavy or Multiple Bags: Avoiding the hassle of lugging suitcases through stations and onto crowded vehicles is a significant benefit.
- Those Seeking Comfort and Privacy: After a long flight, the comfort of a private vehicle can be invaluable, allowing you to relax and unwind before reaching your destination.
While taxis are generally considered the most expensive mode of transport from Orly compared to public alternatives, the added benefits of speed, comfort, and directness often justify the cost for many passengers seeking a stress-free start to their Parisian experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Taxis at Orly Airport
- How do I find an official taxi at Orly Airport?
- Official taxis at Orly Airport are found at designated taxi ranks outside the terminals. For Paris-Orly South, Paris taxis are at Exit M, and suburban taxis are at Exit L. At Paris-Orly West, both types of taxis are outside Exit B on the arrivals level. Look for clear signage and avoid individuals offering rides inside the terminal.
- Are taxi fares fixed from Orly Airport?
- No, taxi fares from Orly Airport are generally calculated by a meter based on the distance travelled. However, specific flat rates exist for journeys between Orly and certain Paris destinations, but these are often for specific zones. It's crucial to note that the metered fare does not include additional charges such as airport surcharges, luggage fees, or fees for more than four passengers. Always discuss the estimated total cost with your driver before starting your journey to avoid surprises.
- Can I pay for my taxi with a credit card?
- While many modern taxis in Paris and its suburbs accept credit cards, it is always advisable to confirm with your driver before beginning your trip. It's a good practice to carry some euro currency in case a taxi only accepts cash or if there are issues with card payments.
- What is the difference between Paris taxis and suburban taxis?
- The primary difference lies in their licensed operating areas. Paris taxis are licensed to transport passengers within the city of Paris and three specific bordering departments (Hauts-de-Seine, Seine-Saint-Denis, Val-de-Marne). Suburban taxis are licensed for journeys to four other bordering departments (Essonne, Val-d’Oise, Yvelines, Seine-et-Marne). Ensure you choose the correct type of taxi for your destination.
- Are taxis available 24/7 at Orly Airport?
- Yes, taxis are generally available around the clock at Paris Orly Airport. Given its status as a major international hub, there are always vehicles at the ranks to accommodate arriving passengers, regardless of the time of day or night. However, be aware that fares may be higher during late-night or early morning hours, as well as on Sundays and public holidays.
- Is it more expensive to take a taxi at night or on weekends?
- Yes, absolutely. Taxi fares in France are subject to increased rates during specific off-peak hours and on certain days. In suburban areas, fares are higher between 7 PM and 7 AM. In Paris, increased rates apply from 5 PM to 10 AM. Additionally, journeys on Sundays and public holidays typically incur a higher charge, often around 15% more than standard weekday rates.
- Can I pre-book a taxi from Orly?
- Yes, you can pre-book a taxi from Orly by contacting one of the official taxi companies directly. This can be beneficial for peace of mind, especially if you have an early morning flight or specific requirements. However, ensure you only book through official channels and confirm the pickup procedure.
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