05/12/2019
Paris, the city of lights, romance, and unparalleled culture, welcomes millions of visitors each year. For many, the journey begins and ends at its primary air hubs: Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Orly (ORY). While both are conveniently located relative to the city centre, understanding the nuances of each and the best transfer options is crucial for a smooth arrival and departure. This guide will delve into the intricacies of navigating from these bustling airports to the heart of the French capital, ensuring your Parisian adventure starts without a hitch.
Understanding Paris's Airports
When we talk about the airports closest to Paris, two names immediately spring to mind: Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Orly (ORY). Both are vital gateways, handling the vast majority of international and domestic flights respectively, though their roles have become increasingly intertwined. CDG, named after General Charles de Gaulle, is the larger and busier of the two, serving as the primary international airport. Orly, located to the south of Paris, was the city's main airport before the opening of CDG and continues to be a significant hub, particularly for domestic and European flights, as well as for low-cost carriers.
The proximity of these airports to the city centre is a significant advantage. CDG is approximately 23 kilometres (14 miles) northeast of Paris, while Orly is about 13 kilometres (8 miles) south. This relatively short distance means that efficient and varied transport options are readily available, catering to different budgets and time constraints.
Getting from Charles de Gaulle (CDG) to Central Paris
Charles de Gaulle Airport is a major international gateway, and as such, it offers a comprehensive range of transport links to the city. Here are the most popular and practical options:
1. RER B Train
The RER B line is arguably the most popular and cost-effective way to reach central Paris from CDG. The train station is conveniently located at Terminal 2, with a shuttle bus connecting to Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. The journey takes approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on your destination in Paris. You can alight at key stations like Gare du Nord, Châtelet-Les Halles, Saint-Michel Notre-Dame, and Denfert-Rochereau, from where you can connect to the extensive Paris Métro system.
Key Takeaways for RER B:
- Frequency: Trains run every 10-20 minutes.
- Cost: A single ticket typically costs around €11.45 (prices are subject to change).
- Convenience: Direct access to major transport hubs in Paris.
- Considerations: Can get crowded during peak hours, and luggage can be cumbersome.
2. Roissybus
The Roissybus is an express bus service that provides a comfortable and direct connection from CDG to the heart of Paris, terminating at the Opéra Garnier. This is a great option if your accommodation is located near the Opéra district. The journey time is usually around 60-75 minutes, again depending on traffic conditions.
Key Takeaways for Roissybus:
- Frequency: Buses depart every 15-20 minutes.
- Cost: A single ticket is typically around €13.70.
- Comfort: Offers more space for luggage compared to the RER.
- Destination: Direct service to Opéra, a central Parisian landmark.
3. Taxis
Taxis are readily available outside each terminal at CDG. They offer a door-to-door service, which can be very convenient, especially if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling with a group. However, this convenience comes at a higher price. It's important to note that there are fixed rates for taxis travelling between CDG and central Paris (Rive Gauche and Rive Droite).
Fixed Rates from CDG (as of recent information, always verify):
| Destination | Price (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Right Bank (Rive Droite) | €55 |
| Left Bank (Rive Gauche) | €62 |
Key Takeaways for Taxis:
- Convenience: Door-to-door service, ideal for heavy luggage or groups.
- Cost: More expensive than public transport, but with fixed rates, you know what to expect.
- Time: Journey time can vary significantly with traffic, typically 45-60 minutes.
- Official Taxis: Always use official taxis to avoid scams. Look for the taxi sign on the roof.
4. Ride-Sharing Services (Uber, Bolt, etc.)
Ride-sharing services are also a popular option. Pick-up points are usually clearly signposted at CDG. Prices can fluctuate based on demand and time of day, but they are often comparable to or slightly cheaper than official taxis for certain journeys.
Key Takeaways for Ride-Sharing:
- Convenience: Booked and paid for via an app.
- Cost: Variable pricing, can be economical.
- Time: Similar journey times to taxis.
- Availability: Generally good, but can be affected by demand.
Getting from Orly (ORY) to Central Paris
Orly Airport, being closer to the city, often presents slightly different and sometimes more direct options for reaching your Parisian destination.
1. Orlyval + RER B
The Orlyval is a dedicated light metro service that connects Orly Airport (Terminals 1, 2, 3, and 4) to the RER B station at Antony. From Antony, you can take the RER B train directly into central Paris, similar to the service from CDG. The combined journey time is approximately 35-50 minutes.
Key Takeaways for Orlyval + RER B:
- Frequency: Orlyval runs every 5-10 minutes.
- Cost: The combined ticket (Orlyval + RER B) is typically around €14.10.
- Efficiency: A smooth and reliable connection to the RER network.
- Luggage: Can be a bit of a squeeze during busy periods.
2. Tram T7 + Métro Line 7
For a more budget-friendly option, you can take the Tram T7 from Orly (outside Orly 4) to Villejuif-Louis Aragon station, where you can connect to Métro Line 7. This line will take you directly to many central Paris locations, including Opéra, Louvre, and Châtelet. This is a longer journey, usually taking around 70-90 minutes, but it is significantly cheaper.
Key Takeaways for Tram T7 + Métro Line 7:
- Cost: Very economical, requiring standard Métro tickets or passes.
- Journey Time: The longest but cheapest option.
- Experience: A good way to see more of the Parisian outskirts.
- Luggage: Generally more manageable than the RER.
3. Orlybus
The Orlybus is an express bus service that runs directly from Orly Airport to Denfert-Rochereau in Montparnasse, a lively district on the Left Bank of Paris. This is a convenient option if your accommodation is in this area. The journey takes about 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic.
Key Takeaways for Orlybus:
- Frequency: Buses depart every 15-20 minutes.
- Cost: A single ticket is typically around €11.20.
- Comfort: A good balance of comfort and cost.
- Destination: Direct to Denfert-Rochereau, a key transport hub.
4. Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services
Similar to CDG, taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available at Orly. Fixed rates also apply for taxis travelling between Orly and central Paris.
Fixed Rates from Orly (as of recent information, always verify):
| Destination | Price (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Right Bank (Rive Droite) | €35 |
| Left Bank (Rive Gauche) | €31 |
Key Takeaways for Taxis/Ride-Sharing from Orly:
- Convenience: Door-to-door service.
- Cost: More expensive than public transport, but Orly's fixed rates are lower than CDG's.
- Time: Typically 30-45 minutes, but traffic can impact this.
- Booking: Ensure you use official taxis or reputable ride-sharing apps.
Choosing the Best Option for You
The "best" way to get to central Paris depends entirely on your priorities:
- Budget Travellers: The Tram T7 + Métro Line 7 from Orly, or the RER B from CDG, are your most economical choices.
- Time-Conscious Travellers: Taxis or ride-sharing services often offer the quickest door-to-door transfer, provided traffic is favourable. The RER B from CDG and Orlyval + RER B from Orly are also very efficient.
- Comfort Seekers: Roissybus (from CDG) or Orlybus (from Orly) offer a comfortable bus journey, as do taxis and ride-sharing services.
- Travellers with Lots of Luggage: Taxis, ride-sharing, or the express bus services (Roissybus/Orlybus) are generally more accommodating than the RER.
- Those Staying Near Opéra/Montparnasse: Roissybus and Orlybus respectively offer direct routes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Which airport is closer to Paris, CDG or Orly?
A: Orly Airport is closer to the city centre of Paris.
Q2: Is the RER B train safe?
A: The RER B is generally safe, but like any public transport in a major city, it's advisable to be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure, especially during peak hours.
Q3: Can I buy Paris Métro tickets at the airport?
A: Yes, you can purchase single tickets and carnets (packs of 10 tickets) at ticket machines and counters in the RER stations at both CDG and Orly. For the express buses and Orlyval, separate tickets are usually required.
Q4: What is the best way to get from CDG to the Eiffel Tower?
A: Take the RER B from CDG to Saint-Michel Notre-Dame, then transfer to Métro Line 10 towards Boulogne, alighting at La Motte-Picquet-Grenelle, and finally change to Métro Line 6 towards Charles de Gaulle-Étoile, getting off at Bir-Hakeim. Alternatively, a taxi or ride-sharing service will offer a direct route.
Q5: Are there night buses from the airports?
A: While the RER and express buses have set operating hours, Noctilien, Paris's night bus network, does serve areas near the airports, but direct connections to the city centre are limited. It's best to check the RATP website for specific routes and schedules.
Navigating your arrival in Paris is a key part of your travel experience. By understanding the options available from Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports, you can make an informed choice that suits your needs, ensuring your journey into the magnificent city of Paris is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
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