CDG to Orly: Your Travel Guide

Getting Between Paris's Major Airports: CDG and Orly

For travellers flying into or out of Paris, understanding the best way to transfer between Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Orly (ORY) airports is crucial for a stress-free experience. These two major international hubs serve millions of passengers annually, and while they are both located within the Île-de-France region, they are not directly connected by a single train line. This means planning your journey in advance is key. This article will guide you through the most efficient and popular methods for travelling between CDG and Orly, ensuring you arrive at your destination with minimal fuss.

The RER B & OrlyVal Connection: The Most Common Route

The most widely recommended and straightforward method for travelling between Charles de Gaulle Airport and Orly Airport involves using the RER B suburban train line combined with the OrlyVal shuttle. This route is well-signposted and generally considered the most reliable option, especially for those unfamiliar with Paris public transport.

From Charles de Gaulle (CDG) to Orly (ORY)

The journey from CDG to Orly is relatively simple. Here's a step-by-step breakdown:

1. Access the RER B at CDG: Charles de Gaulle Airport has two RER B stations. CDG Terminal 1 and 3 share a station, while CDG Terminal 2 has its own dedicated station. Ensure you head to the correct station based on your arrival terminal.
2. Board the RER B: From either station, take the RER B train heading towards Saint-Rémy-lès-Chevreuse or Massy-Palaiseau. It is vital to board a train going south into Paris; avoid any trains heading towards Aeroport Charles de Gaulle.
3. Alight at Antony: Stay on the RER B line until you reach the station named Antony. This is your transfer point for the OrlyVal. The journey from CDG to Antony typically takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on your starting terminal at CDG.
4. Transfer to OrlyVal: Upon arriving at Antony station, follow the signs for the OrlyVal shuttle. The OrlyVal is an automated light rail system specifically designed to connect the RER B line to Orly Airport.
5. Reach Orly Terminals: The OrlyVal will take you directly to the various terminals at Orly Airport. It serves Terminals 1, 2, and 3, and then continues to Terminal 4. The OrlyVal journey itself is quite short, usually around 8 minutes.

Key points to remember for this route:

• Ensure your RER B ticket or pass covers the entire journey to Orly, including the OrlyVal section.
• The OrlyVal operates frequently, but check the latest timetable, especially if travelling during off-peak hours or late at night.
• The total journey time, including transfers, can range from 50 minutes to over an hour, so factor this into your travel plans.

From Orly (ORY) to Charles de Gaulle (CDG)

The reverse journey, from Orly to CDG, also utilizes the RER B line but with a different intermediate step.

1. Access the Metro Line 14 at Orly: Head to the Orly Airport Metro station, which is conveniently located near Orly 3. Other terminals are accessible via walking or airport shuttles.
2. Board Metro Line 14: Take the Metro Line 14 in the direction of Saint-Lazare (or its terminus depending on the time of day).
3. Alight at Châtelet-Les Halles: Travel on Metro Line 14 until you reach the major transport hub of Châtelet-Les Halles. This is a large underground station, so follow the signs carefully for the RER B.
4. Transfer to RER B: At Châtelet-Les Halles, find the RER B platforms. You will need to take a train heading towards Aéroport Charles de Gaulle. Be sure to board a train that specifically states it is going to CDG.
5. Arrive at CDG: The RER B will take you directly to the RER stations at Charles de Gaulle Airport, serving both CDG Terminal 1/3 and CDG Terminal 2.

Important considerations for the Orly to CDG route:

• The Metro Line 14 is a modern and efficient line, offering a smooth ride into central Paris.
• Châtelet-Les Halles is one of the busiest metro stations in the world; allow ample time for your transfer to the RER B.
• The total travel time for this route can also vary, typically between 1 hour and 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on connection times and traffic on the RER.

Alternative Transport Options

While the RER B and OrlyVal combination is popular, other options exist, particularly for those seeking more comfort or travelling with significant luggage.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services

Taxis and ride-sharing services (like Uber or Bolt) offer a direct, door-to-door service between CDG and Orly. This is often the most convenient option, especially if you have heavy luggage or are travelling in a group.

• Pros: Comfort, direct travel, no need to navigate public transport.
• Cons: Significantly more expensive than public transport, journey time can be highly variable due to Paris traffic. A typical taxi fare can range from €50 to €80 or more, depending on the route and time of day.

Airport Buses (Roissybus & Orlybus)

While there isn't a direct bus service between CDG and Orly, you can use the dedicated airport buses to reach central Paris and then switch to another bus or the Metro to reach the other airport.

• Roissybus: Connects CDG to the Opéra Garnier area in central Paris.
• Orlybus: Connects Orly Airport to Denfert-Rochereau in central Paris.

This method involves at least one transfer in central Paris and is generally less efficient than the RER B route. It might be considered if you specifically need to visit a location near the bus drop-off points in Paris.

Comparing the Options

Here's a simplified comparison to help you choose the best method:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Is there a direct train from CDG to Orly?
No, there is no direct train. You must transfer, typically via the RER B and OrlyVal shuttle.

Q2: How much does the RER B and OrlyVal cost?
The combined ticket usually costs around €12-€15 per person, depending on the exact fare structure at the time of travel. This includes the RER B fare and the separate OrlyVal fare.

Q3: Can I use a Navigo pass for this journey?
Yes, a Navigo Découverte pass (weekly or monthly) covering zones 1-5 will typically cover the RER B portion of the journey. However, the OrlyVal portion often requires a separate ticket or supplement, even with a Navigo pass. Always check the latest regulations.

Q4: How often does the OrlyVal run?
The OrlyVal generally runs every 4-7 minutes during peak hours and slightly less frequently during off-peak times. It operates for most of the day, but it's advisable to check its operating hours, especially for early morning or late-night travel.

Q5: What is the best way to transfer if I have a lot of luggage?
For travellers with significant luggage, a taxi or a pre-booked car service is usually the most convenient option, despite the higher cost. It avoids the need to navigate busy stations and carry bags on multiple public transport segments.

Q6: How much time should I allow for the transfer?
It's wise to allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours for the transfer between airports using public transport, accounting for potential delays, walking within stations, and waiting times. If using a taxi or ride-share, check live traffic conditions.

Conclusion

Navigating between Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports is a common requirement for many international travellers passing through Paris. While the journey requires a transfer, the RER B and OrlyVal combination offers a cost-effective and relatively straightforward solution. For those seeking ultimate convenience, taxis and ride-sharing services provide a direct but more expensive alternative. By understanding these options and planning your route in advance, you can ensure a smooth and timely transition between Paris's two main gateways.

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