Paris is served by four major airports, each offering unique features and connectivity to the heart of the French capital.
From the bustling Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to the more compact Orly Airport, the historic Le Bourget Airport, and the outlying Paris-Beauvais Airport, each airport has its own charm and essential services.
Whether you’re arriving on an international flight or a low-cost carrier, understanding the differences between these airports is crucial for navigating your way to Paris with ease.
In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about the airports in Paris, including transport options, amenities, and tips for a smooth arrival or departure.
1 – Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)
Charles de Gaulle Airport, also known as Roissy Airport, is a major international gateway to Paris. It is the largest airport in France and a critical hub for international travel, serving numerous airlines and providing diverse transportation options.
Terminals and Airlines
Charles de Gaulle Airport has three main terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3. Terminal 1 serves a variety of international airlines and features a circular design, making navigation straightforward. Terminal 2 is further divided into several sub-terminals (2A through 2G), hosting major airlines like Air France, Delta, and British Airways. Terminal 3 primarily serves charter and low-cost airlines. Altogether, the airport accommodates over 90 airlines, connecting passengers to destinations worldwide.
Public Transportation
Travelers have several options for public transportation from Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to central Paris, each offering different benefits depending on convenience, speed, and cost.
- RER B Train: The RER B is a fast and popular option, taking 35 to 45 minutes to reach central Paris. Trains run every 10 to 20 minutes, from around 4:50 AM until 11:00 PM. Passengers can board the train at “Aéroport Charles de Gaulle 1” (Terminals 1 and 3) or “Aéroport Charles de Gaulle 2” (Terminal 2). Key stops include Gare du Nord, Châtelet-les-Halles, and Saint-Michel Notre-Dame.
- Roissybus Service: The Roissybus provides direct service between CDG Airport and Paris Opera, with a travel time of about 60 minutes, depending on traffic. Buses depart every 15 to 20 minutes, and tickets cost around €14. This service is ideal for travelers seeking a simple, transfer-free route to central Paris.
- Taxi Services: Taxis are readily available from designated pick-up points outside the terminals. Fixed fares are €56 for the Right Bank and €65 for the Left Bank. Passengers are advised to use licensed taxis, identifiable by a taxi sign and meter.
- Ride-Hailing Apps: Services like Uber and Bolt are becoming increasingly popular at CDG. These apps offer a convenient, modern alternative to traditional taxis, with fare estimates available in advance and real-time ride tracking.
Read more: How to Get from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Paris
TGV Trains Lines
The TGV train lines offer rapid connections between Charles de Gaulle Airport and major French cities. The TGV station is located in Terminal 2, providing efficient travel to destinations like Lyon, Marseille, and Brussels. This connection is ideal for passengers needing to transfer from air travel to high-speed rail without leaving the airport premises. Tickets can be purchased at the airport or online.
Shuttles Between Terminals
Shuttle services operate between terminals at Charles de Gaulle Airport. The CDGVAL automated shuttle connects Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3, enabling quick transfers for passengers with layovers or multiple flights. Shuttles run every few minutes throughout the day, ensuring minimal waiting time. Signage is clear, making navigation intuitive for travelers unfamiliar with the airport layout.
Bus Shuttle to Disneyland Paris
The Disneyland Paris shuttle operates out of Charles de Gaulle Airport, providing direct transport to Disneyland Resort. This service makes excursions to the theme park accessible for families and tourists. The shuttle departs regularly and can be booked online or at the airport. The journey takes approximately one hour, allowing visitors to start their Disney experience without delay.
Car Rentals
Car rental services are available at Charles de Gaulle Airport, catering to those who prefer personal transport during their stay. Major rental companies such as Hertz, Avis, and Europcar have desks in each terminal. Reservations can be made online or upon arrival. Renting a car offers the flexibility to explore Paris and the surrounding regions at one’s leisure, although traffic in and around the city can be challenging for some drivers.
Facilities and Services
Charles de Gaulle Airport provides various facilities and services aimed at enhancing the passenger experience. Dining options range from fast food to gourmet restaurants, catering to diverse tastes. Shopping is also abundant, with duty-free stores, luxury brands, and souvenir shops available. Additional services include lounges, free Wi-Fi, and facilities for families, such as play areas and baby-changing stations to ensure comfort for all travelers.
Hotel Options and Transit
A variety of hotels are located near Charles de Gaulle Airport, offering convenient accommodation for passengers in transit or those with early flights. Options include luxury hotels like the Sheraton and budget-friendly alternatives such as Ibis and Novotel. Many hotels provide shuttle services to and from the airport, simplifying travel logistics. Passengers can easily rest between flights or enjoy a longer stay while exploring Paris.
2 – Orly Airport
Orly Airport (ORY) is one of the two primary airports serving Paris, France, alongside Charles de Gaulle Airport. It offers a range of facilities and services for travelers and is well-equipped with public transportation options. Here’s an in-depth look at what Orly Airport has to offer.
Terminals and Airlines
Orly Airport consists of two main terminals: Orly South (ORY-S) and Orly West (ORY-W), both serving a variety of domestic and international flights.
Orly South handles many of the airport’s European and long-haul flights, while Orly West is home to airlines offering both European and international connections. Major airlines operating at Orly include Air France, Transavia, EasyJet, and Vueling, providing direct flights to destinations across Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.
Public Transportation
Several public transportation options are available for travelers heading to Paris from Orly Airport, catering to different budgets, travel times, and preferences.
- Metro Line 14: This fully automated line offers a quick 25-minute journey directly connecting Orly to central Paris, with key stops like Gare de Lyon and Châtelet-Les Halles. The fare is €14, and trains run every 2 to 5 minutes. Navigo passes are accepted.
- RER B + OrlyVal: The OrlyVal connects Orly to Antony station, where passengers transfer to the RER B for direct access to Paris. The total journey time is 35 minutes, with a fare of €14. The RER B offers travel times of 17 minutes from Denfert-Rochereau and 25 minutes from Châtelet-Les Halles.
- OrlyBus: A direct shuttle to Denfert-Rochereau, with a journey time of 30 minutes and a fare of €14. The OrlyBus runs every 10 to 15 minutes and operates from early morning until midnight.
- Tram T7 + Metro Line 7: A budget-friendly option, Tram T7 connects Orly to Villejuif-Louis Aragon, where passengers can transfer to Metro Line 7. The total journey time to central Paris is about 80 minutes, with a fare of €2.
Read more: How to Get from Orly Airport to Paris
Shuttles Between Terminals
Traveling between Orly’s two terminals is straightforward. The airport operates a free shuttle bus service called “Orlyval”, which connects ORY-S and ORY-W.
This service runs frequently, providing smooth transfers for passengers with connecting flights. Travelers can expect a wait time of around 8 minutes between shuttles, making it easy to navigate the airport complex without hassle.
Bus Shuttle to Disneyland Paris
For families or those heading to Disneyland Paris, a dedicated bus service operates from Orly Airport.
Key features include:
- Direct service: Takes passengers straight to Disneyland in approximately 60 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Regular departures: Buses leave multiple times a day, timed to coordinate with flight arrivals.
Tickets can be purchased online or at the airport. This option allows for a convenient and stress-free journey to one of Europe’s most popular attractions.
Facilities and Services
Orly Airport offers a wide range of facilities to enhance the travel experience.
Notable services include:
- Dining: An array of restaurants and cafés featuring local and international cuisine.
- Shops: Duty-free shopping and a variety of retail stores are available.
- Lounges: Various lounges offer a comfortable place to relax with amenities like free Wi-Fi and refreshments.
Additionally, services such as currency exchange and free Wi-Fi are accessible throughout the airport, making it convenient for travelers.
Hotel Options and Transit
Orly Airport provides various hotel options both on-site and nearby.
On-site hotels include:
- Ibis Paris Orly Airport: Located for easy access to the terminals.
- Hilton Paris Orly Airport: Offers a shuttle service for added convenience.
For travelers seeking transit accommodations, nearby hotels are just a short ride away. Many provide shuttle services, making it easy to reach the airport for early flights or late arrivals.
These accommodations ensure that travelers can find a suitable place to stay, catering to different budgets and preferences.
3 – Beauvais-Tillé Airport (BVA)
Beauvais-Tillé Airport serves as a major hub for low-cost carriers and offers various transportation options for travelers. With its proximity to Paris, it attracts a significant number of budget-conscious travelers seeking to access the city.
Low-Cost Carrier Hub
Beauvais-Tillé Airport is primarily known for its operation of low-cost airlines, making it an attractive choice for budget travelers. Key carriers include Ryanair and Wizz Air, which operate numerous routes across Europe.
Despite its smaller size compared to other Parisian airports, it experienced significant traffic, handling over 5 million passengers in 2023. The airport provides essential services like ticket counters, check-in, and baggage claim, ensuring smooth operations for passengers.
Public Transportation
Traveling from Beauvais Airport to Paris is easy with multiple bus and train options. Buses, such as Line A01, A02, A03, and A04, offer routes to popular Paris locations, including Porte Maillot, Saint-Denis, La Défense, and La Villette. Tickets start at €16.90 one-way, and buses depart every 30 minutes, with travel times around 1h30 depending on traffic.
Online booking is recommended. Alternatively, trains from Beauvais to Gare du Nord take about 1 hour and 15 minutes, with regular services available via shuttle bus or taxi to the SNCF station.
Additionally, taxis and private transfers are available for those seeking a more direct route. With a range of transportation options, getting to and from the airport is efficient.
Read more: How to Get from Beauvais Airport to Paris
Hotel Options and Transit
Several hotel options are located near Beauvais-Tillé Airport, catering to varying budgets and preferences. Many travelers opt for accommodation in Beauvais town, which is just a short distance from the airport.
Some recommended hotels include the Kyriad Beauvais and Campanile, both providing comfort and convenience. For travelers needing a quick overnight stay before or after a flight, these options are ideal.
In addition to nearby hotels, various transit services are available, including airport shuttles and taxis. This ensures that travelers have access to suitable options for a seamless travel experience near the airport.
4 – Le Bourget Airport (LBG)
Le Bourget Airport is a key hub for business aviation near Paris, known for its historical significance and its role in high-profile air shows. The airport serves private jets and offers various services to cater to business travelers. Additionally, its location provides convenient access to local accommodations and transport options.
Business Aviation Focus
Le Bourget Airport is recognized as one of Europe’s busiest airports dedicated to business aviation. It primarily serves private jets and charter flights, making it a vital hub for corporate travel. The airport is strategically located 11 kilometers northeast of Paris, allowing easy access to the city’s business districts.
Many high-profile companies rely on Le Bourget for efficient travel to and from Paris. The airport has facilities designed specifically for corporate travelers, including lounges and streamlined customs procedures. Its emphasis on business aviation underlines its significance in the global aviation market.
Air Show and Exhibitions
Le Bourget is renowned for hosting the Paris Air Show, the world’s oldest and largest air show. Taking place every two years, this prestigious event attracts aviation professionals from across the globe. The show features a variety of exhibits, live flight demonstrations, and showcases the latest advancements in aerospace technology.
Beyond the air show, Le Bourget is also home to the National Air and Space Museum of France (Musée de l’Air et de l’Espace), which is one of the largest museums dedicated to aviation and space exploration in the world. The museum offers a rich collection of historical aircraft, space vehicles, and aerospace artifacts, allowing visitors to dive deep into the history of flight and space exploration. Together, these attractions solidify Le Bourget’s status as a global hub for aviation and aerospace activities.
Private Jet Services
Le Bourget Airport excels in providing services tailored for private jets. It offers multiple Fixed Base Operators (FBOs) that deliver luxurious services for business travelers. These FBOs provide amenities such as private lounges, concierge services, and secure parking for aircraft.
Additionally, the airport has efficient customs and immigration processes to minimize wait times. This focus on high-quality services makes Le Bourget a preferred choice for those seeking a seamless travel experience. The personalized approach caters to the specific needs of its clientele.
Hotel Options and Transit
Numerous hotel options exist near Le Bourget Airport, accommodating various preferences and budgets. Some hotels offer shuttle services to the airport, ensuring easy transit for travelers. Many establishments feature business facilities, catering to the needs of corporate guests.
In terms of public transportation, the airport is accessible via several options, including taxis and shuttle services. This connectivity allows travelers to reach central Paris and other nearby areas swiftly. The combination of accommodation and transit services enhances the overall convenience of traveling through Le Bourget.
Connecting Roissy-Charles de Gaulle and Orly Airports
For those traveling between Paris’ two major airports, Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Orly, a convenient and affordable transfer option is available via public transport. The journey takes approximately 70 minutes and involves a combination of RER B (regional train) and Metro Line 14.
Directions from Charles de Gaulle to Orly:
- From CDG, board the RER B train heading towards Paris (direction St Rémy-lès-Chevreuse or Massy-Palaiseau).
- Get off at Châtelet-les-Halles station.
- Transfer to Metro Line 14 (direction Aéroport d’Orly).
- The final stop is Aéroport d’Orly.
Directions from Orly to Charles de Gaulle:
- From Orly, take Metro Line 14 towards Châtelet.
- At Châtelet-les-Halles, transfer to the RER B heading towards Charles de Gaulle.
- Depending on your terminal at CDG:
- For Terminals 1 and 3: Get off at Aéroport Charles de Gaulle 1.
- For Terminal 2: Get off at Aéroport Charles de Gaulle 2.
Train Schedule:
- The RER B runs daily, every 6 to 15 minutes, from 5:00 AM to midnight.
- Metro Line 14 runs daily, every 2 to 5 minutes, from 5:30 AM to midnight.
- Please note that disruptions may occur, so it’s recommended to check the train schedules before departure.
Ticket Price: The cost of a ticket for travel between CDG and Orly is €14 (the “Ticket Paris Région <> Aéroports”). Tickets can be purchased at the airport or any Metro-RER station. To avoid queues, it is advised to buy your ticket in advance via the Île-de-France Mobilités app.
Additional Information:
- The Navigo pass or Paris Visite card can also be used for this transfer.
- The Metro station at Orly is located near Terminal 3, while the other terminals can be accessed on foot.
Important Note: The Le Bus Direct service, which was previously available between the airports, was permanently discontinued in 2020.
Airport Security Measures
Airport security in Paris is comprehensive, ensuring the safety of passengers and their belongings. Key measures include customs protocols and detailed security screening processes to maintain high safety standards.
Customs and Border Protection
Customs procedures at Paris airports involve important regulations for international travelers. Passengers must declare items that exceed duty-free allowances or are prohibited.
The authorities scrutinize liquids, food, and electronics. Travelers entering or leaving the country should be aware of the restrictions. For instance, carrying liquid containers over 100ml is not allowed in carry-on luggage.
Travelers may face inspections if they bring in restricted items, such as certain medications, plants, or products from endangered species. Understanding these rules can streamline the arrival and departure experience.
Security Screening Procedures
Security screening at Paris airports includes multiple steps to ensure safety. Passengers are required to remove electronic devices, such as laptops and tablets, from their bags. All carry-on liquids must be placed in a clear, resealable bag, adhering to the liquids rule.
Passengers should be prepared for body scans and metal detectors. It is advised to wear clothing free of excessive metal to facilitate a smooth screening process.
Items deemed prohibited, such as sharp objects and certain sports equipment, will be confiscated. Understanding security expectations helps passengers navigate screening efficiently and reduces delays.
