Arriving in Paris should feel exciting — not stressful. That’s why this Paris Airport Transfer Guide 2026 starts with the same question most travelers ask after landing: How do I get from the airport to my hotel easily and safely?
This complete Paris Airport Transfer Guide 2026 gives you a clear, practical breakdown of every transport option from Paris airports — including Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Orly — with updated prices, realistic travel times, and the small details that stop you from losing time right when you’re most tired.
Whether you prefer speed, comfort, or budget travel, this guide helps you choose the right transfer method for your trip.
Arriving in Paris: choosing the right airport transfer makes all the difference
For official airport information, you can also check:
For full trip planning, see our Paris guides:
Paris Airport Transfer Guide 2026 – Quick Overview
Paris has two main airports. Knowing which one you’re landing at already tells you what “easy” looks like for your first hour in the city.
Paris airports overview: CDG and Orly relative to central Paris
| Airport | Main Use | Distance to central Paris |
|---|---|---|
| Charles de Gaulle (CDG) | International & long-haul | ~25 km |
| Orly (ORY) | European flights & many low-cost routes | ~18 km |
2026 ticket note (important): airport rail trips use a special airport ticket (not the regular Metro/RER ticket). If you buy the wrong ticket, you can get stopped at the gates when you exit.
Getting from Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to Paris
CDG is bigger and can feel overwhelming after a long flight. The right choice depends on your energy, luggage, and arrival time.
CDG terminals with train, taxi and bus connections
Option 1: RER B Train (Fastest public option)
If you land during daytime and you have manageable luggage, RER B is usually the quickest way into Paris — but it’s not the calmest. Think of it as the “get it done” option.
RER B offers the fastest public connection into Paris
- Travel time: about 30–40 minutes (to central Paris stations)
- 2026 price: €14 (airport rail ticket)
- Main stops: Gare du Nord, Châtelet-Les Halles, Saint-Michel Notre-Dame
How it works:
- Follow signs to “Paris by Train / RER B”.
- Buy your ticket from official machines only.
- Take RER B toward “Robinson” or “Saint-Rémy-lès-Chevreuse”.
Good for: solo travelers, light bags, low budgets, daytime arrivals.
Option 2: Official Taxi from CDG (Fixed fare)
This is the simplest option when you’re tired, carrying luggage, or arriving late. The key is to take taxis only from the official rank.
Official Taxi Parisien ranks at CDG
- Fixed fare to Paris Right Bank: €56
- Fixed fare to Paris Left Bank: €65
- Typical time: 35–70 minutes (traffic dependent)
Option 3: RoissyBus (Direct bus to Opéra)
RoissyBus is a good “easy bus” choice if your hotel is near Opéra or you prefer not to handle trains with luggage.
RoissyBus to Opera district
- Time: about 60–75 minutes
- 2026 price: €14
- Drop-off: Opéra (central and well-connected)
Option 4: Private Transfer from CDG (Most comfortable)
If you want “no thinking” on arrival — driver waiting, no stairs, no ticket machines — private transfer is the cleanest solution.
- Fixed price
- English-speaking driver
- Door-to-door
Getting from Orly Airport (ORY) to Paris – Paris Airport Transfer Guide
Orly is closer to the city and usually feels faster — especially now that Metro line 14 connects Orly directly to central Paris.
Orly Airport offers several fast connections into Paris
Option 1: Metro Line 14 (Fastest and simplest for most travelers)
This is the new “default best choice” for many arrivals: frequent trains, direct line, and strong connections once you’re inside Paris.
- Travel time: about 25–30 minutes to central Paris (depending on your stop)
- 2026 price: €14 (airport ticket)
- Best for: daytime arrivals, medium luggage, travelers who want a clear, modern route
Option 2: OrlyVal + RER B (Rail connection via Antony)
This route still works well if you specifically need RER B direction, but it includes a change and can feel less “smooth” with heavy luggage.
OrlyVal links Orly terminals with the RER network
- Total time: about 30–45 minutes
- 2026 price: €14 (airport rail ticket)
- Change at: Antony Station
Option 3: Official Taxi from Orly (Fixed fare)
Best when you’re arriving late, traveling as a family, or you simply want door-to-door with no steps and no transfers.
Official taxis at Orly terminals
- Fixed fare to Paris Right Bank: €44
- Fixed fare to Paris Left Bank: €36
- Typical time: 25–60 minutes (traffic dependent)
Option 4: Tram + Metro (Budget route)
This is the cheapest style of arrival — but it’s slower and involves more walking, stairs, and transfers. Only choose it if you’re not exhausted and you don’t have heavy bags.
Budget connection: tram then metro
- Time: about 60–75 minutes
- 2026 cost: usually €4.60 (Bus/Tram ticket + Metro ticket)
- Good for: light luggage, flexible travelers, daytime only
Option 5: Private Transfer from Orly
This is the “arrive calm” option — especially useful for families, groups, or late-night landings.
- Meet & greet
- Fixed pricing
- Door-to-door
CDG vs Orly – Which Airport Is Easier?
Neither is “bad” — but they feel different on arrival. Orly is closer and smoother for many people. CDG has more routes, but it can take longer to exit and reach the city.
| Aspect | CDG | Orly |
|---|---|---|
| Distance | Farther | Closer |
| Size | Large & complex | Smaller & simpler |
| “Easiest” public option | RER B | Metro line 14 |
| Taxi cost (fixed fares to Paris) | Higher | Lower |
Important Arrival Tips – Paris Airport Transfer Guide 2026
Late Night Arrivals
After midnight, public transport options thin out and your “energy cost” goes up. If you land very late, taxis and pre-booked transfers usually feel safer and simpler.
Traveling With Luggage
Paris stations can mean stairs, crowds, and tight gates. If you have big suitcases, a direct option (taxi or transfer) often saves more than just time — it saves your first-day mood.
Traveling With Children
Families do best with the fewest steps and the least waiting. Door-to-door transport is usually worth it when everyone is tired.
Cash & Payment
Cards are widely accepted, but keep a small amount of cash for small issues, backup tickets, or unexpected delays. Use ATMs inside the airport.
Scams & Transfer Safety – Paris Airport Transfer Guide
When you arrive in a busy city like Paris — especially after a long flight — you can become an easy target for common airport scams. Staying calm and using official channels is your best protection.
- Fake taxi drivers approaching inside terminals.
- Fake ticket sellers near train platforms.
- People offering “help” at ticket machines.
- Unauthorized shuttle vans.
Golden Rule: Always use official desks, clear signs, or pre-booked services.
Best Transfer Option by Traveler Type – Paris Airport Transfer Guide 2026
Use this simple match to decide fast:
- Solo Travelers: RER B (CDG) / Metro 14 (Orly).
- Couples: Taxi or private transfers.
- Families & Groups: Private transfers.
- Late-Night Flights: Taxi or pre-booked transfer.
- Business Travelers: Fast rail option + short taxi if needed.
- Luxury Travel: Chauffeur services.
Final Recommendation – Paris Airport Transfer Guide 2026
Paris airports can feel busy, but your transfer does not have to be complicated. If you choose based on your real situation (arrival time, luggage, energy), the first hour becomes simple and controlled.
After reading this Paris Airport Transfer Guide 2026, you now know:
- Which transfer is fastest.
- Which is cheapest.
- Which offers the most comfort.
- Which is safest at night.
If you want total peace of mind, pre-booking your transfer is the smartest choice:
FAQ – Paris Airport Transfer Guide 2026
❓ Is Paris airport taxi safe?
Yes — official “Taxi Parisien” vehicles from the official taxi rank are regulated and safe.
❓ Is RER B safe for tourists?
Yes — especially in daytime. Just keep your phone and valuables secure in crowded areas.
❓ Can I use Uber from CDG or Orly?
Yes — Uber operates legally, but official taxis have fixed fares to Paris and can be simpler on arrival.
❓ Is private transfer worth the price?
For families, late arrivals, and travelers with luggage, yes — it removes the “arrival stress” completely.
❓ Can I pay with a card?
Most services accept cards, but keep a little cash as backup.