Arriving in Paris: choosing the right airport transfer makes all the difference
For full trip planning, see our Paris guides:
Paris Airport Transfer Guide 2025 – Quick Overview
Paris airports overview: CDG and Orly relative to central Paris
| Airport | Main Use | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| Charles de Gaulle (CDG) | International & long-haul | ~25 km |
| Orly (ORY) | European & budget | ~18 km |
Getting from Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to Paris
CDG terminals with train, taxi and bus connections
Option 1: RER B Train (Fastest Public Transport)
RER B offers the fastest public connection into Paris
| Travel Time | 30–40 minutes |
|---|---|
| Ticket Price | €11.45 |
| Main Stops | Gare du Nord, Châtelet |
How it works:
- Follow signs to “Paris by Train / RER B”.
- Buy ticket from official machines.
- Take RER B toward “Robinson” or “Saint-Rémy-lès-Chevreuse”.
Good for: Solo travelers, light bags, low budgets.
Option 2: Official Taxi from CDG
Official Taxi Parisien ranks at CDG
| Right Bank | €53 |
|---|---|
| Left Bank | €58 |
Option 3: RoissyBus (Direct Bus)
RoissyBus to Opera district
| Time | 60–75 min |
|---|---|
| Price | €16.20 |
Option 4: Private Transfer from CDG
- Fixed price
- English-speaking driver
- Door-to-door
Getting from Orly Airport (ORY) to Paris – Paris Airport Transfer Guide
Orly Airport offers several fast connections into Paris
Option 1: OrlyVal + RER B (Fastest Connection)
OrlyVal links Orly terminals with the RER network
| Total Time | 30–40 minutes |
|---|---|
| Price | €14.50 |
| Change At | Antony Station |
Option 2: OrlyBus
Direct OrlyBus route to southern Paris
| Travel Time | 40–50 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cost | €11.20 |
Option 3: Official Taxi from Orly
Official taxis at Orly terminals
| Right Bank | €32–€37 |
|---|---|
| Left Bank | €37–€41 |
Option 4: Tram + Metro (Budget Route)
Budget connection: tram then metro
| Time | 60–75 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cost | €4.30–€6 |
Option 5: Private Transfer from Orly
- Meet & greet
- Fixed pricing
- Door-to-door
CDG vs Orly – Which Airport Is Easier?
| Aspect | CDG | Orly |
|---|---|---|
| Distance | Farther | Closer |
| Size | Large | Smaller |
| Taxi Cost | Higher | Lower |
Important Arrival Tips – Paris Airport Transfer Guide 2025
Late Night Arrivals
- Public transport reduces after midnight.
- Taxis & private transfers are safer.
Traveling With Luggage
- Choose direct transport.
- Avoid peak trains with suitcases.
Traveling With Children
- Private transfer recommended.
- Avoid rush hour.
Cash & Payment
- Carry small euro notes.
- ATMs inside airport are safest.
Scams & Transfer Safety – Paris Airport Transfer Guide
When arriving in a busy city like Paris, especially after a long flight, travelers can become easy targets for common airport scams. Understanding what to avoid is just as important as choosing the right transport.
- 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 2025
Here’s how to instantly choose the right transfer based on your travel style:
- Solo Travelers: RER B or OrlyVal + RER.
- Couples: Taxi or private transfers.
- Families & Groups: Private transfers.
- Late-Night Flights: Taxi or pre-booked transfer.
- Business Travelers: RER + taxi combo.
- Luxury Travel: Chauffeur services.
Final Recommendation – Paris Airport Transfer Guide 2025
Paris airports may be large and crowded, but navigating your way into the city does not have to be complicated. With the right planning, choosing your transportation becomes simple, fast, and stress-free.
After reading this Paris Airport Transfer Guide 2025, 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 2025
❓ Is Paris airport taxi safe?
Yes — official “Taxi Parisien” vehicles are regulated, licensed, and safe.
❓ Is RER B safe for tourists?
Yes — during daytime. However, keep your belongings secure in crowded areas.
❓ Can I use Uber from CDG or Orly?
Yes — Uber operates legally, but official taxis offer fixed prices.
❓ Is private transfer worth the price?
For families, late night arrivals, or travelers with luggage, yes.
❓ Can I pay with a card?
Yes — most services accept cards, but have cash as backup.