How to Get to Paris

Paris is easily accessible by all major means of transport: planes, trains, buses and cars.

How to Get to Paris by Plane

Paris is served by three main airports: Charles de Gaulle (CDG), Orly (ORY) and Beauvais (BVA). All of these airports offer numerous international and domestic connections.

Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)

Located about 25 km northeast of Paris, Charles de Gaulle Airport is the city's main airport and one of the busiest in the world. It handles most international flights, with direct connections from all major cities worldwide.

Transfer from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Paris: If you land at CDG, there are several ways to reach the city centre:

• Airport Shuttle: The CDG shuttle is a convenient, stress-free option. Book your transfer and enjoy a worry-free ride straight to your hotel or destination in Paris.

• RER B Train: The RER B suburban train connects the airport to central Paris in about 30-40 minutes. It’s an affordable and direct option, with stops at several central stations, including Gare du Nord and Châtelet-Les Halles.

• Taxi or Car Rental: If you prefer more comfort, you can take a taxi or rent a car directly at the airport. Bear in mind that Paris traffic can be heavy, especially during rush hour.

Orly Airport (ORY)

Located south of Paris, Orly Airport is the city’s second-largest airport. It mainly handles domestic and European flights, but there are also some international routes.

Transfer from Orly Airport to Paris: To get to Paris from Orly, you can use several transport options:

• OrlyBus Shuttle: This shuttle service connects the airport to Denfert-Rochereau station in around 30 minutes. It’s an affordable and convenient way to avoid traffic.

• RER C Train + OrlyVal: Another popular option is to take the RER C train, which connects Paris to the airport via the OrlyVal automated shuttle, which takes you to the RER station.

• Private Transfer: If you prefer to avoid crowds and travel directly to your accommodation, you can book a private transfer from Orly Airport to Paris. This is a particularly convenient option, especially if you’re travelling with luggage or in a group.

Beauvais Airport (BVA)

Located around 85 km northwest of Paris, Beauvais Airport is the furthest way, but is mainly used by low-cost airlines such as Ryanair. It’s a popular choice for travellers looking for low-cost flights to Paris.

Transfer from Beauvais Airport to Paris: The transfer from Beauvais can take a little longer, but there are still effective options:

• Beauvais-Paris Shuttle: This direct airport shuttle is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Paris. The journey takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, dropping you off at Porte Maillot, an area with good metro and RER connections to the rest of the city.

• Train and Local Bus: Alternatively, you can take a local bus from the airport to Beauvais train station and then a train to Paris. However, this option takes longer and might not be ideal if you have a lot of luggage.

How to Get to Paris by Train

Travelling by train is one of the most convenient and fastest ways to reach Paris from other European cities. The French capital is connected to an efficient high-speed rail network, with major stations providing good access to different parts of the city.

TGV and Thalys Trains

High-speed TGV trains connect Paris with many other French and international cities. If you’re travelling from cities such as London, Brussels, Amsterdam or Geneva, the train is an excellent alternative to flying, allowing you to avoid long security checks and airport transfers. Plus, central Paris stations like Gare du Nord and Gare de Lyon take you straight into the heart of the city.

The TGV provides fast connections to cities like Marseille, Nice and Lyon, while Thalys trains take you to Brussels and Amsterdam in just a few hours. Not only is travelling by train an eco-friendly option, it also allows you to enjoy scenic views along the way.

Eurostar Train

If you’re travelling from the UK, the Eurostar is the most convenient option. This high-speed train crosses the Channel Tunnel and connects London to Paris in just over 2 hours. Arriving directly at Gare du Nord means you can start your Parisian adventure straight away.

Not only is travelling by train from Europe practical, it is often more affordable than flying, especially if you book tickets well in advance. You also don't have to worry about baggage limitations or long waiting times before boarding.

How to Get to Paris by Bus

If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, travelling by bus could be the right choice for you. Several international companies, such as FlixBus, Eurolines and BlaBlaBus, offer affordable connections between Paris and many other European cities.

Bus Stations in Paris

Most international buses arrive at Bercy-Seine, a major bus station located in the south-east of the city. From there, it is easy to reach your accommodation by metro or taxi.

Although travelling by bus can take longer than by train or plane, it’s often the most economical choice, especially for budget-conscious travellers. Moreover, modern long-distance buses often offer amenities such as Wi-Fi, power outlets and reclining seats, which can make the journey more pleasant.

How to Get Around Paris Once You Arrive

Once you arrive in Paris, there are several ways to get around the city and reach its main tourist attractions.

Public Transport

Paris’s public transport network is one of the most efficient in the world. The metro and RER systems cover every corner of the city, allowing you to travel quickly and easily from one part to another. With its 16 metro lines and 5 RER lines, you can easily reach places like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and Montmartre.

There are also daily or weekly tickets available, such as the Paris Visite Pass, which allow unlimited travel across the entire network.

Taxis and VTCs

If you prefer the comfort of private transport, Paris offers a wide range of taxi and VTC (Tourist Vehicle with Driver) services like Uber. Although these are slightly more expensive, they can be a practical option, especially if you are travelling with heavy luggage or wish to avoid the crowds.

Book Your Airport Transfer

To enjoy a stress-free trip, it is ideal to book an airport transfer in advance. There are various private and shared options that will take you directly from the airport to your accommodation, helping you avoid long waits and queues.