Paris is a city brimming with history, culture, and charm, making it a top destination for travelers worldwide. But before you can immerse yourself in the City of Lights, you’ll need to decide which airport will be your gateway to this enchanting metropolis. Fortunately, you have a few fantastic options to choose from, each with its own unique advantages.
Paris’ International Airports: Orly vs. CDG
Paris is home to two major international airports: Paris-Orly Airport (ORY) and Charles-De-Gaulle Airport (CDG). These bustling hubs connect Paris to destinations across Europe, North America, North Africa, Asia, and beyond.
When to Fly into Orly
Orly is a fantastic choice for travelers seeking a smooth and efficient arrival experience. Its shorter customs lines and easy access to transportation make for a stress-free transition from the plane to your destination.
Orly is conveniently connected to Paris and the surrounding suburbs via the RER B and RER C trains. You can also reach the Paris Metro via a tram, and the Orlybus provides a regular shuttle service between the airport and Denfert-Rochereau in Paris. Plus, Orly is the exclusive home for airlines like La Compagnie, a French business-class only airline, and French Bee, a budget carrier offering affordable flights to and from Paris.
When to Fly into CDG
CDG, the larger of Paris’ two airports, boasts an impressive array of airlines, flight times, and routes, offering travelers unparalleled flexibility. Known as one of the busiest airports in the world, CDG provides a wealth of resources for travelers. From conveniently located hotels within the airport, ideal for tight schedules or flight delays, to a wide range of transportation options, CDG caters to every need.
CDG is easily accessible from Paris’ city center via the RER B train, and numerous bus services are readily available outside the airport. The RoissyBus shuttle provides a direct link between Paris-Charles de Gaulle and Paris-Opéra, running every half hour. Additionally, the Disneyland Magical Shuttle offers a convenient transfer to Disneyland Paris, making it a great option for families.
Beyond Paris, CDG shines as a gateway to destinations throughout France and beyond. Its SNCF railway station, located within the airport, connects travelers to destinations across France via the TGV South, West and North lines, and even offers Eurostar connections.
A Smaller Airport Option: BVA
While Orly and CDG are the main international hubs, Aéroport Paris-Beauvais (BVA) offers a more relaxed alternative for travelers. Typically used for regional flights, BVA provides a less chaotic arrival experience if you are arriving from another part of France or within Europe.
BVA is connected to Paris via a train to Gare du Nord, offering a direct link to the city center. However, traveling by car from BVA to Paris can be an expensive and time-consuming experience, due to traffic and the one-hour-plus commute.
If you are exploring northern France, BVA can be a convenient choice. Beauvais, the city where the airport is located, offers a delightful pedestrian experience, a historic cathedral, and charming French fare, all without the crowds.
Navigating Paris During the Olympics
Paris will host the Olympics in the coming years, attracting travelers from around the globe. Olympic venues will be scattered throughout Paris and the surrounding areas. Uber and Lyft will be available for transport between the airport and Olympic venues, and public transportation will also be a reliable option.
Landing in Paris is always an exciting adventure. Choosing the airport that best suits your needs will ensure a smooth and enjoyable arrival, allowing you to fully embrace the magic of Paris.
