A short layover in Paris can be a great opportunity to explore the City of Lights! It might seem stressful to leave the airport for such a brief time, but trust me, Paris is worth it. Even if you’re only there for a few hours, you can still experience some of the city’s magic.
Paris offers a plethora of things to do, whether it’s your first visit or you’re a seasoned traveler. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, there’s something for everyone. But before you embark on your Parisian adventure, it’s crucial to plan ahead and ensure you have enough time to get back to the airport.
Planning Your Parisian Layover
Time management is essential for a successful layover. The key is to plan your day in advance, deciding what you want to see and do. Whether you want to hit all the major attractions or simply wander the streets, having a plan will help you make the most of your limited time.
When choosing activities, consider the distance between them and the ease of getting around. Paris is a large city, and traffic can be a nightmare. Choose sites that are relatively close to each other and are walkable or accessible by public transport.
Keep in mind that Paris is a very popular tourist destination, meaning that you’ll likely encounter crowds and lines. Consider reserving tickets in advance for attractions with long wait times, as this can save you precious time.
Remember that you’ll need to factor in travel time to and from the airport. Allow for at least an hour for security, customs, and transportation, as well as some buffer time in case of unforeseen delays.
Getting from CDG Airport to Paris City Center
The quickest and easiest way to reach the city center from Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) is by train. Paris has a fantastic public transportation system, making getting around a breeze.
The RER B Line is your best bet. This line runs directly from CDG to several central Parisian stations, including Gare du Nord, Châtelet-Les-Halles, and Denfert-Rochereau. You can then connect to the subway to reach your final destination.
Take the express train, which is just as affordable as the local train but gets you to the city center much faster. The ride takes approximately 35 minutes and is a great way to see some of the Parisian landscape.
One-way tickets cost around 12 euros for adults, and trains run frequently throughout the day.
There are two RER B stations at CDG, depending on which terminal you arrive at:
- Aéroport Charles de Gaulle 1: Close to Terminals 1 and 3. Take the free CDGVAL shuttle from Terminal 1.
- Aéroport Charles de Gaulle 2 TGV: Close to Terminals 2A, 2C, 2D, 2E, and 2F. You can walk from these terminals, or take the free N2 shuttle from Terminal 2G.
For those looking for a more scenic journey, you can also take the Roissybus, which will take you to Opéra. The ride takes around an hour, depending on traffic, and offers some nice views of the city.
Getting from Orly Airport to Paris City Center
There are no direct train lines from Orly Airport to the city center.
The fastest way to get from Orly Airport to Paris is by taking the Orlyval metro to the Anthony Train Station, then changing to the RER B or RER C line. This journey takes around 60 minutes.
