Paris, the City of Lights, beckons travelers from around the globe. But before you can immerse yourself in its romantic charm, you need to know how to get there. This guide explores the airports closest to Paris, offering insights into their proximity, transportation options, and which might be the best fit for your trip.
What are the closest airports to Paris?
Paris boasts three major airports, each offering a unique set of advantages:
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Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG): This is the largest and busiest airport serving Paris, located approximately 25 kilometers (16 miles) northeast of the city center. It's a major hub for Air France and many international airlines, making it a convenient option for most travelers.
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Orly Airport (ORY): Situated about 14 kilometers (9 miles) south of Paris, Orly is primarily focused on domestic and short-haul flights within Europe. It's generally a smaller and less crowded alternative to CDG.
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Beauvais–Tillé Airport (BVA): Located roughly 85 kilometers (53 miles) north of Paris, Beauvais-Tillé is significantly farther than the other two. It predominantly serves budget airlines, making it a cost-effective choice for price-conscious travelers.
Which airport is best for me?
The optimal airport depends entirely on your travel priorities:
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For ease of access and extensive flight options: Charles de Gaulle (CDG) is the most convenient choice, offering numerous transportation links to the city center.
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For a less crowded experience and shorter journey to the city: Orly (ORY) provides a more relaxed atmosphere and quicker transfer times.
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For budget travel: Beauvais-Tillé (BVA) is the most affordable option, although you'll need to factor in a longer travel time to reach Paris.
How do I get from the airports to Paris?
Each airport offers various transportation options:
Getting to Paris from Charles de Gaulle (CDG):
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RER B Train: The most efficient and cost-effective way to reach central Paris. The train connects directly to several major stations, including Gare du Nord.
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Roissybus: A direct bus service that operates between CDG and the city center, providing a convenient and affordable alternative to the RER B.
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Taxi: Taxis are readily available but can be significantly more expensive than public transport.
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Private Transfer: Pre-booked private transfers offer a comfortable and convenient door-to-door service.
Getting to Paris from Orly (ORY):
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Orlyval and RER B Train: A combination of the Orlyval automated train and the RER B line provides a quick and efficient connection to central Paris.
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Bus: Several bus routes connect Orly to various parts of Paris.
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Taxi: Taxis are readily available, but more expensive than public transport.
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Private Transfer: Similar to CDG, pre-booked private transfers provide a convenient option.
Getting to Paris from Beauvais–Tillé (BVA):
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Airport Bus: The airport offers a direct bus service to Paris, although the journey takes considerably longer than from CDG or ORY.
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Taxi: Expect a costly taxi ride due to the distance.
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Rental Car: Renting a car offers flexibility, but parking in Paris can be expensive and challenging.
What are the transportation costs from each airport?
Transportation costs vary depending on the method chosen. Public transport (RER B, buses) generally offers the most economical options, while taxis and private transfers are considerably more expensive. The distance from Beauvais-Tillé significantly increases transportation costs compared to CDG and ORY.
How long does it take to get to Paris from each airport?
Travel times depend on the mode of transport and traffic conditions. The RER B from CDG takes approximately 30-40 minutes, while the Orlyval/RER B from ORY takes around 30 minutes. The bus journey from Beauvais-Tillé can take up to 1 hour and 30 minutes or even longer depending on traffic.
What other airports serve Paris?
While CDG, ORY, and BVA are the most significant, other smaller airports may serve regional areas and offer connecting flights to Paris. It’s always recommended to check the specific airline and flight details when making your travel plans.
This comprehensive guide helps you navigate the Parisian airport landscape and choose the option that best suits your needs. Remember to factor in travel time and cost when making your decision, and enjoy your Parisian adventure!
