The Charles de Gaulle Airport is the largest in France and a top choice for tourists visiting Paris. It is well connected to the city center and serves flights from numerous airlines around the world.
Named after Charles de Gaulle, a former President of the French Republic, the airport is also frequently called Roissy because it is located in the Roissy-en-France commune. When the airport first opened in 1974 after a decade of construction, it had only one terminal. The second terminal opened in 1982, followed by Terminal 3 later on.
Situated about 25 kilometers from the city, the airport is easily accessible by train, bus, and private transportation services, making it convenient for travelers to quickly reach their hotel or destination.
Best Ways to Get from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Central Paris
Here are the top options for traveling from Charles de Gaulle Airport to central Paris:
Private Transfer from Charles de Gaulle to Paris
The most comfortable option, especially after a long journey with luggage, is to book a private transfer from Charles de Gaulle Airport to your hotel in Paris.
This service is highly cost-effective (usually priced per group), as you can see here, and it’s well worth it. It’s much cheaper than a taxi, offering full comfort, including air conditioning.
In just over 30 minutes, you can reach any part of the city. Additionally, you can cancel your booking up to a day in advance.
Charles de Gaulle Airport to Paris by Train
You can also reach Paris from Charles de Gaulle Airport using the RER regional rail network. High-speed TGV trains are also available for intercity travel.
Additionally, there are direct rail connections from the airport to Belgium’s Charleroi Airport (Brussels South), perfect for a short getaway if you have extra time. All tickets are available for purchase at the airport upon arrival.
1. RER
The RER is very affordable, with frequent train departures, making it a great choice if your hotel is near an RER station. However, if you have to walk a significant distance with heavy luggage, a private transfer might be a more convenient option.
2. TGV
The TGV service departs from Terminal 2, specifically between Terminals 2C-2D and 2E-2F. To reach central Paris stations, you’ll need to make a transfer, which can be inconvenient. Still, it’s useful to know as an alternative.
Charles de Gaulle Airport to Paris by Bus
Several bus options are available, though it’s not the most convenient mode of transport compared to trains or private transfers. Buses make multiple stops, so travel time is generally longer. However, they are one of the cheapest ways to reach the city, ideal for budget travelers.
Extra Tip: If you have the time, consider exploring nearby attractions like the Aéroville shopping center for a quick shopping spree before heading into Paris.
1. Public Bus
The 350 and 351 lines are public buses and are among the most used options to get to Paris. The main stops for these shuttles from Charles de Gaulle are:
- Bus 350: Arrives at Gare de l’Est. It departs from Terminal 2 (2A-2C, 2B-2D) and takes around 70 minutes to reach the station in central Paris.
- Bus 351: Heads to Place de la Nation. It also departs from Terminal 2 (2A-2C, 2B-2D), and the journey duration is 70 minutes.
The cost is €5.10 per person per trip, and buses run approximately every 30 minutes.
2. Roissybus
The Roissybus goes to the Opéra station in the heart of Paris, near the Opéra Garnier. It departs from Terminals 1, 3, and several sections of Terminal 2: 2A-2C, 2E-2F, 2B-2D. The travel time ranges from 45 to 60 minutes.
3. Les Cars Air France
This service connects the airport with central Paris through Lines 2 and 4. Line 2 departs from Terminals 1 and 2A-2C, 2E-2F, 2D, and stops at Étoile and Porte Maillot, which are relatively close to the Eiffel Tower.
Travel time is between 50 and 60 minutes. Line 4 reaches Lyon and Montparnasse stations. It departs from Terminals 1 and 2, from the same stops as Line 2. The journey lasts between 60 and 70 minutes.
4. Noctilien
There are two night bus lines connecting Charles de Gaulle Airport to Paris: N140 and N143. Both buses stop at Terminals 1 and 3, ending at Gare de l’Est. These shuttles from Charles de Gaulle are a budget-friendly option for getting into the city.
Taxi from Charles de Gaulle
The cost of a taxi transfer from Charles de Gaulle to Paris is around €50, making it one of the most expensive transportation options (but also one of the most convenient if you don’t have a budget limit for your trip).
The taxi ride from Paris airport generally takes about 30 minutes but can extend to 90 minutes, depending on the time of day and traffic conditions on the highway. You can find taxis in the designated areas outside the arrivals terminal.
These are the best ways to get from Charles de Gaulle Airport to central Paris. Choose the one that best suits your travel plans.
NOTE: Terminal Transfers
This service is free and quite important, as not all transport options to Paris are available from every terminal. Charles de Gaulle’s Terminal 2 is quite large, consisting of seven sub-terminals named 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E, 2F, and 2G. Sub-terminal G and the Pw parking lot are a bit farther away, so it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the layout of this airport.
- The N1 shuttle travels around Terminal 2, stopping at 2A, 2C, 2D, 2E, 2F, and the parking area.
- The N2 shuttle covers a shorter route, stopping at 2E, 2F, and 2G.
- The CDGVAL train connects Terminals 1 and 3 with Terminal 2.
Transfers from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Disneyland Paris
One of the most popular destinations for tourists is Disneyland Paris, making airport-to-park transfers a commonly used service.
The most convenient way to travel is with a private shuttle to Eurodisney like this one called the Magical Shuttle. It’s a direct bus service to the theme park, allowing you to maximize your day at Disney with minimal travel time.
The ride is quick and comfortable, taking just 60 minutes. The shuttle also stops at various Disney hotels within the complex, making it a great option if you want to check into your room before enjoying the park.
By the way, if you want to learn how to buy Disneyland Paris tickets at a good price, check out my guide for helpful tips and advice.
Services at CDG Airport
Charles de Gaulle is such a large airport that it feels like a small city, complete with all the typical amenities like restaurants, bars, and shops. Additionally, there are several hotels, a medical center, a pharmacy, and even a hair salon.
The airport also offers state-of-the-art technology, including unlimited free WiFi throughout all terminals and charging stations for your devices. There are also comfortable waiting areas, including VIP lounges that feature premium food, alcoholic beverages, showers, newspapers, magazines, and more.
Another useful feature for travelers is the luggage storage service, where you can safely leave your belongings for up to 90 days.
Lastly, but certainly not least, if you’re traveling with kids, Charles de Gaulle Airport has several baby care areas equipped with everything you need to take care of your little ones. There are also play areas to keep children entertained during the wait and prevent boredom.
Terminals at Charles de Gaulle Airport
The airport features three active terminals:
- Terminal 1: Handles international flights to Paris
- Terminal 2: Split into seven sub-terminals, also handling international flights
- Terminal 3: Caters to low-cost and charter flights from CDG
Terminal Transfers at Charles de Gaulle
The best way to get around is by using the CDGVAL, a free automated metro system that connects all three terminals. If you need to get to or from the TGV station, you can also walk or take a bus. CDGVAL is the most efficient way to navigate the airport.
Which is the Best Airport in Paris?
Orly is the closest airport to Paris, located less than 15 kilometers from the city center. However, Charles de Gaulle Airport handles a higher volume of flights and is generally cheaper for international arrivals to France. Its distance is about 25 kilometers, so it’s only slightly farther than Orly.
Choosing between the three airports can be tricky, so here are some characteristics of each:
Charles de Gaulle (CDG)
CDG is the largest and busiest airport in France, renowned for its wide range of international flights. It’s the best option if you’re looking for global connections.
The airport is well connected to central Paris via the RER B train, buses, and taxis. It features modern facilities and a wide range of services, including numerous shops, restaurants, and waiting lounges.
Orly (ORY)
Orly is a much smaller airport but is closer to the heart of Paris. It’s often chosen for domestic and European flights since it’s cheaper and less congested than CDG.
Arriving at Orly is a calmer experience, and transportation to central Paris is also straightforward, with options like the Orlyval, RER B and C trains, buses, and taxis.
Beauvais-Tillé (BVA)
Beauvais is the primary hub for low-cost airlines like Ryanair. The main drawback compared to the other two airports is its considerable distance from central Paris. The transfer can take over an hour, and transportation costs can add up if you want to arrive quickly.
BVA is a smaller airport with fewer services than CDG and ORY. It’s best to avoid arriving late at Beauvais, as you’ll need significant time to get to your hotel in Paris.
For families, CDG’s child-friendly amenities make it a top choice, while budget travelers may opt for Beauvais despite the longer commute. Choose the airport that aligns best with your travel plans and needs.