Which Paris Airport Is Best to Fly Into? | Travel Guide

Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world, with millions arriving each year to soak up its charm, history and romance. Yet before you start planning a trip to the City of Light, you need to decide how you will get there. 

With multiple airports operating in Paris, the choice can feel overwhelming for first-time visitors. You may be asking yourself which Paris airport is best to fly into, and the answer really depends on your travel style, budget, and flight route. This guide walks you through each option in detail so you can make the right decision for your next adventure.

Overview of Paris Airports

When you look at the map of Paris airports, four names appear most often. Charles de Gaulle (CDG) is the largest hub and one of Europe’s busiest gateways. Orly (ORY) comes next, sitting on the southern edge of the city and handling many domestic and European routes. Beauvais (BVA) is further away but popular with low-cost carriers. Le Bourget is used mainly for private flights and is rarely relevant for leisure travel.

The main airports in Paris are Charles de Gaulle and Orly. These handle the majority of visitors, with CDG covering most intercontinental flights and Orly focusing on shorter routes. Beauvais attracts travellers looking for rock-bottom fares from budget airlines, though the distance from Paris can eat into those savings.

Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) – The Major International Hub

Location

Charles de Gaulle sits to the north-east of Paris, about 16 miles (25 kilometres) from the city centre. It is the biggest airport in France and one of the largest in Europe.

Best If

• You are flying in from outside Europe, as CDG is the best airport in Paris for international flights.
• You want a wide choice of airlines, from premium carriers to mid-range and budget.
• You prefer having clear onward connections to trains, taxis and buses.

Charles de Gaulle is vast, modern and efficient. For long-haul travellers it is often the default choice. From here you can catch the RER B train to Gare du Nord in 35 minutes for about £9, or take a taxi that averages £50–£55 into central Paris. Shuttle buses also connect the airport to major districts. Inside the terminals you find everything from duty-free shopping to fine dining and lounges. Priority Pass members will find several quiet spots to relax between flights.

Avoid If

• You dislike large and busy airports. CDG can feel overwhelming, especially at peak times.
• You want the closest airport to Paris city centre. The transfer takes longer compared to Orly.
• You prefer simple layouts. CDG is spread out across three terminals and sometimes involves longer walks.

Distance to Paris City Centre

From CDG, you can expect about 40 minutes to central Paris by train. Taxis or a rental car could take you roughly 45 minutes, depending on traffic. While not the closest, it remains the main gateway for most visitors arriving from afar.

Orly Airport (ORY) – Convenient for European and Domestic Flights

Location

Orly Airport lies about 8 miles (13 kilometres) south of Paris. Its location makes it far more convenient than CDG for many travellers, especially those based in Europe.

Best If

• You are travelling from another European city or within France.
• You are after a quicker transfer time into central Paris.
• You like smaller, more manageable airports with easier navigation.

Orly has grown in popularity thanks to its balance of convenience and efficiency. Transport options include the Orlyval light train linking to the RER B line, trams into the city, as well as frequent buses. Travel time into central Paris averages around 30 minutes.

Avoid If

• You are flying in from Asia, North America, or long-haul destinations. Orly has fewer intercontinental routes compared to CDG.
• You want the absolute cheapest deals. Budget carriers often prefer Beauvais.

Charles de Gaulle vs Orly

Many visitors weigh up Charles de Gaulle vs Orly. The choice often comes down to your flight origin and your preference for convenience. CDG is unbeatable for international routes, while Orly is perfect if you value quick transfers and less crowding.

Distance to Paris City Centre

Taxis take around 30 minutes at a cost of £30–£35. Public transport is cheaper at £8–£10. For those who want to minimise transfer time, Orly often wins the race.

Beauvais-Tillé Airport (BVA) – Budget Airlines Gateway

Location

Beauvais sits around 53 miles (85 kilometres) north of Paris. Despite the distance, it remains popular due to the number of low-cost flights arriving here.

Best If

• You are travelling on a strict budget and prioritise cheap airfare.
• You are flying with Ryanair, Wizz Air or other budget airlines.
• You don’t mind a longer transfer if it saves you money upfront.

BVA is small and straightforward, and queues tend to be shorter than at CDG. Airport shuttles run directly to Porte Maillot in Paris and take about 1 hour 15 minutes at a cost of £15–£17.

Avoid If

• You are short on time. The transfer to Paris is lengthy.
• You prefer a wide range of airlines and connections.
• You are carrying heavy luggage, as the shuttle can be inconvenient.

Distance to Paris City Centre

Expect transfers of at least 75 minutes by bus. Taxis are possible but very expensive, often exceeding £120. BVA is best suited for those who put price first.

Distance and Accessibility – Closest Airport to Paris City Centre

If your priority is proximity, then Orly is the closest airport to Paris city centre. At only 8 miles away, the journey into town is quick and affordable. Charles de Gaulle is further at 16 miles, though still manageable with good rail links. Beauvais is the furthest at 53 miles, and the long transfer often cancels out the benefits of a cheaper flight.

Paris Airport Comparison

Here is a clear breakdown to help you decide:

This Paris airport comparison highlights the trade-offs between convenience, cost and routes.

Paris Airport Tips for Travellers

Choosing an airport is just the start. Here are a few Paris airport tips to make the process easier. 

• Book flights early for the best prices, especially if you want to travel during peak seasons. Think about flight schedules as well, since arriving late at night may leave you with fewer transport choices. 
• Always factor in the cost and time of the transfer to Paris when comparing fares.
• If you are a frequent traveller, consider a Priority Pass. This membership opens doors to more than 1,700 airport lounges worldwide. It works regardless of which airline you fly or which class you sit in. Whether you are heading out of Paris in economy or business, a lounge gives you peace, snacks, Wi-Fi, and a more relaxed start to your trip.
• For first-time visitors, prepare for a slower experience at Paris airports compared to smaller hubs. 
• Security queues can be long, so allow enough time. Always keep an eye on luggage limits if you fly with budget carriers through Beauvais.

Wrapping Up…

So, which Paris airport is best to fly into? The answer depends on the type of trip you are planning. Charles de Gaulle is best if you arrive from abroad and need a wide network of flights. Orly is the most convenient for short-haul routes and those who want the closest airport to Paris city centre. Beauvais works for budget-conscious travellers happy to accept a longer transfer. Each airport has its strengths, so match your choice with your travel style, and you will start your Paris journey in the best way possible.