If you are planning a trip to Paris, one of the most important decisions you will have to make is choosing the best airport to fly into. Paris is home to three major airports: Charles de Gaulle (CDG), Orly (ORY), and Beauvais-Tille (BVA).
Each of these airports has its own unique features, advantages, and disadvantages. In this article, we will take a closer look at each of these airports and help you decide which one is the best for your needs.
Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)
Charles de Gaulle Airport, also known as Roissy Airport, is the largest airport in Paris and one of the busiest in Europe. It is located 23 kilometers northeast of Paris city center and serves as the main hub for Air France. CDG has three terminals that are connected by a free shuttle train.
Advantages:
- CDG offers more flights to international destinations than any other airport in Paris.
- The airport has excellent transport links to central Paris via train, bus or taxi.
- It offers a wide range of facilities including shops, restaurants, and lounges.
Disadvantages:
- CDG can be very busy and crowded at peak times.
- The airport can be quite confusing for first-time visitors due to its size and complexity.
- It can be more expensive than other airports in Paris for certain flights.
Orly Airport (ORY)
Orly Airport is located south of Paris city center and is the second-largest airport in Paris. It has two terminals that are connected by a free shuttle bus.
Advantages:
- Orly airport is closer to central Paris than CDG.
- It is less crowded and more manageable than CDG.
- The airport has good transport links to central Paris via train, bus or taxi.
Disadvantages:
- Orly offers fewer international flights than CDG.
- The airport has limited shopping and dining options.
- Orly can be expensive for certain flights.
Beauvais-Tille Airport (BVA)
Beauvais-Tille Airport is located about 85 kilometers north of Paris city center. It is a smaller airport and serves mainly low-cost airlines such as Ryanair and Wizz Air.
Advantages:
- BVA can be cheaper for certain flights than other airports in Paris.
- The airport is less crowded and more manageable than CDG or Orly.
- BVA offers good transport links to central Paris via bus or taxi.
Disadvantages:
- BVA is the farthest airport from central Paris among the three airports mentioned here.
- The airport has limited facilities, with only a few shops and restaurants available.
- BVA may not be suitable for travelers with large amounts of luggage due to its smaller size and limited baggage facilities.
Conclusion
Choosing the best Paris airport to fly into depends on several factors such as your budget, travel plans, and personal preferences. If you are looking for a wider range of international flight options, then CDG may be your best bet.
If you are traveling on a budget, then BVA may be the way to go. Orly airport is a good choice for those who want to be closer to central Paris and avoid the crowds of CDG. Whatever your choice, Paris promises to be an unforgettable travel experience.