Which Paris Airport Is Closest to City Centre?
Paris, the capital of France, is a popular tourist destination and a major global city. With its iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and vibrant culture, it attracts millions of visitors each year.
If you’re planning a trip to Paris, one of the first things to consider is which airport is closest to the city center. In this article, we’ll explore the three main airports serving Paris and help you decide which one is the most convenient for your visit.
Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)
Located approximately 25 kilometers northeast of central Paris, Charles de Gaulle Airport is one of the busiest airports in Europe. It serves as a hub for both domestic and international flights and offers a wide range of amenities and services.
Pros:
- Excellent transportation links: Charles de Gaulle Airport is well-connected to the city center by various transportation options including trains, buses, and taxis.
- International connections: As one of the largest airports in Europe, CDG offers numerous direct flights from major cities around the world.
- Amenities: The airport features an extensive range of shops, restaurants, lounges, and other facilities to enhance your travel experience.
Cons:
- Distance from city center: While it’s relatively easy to reach central Paris from CDG Airport, the journey can take around 45 minutes to an hour depending on traffic conditions.
Orly Airport (ORY)
Situated approximately 13 kilometers south of central Paris, Orly Airport is another major airport serving the city. It primarily handles domestic and European flights, making it a popular choice for travelers within Europe.
Pros:
- Proximity to city center: Orly Airport is closer to central Paris compared to Charles de Gaulle Airport, resulting in shorter travel times.
- Domestic and European flights: If you’re traveling within France or Europe, Orly Airport offers a wide range of direct flights to various destinations.
- Transportation options: Like CDG, Orly Airport is well-served by trains, buses, and taxis, providing convenient access to the city center.
Cons:
- Limited international connections: While Orly Airport does offer some international flights, its focus is primarily on domestic and European routes.
- Smaller size: Compared to CDG, Orly Airport has a smaller terminal and fewer amenities.
Beauvais-Tillé Airport (BVA)
Located approximately 85 kilometers northwest of central Paris, Beauvais-Tillé Airport is a smaller airport mainly used by low-cost carriers such as Ryanair. It’s important to note that despite its name, it’s not actually located in Beauvais but in Tillé.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly flights: Beauvais-Tillé Airport is known for offering affordable flight options, making it an attractive choice for budget travelers.
- No congestion: Due to its smaller size and lower passenger volume compared to CDG and Orly, the airport generally experiences less congestion.
Cons:
- Distance from city center: Beauvais-Tillé Airport is the furthest from central Paris, and the journey to the city can take around 1.5 to 2 hours by bus.
- Limited transportation options: While there are shuttle buses available, the transportation options to and from Beauvais-Tillé Airport are more limited compared to CDG and Orly.
Conclusion
Choosing the airport that is closest to the city center depends on various factors such as your airline preferences, budget, and travel itinerary. If you’re looking for convenience and a wide range of international connections, Charles de Gaulle Airport is an excellent choice despite being a bit further away.
On the other hand, if you prioritize shorter travel times and mainly plan to visit destinations within Europe, Orly Airport may be more suitable. Finally, if you’re on a tight budget and don’t mind longer travel times, Beauvais-Tillé Airport offers affordable flight options.
No matter which airport you choose, Paris has excellent transportation infrastructure that allows for easy access to its many attractions. Take into account your specific needs and preferences when making your decision, and enjoy your visit to the beautiful city of Paris!