Which Paris Airport Is Easiest?

By Alice Nichols

If you’re planning a trip to Paris, one of the first things you’ll need to decide is which airport to fly into. Paris has three main airports: Charles de Gaulle, Orly, and Beauvais. Each airport has its pros and cons, but some are definitely easier to navigate than others.

Charles de Gaulle Airport

Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) is the largest and busiest airport in Paris. It’s located 25 kilometers northeast of the city center and serves as a hub for Air France and other major airlines.

Pros:

  • CDG has excellent transportation connections to the city center via train, bus, and taxi.
  • The airport is well-organized with clear signage and plenty of information desks.
  • There are plenty of shops, restaurants, lounges, and other amenities in all terminals.

Cons:

  • The airport can be chaotic and overcrowded at peak times.
  • Security lines can be long and slow-moving.
  • The layout can be confusing if you’re not familiar with the airport.

Orly Airport

Orly Airport (ORY) is the second-largest airport in Paris. It’s located 14 kilometers south of the city center and serves mostly domestic and European flights.

Pros:

  • ORY is smaller than CDG, so it’s generally less crowded and easier to navigate.
  • The airport has good transportation connections to the city center via train, bus, and taxi.
  • There are plenty of shops, restaurants, lounges, and other amenities in both terminals.

Cons:

  • If you’re flying from outside Europe or on a long-haul flight, you’ll likely have to transfer to CDG or another airport.
  • Security lines can still be slow-moving, especially during peak times.

Beauvais Airport

Beauvais Airport (BVA) is the smallest and least-known of the three Paris airports. It’s located 85 kilometers north of the city center and serves mostly budget airlines.

Pros:

  • BVA is very small and easy to navigate, with only one terminal.
  • The airport has good transportation connections to the city center via bus or taxi.
  • If you’re flying on a budget airline, you may find cheaper fares than at other airports.

Cons:

  • The airport is far from the city center, so transportation can take a while and be expensive.
  • The airport offers limited amenities like shops and restaurants.
  • Flights can often be delayed or cancelled due to weather or other issues.

Conclusion

Overall, each Paris airport has its advantages and disadvantages. If you’re looking for convenience, CDG is probably your best bet.

If you’re looking for a smaller, less crowded airport with fewer frills, ORY may be a better choice. And if you’re flying on a budget airline and don’t mind a longer journey into the city, BVA could work for you. Consider your priorities and preferences when choosing which Paris airport to fly into.