Quick answer: The RER B is usually the most practical public transport option for central Paris. An official Paris taxi is often the easiest choice for travellers with several suitcases, families or late-night arrivals. Budget-conscious travellers can also consider public buses, although they generally take longer.
Fare information checked for October 2026. Public transport fares, taxi regulations and services can change, so confirm the latest details using the official links below before travelling.
1. Compare All Transport Options from CDG to Paris
The following estimates are intended to help you plan. Journey times depend on the terminal, destination, traffic, waiting times and connections. Prices for private vehicles are estimates rather than guaranteed quotations.
| Transport | Estimated cost | Typical journey time | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| RER B train | €14 per adult | About 25–40 minutes to major central stations, plus onward travel | Budget-conscious visitors staying near a station |
| Bus 350 or 351 | €2.05 per bus-tram ticket | About 60–90 minutes or more | Travellers prioritising the lowest fare |
| Night buses N140 or N143 | Generally €2.05 per bus-tram ticket | Varies by route; allow extra time | Some late-night or early-morning arrivals |
| Official Paris taxi | €56 or €65 fixed fare for qualifying journeys to Paris | About 35–75 minutes, depending on traffic | Door-to-door convenience |
| Uber or another ride-hailing app | Variable; check the app | About 35–75 minutes, depending on traffic | Travellers who prefer app-based booking |
| Private airport transfer | Provider-dependent; often approximately €70–€150 or more per vehicle | About 35–75 minutes, depending on traffic | Pre-arranged pickup and meet-and-greet service |
| Hotel shuttle | Free or paid, depending on the hotel | Depends on the hotel and number of stops | Guests whose accommodation offers this service |
| Rental car | Rental, fuel, parking and possible tolls | About 35–75 minutes or more to Paris | Travellers continuing outside Paris |
Important: The RER B airport ticket costs €14 at the standard adult fare in 2026. The bus fare is not interchangeable with the airport train ticket. Private-transfer estimates can vary considerably and should be confirmed with the provider.
2. What to Do After Landing at CDG
Before choosing your transport, allow enough time to clear the airport. International travellers may need to pass through passport control, collect checked luggage and clear customs before reaching the public arrivals area.
Step 1: Follow the signs to passport control and baggage claim
After leaving the aircraft, follow the airport signs for Arrivals, Passport Control or Baggage Claim, as applicable to your flight and terminal.
Follow the information screens to identify your baggage carousel. If your luggage does not arrive, contact your airline’s baggage service before leaving the baggage reclaim area.
Step 2: Pass through customs
After collecting your bags, follow the appropriate customs exit. Once you enter the public arrivals hall, look for the signs for your chosen transport.
Step 3: Decide where you are going
Before buying a ticket or entering a vehicle, check your hotel’s full address and postcode. Paris and its surrounding suburbs are served by different transport routes, and the nearest station is not always within easy walking distance of your hotel.
Use your hotel’s directions or a navigation app to identify:
- The nearest RER B or Metro station.
- Whether you will need to change trains.
- How far you must walk with your luggage.
- Whether your hotel offers an airport shuttle.
Step 4: Follow the correct airport signs
- Train: Look for Paris par Train, RER B or Gare SNCF.
- Taxi: Follow the official Taxis signs to the designated taxi rank.
- Bus: Follow the signs for Bus or Bus Paris and check the route number.
- Rental car: Follow the signs for Location de voitures or Car Rental.
- Private transfer: Follow your provider’s pickup instructions. Some drivers meet passengers inside the arrivals hall; others use a designated pickup point.
Official airport information: Paris Aéroport passenger information.
3. Option 1: Take the RER B Train from CDG to Paris
The RER B is one of the most practical ways to reach Paris from Charles de Gaulle Airport. It is a suburban train that connects the airport with major stations in Paris, including Gare du Nord, Châtelet–Les Halles and Saint-Michel–Notre-Dame.
How much does the RER B cost?
The standard adult fare for a single journey between CDG and the Paris region is €14 in 2026. The official reduced fare is €7 for eligible passengers. Reduced fares are subject to specific eligibility rules.
The airport ticket can be purchased digitally or loaded onto an eligible Navigo Easy pass. Travellers with certain valid all-zone transport subscriptions may already have airport travel included. Check the conditions of your particular pass.
Official fare information: Paris Region Airports Ticket.
Where do you catch the RER B at CDG?
The airport has railway access serving the terminals:
- Terminal 2: Follow the signs to the Aéroport Charles de Gaulle 2 TGV railway station.
- Terminal 1: Follow the signs for CDGVAL, the free airport shuttle, to reach the appropriate railway station.
- Terminal 3: Walk towards the Roissypôle transport hub and the Aéroport Charles de Gaulle 1 station, following the airport signs.
Terminal access and walking routes can change during works. Follow the signs displayed in your terminal rather than relying solely on a saved map.
How to take the correct train
- Follow the signs for RER B or the railway station.
- Buy a Paris Region Airports ticket if your existing pass does not cover the journey.
- Validate your ticket or eligible device at the gate.
- Check the departure screens for a train heading towards Paris.
- Board the correct train and check the stops before getting off.
- At your Paris station, follow the signs for the Metro, another RER line or the street exit, depending on your route.
Watch the destination boards: RER B trains serve different branches. Confirm that the train serves your destination and follow the station screens, especially when engineering works or disruptions affect the line.
How long does it take?
The train journey to a major central Paris station can take approximately 25–40 minutes, depending on the service and destination. Add time for walking through the airport, waiting for the train, changing lines and travelling from the final station to your hotel.
Advantages and disadvantages
Advantages:
- Usually avoids road traffic.
- Connects to several major Paris transport hubs.
- Costs a predictable amount per passenger.
- Can be convenient if your hotel is near a station.
Disadvantages:
- Can be crowded during busy periods.
- Requires you to manage your own luggage.
- May involve stairs, escalators, transfers or additional walking.
- Service interruptions can affect journey times.
Best for: Solo travellers, couples and visitors staying near an RER or Metro station who are comfortable using public transport.
4. Option 2: Take a Public Bus from CDG to Paris
Public buses can be a lower-cost alternative to the RER B. However, they usually take longer, and the best route depends on your destination and departure time.
Important 2026 update: The former Roissybus service to Opéra was discontinued on 1 March 2026. Do not rely on older guides that still recommend it as a current service.
Bus 350
Bus 350 connects CDG with Porte de la Chapelle in Paris. It can be useful if your accommodation or onward transport is near the route.
- Fare: Generally €2.05 for a standard Bus-Tram ticket.
- Journey time: Approximately 60–80 minutes in typical conditions, potentially longer in traffic.
- Best for: Travellers who want to save money and do not mind a longer journey.
Bus 351
Bus 351 connects the airport with the Nation area in eastern Paris. It may suit travellers staying near Nation or planning an onward connection in that part of the city.
- Fare: Generally €2.05 for a standard Bus-Tram ticket.
- Journey time: Approximately 70–90 minutes, depending on traffic and stops.
- Best for: Travellers heading towards eastern Paris who are comfortable with a longer bus journey.
Express bus 9517
Express bus 9517 links CDG with Saint-Denis–Pleyel, a major transport hub with connections to Metro lines 13 and 14 and RER D. It can be useful for destinations in northern Paris or for onward connections.
The journey between the airport and Saint-Denis–Pleyel is approximately 30 minutes in favourable conditions, although waiting and onward travel add to the total journey time.
Check the current route, timetable, stops and accepted tickets before departure. A standard Bus-Tram ticket is generally €2.05 in 2026, but confirm the ticket accepted for your precise service.
Night buses: N140 and N143
If your flight arrives late at night or very early in the morning, the Noctilien night bus network may provide an alternative when regular daytime services have stopped.
N140 and N143 serve CDG and central Paris railway-station areas. Routes, frequency, departure times and journey duration differ. Check the current timetable before depending on a night bus, especially if you have a connecting train or a hotel check-in deadline.
Where do you find the buses?
After collecting your luggage and leaving customs, follow the airport’s bus signs. Use the departure displays to find the correct bus number and stop. Do not assume that all buses depart from the same terminal or bus stand.
Official information and route updates:
Important ticket tip: The €14 airport ticket for rail journeys is not the standard bus ticket. Buy the correct ticket for the mode of transport you intend to use.
5. Option 3: Take an Official Paris Taxi
An official taxi is one of the simplest ways to reach your hotel, particularly if you have several suitcases, are travelling with children or prefer not to navigate the Metro after a long flight.
What is the fixed taxi fare from CDG to Paris?
For a qualifying direct journey between CDG and an address within Paris, the published fixed fares are:
- €56: Between CDG and Paris’s Right Bank (Rive Droite).
- €65: Between CDG and Paris’s Left Bank (Rive Gauche).
These are the published official fixed fares available for reference. Confirm the applicable fare and any current regulatory updates before travelling. The fixed fare applies to qualifying journeys between the airport and the designated Paris areas; it does not automatically cover hotels outside Paris’s municipal boundaries.
Official reference: French government information on taxi fares.
Where do you find the taxi rank?
- Collect your checked luggage.
- Pass through customs and enter the public arrivals area.
- Follow the official signs marked Taxis.
- Join the designated taxi queue and take a vehicle from the official rank.
- Give the driver your hotel’s full address, including the postcode.
Use only the official taxi rank. If someone approaches you inside the terminal and offers a taxi, politely decline and follow the signs instead.
How long does the taxi journey take?
A journey to central Paris may take around 35–75 minutes, but congestion, roadworks and the exact destination can make it longer. During peak traffic, allow additional time.
Advantages and disadvantages
Advantages:
- Direct transport to your hotel entrance or nearby access point.
- No train changes or ticket machines to navigate.
- Practical for heavy luggage and families.
- Fixed fares for qualifying journeys to Paris.
Disadvantages:
- More expensive than public transport for one person.
- Travel time depends on road traffic.
- Hotels outside the fixed-fare area may have a metered or otherwise different fare.
Best for: Families, groups, visitors with heavy luggage and anyone who values a simple door-to-door arrival.
6. Option 4: Use Uber or Another Ride-Hailing Service
Ride-hailing apps can be convenient if you prefer booking a vehicle on your phone and seeing an estimated price before confirming the trip.
Depending on availability at the time of arrival, travellers may find services such as Uber or other licensed app-based transport providers.
How it works
- Connect to the airport’s Wi-Fi or use your mobile data.
- Open the app and enter your hotel’s address.
- Review the price estimate, vehicle type and luggage capacity.
- Confirm your booking and follow the app’s pickup instructions.
- Check the registration plate and vehicle details before entering the car.
How much does it cost?
There is no single universal fare for every app-based ride. Prices depend on demand, traffic, vehicle category, pickup location and the destination. Airport journeys may become more expensive during periods of high demand.
Check the live quote in the app before booking and compare the total price with an official taxi. Do not assume an app ride is always cheaper.
Where do you meet your driver?
Pickup arrangements can differ by terminal and service. Your app may direct you to a designated pickup zone, car park or another meeting point. Follow the exact instructions shown in the app rather than waiting at the first vehicle exit you see.
Best for: Travellers who already use ride-hailing apps, want a price estimate before booking and are comfortable locating a designated pickup point.
7. Option 5: Book a Private Airport Transfer
A private transfer is a pre-arranged vehicle that takes you from CDG to your hotel. Depending on the provider, the service may include a driver waiting in the arrivals hall, assistance with luggage and a direct journey to your accommodation.
How much does a private transfer cost?
Prices vary according to the vehicle, number of passengers, destination, time of day, waiting policy and additional services. As a broad planning estimate, a private vehicle to Paris may cost approximately €70–€150 or more. This is not a regulated fixed fare or a guaranteed quotation.
Request a final price from the provider before paying. Check whether the quote includes airport parking, flight monitoring, waiting time, child seats, luggage and any late-night surcharge.
How do you meet your driver?
Read the booking confirmation carefully. Some drivers meet passengers inside the arrivals hall with a name sign. Others arrange a meeting at a specific exit or vehicle pickup area.
Provide your flight number and a working contact number when requested. If your flight is delayed, contact the company using the details on your confirmation.
Advantages and disadvantages
Advantages:
- Pre-arranged pickup after a long flight.
- Direct transport without train changes.
- Potentially useful for groups and larger amounts of luggage.
- Options for child seats and larger vehicles when booked in advance.
Disadvantages:
- Usually costs more than public transport.
- Terms for flight delays and waiting time differ by provider.
- Pickup arrangements must be checked in advance.
Best for: Families, groups, business travellers and visitors who want a planned arrival with minimal uncertainty.
8. Option 6: Use Your Hotel’s Airport Shuttle
Some hotels and airport-area accommodations offer a shuttle service, while others recommend a nearby shared shuttle or private transfer company.
Do not assume that your hotel provides a free airport transfer. Ask the property before arrival.
What to check before travelling
- Whether the shuttle is free, paid or shared with other passengers.
- Which terminal and pickup point it serves.
- Whether it runs at your arrival time.
- Whether you must reserve a seat in advance.
- How much luggage each passenger can bring.
- Whether the service goes directly to your hotel or stops at several properties.
If your hotel is near CDG, its shuttle may be more convenient than travelling into central Paris and returning to the airport area. If your hotel is in central Paris, compare the total cost and time with the RER B and taxi options.
Best for: Guests whose accommodation confirms an airport shuttle that matches their flight schedule.
9. Option 7: Rent a Car at CDG
Renting a car can make sense if Paris is only one stop on a wider French itinerary. For a stay focused on central Paris, however, a rental car is often unnecessary.
How much does it cost?
The total cost depends on the rental company, vehicle category, rental period, insurance, fuel, parking and any tolls. Airport rentals can also have additional terms and fees. Compare the complete rental price rather than just the daily rate.
How do you find the rental car desks?
After baggage claim and customs, follow the signs for Car Rental or Location de voitures. Some pickup arrangements involve a desk, car park or shuttle. Follow the instructions supplied by your rental company.
Should you drive into central Paris?
Consider traffic, parking costs, restricted traffic rules and the environmental regulations that apply to vehicles in the Paris region. If you plan to stay in central Paris and visit the main attractions, the Metro, RER and walking may be easier.
Best for: Travellers continuing to Normandy, the Loire Valley, Champagne or other destinations outside Paris, especially when several stops are planned.
11. Which Transport Option Should You Choose?
Choose the RER B if…
- Your hotel is close to an RER B or convenient Metro connection.
- You want to avoid road traffic.
- You are comfortable carrying your luggage through stations.
- You prefer a predictable fare of €14 per adult for the airport rail journey.
Choose a bus if…
- You are trying to minimise your transport budget.
- A bus route serves a convenient location for your hotel.
- You have enough time and can tolerate possible road delays.
Choose an official taxi if…
- You have several heavy suitcases.
- You are travelling with children or a group.
- You want to travel directly to your hotel.
- You prefer not to navigate public transport after a long flight.
Choose a ride-hailing service if…
- You want to compare a live price before booking.
- You are comfortable using an app to find your pickup point.
- The final quote and vehicle size suit your needs.
Choose a private transfer if…
- You want a pre-arranged driver.
- You need a meet-and-greet service or a particular vehicle type.
- You want to arrange child seats or extra luggage capacity in advance.
Choose a hotel shuttle if…
- Your hotel confirms that it operates at your arrival time.
- The pickup location and price are clear.
- The service offers a convenient connection to your accommodation.
Choose a rental car if…
- You will travel beyond Paris.
- You need a vehicle for several stops outside the city.
- You have considered parking, insurance and driving restrictions.
12. Essential Money-Saving and Safety Tips
1. Check your hotel’s exact address before choosing a route
A hotel advertised as being in Paris may actually be outside the city’s administrative boundaries. This affects the usefulness of nearby stations and whether a fixed Paris taxi fare applies.
2. Buy the correct transport ticket
In 2026, the standard airport rail ticket costs €14 per adult, while a standard Bus-Tram ticket costs €2.05. These tickets cover different types of travel. Confirm that your ticket is valid for the entire journey, including any onward connections.
3. Check your existing travel pass
Some valid all-zone subscriptions include airport journeys. If you already have a Navigo subscription or a Paris Visite pass, check its validity and conditions before buying another ticket.
Official information: 2026 public transport fares.
4. Avoid unofficial taxi solicitations
Follow the official taxi signs and take a vehicle from the designated rank. Be cautious of unsolicited offers inside the terminal or around the arrivals exit.
5. Keep your valuables secure
Keep your passport, wallet, phone and other important items secure, especially in crowded stations and while handling luggage. Stay aware of your belongings when boarding trains and buses.
6. Check for transport disruptions
Rail works, strikes, service changes and road congestion can affect your journey. Check the latest information before leaving the airport, especially late at night or when you have a hotel check-in deadline.
Useful official resources:
- Île-de-France Mobilités for fares and regional transport information.
- RATP for Metro, RER and bus information.
- Transilien for rail information and disruptions.
- Paris Aéroport for terminal maps and airport services.
7. Allow extra time if you have a connecting train
Do not plan a tight connection based only on the advertised train journey time. Allow for passport control, baggage reclaim, walking, queues and possible delays.
8. Download essential information before landing
Save your hotel’s address, booking confirmation, transport instructions and relevant maps on your phone. This can help if mobile connectivity is poor or your battery is running low.
9. Consider the total cost for your group
A train ticket is generally cheaper for one person, but a taxi or private transfer may become more competitive when several people are travelling together. Compare the total cost for the entire group, not just the price per passenger.
10. Remember that the cheapest option is not always the most convenient
A bus may save money but take considerably longer. A train may be quick but require several changes. A taxi costs more but can save considerable effort when travelling with children, mobility needs or several suitcases.
13. Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest way to get from CDG Airport to Paris?
Public buses can be among the cheapest options. Standard Bus-Tram tickets cost €2.05 in 2026, subject to the ticket rules for your service. Buses generally take longer than the RER B, and you should check which route serves your destination.
How much is the train from CDG to Paris in 2026?
The standard adult Paris Region Airports ticket costs €14 for a one-way airport rail journey. The official reduced fare is €7 for eligible passengers.
How much is a taxi from CDG to central Paris?
The published fixed fare is €56 for qualifying journeys to Paris’s Right Bank and €65 for qualifying journeys to the Left Bank. Different fares may apply to destinations outside the designated Paris area. Confirm current regulations before travel.
Is there still a Roissybus from CDG to Opéra?
No. The former Roissybus service was discontinued on 1 March 2026. Check current alternatives, including the RER B and available bus routes, before travelling.
Can I pay for public transport with my phone?
Eligible smartphones can be used to purchase and validate certain Île-de-France transport tickets. Check the official Île-de-France Mobilités app information and ensure that the airport ticket is available for your device and payment setup.
Which RER station should I use at CDG?
Terminal 2 has access to Aéroport Charles de Gaulle 2 TGV. Terminal 1 passengers can follow CDGVAL signs to reach the appropriate railway station, while Terminal 3 passengers should follow signs to Roissypôle and Aéroport Charles de Gaulle 1.
Is the RER B convenient with large suitcases?
It is possible to travel with suitcases on the RER B, but stations can be crowded and may require walking or changing lines. If you have several heavy bags, a taxi or pre-booked transfer may be more comfortable.
What if my flight arrives after midnight?
Check the last RER B departures and current night-bus timetables before travelling. If public transport is unavailable or unsuitable for your arrival time, consider an official taxi or a confirmed pre-booked transfer.
Can I take a taxi to a hotel outside Paris?
Yes, but the fixed fare for a qualifying journey to central Paris does not automatically apply to hotels in the suburbs. Ask for the applicable fare or a quotation before starting the journey.
Should I rent a car to visit Paris?
For a stay focused on central Paris, public transport is often more practical because of traffic and parking. A rental car is more useful if you plan to explore destinations outside the capital.
14. Final Recommendation: The Best Way to Reach Your Paris Hotel
For many international visitors, the RER B offers a good balance of speed, cost and convenience, especially when the hotel is close to a station. Public buses are worth considering when keeping costs low is the priority and the longer journey is acceptable.
If you want to reach your hotel with minimal effort, an official taxi or a well-organised private transfer is often the easiest option. Families, travellers with heavy luggage and visitors arriving after a long international flight may find the extra cost worthwhile.
Before leaving CDG, remember three things: confirm your hotel’s exact address, follow the official airport signs for your chosen transport and check the latest fares and service information.
With a little preparation, getting from Charles de Gaulle Airport to your hotel can be a straightforward start to your stay in Paris.
Official Sources and Further Information
- Paris Aéroport: terminal information, maps and passenger services
- Île-de-France Mobilités: airport ticket prices and conditions
- Île-de-France Mobilités: 2026 public transport fares
- Île-de-France Mobilités: end of the Roissybus service and alternatives
- RATP: transport routes and passenger information
- Transilien: rail timetables and service updates
- French government: published taxi fare information
Editorial note: Transport fares and services can change. Review the official sources periodically and update this article when a fare, route or airport service changes.