Which Paris Airport is Best? CDG vs Orly vs Beauvais

Choosing the right Paris airport can save you hours of travel time and significant money. Paris is served by three main commercial airports: Charles de Gaulle (CDG), Orly (ORY), and Beauvais-Tillé (BVA). Each serves distinct purposes, with CDG handling international long-haul flights, Orly focusing on European and domestic routes, and Beauvais catering to budget carriers. Your optimal choice depends on your origin city, accommodation location, budget, and travel priorities.

What Are the Three Paris Airports?

Paris operates three commercial airports serving different market segments. Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), located 25 km northeast of Paris, is France’s largest international airport and the primary hub for Air France and major global carriers. Paris Orly Airport (ORY), situated 13-18 km south of the city center, primarily serves European, domestic, and select international destinations. Paris Beauvais-Tillé Airport (BVA), located 85 km northwest, exclusively handles low-cost carriers like Ryanair and Wizz Air.

Key Facts About Paris Airports

• CDG is Europe’s third-busiest airport, handling 67.4 million passengers annually with service to 285+ destinations
• Orly is the closest to Paris city center at 13 km and serves approximately 33 million passengers per year
• Beauvais is 85 km from Paris, requiring 75-90 minute bus transfers with no direct train service
• CDG has three terminals (with Terminal 2 subdivided into 2A-2G), creating complex navigation
• Orly features four interconnected terminals, making transfers straightforward
• Only CDG offers comprehensive long-haul international flights from North America, Asia, and Australia
• Fixed taxi rates apply: CDG charges €56 (right bank) or €65 (left bank); Orly charges €30-40
• Transfer times vary dramatically: Orly 20-30 minutes, CDG 30-60 minutes, Beauvais 75-90 minutes

How to Choose Between Paris Airports

Start by identifying your origin city and available airlines. If flying from outside Europe, you’ll almost certainly use CDG. International travelers from the Americas, Asia, Africa, and Oceania have limited or no options at Orly or Beauvais. For European flights, compare both CDG and Orly for pricing and convenience. Budget carriers predominantly operate from Beauvais and occasionally Orly.

Next, consider your accommodation location in Paris. Travelers staying in southern Paris (Left Bank, 7th, 13th, 14th, or 15th arrondissements) benefit most from Orly’s southern location. Those staying in northern or eastern Paris find CDG more convenient despite the greater distance. Consider total door-to-door travel time, not just distance to the city center.

Calculate your complete travel cost, including flight price plus ground transportation. A €40 flight to Beauvais becomes €85-90 after adding the €17-25 shuttle and 90 minutes of additional travel time each way. Meanwhile, a €90 flight to Orly might cost less overall with a €12-20 transfer taking just 30 minutes.

Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG): International Gateway

Charles de Gaulle Airport is best for long-haul international travelers and those requiring the widest range of flight options. As Europe’s third-busiest airport, CDG connects Paris to over 285 destinations worldwide, including comprehensive service from North America, Asia, Middle East, Africa, and South America. Major carriers including Air France, Delta, United, British Airways, Emirates, and Qatar Airways operate extensive schedules from CDG.

CDG Advantages

• Most international flight options with 20+ daily departures to major global hubs
• Best for connections with comprehensive oneworld, Star Alliance, and SkyTeam networks
• Direct rail links including RER B (€11.80, 35 minutes to central stations) and TGV high-speed trains
• Extensive amenities including luxury shopping, premium lounges, hotels, and restaurants
• Fixed-price taxi fares eliminate fare uncertainty (€56-65 to central Paris)
• Direct TGV connection to Disneyland Paris in 10 minutes
• Multiple ground transportation options available 24/7

CDG Disadvantages

• Complex layout with effectively eight separate terminals (2A through 2G function independently)
• Can be overwhelming for first-time visitors requiring long walks between gates
• Crowded during peak hours with security wait times averaging 30-45 minutes
• Farther from city center than Orly, adding 10-20 minutes to transfer times
• Higher flight prices on short-haul European routes compared to Orly
• Severe road congestion during weekday rush hours (8:00-11:00 and 17:00-20:00)

Getting from CDG to Paris

The RER B train provides the fastest public transportation, departing every 10-15 minutes from 4:50 AM to 12:50 AM. Journey time is 25 minutes to Gare du Nord, 28 minutes to Châtelet-Les-Halles, and 35 minutes to Denfert-Rochereau. Single tickets cost €11.80 for adults. The RoissyBus offers direct service to Opéra in 60 minutes for €16.60. Official taxis charge fixed rates of €56 to the right bank or €65 to the left bank. Private transfers range from €55-85 depending on vehicle type and service level.

Paris Orly Airport (ORY): Convenient and Efficient

Orly Airport is the best overall choice for European travelers and those prioritizing convenience, proximity, and ease of navigation. Located just 13 km south of Paris, Orly offers the shortest transfer times to central Paris and a significantly less stressful airport experience. The airport’s four interconnected terminals are easy to navigate, with modern facilities renovated in recent years. Security and customs typically process passengers in 20-30 minutes, considerably faster than CDG.

Orly Advantages

• Closest to Paris city center at 13 km, enabling 20-30 minute transfers by car or Metro
• Smaller and easier to navigate than CDG with less crowded terminals
• Recently modernized with improved facilities, now considered more pleasant than CDG for short-haul travel
• Direct Metro Line 14 connection opened, providing fastest public transport (25 minutes, €14)
• Ideal for southern Paris accommodations (Left Bank, Latin Quarter, Montparnasse)
• Lower taxi costs (€30-40) compared to CDG
• Faster security and baggage claim, typically 20-30 minutes total
• Less overwhelming for families and first-time Paris visitors

Orly Disadvantages

• Limited long-haul international flights (primarily French Bee to select US cities and La Compagnie to Newark)
• Fewer flight options overall compared to CDG’s extensive network
• Requires one transfer for RER access (OrlyVal to Antony, then RER B)
• No on-site hotels within terminals
• Fewer premium lounges and dining options than CDG
• Some European flights may be more expensive than CDG equivalents

Getting from Orly to Paris

Metro Line 14 offers the fastest connection, reaching central Paris in 25 minutes for €14 with trains every 2-5 minutes. The OrlyVal light rail connects to RER B at Antony station for a combined journey of 30-40 minutes costing €12.50 total. OrlyBus provides direct service to Denfert-Rochereau in 30 minutes for €9.50. Taxis to central Paris cost €30-40 depending on your specific destination. Private transfers range from €45-70, slightly less expensive than CDG due to shorter distance.

Paris Beauvais Airport (BVA): Budget Carrier Hub

Beauvais Airport should only be chosen when flight savings exceed €50-70 after factoring in the significantly higher transfer costs and time. Located 85 km northwest of Paris in the town of Tillé, Beauvais serves exclusively as a hub for ultra-low-cost carriers, primarily Ryanair and Wizz Air. The airport offers very basic facilities with minimal amenities, food options, and services.

Beauvais Characteristics

• 85 km from Paris city center, the farthest of all three airports
• No direct train service requiring 75-90 minute shuttle bus transfers
• Official shuttle costs €17-25 one-way departing from Porte Maillot
• Taxi fares exceed €185-230 one-way, making private cars prohibitively expensive for solo travelers
• Serves approximately 80 destinations primarily within Europe
• Very basic terminal facilities with limited food, shopping, and seating
• Small airport that’s easy to navigate but lacking in comfort and amenities

When to Consider Beauvais

Beauvais makes sense only in specific situations: when traveling with minimal luggage, having significant time flexibility, finding flight savings of €50-70+ over Orly/CDG options, or when Ryanair/Wizz Air are the only carriers serving your specific route. Business travelers and families should avoid Beauvais due to the long transfer time and basic facilities. The total door-to-door journey can take 4+ hours from landing to Paris hotel.

Comparison Table: Paris Airports at a Glance

Best Paris Airport for Different Traveler Types

For International Long-Haul Travelers

Choose CDG. If flying from the United States, Canada, Asia, Australia, South America, or Africa, CDG is typically your only option. The airport offers 20+ daily flights to major North American cities, comprehensive Asian connections via Gulf carriers’ A380 services, and extensive African and South American networks. CDG’s role as Air France’s primary hub ensures excellent connections throughout the world.

For European Travelers

Choose Orly for convenience, CDG for options. Compare flight times and prices carefully between both airports. Orly typically offers better value on European routes with easyJet, Transavia, and Vueling, plus its proximity saves 30-45 minutes of transfer time. However, CDG may have more frequent departures to your specific destination and better connection options if continuing elsewhere.

For Budget-Conscious Travelers

Compare total costs carefully. While Beauvais offers the cheapest base fares, add €35-50 for round-trip transfers and 3+ hours of total transfer time. Orly’s proximity often makes it cheaper overall even with slightly higher base fares. Only choose Beauvais when savings exceed €50-70 and you’re traveling light with time flexibility.

For First-Time Paris Visitors

Choose Orly. The smaller, modernized terminals are far less overwhelming than CDG’s maze-like structure. Faster processing times, direct Metro connection, and proximity to central Paris reduce stress and get you to the Eiffel Tower or Louvre 30-60 minutes faster than CDG.

For Business Travelers

Choose based on location and lounge access. CDG offers superior premium lounges and business facilities if you hold airline status. However, Orly’s efficiency and recent modernization make it increasingly popular for short-haul business travel. Consider your meeting location: Orly is better for Left Bank and southern Paris; CDG for northern and eastern business districts. Avoid Beauvais entirely for business purposes.

For Families With Children

Choose Orly for easier navigation and shorter transfers. Families benefit from Orly’s compact layout, reducing walking distances with strollers and young children. The 20-30 minute transfer means less time managing tired kids on public transport. CDG’s size and crowds can be challenging with multiple children and luggage. Never choose Beauvais with families due to the 90-minute bus transfer and minimal facilities.

For Disneyland Paris Visitors

Choose CDG. The airport offers direct TGV train service to Disneyland Paris in approximately 10 minutes. Private transfers take 40 minutes from CDG versus 55 minutes from Orly. Beauvais requires 1.5-2 hours and should be avoided for Disney trips.

Common Mistakes When Choosing Paris Airports

The most common mistake is selecting Beauvais based solely on cheap base fares without calculating total costs. Travelers see a €25 Ryanair ticket and book immediately, only discovering the €18+ shuttle, 90-minute transfer, and basic facilities make the total experience more expensive and time-consuming than a €60 Orly flight.

Another frequent error is assuming CDG is always best because it’s the largest. For European flights and travelers staying in southern Paris, Orly saves significant time and money. CDG’s size becomes a disadvantage when you don’t need its international connectivity.

Many travelers fail to consider their Paris accommodation location when choosing airports. Someone staying in the 7th arrondissement choosing CDG over Orly adds unnecessary transfer time and cost. Consider door-to-door travel time, not just city-center proximity.

Booking extremely early morning or late night flights without checking public transport schedules causes problems. RER trains don’t run 24/7, and night bus alternatives take significantly longer. Factor in taxi costs of €60-230 depending on airport choice.

Best Practices for Paris Airport Selection

Always calculate total trip cost including ground transportation before booking. Use this formula: Flight price + Airport transfer (both ways) + Time value (your hours × personal hourly value) = Total real cost. A €90 Orly flight might cost €110 total (€20 round-trip Metro), while a €40 Beauvais flight costs €75-90 (€35-50 shuttle) plus 3+ hours of additional time.

Book ground transportation in advance during peak travel periods (June-September, December holidays). RER trains experience severe overcrowding, and taxi queues at CDG can exceed 45 minutes during high season. Pre-booked private transfers eliminate this uncertainty.

Check your specific Paris accommodation address and calculate transfer times to each airport using Google Maps. Select departure/arrival times matching your flight schedule to see realistic transit durations including connections.

For connecting flights, allow minimum connection times: CDG requires 90 minutes for international-to-international and 120 minutes for Schengen-to-international. Orly requires 60 minutes for domestic/European and 90 minutes for international. Never book separate tickets through Beauvais with connections at other Paris airports.

Download the Citymapper or RATP app before your trip for real-time public transport navigation. Purchase Metro tickets via the app to avoid airport ticket machine queues. Consider multi-day Paris Visite passes (zones 1-5) if making multiple journeys.

Step-by-Step Guide: Choosing Your Paris Airport

1. Identify your origin city and available airlines. Search Google Flights or Skyscanner for all three airport codes (CDG, ORY, BVA) simultaneously to see complete options.
2. Note flight prices and times for each airport option. Include all airlines, even those requiring separate bookings.
3. Calculate transfer costs using current pricing: CDG RER €11.80 or taxi €56-65; Orly Metro €14 or taxi €30-40; Beauvais shuttle €17-25 or taxi €185+.
4. Estimate transfer times including connections: CDG 35-60 minutes; Orly 20-40 minutes; Beauvais 75-90 minutes minimum.
5. Determine your Paris accommodation location. Check which airport offers the most direct route to your hotel.
6. Add all costs together: (Flight × 2 if round-trip) + (Transfer × 2) + Luggage fees + Seat selection = Total.
7. Compare final totals including your time value. If Beauvais saves less than €50-70 after including all costs, choose Orly or CDG.
8. Verify public transport operates during your arrival/departure times. Late-night and early-morning travelers may need taxis regardless of airport.
9. Book your ground transportation in advance if choosing private transfers or pre-purchasing train tickets.
10. Set calendar reminders for check-in opening (24-48 hours before departure depending on airline).

Paris Airport Security and Wait Times

Security wait times vary significantly by airport and time of day. CDG averages 30-45 minutes during normal periods but can exceed 90 minutes during peak hours (6:00-10:00 AM and 5:00-8:00 PM on weekdays, plus summer weekends). Arrive 3 hours before international flights and 2 hours before Schengen flights at CDG.

Orly typically processes passengers in 20-30 minutes due to smaller size and better organization. Arrive 2 hours before international flights and 90 minutes before domestic/European flights. The renovated security areas flow efficiently compared to CDG’s often-chaotic checkpoints.

Beauvais has minimal security infrastructure with only 4 passport control booths and 4 security belts. During busy flight times, queues can extend to 90+ minutes despite the airport’s small size. Arrive 2 hours minimum, more during peak summer and holiday periods.

Expert Insights and Advanced Tips

For premium travelers: CDG Terminal 2E offers the best lounge options including Air France La Première, SkyTeam lounges, and the stunning new CDG 2G lounge accessible to all passengers. Orly’s lounge options are limited but adequate for Priority Pass holders. Beauvais has no proper lounges.

For connection strategy: If booking separate tickets, always build in substantial buffer time. Paris airports do not protect self-connection passengers. CDG Terminal 2E to 2F requires 15-20 minutes walking; 2G to 1 requires 25+ minutes plus shuttle. Orly’s connected terminals make self-connections more reliable with 90-minute minimums.

For seasonal considerations: CDG experiences severe congestion June-September and December 15-January 5. Consider Orly alternatives during these periods if flying within Europe. Beauvais becomes especially problematic during summer when bus schedules can’t accommodate overcrowded flights.

For loyalty programs: Air France/KLM Flying Blue members get better lounge access and priority services at CDG. SkyTeam partners also benefit from CDG’s extensive facilities. If you lack airline status, Orly’s speed advantages outweigh CDG’s premium offerings.

For late-night/early-morning flights: CDG maintains 24/7 operations with night buses (N140 and N143) when RER stops running. Orly officially closes 12:30-3:30 AM. Beauvais has extremely limited late-night shuttle options. Budget €60-80 for taxis during overnight hours from any airport.

For luggage storage: CDG Terminal 2 TGV station has left-luggage lockers if you want to visit Paris during a long connection. Orly lacks storage facilities. Both airports offer baggage wrapping services for €10-15 if concerned about security or damage.

For free WiFi access: All three airports offer unlimited free WiFi, but connection quality varies. CDG’s network works well throughout terminals. Orly recently upgraded to fast, reliable WiFi. Beauvais WiFi is functional but slower during peak times.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Paris airport is closest to the city center?

Paris Orly Airport (ORY) is closest to the city center at just 13 kilometers (8 miles) south of Paris. This proximity allows transfers to central Paris in as little as 20 minutes by taxi without traffic or 25 minutes via the direct Metro Line 14. Charles de Gaulle is 25 km away requiring 35-60 minutes, while Beauvais is 85 km away requiring 75-90 minutes minimum.

Which Paris airport is easiest to navigate?

Orly Airport is the easiest to navigate with four interconnected terminals and clear signage. The recent modernization improved wayfinding and terminal flow. Beauvais is physically smallest but offers only basic facilities. CDG is notoriously complex with three main terminals and Terminal 2 subdivided into 2A through 2G, requiring shuttles and long walks between many gates.

Should I fly into CDG or Orly from the United States?

You should fly into CDG from the United States as it handles nearly all transatlantic flights. Major US carriers (Delta, United, American) and Air France operate extensive schedules from CDG to 20+ North American cities. Orly has very limited US service with only French Bee to Miami, Newark, and San Francisco, plus La Compagnie to Newark.

Is Beauvais Airport worth it for cheap flights?

Beauvais is worth it only when total savings exceed €50-70 after including transfer costs and time value. The 85 km distance requires €17-25 shuttle costs each way and 90 minutes minimum transfer time. Calculate total trip cost: a €30 Beauvais flight costs €64-80 total with transfers, while a €70 Orly flight costs €90-94 total but saves 3+ hours of travel time.

Which airport is better for families with children?

Orly Airport is better for families due to shorter transfers, easier navigation, and faster processing times. The compact layout reduces walking distances with strollers and luggage. Transfer time of 20-30 minutes means less time managing tired children on public transport. CDG’s size and crowds present challenges for families, while Beauvais’s 90-minute bus transfer is unsuitable for young children.

Can I transfer between Paris airports easily?

Transferring between Paris airports is possible but time-consuming, requiring 70-90 minutes minimum via public transport. The RER B connects CDG to Orly via Antony station. However, this requires navigating multiple trains with luggage. Never book separate tickets requiring airport changes without 6+ hours minimum between flights. Private transfers between airports cost €60-90 and take 60-90 minutes depending on traffic.

Which airport has the best public transport connections?

CDG has the best overall public transport with direct RER B train, multiple buses, and TGV high-speed rail connections. Orly recently improved with direct Metro Line 14 but still requires train changes for some destinations. Beauvais has no rail connection, only shuttle buses to Porte Maillot requiring 75-90 minutes. For pure convenience to central Paris, Orly’s new Metro 14 is fastest.

What are the taxi costs from each Paris airport?

Fixed taxi rates are: CDG €56 (right bank) or €65 (left bank), Orly €30-40 to central Paris, and Beauvais €185-230+. CDG and Orly use metered fares for destinations outside central Paris. Always use official taxi stands with illuminated roof signs. Uber and Bolt operate at all airports with prices comparable to official taxis plus or minus surge pricing.

Which airport is best for European budget flights?

Orly is best for European budget flights, offering better value than Beauvais when considering total costs. EasyJet, Transavia, and Vueling operate extensive European networks from Orly with much shorter transfer times and costs. While Beauvais has cheaper base fares on Ryanair and Wizz Air, the expensive and time-consuming transfers often eliminate savings. Compare total door-to-door costs always.

Do Paris airports operate 24 hours?

Only CDG operates 24/7 with continuous flights and services. Night buses (N140 and N143) run when the RER stops between 1:00-5:00 AM. Orly officially closes 12:30-3:30 AM with no arriving or departing flights during these hours. Beauvais has limited operating hours aligned with low-cost carrier schedules. Plan taxi transportation for overnight flights as public transport options are severely limited.

Which airport is best for southern Paris hotels?

Orly Airport is decisively better for southern Paris locations including the 5th, 6th, 7th, 13th, 14th, and 15th arrondissements. The direct southward route from Orly saves 20-40 minutes compared to crossing Paris from CDG. Popular neighborhoods like Saint-Germain, Latin Quarter, Montparnasse, and near the Eiffel Tower are all closer to Orly than CDG.

Can I reach Disneyland Paris easily from Orly or Beauvais?

No, Charles de Gaulle Airport is far superior for Disneyland Paris with direct TGV trains in just 10 minutes. Orly requires 55-70 minutes via private transfer or complex public transport connections. Beauvais requires 1.5-2 hours with a bus to Paris plus onward transport. CDG’s direct train makes it the only practical airport choice for Disneyland-focused trips.

What happens if I miss my flight from a Paris airport?

Missing your flight results in different outcomes by airport. At CDG, major airlines may rebook you on the next available flight (often with fees) due to high frequency. Orly offers moderate rebooking options. Beauvais, serving mostly low-cost carriers with limited schedules, typically requires purchasing a completely new ticket with no rebooking assistance. Budget carriers charge €70-150+ change fees even when rebooking is possible.

Which airport is better during strikes and disruptions?

During French strikes, CDG typically maintains better operations due to its international importance and multiple backup systems. However, RER B train strikes severely impact CDG access, requiring buses or taxis. Orly’s smaller size can make it easier to navigate during disruptions, though it’s more vulnerable to closure. Monitor French news for “préavis de grève” (strike notices) before travel and build extra time into all Paris airport trips.

Are there hotels inside Paris airports?

Yes, CDG has hotels inside the terminal complex including the Hilton CDG Terminal 2F and Sheraton CDG Terminal 2. The new Radisson Blu CDG opened in January 2026 with 305 rooms. These allow passengers to stay airside without clearing immigration. Orly has no hotels inside terminals, only nearby hotels requiring 5-10 minute shuttles. Beauvais has no airport hotels, only options in Beauvais town 15 minutes away.

Which airport has the best food and shopping?

CDG offers the most extensive food and shopping with luxury boutiques, Michelin-starred chef restaurants, and comprehensive duty-free. Terminal 2E features premium brands like Hermès, Dior, and Longchamp. Dining options range from Paul and Ladurée to gourmet options by chef Alain Ducasse. Orly has good but more limited options including Paul, Extime duty-free, and several cafés. Beauvais has minimal facilities with only basic Paul and Monop’ outlets.

Conclusion

Paris Orly Airport is the best choice for most travelers, offering the optimal combination of proximity, convenience, and efficiency at just 13 km from central Paris. Its modern terminals, fast security processing, and 20-30 minute transfers make it ideal for European travelers, families, and anyone prioritizing efficiency. Orly’s recent modernization and direct Metro Line 14 connection have made it more convenient than ever.

However, Charles de Gaulle Airport remains essential for international long-haul travelers with its unmatched global connectivity to 285+ destinations. If flying from the Americas, Asia, Africa, or Oceania, CDG is typically your only viable option. Despite its complex layout and crowds, CDG delivers comprehensive services, premium facilities, and excellent ground transportation links.

Paris Beauvais Airport should be approached cautiously, chosen only when flight savings genuinely exceed €50-70 after calculating the €35-50 round-trip transfer costs and 3+ hours of additional travel time. For most travelers, Beauvais’s extreme distance and limited facilities outweigh the initially attractive base fares.

Your optimal Paris airport choice depends on your origin city, travel style, accommodation location, and priorities. Calculate total door-to-door costs and time, not just flight prices, to make the best decision for your specific journey to the City of Light.