Getting to Paris from the airport or train station
Getting there from the airport
From both airports, Charles de Gaulle and Orly, it is most convenient to arrive by car. The cab fare is 55 euros for the right bank and 62 euros for the left bank from Charles de Gaulle, and 35 euros for left bank addresses or 41 euros for right bank addresses from Orly. Always take an official cab, which you will recognize by the lighted sign on the roof of the vehicle. If you are approached by someone claiming to be a cab driver, politely decline the offer. Unless there is a surge in demand, Uber and its competitors are usually the cheaper option.
There are also other transportation options, depending on what you are looking for:
Luxurious
If you want someone with a sign with your name on it waiting outside baggage claim, rent a limousine (from Paris Airport Limousine, for example ). Your driver is guaranteed to speak English and will make your ride as pleasant as possible.
Adventurous
Taking a motorcycle taxi requires you to be traveling alone and with hand luggage only. The service needs to be booked in advance (for example at Urban Driver) and is not the greatest idea when it rains. That being said, it’s probably the fastest way to get to your destination. Wear long pants and flat shoes.
Tiresome
The cheapest way to get to Paris is by RER B train (about 11 euros from Charles de Gaulle and 14 euros from Orly). Like all public transportation in Paris, it can be crowded and has a small but realistic chance of breaking down during the trip, making the journey long and boring. Also, beware of pickpockets.
Cost-effective
For about the same price, you can take the metro line 14, which goes directly from Orly (you’ll need a special ticket, priced around 10 euros). There is no metro to or from Charles de Gaulle yet, but the RoissyBus will take you into the city for 16 euros. The disadvantage of the bus is that you run the risk of getting stuck in traffic once you reach Paris. The same goes for a cab, of course.
Getting there from the train station
The good news is that you’re already in the middle of the city when you get off the train. Depending on which gare you arrive at and where your accommodation is located, it may make sense to take the métro, take a cab, or even walk.
Gare de Lyon
The ‘southern’ station that receives trains from Italy, Switzerland, Spain and southern France. Métro lines 1 and 14 and RER lines B and D run from here. The cab stand is in front of the station at Place Louis Armand
Gare de l’Est
The ‘eastern’ station that receives trains from Germany, Luxembourg, and eastern France. Métro lines 4, 5, and 7 run here, and the cab stand is in front of the station at Place du 11 Novembre 1918.
Gare du Nord
The ‘northern’ station that receives trains from England, Brussels, Germany, the Netherlands and northern France. Métro lines 2, 4 and 5 and RER lines B, D and E run from here. The cab stand is located on Rue de Maubeuge. Take the exit by the regional trains, called Transiliens.
Once you’ve arrived at your destination, it’s time to start exploring. Our personalized travel guide will show you the best of what Paris has to offer for you, without you having to do any research or spend hours reading guidebooks.
