Overview

Traveling from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to Aachen, Germany, bridges the charm of French elegance with the historic allure of a medieval German city. The journey spans approximately 450 km (280 miles) and takes 4.5–5.5 hours by road, depending on traffic and route. Whether you’re visiting Aachen for its UNESCO-listed cathedral, thermal spas, or business ventures, a seamless transfer ensures you start your trip stress-free.

Getting to Know Aachen

Aachen, nestled near Germany’s borders with Belgium and the Netherlands, is famed for its Aachen Cathedral (the burial site of Charlemagne) and thermal springs like Carolus Thermen. The city blends history with innovation, hosting RWTH Aachen University, one of Europe’s top tech institutes. Visitors often explore the Old Town’s cobblestone streets, the Elisenbrunnen fountain, and seasonal Christmas markets.

Arriving at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

After landing at CDG, follow signage to Terminal 2 for ground transportation. The airport offers:

• Clear multilingual signage.
• Currency exchange desks and ATMs.
• Taxi ranks and rental car counters near arrivals.
• Free Wi-Fi to coordinate your transfer.

Pro tip: Download offline maps or note your driver’s contact details if booking a private transfer from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Aachen.

Main Transfer Options

Public Transport: Trains and Buses

1. Train via Paris and Cologne:

• Take the TGV from CDG to Paris Gare de l’Est (~45 minutes).
• Transfer to a high-speed ICE train to Cologne (3.5 hours), then a regional train to Aachen (1 hour).
• Total cost: €120–€180.
• Deutsche Bahn for schedules.

2. Long-Distance Bus:

• FlixBus routes connect Paris to Aachen in ~6.5 hours.
• Fares start at €30, but delays are common.

Taxi & Rideshare

• CDG to Aachen taxi fare: €500–€650 (fixed rates vary by provider).
• Rideshares (BlaBlaCar) cost €40–€80 but require coordinating pickup points.

Car Rentals

• Major providers like Europcar and Hertz operate at CDG.
• One-way rentals cost €150–€250/day + fuel/tolls.
• Note: Cross-border drop-offs may incur fees.

Private Transfer: CDG to Aachen

For comfort and reliability, book a private transfer from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Aachen with services like A2B Transfers. Benefits include:

• Fixed pricing with no hidden fees.
• Meet & greet service at arrivals.
• Vehicles ranging from sedans to minivans.
• Complimentary 60-minute waiting time.

Choosing the Best Method

Recommendations:

• Budget travelers: Opt for buses or shared rideshares.
• Families/groups: Prioritize private transfers or minivans.
• Business travelers: Choose private taxis for productivity.

Travel Tips & Local Insights

• Book early: Secure CDG to Aachen private transportation in advance during peak seasons (summer, Christmas markets).
• Border checks: Carry passports, as routes pass through Belgium.
• Scenic detour: Stop in Reims, France, for champagne tastings.
• Weekday travel: Avoid rush hours (7–9 AM, 5–7 PM) near Paris and Cologne.

Reaching Your Final Destination

Most transfers drop off at Aachen’s city center or specific hotels. If staying outside the core:

• Use local buses (ASEAG network) or taxis.
• Download the DB Navigator app for regional transit.

Where to Get More Info

• Aachen Tourism – Official visitor guides.
• Paris Aéroport – CDG updates.
• A2B Transfers – Reliable Aachen airport transfer service.

Safe travels, and enjoy Aachen’s blend of history and modernity!

FAQ

Q: How long is the drive from CDG to Aachen? A: Approximately 4.5–5.5 hours, depending on traffic and route.

Q: Are there direct trains from CDG to Aachen? A: No—connect via Paris and Cologne.

Q: Do I need a visa for this cross-border transfer? A: EU citizens need only ID. Non-EU travelers require a Schengen visa.

Q: Why choose a private taxi from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Aachen? A: Door-to-door convenience, fixed pricing, and multilingual drivers.

Q: Can I book a last-minute transfer? A: Yes, but availability varies. Pre-booking with A2B guarantees priority service.