Traveling from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to Le Havre Port involves a 200-kilometer journey through the heart of Normandy. Whether you’re a cruise passenger, a business traveler, or exploring northern France, choosing the right transfer method ensures a smooth start to your trip. This guide compares all options—from trains to private transfers—and shares local insights to simplify your planning.

1. Overview: Connecting CDG to Le Havre Port

The route from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport to Le Havre Port takes roughly 2.5–3 hours by road or 2 hours by train. Le Havre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is France’s second-largest port and a gateway to Normandy’s coastal charm. Key attractions include the MuMa modern art museum, Saint-Joseph Church’s striking architecture, and the revitalized dockside area.

2. Getting to Know Le Havre

Founded in 1517, Le Havre blends maritime history with postwar modernist design by architect Auguste Perret. The port serves as a hub for transatlantic cruises and freight, while the city attracts visitors with its:

• Le Volcan Cultural Center: A futuristic performing arts venue.
• Jardins Suspendus: Cliffside botanical gardens with panoramic views.
• Étretat Cliffs: A 30-minute drive east, famous for dramatic coastal scenery.

3. Arriving at Charles de Gaulle Airport

After landing at Terminal 2 (used by most international flights), follow signage to baggage claim and exits. Currency exchange desks, SIM card vendors, and car rental counters are available in all terminals. For transfers to Le Havre, head to:

• Terminal 2 Train Station: Direct access to regional trains.
• Taxi Ranks: Outside each terminal (look for official signs).
• Rideshare Pickup Zones: Designated areas for app-based services.

4. Main Transfer Options

Public Transport: Train + Bus

1. CDG to Paris Saint-Lazare Station:

• Take the CDG Val shuttle to Terminal 3, then board the TER Hauts-de-France train to Paris Saint-Lazare (45 minutes, ~€12).
• From Saint-Lazare, direct Intercités trains run to Le Havre (2 hours, ~€35).

2. Le Havre Station to Port:

• Local buses (Line 5) or a 10-minute taxi ride connect the station to the port.

Pros: Affordable (~€47 total). Cons: Multiple connections; luggage handling can be cumbersome.

Taxi & Rideshare

• Official Taxis: Fixed fares from CDG to Le Havre start at ~€250. Confirm pricing upfront.
• BlaBlaCar: Shared rides via BlaBlaCar cost ~€25–40 but require advance booking.

Tip: Avoid unlicensed drivers—use official taxi queues or apps like Bolt.

Car Rentals

Companies like Europcar and Hertz operate at CDG. The drive to Le Havre via the A13/A29 highways takes 2.5 hours. Toll costs total ~€25.

Consider: Parking at Le Havre Port costs ~€15/day.

Private Transfer (Recommended for Stress-Free Travel)

Booking a Charles de Gaulle Airport private taxi service like A2B Transfers ensures door-to-door convenience. Benefits include:

• Fixed pricing (€220–300 depending on vehicle size).
• Free 60-minute waiting time after landing.
• English-speaking drivers and meet-and-greet service.
• Options for child seats, wheelchair access, or luxury vehicles.

5. Choosing the Best Method

Suggestions:

• Budget Travelers: Train + bus.
• Families/Groups: Private transfer for luggage space and direct routing.
• Last-Minute Trips: Pre-booked airport shuttle to Le Havre from Charles de Gaulle.

6. Travel Tips & Local Insights

• Peak Times: Avoid Friday afternoon departures from Paris—traffic on the A13 is heavy.
• Scenic Detour: Exit at Rouen for a 1-hour stop at the Gothic cathedral.
• Booking: Reserve Le Havre port transfer from CDG at least 48 hours in advance during summer.
• Language: Basic French phrases (e.g., “Où est le port?”) help in rural areas.

7. Reaching Your Final Destination

Most private transfers and taxis drop passengers directly at Le Havre Port’s terminals. If using public transport:

• From Le Havre Station, take Bus 5 to “Port” stop.
• Cruise passengers: Check your ship’s exact docking location—some require a shuttle from the port entrance.

8. Where to Get More Info

• Train Schedules: SNCF Connect
• Port Details: Le Havre Port Authority
• Private Transfers: A2B Transfers
• CDG Airport Guide: Paris Aéroport

Safe travels, and enjoy Normandy’s maritime magic!

FAQ: Paris Charles de Gaulle to Le Havre Port Transfers

Q: How far is Le Havre Port from Charles de Gaulle Airport? A: The distance is 200 km (124 miles), with a typical drive time of 2.5 hours.

Q: Is there a direct airport shuttle to Le Havre from Charles de Gaulle? A: No direct buses operate, but private transfer services like A2B offer nonstop routes.

Q: What’s the cheapest way to reach Le Havre Port from CDG? A: Trains combined with buses cost ~€47 but require 3+ hours and multiple changes.

Q: Are private transfers from CDG to Le Havre worth the cost? A: Yes—for groups or those with heavy luggage, the door-to-door convenience justifies the price.

Q: Can I book a last-minute Le Havre port transfer from CDG? A: Yes, but availability dips in peak season. Providers like A2B offer 24/7 booking support.