Overview
Traveling between Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) and Le Bourget Airport (LBG) is a common route for business travelers, aviation enthusiasts, and those attending events at the historic Paris-Le Bourget Exhibition Centre. The 15 km journey typically takes 20–30 minutes by road, depending on traffic. While Le Bourget is smaller than CDG, it’s a hub for private aviation and hosts the iconic Paris Air Show, making efficient transfers essential for time-sensitive travelers.
Getting to Know Le Bourget
Le Bourget Airport holds a unique place in aviation history as France’s first commercial airport. Today, it serves primarily as a business aviation hub and hosts the Musée de l’Air et de l’Espace, one of the world’s oldest aviation museums. The surrounding area blends industrial zones with pockets of greenery, offering quick access to central Paris (12 km south) while maintaining a quieter, business-focused atmosphere.
Arriving at Charles de Gaulle Airport
As Europe’s second-busiest airport, CDG has three terminals connected by free shuttle trains. After clearing customs:
- Follow purple “Exit” signs to ground transportation areas
- Taxi ranks and rideshare pickup zones are outside each terminal
- Train stations (Terminals 2/3) require a 10-minute walk from arrivals Avoid last-minute confusion by pre-booking transfers or confirming pickup details with your driver.
Main Transfer Options
Public Transport
While cost-effective, public transit isn’t ideal for this route:
- Bus 350: Connects CDG to Le Bourget RER station (€2.10, 45–60 mins). Requires a 15-minute walk to the airport.
- RER B + Tram T11: Transfer at Villepinte (€7.80 total, 50+ mins). Multiple changes and limited luggage space.
Taxi & Rideshare
- Official Taxis: Fixed €45–60 fare from CDG to Le Bourget. Available 24/7 at marked ranks.
- Uber/Bolt: €35–50, but surge pricing during events. Confirm drop-off points with drivers.
Car Rentals
Major agencies like Hertz and Avis operate at CDG. Note:
- Le Bourget’s short-term parking starts at €4/hour
- Rush-hour traffic (7:30–9:30 AM, 5–7 PM) can double travel time
Private Transfer Services
For a stress-free CDG to Le Bourget private shuttle, companies like A2B offer:
- Fixed pricing (€55–110 depending on vehicle class)
- Flight tracking and 60-minute complimentary waiting time
- Options from economy sedans to luxury vans with Wi-Fi
- Meet-and-greet service with bilingual drivers
Choosing the Best Method
Recommendations:
- Business travelers: Opt for a Charles de Gaulle Airport private taxi with Wi-Fi and document storage.
- Families/Groups: Book a private van with child seats and extra luggage capacity.
- First-time visitors: Pre-book transfers to avoid language barriers.
Travel Tips & Local Insights
- Event Days: During the Paris Air Show (June 2025), book transfers 2–3 weeks in advance.
- Peak Hours: Mid-morning (10 AM–12 PM) sees lighter traffic than standard rush hours.
- Scenic Detour: If time allows, take the A1 motorway past Stade de France for skyline views.
- Payment: Carry €20–40 cash for tolls (€2.30–4.10) even in private transfers.
Reaching Your Final Destination
Most Le Bourget Airport transfer services drop passengers directly at terminal entrances. If staying nearby:
- Hôtel Campanile Paris-Le Bourget: 5-minute walk from the airport
- Novotel Paris Le Bourget: Free shuttle service upon request For exhibitions, use the free LBG shuttle connecting terminals to the Paris-Le Bourget Convention Centre.
Where to Get More Info
FAQ
How early should I book a CDG to Le Bourget private shuttle? Reserve at least 24 hours in advance, or 72 hours during major events. Providers like A2B offer last-minute bookings if availability permits.
Are child seats available for airport transfers? Yes – specify requirements when booking. Most services provide ISOFIX seats at no extra cost.
What’s the latest check-in time for private flights at Le Bourget? Arrive 60–90 minutes before departure. Your transfer driver will adjust pickup times based on flight schedules.
Can I track my transfer vehicle? Reputable companies like A2B provide real-time driver tracking via SMS or app notifications.
Is tipping expected for private taxi services? A 5–10% gratuity is appreciated but not mandatory.
Safe travels, and enjoy the seamless efficiency of Parisian aviation hubs! ✈️
