Overview
Traveling from Paris Orly Airport (ORY) to the coastal town of Étretat opens the door to Normandy’s iconic white cliffs, charming seaside villages, and artistic heritage. The journey spans approximately 200 km northwest, taking around 2.5–3 hours by road. While public transport options exist, most travelers opt for private transfers or rentals for flexibility, especially when carrying luggage or traveling in groups. Below, we break down the best ways to navigate this route while highlighting tips for a seamless experience.
Getting to Know Étretat
Étretat is famed for its dramatic limestone cliffs, including the Falaise d’Aval and Falaise d’Amont, which inspired artists like Claude Monet. The town’s pebble beach, fresh seafood, and hiking trails along the Alabaster Coast make it a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, efficient transportation ensures more time to explore.
Arriving at Paris Orly Airport
Paris Orly, France’s second-busiest airport, serves primarily domestic and European flights. After landing:
- Follow signage to baggage claim and exits.
- Currency exchange, SIM cards, and car rental desks are available in arrivals halls.
- Taxi ranks and rideshare pickups are outside terminals.
Pro tip: Download offline maps or note your transfer details beforehand, as rural Normandy may have limited connectivity.
Main Transfer Options
Public Transport: Train & Bus
- Orly to Paris City Center: Take the Orlyval shuttle to Antony station (20 minutes), then the RER B train to Paris Saint-Lazare.
- Train to Le Havre: From Saint-Lazare, board a 2-hour SNCF train to Le Havre (SNCF schedules).
- Bus to Étretat: From Le Havre, take Bus 24 (1 hour) to Étretat.
Ideal for solo travelers on a budget, but connections are infrequent and involve multiple changes.
Taxi & Rideshare
- Taxi Fare: €250–300 (fixed rate from Orly to Étretat).
- Rideshare: BlaBlaCar (www.blablacar.com) offers shared rides from Paris, averaging €30–50 per seat. Travel Time: 2.5–3 hours
Taxis provide door-to-door convenience but lack cost predictability. Pre-book via reputable apps like Bolt or G7 to avoid surge pricing.
Car Rentals
- Agencies: Europcar, Hertz, and Avis operate at Orly.
- Driving Tips: Tolls on the A13 highway cost ~€20. Rural roads are narrow but well-marked. Cost: €70–120/day + fuel
Best for travelers planning day trips to nearby Honfleur or Fécamp.
Private Transfer: Stress-Free Comfort
For a seamless airport transfer from Paris Orly to Étretat, pre-booking a private service like A2B Transfers ensures:
- Fixed pricing with no hidden fees.
- Meet-and-greet service at arrivals.
- Luxury vehicles (sedans, minivans) with Wi-Fi and child seats.
- Free waiting time (60 minutes at airports).
Choosing the Best Method
Recommendations:
- Budget Travelers: Use trains but check timetables in advance.
- Families/Groups: Opt for a private transfer or minivan rental.
- Luxury Seekers: Book a luxury transfer from Paris Orly to Étretat with A2B for premium comfort.
Travel Tips & Local Insights
- Scenic Detour: Take the D940 coastal road from Le Havre for cliffside views.
- Peak Seasons: July–August brings crowds; book transfers early.
- Parking: Étretat’s paid lots fill quickly—ask your driver to drop you near La Résidence des Halles.
Reaching Your Final Destination
Most transfers drop guests at hotels or central locations like Étretat’s Town Hall. The town is walkable, but taxis are scarce—consider renting bikes for exploring nearby trails.
Where to Get More Info
Safe travels, and enjoy Normandy’s breathtaking coastline!
FAQ
Q: How long is the airport transfer from Paris Orly to Étretat? A: Direct transfers take 2.5–3 hours, depending on traffic.
Q: Is it worth booking a luxury transfer? A: Yes, for groups or those prioritizing comfort. A2B offers luxury transfers from Paris Orly to Étretat with amenities like Wi-Fi and bottled water.
Q: Can I book an airport shuttle from Orly to Étretat last-minute? A: Pre-booking is advised, especially during peak season. A2B allows bookings up to 24 hours in advance.
Q: Are child seats available? A: Most private transfer services, including A2B, provide child seats upon request.
Q: What’s the cheapest way to reach Étretat? A: Trains and buses cost ~€50 but require multiple connections.
