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Paris Orly to Charles de Gaulle Transfer: Your Complete Guide
Navigating between Paris’s two major airports – Orly (ORY) and Charles de Gaulle (CDG) – is a common challenge for travelers connecting flights, starting European tours, or transitioning between business engagements. This 40 km journey requires careful planning, especially given Paris’s unpredictable traffic and the stakes of missing a flight. Below, we break down every option for your Paris Orly to Charles de Gaulle transfer, including insights into stress-free private transfers, cost-effective public transit, and local travel tips.
Overview: Connecting Paris’s Airports
A Paris Orly to Charles de Gaulle transfer spans approximately 40 km (25 miles), with travel times ranging from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on traffic. Orly, located south of central Paris, serves primarily European and domestic flights, while Charles de Gaulle (CDG), northeast of the city, is France’s largest international hub. Whether you’re a business traveler with back-to-back meetings or a family starting a European adventure, choosing the right transfer method ensures a smooth transition.
Getting to Know Paris: A City Between Two Airports
Paris needs no introduction, but its dual-airport system can be daunting. The city’s iconic landmarks – the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Champs-Élysées – sit roughly midway between the two airports. Many travelers use this transfer as an opportunity for a quick city tour or to sample Parisian cuisine. However, if time is limited, prioritize reliability: CDG’s Terminal 2E, for instance, requires arriving 3 hours early for international flights due to its sprawling layout.
Arriving at Paris Orly Airport
Orly Airport has two terminals (South and West). After collecting luggage, follow signage to “Transports” (transit). Key areas to note:
- Taxi ranks are outside both terminals.
- Car rental desks (Avis, Europcar, etc.) are in the arrivals hall.
- Public transport options are on the lower levels. For pre-booked private transfers, drivers typically meet guests in the arrivals hall with a name sign – a major advantage during peak hours.
Main Transfer Options
1. Public Transport: Budget-Friendly but Complex
- Le Bus Direct (Now Defunct): Previously linked ORY and CDG directly. Check Île-de-France Mobilités for updated alternatives.
- RER B + Orlyval: Take the Orlyval light rail to Antony station (€9.30), then transfer to RER B towards CDG (€10.30, 1h15m total).
- Bus 183 + RER B: Cheaper but slower (€4.10, 1h30m).
2. Taxi & Rideshare: Fixed Rates with Caveats
- Official Taxis: Flat fare of €62–€75 (daytime) for a Charles de Gaulle airport private taxi. Confirm the rate before boarding.
- Uber/Bolt: €50–€70, but surge pricing during rush hours.
3. Car Rentals: Flexibility at a Cost
- Major agencies like Europcar operate at both airports. Note: Driving in Paris requires navigating heavy traffic and €15–€30/day tolls.
4. Private Transfer: Stress-Free Luxury from Orly to CDG
Pre-booking a luxury transfer Orly to Charles de Gaulle ensures door-to-door service, fixed pricing, and amenities like Wi-Fi or child seats. Providers like A2B offer:
- Meet & greet service with flight tracking.
- Fixed rates (€85–€120 depending on vehicle class).
- Complimentary waiting time (60 minutes at airports).
Choosing the Best Method
Option | Cost (€) | Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
Public Transport | 10–20 | 1h15–1h45m | Solo travelers on a budget |
Taxi/Rideshare | 50–75 | 45–90m | Small groups, urgency |
Car Rental | 60–100+ | 45–90m | Extended stays in Paris |
Private Transfer | 85–120 | 45–75m | Families, business travelers, luxury seekers |
Recommendations:
- Tight schedules: Opt for a private transfer Orly to Charles de Gaulle to avoid Metro delays.
- Budget travelers: Use RER B but allow extra time for connections.
- Late-night arrivals: Pre-book transfers – public transit stops around midnight.
Travel Tips & Local Insights
- Avoid Rush Hours: Traffic peaks weekdays 7:30–9:30 AM and 5–7:30 PM.
- Language Tips: Learn basic French phrases like “Où est la station RER?” (Where is the RER station?).
- Scenic Detour: If transferring with a luxury service, request a route via Périphérique nord for glimpses of Sacré-Cœur.
Reaching Your Final Destination
At CDG, follow signage for your terminal:
- Terminal 1: Circular design with satellite gates.
- Terminal 2: Seven sub-terminals (2A–2G). Check your airline’s terminal in advance. For onward travel, CDG’s TGV station connects to major cities like Lyon or Brussels.
Where to Get More Info
- Paris Aéroport Official Site – Terminal maps and real-time updates.
- A2B Transfers – Reliable Orly to CDG airport transfer service with 24/7 support.
- RATP App – Public transit schedules and tickets.
FAQ
1. How long does a Paris Orly to Charles de Gaulle transfer take? Typically 45–75 minutes. Private transfers are fastest during off-peak hours.
2. Is Uber cheaper than a taxi for this route? Not always – surge pricing can exceed taxi rates. Pre-booking a Charles de Gaulle airport private taxi guarantees fixed pricing.
3. Can I store luggage at CDG if I have a long layover? Yes, CDG offers luggage storage in Terminals 2E/2F (€10–€15/bag).
4. What makes a luxury transfer Orly to Charles de Gaulle worth it? Priority pickup, flight tracking, and vehicles like Mercedes V-Class or BMW 7 Series ensure comfort after a long flight.
5. Are child seats available for transfers? Yes – providers like A2B offer free child/booster seats upon request.
Safe travels, and bon voyage! Whether you choose the efficiency of a private transfer or the adventure of public transit, Paris’s airports are your gateway to unforgettable experiences.
