Which is faster to central Paris, CDG or Orly?

Orly is generally quicker thanks to the Line 14 metro extension reaching Châtelet directly in about 25 minutes, while the RER B from CDG typically takes around 50 minutes.

Do CDG and Orly have the same taxi fares?

No, each airport has its own flat tariff set by the prefecture: roughly €56-65 from CDG and €37-44 from Orly, depending on which bank of the Seine you're heading to.

Is public transport reliable from both airports?

Both are generally reliable but can face occasional delays or strikes. It's worth checking RATP or SNCF live status shortly before travelling and keeping a taxi fare in mind as a backup.

Tips

CDG & Orly to Paris Centre 2026: Train, Bus & Taxi Guide

2 min read

Charles de Gaulle and Orly each connect to central Paris through different public transport lines, plus taxis regulated by the prefecture. The right choice depends mainly on your terminal, destination neighbourhood and luggage, and it is worth checking live status before travelling since any rail line can face disruption.

CDG: the RER B is the public backbone

RER B links CDG 1 and CDG 2 airport stations with Gare du Nord and Châtelet–Les Halles. Check the route from your terminal, works and required airport ticket at https://www.iledefrance-mobilites.fr/. Keep the ticket until exit; total time includes walking and connections.

Orly: Line 14 extension changes the picture

For CDG on RER B and Orly on Line 14, use an appropriate airport ticket or eligible pass, not an ordinary Metro-Train-RER ticket. Check Orlyval conditions and accepted ticket media too: do not assume bank-card tap-in works at every gate. Consult Île-de-France Mobilités.

Buses and shuttle options worth knowing

Do not plan around the former Roissybus or Orlybus services. From CDG, compare RER B with alternatives in the official planner; from Orly, consider Line 14 or Orlyval with RER B according to destination and ticket. Check your terminal’s route at https://www.ratp.fr/.

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Official taxi tariffs and what to confirm

Paris taxis use a flat-rate system for airport runs set by the prefecture, displayed inside every licensed vehicle: approximately €56-65 from CDG depending on bank, and about €37-44 from Orly. These cover the vehicle, not per passenger, for up to four people with ordinary luggage. Use only the official rank with marked cars, and confirm the fixed fare with the driver before departing.

Frequently asked questions

Which is faster to central Paris, CDG or Orly?
Orly is generally quicker thanks to the Line 14 metro extension reaching Châtelet directly in about 25 minutes, while the RER B from CDG typically takes around 50 minutes.
Do CDG and Orly have the same taxi fares?
No, each airport has its own flat tariff set by the prefecture: roughly €56-65 from CDG and €37-44 from Orly, depending on which bank of the Seine you're heading to.
Is public transport reliable from both airports?
Both are generally reliable but can face occasional delays or strikes. It's worth checking RATP or SNCF live status shortly before travelling and keeping a taxi fare in mind as a backup.

Text updated: October 10, 2026