Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport
Paris, FR · 25 km (16 mi) NE of Paris
Getting to the city
| Mode | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Bus 9517 Bus | 60 min | — |
| CDGVal Shuttle · Every 4-8 min · roughly 04:00–01:00 (bus replacement overnight/works) | 10 min | $0 (free within airport) |
| Free Shuttle Buses Shuttle · Typically every 15-30 min; varies by shuttle and time of day | 5-25 min depending on route and traffic | $0 (hotel/parking/terminal shuttles) |
| N2 Shuttle Shuttle · Every 30-60 min during night hours | 60-80 min CDG–central Paris depending on stop | $2-3 (standard Île-de-France bus fare range) |
Insider notes
Use the CDGVAL shuttle, which is free and connects the main terminal clusters efficiently, ideal for transfers.
The N2 shuttle is your best bet when moving between Terminals 2F and 2G, especially if you find foot travel cumbersome.
Base your rail or bus journey around Roissypôle, where vital transport links like the RER B are centralized.
Welcome
Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) operates more like a cluster of distinct zones than a traditional airport, demanding an understanding of its unique terminal geography and shuttle systems for smooth navigation. It's a place where the ease of transfer hinges on knowing how to traverse its complex layout, notably with the CDGVAL automated shuttle and the more niche N2 shuttle services. Those mastering the transport interconnections, like the Roissypôle hub, are rewarded with a less stressful experience. This understanding is crucial, especially given its global reach with 57.5 million passengers annually and connections spanning all continents from its four expansive runways.
At a glance
- Annual passengers: 57.5 million
- Location: 25 km (16 mi) NE of Paris
- Terminals: 1, 2, 3
- Hub: Air France
- Note: Terminal 1 houses Star Alliance flights; Terminal 2 is home to Air France, Delta, and KLM; Terminal 3 caters to budget carriers like easyJet.
Terminals & layout
CDG includes three primary terminals, each with its identity and operational focus. Terminal 1, known for its circular design, hosts Star Alliance member airlines including Lufthansa and Singapore Airlines. Terminal 2, a sprawling complex with several sub-terminals, serves as the base for Air France and partners like Delta and KLM. Lastly, Terminal 3 predominantly handles low-cost airlines such as easyJet. The terminals are linked by the CDGVAL shuttle, which runs free of charge and solves the challenge of navigating across these separated areas.
Getting to and from the city
For reaching central Paris, the RER B train is a reliable option, covering the distance in 30-40 minutes at a cost of $12-13. Buses from Roissypôle, including the 9517 route, extend the journey to about an hour. Alternatively, taxis provide direct routes, priced at $60-70, with journey times ranging from 30-60 minutes depending on traffic and destination side of the Seine. Additional options include the budget-friendly N2 shuttle and numerous hotel shuttles.
Traveller essentials
CDG doesn't offer free showers, a notable inconvenience for long-haul passengers. Facilities across the terminals vary, with recent reports suggesting Terminals 2E and 2F provide cleaner and more comfortable environments, particularly suitable for overnight stays. Importantly, if a connection involves different terminal clusters, knowledge of the CDGVAL and N2 shuttle schedules becomes essential for maintaining smooth transfers.
Dining & shopping highlights
Dining and shopping at CDG might not be its highlight, as the current focus rests more on functionality and movement efficiency between terminals. The Icare Lounge offers an affordable refuge in Terminal 1, with amenities like free Wi-Fi, drinks, and light meals, standing out as a primary comfort feature while its budget-friendly pricing makes it accessible for longer layovers.
Lounges
Lounges are limited in number, but the Icare Lounge in Terminal 1 is a favorite for those seeking amenities without the premium airline-specific price. Offering snacks, armchairs, and Wi-Fi for a reasonable three-hour fee, it’s a pragmatic choice for passengers needing a break from the bustling transits.
Insider tips
- Insider: Use the CDGVAL shuttle, which is free and connects the main terminal clusters efficiently, ideal for transfers.
- Insider: The N2 shuttle is your best bet when moving between Terminals 2F and 2G, especially if you find foot travel cumbersome.
- Local: Base your rail or bus journey around Roissypôle, where vital transport links like the RER B are centralized.
- Time: Overnight at Terminals 2E/2F, noted for superior facilities and comfort, if you’re caught between long layovers.
- Money: If paid lounges are not within your budget, the Icare Lounge provides excellent value for money.
- Avoid: Don’t count on free showers; only premium spaces like the Air France Lounge accommodate such needs.