Paris has three airports: CDG (the largest), Orly (closer to the city), and Beauvais-Tillé (used mainly by budget carriers). Whichever you land at, a little preparation makes the difference between a smooth start and a chaotic one. Here are 8 concrete tips.
The 8 essential tips
CDG alone has 7 terminals (T1, T2A–T2G, T3). Your terminal is printed on your boarding pass. Arriving at the wrong terminal and taking an internal shuttle costs you 20–30 minutes. If you've booked a driver, pass them your terminal at booking.
Transport decisions made at midnight with luggage and jet lag tend to be expensive. Book your transfer in advance: a VTC for a comfortable arrival, or an RER ticket via the RATP app if you're travelling light. Don't leave it to chance.
From landing to the arrivals exit: disembarkation 10–15 min, immigration 15–45 min (varies by origin and queue), baggage claim 20–30 min. Budget 1 hour on average, 1.5 hours for long-haul at peak times.
In Paris airports, touts approach travellers offering rides at inflated prices. These are neither licensed taxis nor registered VTCs. Real taxis queue at official ranks; VTCs are pre-booked. If someone approaches you unsolicited, decline.
Internet from the moment you land is essential: to contact your driver, access your hotel booking, or navigate the terminal. Check your roaming plan or buy a European eSIM before the flight.
Airport ATMs work but often charge fees. Having €50–100 in cash for your first hours covers bakeries, small tips, or any cash-only situation you might encounter.
Check the exact address and check-in time. Many Parisian hotels don't accept guests before 3pm. If you land early, ask about luggage storage or early check-in options in advance.
From CDG: 45 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on traffic. From Orly: 30–50 minutes. From Beauvais: 1h15–1h45. Factor these into your first day's schedule — especially for an early meeting or activity.
For a first visit to Paris, a private VTC is often the best investment: no transport stress, luggage handled, and a driver who can answer your first questions about Paris — restaurants, neighbourhoods, opening hours, practical advice.