Getting to Paris and Getting Around Paris

Getting to Paris

By Air

Paris is served by three major airports: Charles de Gaulle (CDG), Orly (ORY), and Beauvais-Tillé (BVA). Charles de Gaulle, located about 23 kilometers northeast of the city center, is the main international gateway, handling flights from all over the world. Orly Airport, situated approximately 13 kilometers south of Paris, primarily caters to European and domestic flights. Beauvais-Tillé, located about 85 kilometers north of Paris, is a smaller airport mostly used by budget airlines.

From Charles de Gaulle and Orly, the city center can be easily reached via public transportation. The RER B train connects Charles de Gaulle to central Paris in about 30 minutes. Orly is accessible via the Orlyval light rail to the RER B at Antony station, or directly by tram and bus services. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available at all airports, offering a more direct but pricier option.

By Train

Paris boasts an extensive network of high-speed trains (TGV) and international rail connections, making it easily accessible from major European cities. The city’s primary train stations include Gare du Nord (serving Eurostar and Thalys trains from London, Brussels, and Amsterdam), Gare de Lyon (serving southern France and Switzerland), and Gare de l'Est (serving Germany and Eastern Europe). Train travel is a comfortable and scenic way to arrive in Paris, often delivering you right to the city center.

By Car

Driving to Paris can be an enjoyable experience, particularly if you plan to explore the French countryside en route. The city is well-connected by a network of highways (autoroutes). However, once you arrive, be prepared for heavy traffic and limited parking options. Many visitors choose to park their car in a suburban lot and take public transportation into the city center.

Getting Around Paris

Public Transportation

Paris boasts one of the most efficient and extensive public transportation systems in the world, managed by the RATP. The metro, with its 16 lines, is the backbone of the city’s transit network, providing quick and frequent services to nearly every corner of Paris. The RER commuter trains complement the metro, connecting the city to its suburbs and major attractions like Disneyland Paris and Versailles.

Buses and Trams

The bus network is extensive and can be a scenic way to see the city. Paris also has four tram lines that serve the outer edges of the city, offering a comfortable alternative to the metro for shorter distances. Tickets are interchangeable between metro, buses, trams, and the RER within central Paris.

Bicycles

For those who enjoy cycling, Paris offers the Vélib' bike-sharing system, which has stations throughout the city. Renting a Vélib' is a fun and eco-friendly way to explore Paris at your own pace. Dedicated bike lanes and the city’s bike-friendly initiatives make cycling a viable option for getting around.

Walking

Walking is one of the best ways to experience Paris. The city is compact and full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered around every corner. From the charming streets of Montmartre to the bustling boulevards of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, exploring Paris on foot allows you to fully soak in its ambiance and architectural beauty.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing

Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or found at designated taxi stands. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt also operate in Paris, providing a convenient alternative to traditional taxis. These services can be easily booked via their respective mobile apps.

Riverboats

For a unique perspective, consider traveling by the Batobus riverboat service along the Seine. This hop-on, hop-off boat service stops at key points of interest, such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre, offering a leisurely way to see the city's iconic sights.