How Do I Get from CDG Airport to the City Centre?

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How do I get from CDG airport to the city centre?
You have several options, and the best one depends on your budget, luggage, arrival time, and tolerance for mild chaos.

Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) is about 25 km northeast of central Paris, and thankfully, it’s well connected. This guide explains all transport options, how much they cost, how long they take, and which one you should actually choose instead of panicking at the arrivals hall.

Overview: Transport Options from CDG to Paris City Centre

You can get from CDG to Paris city centre by:

RER B train
Taxi
Airport shuttle or bus
Private transfer
Ride-hailing apps

Each has pros, cons, and hidden personality traits.

RER B Train: Fastest and Cheapest Option

For most tourists, this is the best balance of price and speed.

How the RER B Works

The RER B is a regional express train that runs directly from CDG into central Paris.

Travel time: 35–45 minutes
Cost: Around €11–€12
Stops: Gare du Nord, Châtelet–Les Halles, Saint-Michel, Denfert-Rochereau

Trains run frequently from both Terminal 2 and Terminal 3.

Pros

Cheapest option
Fast during peak hours
No traffic delays

Cons

Stairs and luggage
Can be crowded
Not ideal after a long flight if you’re exhausted

Best for: Solo travelers, light luggage, daytime arrivals.

Taxi from CDG to Paris: Easiest and Least Stressful

If you value sanity, taxis exist.

Official Taxi Fares (Flat Rate)

Right Bank: ~€53
Left Bank: ~€58
Travel time: 45–75 minutes depending on traffic

These are fixed fares, so no meter anxiety.

Important Rule

Only use official taxis from the designated taxi rank. Ignore anyone approaching you inside the terminal offering “taxi service.” That’s not helpful friendliness.

Pros

Door-to-door
No luggage stress
Fixed price

Cons

Traffic can be brutal
More expensive than the train

Best for: Families, groups, heavy luggage, late-night arrivals.

Airport Buses: A Middle Ground

Several bus options connect CDG to Paris.

RoissyBus

Goes directly to Opéra area
Time: ~60 minutes
Cost: ~€16

Other Buses

Serve specific destinations
Slower than the train
Less frequent late at night

Pros

Easier than the train
Predictable routes

Cons

Slower
Limited drop-off points

Best for: Travelers staying near major bus stops who don’t want to deal with trains.

Private Transfers: Comfort Over Cost

You can pre-book a private transfer that meets you at arrivals and drives you straight to your hotel.

Cost: €60–€120+
Time: Similar to taxi
Experience: Calm, efficient, no decisions

Pros

Maximum comfort
Ideal after long-haul flights
No navigation stress

Cons

Most expensive option

Best for: Business travelers, families, people who hate surprises.

Ride-Hailing Apps (Uber, Bolt, etc.)

Yes, they work at CDG.

Prices fluctuate
Pickup points are clearly marked
Usually similar or slightly more than taxis

They’re convenient, but not always cheaper than the official flat-rate taxi.

Which Option Should You Choose?

Let’s simplify your decision.

Choose the RER B if:

You’re arriving during the day
You have light luggage
You’re staying near a central RER stop

Choose a Taxi or Private Transfer if:

You’re arriving late at night
You have heavy luggage
You’re traveling with family
You want zero mental effort

Avoid Complicating Things if:

It’s your first time in Paris
You’re exhausted
You don’t enjoy problem-solving with suitcases

Saving €10 is not worth starting your trip annoyed.

Night Arrivals: What Changes?

The RER B runs late, but not all night. Late arrivals often mean:

Taxi
Ride-hailing
Pre-booked transfer

Night buses exist, but they are not a first-time-visitor activity.

Common Mistakes Tourists Make at CDG

Let’s prevent regret.

Mistakes to Avoid

Following unofficial taxi offers
Underestimating luggage on trains
Forgetting to validate train tickets
Assuming all terminals are connected the same way
Choosing the cheapest option while exhausted

CDG is big. Be gentle with yourself.

How Long Should I Budget to Reach the City Centre?

Realistic planning:

Train: ~45 minutes door to station
Taxi: ~60 minutes on average
Bus: ~60–75 minutes

Add buffer time if you’re heading to a timed tour or hotel check-in.