Quick info:
- IATA code: CDG
- ICAO code: LFPG
- Distance from Paris city centre: approx. 23 km northeast
- Travel time to city centre: 35–50 minutes (RER B train), 60–90 minutes (RoissyBus)
- Main airline (Hub): Air France
- Number of terminals: 3 (Terminal 1, 2 and 3)
- Transport between terminals: free automatic train CDGVAL
- Wi-Fi: free and unlimited
Welcome to our detailed guide to one of the world's most important aviation hubs. Whether your destination is romantic Paris, or you are just transiting for a long-haul flight, Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (often abbreviated as CDG or Roissy) will impress you with its size and bustle. We have prepared clear information for you to make your journey smooth and stress-free. You will find out how to get to the centre of Paris fastest, where to eat well, or how to manage transfers between terminals.
Article Contents:
- Basic Identification and Significance of CDG
- Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport in Numbers and Context
- Key Carriers, Terminals and Air Traffic
- History and Interesting Facts about Charles de Gaulle Airport
- Transport from the Airport: How to Get to the City Centre
- Parking
- Services and Waiting for Your Flight
- Comfort for Passengers with Children and Specific Needs
- Accommodation Nearby
- Final Tips
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Basic Identification and Significance of CDG
The airport, named after the leader of Free France and former president Charles de Gaulle, is France's main international airport and one of the key hubs of global air transport. It is located in the Roissy-en-France area and serves as the primary hub for the national airline Air France. Thanks to its strategic location and enormous capacity, it connects Europe with the rest of the world.
- Official name: Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport (Aéroport Paris-Charles-de-Gaulle).
- IATA code: CDG (you will find this code on your ticket and baggage tag).
- Location: The airport is located 23 kilometres northeast of Paris.
- Significance: It is the largest airport in France and one of the busiest airports in Europe, consistently ranking among the busiest by passenger numbers.
- Role in the region: It is a crucial economic engine for the Île-de-France region and a key transit point for flights to America, Asia, and Africa.
Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport in Numbers and Context
For better orientation within this gigantic complex, it is good to know the basic geographical and technical data. The infrastructure is designed to handle tens of millions of passengers annually, which entails specific demands on navigation.
- Terminals: The airport has three main terminals. Terminal 1 (an iconic circular building), Terminal 2 (divided into halls 2A to 2G), and Terminal 3 (for low-cost and charter flights).
- Runways: It has four parallel runways, allowing for efficient management of arrivals and departures.
- Schengen vs. Non-Schengen: Departures and arrivals are divided by destination. Within the terminals (especially T2), there are specific zones for flights within the Schengen area and international flights requiring passport control.
- Transport hub: In addition to aircraft, there is also a significant station for TGV trains, connecting the airport with cities such as Lyon, Marseille, and Brussels.
Did you know that… Charles de Gaulle Airport covers an area of approximately 32 km², making it one of the largest airports in Europe by area (the largest airport in Europe by area is Istanbul ~76.5 km²). This gigantic complex is so vast that it resembles a self-contained functioning city. It's no wonder that an automatic train is essential for moving between terminals.
Key Carriers, Terminals and Air Traffic
Hundreds of airlines operate at Charles de Gaulle Airport, but the domestic carrier holds a dominant position here. Thanks to this, you will find the widest range of connections to French overseas territories and former colonies. If you are flying from Prague, you will likely land at Terminal 2F or 2D, or possibly Terminal 3 if you are using low-cost carriers.
- Home airlines (Hub): The airport is the main base for Air France.
- Alliances: The SkyTeam alliance has a strong presence here (thanks to Air France), but members of Star Alliance and Oneworld also operate.
- Other carriers: Frequent visitors include easyJet (operating from T2B/D), Delta Air Lines, Emirates, and Lufthansa.
- Flights from the Czech Republic: Direct flights from Prague to Paris operate regularly several times a day, primarily served by Air France and Smartwings.
History and Interesting Facts about Charles de Gaulle Airport
The airport's history began in the mid-1960s when the capacity of the older Orly airport was no longer sufficient. The first terminal, designed by architect Paul Andreu, opened in 1974 and still fascinates with its futuristic brutalist design resembling an octopus. Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport has been continuously expanding and modernising ever since.
- T1 Architecture: The central circular building with satellites, connected by glass tubes with escalators, is an architectural unique of its time.
- Sustainability: The operator Paris Aéroport invests in reducing its carbon footprint, utilising geothermal energy, and electromobility on the apron.
- Concorde Accident: A sad part of history is the year 2000, when a supersonic Concorde aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff from CDG, which was one of the key factors that accelerated the end of the era of these machines.
- Innovations: The airport is introducing biometric check-in and automated baggage sorting systems to speed up processes for passengers.
Transport from the Airport: How to Get to the City Centre
Getting from the airport to the heart of the metropolis is relatively easy thanks to the developed public transport network, although the system may seem complicated at first glance. The distance and travel time depend on the chosen mode of transport and the current traffic situation, which can be unpredictable in Paris. Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport is connected to the city by both rail and road.
Public Transport (Train and Bus)
The most popular and often fastest option is the suburban train. However, if you have a lot of luggage, a direct bus might be more comfortable. Tickets can be bought at vending machines in stations or online.
RER B Train:
- This line connects the airport with the city centre (stops Gare du Nord, Châtelet-Les Halles, Saint-Michel-Notre-Dame).
- Travel time is approximately 30–40 minutes (express services) up to 50 minutes (stopping services).
- There are two stations at the airport: "Aéroport Charles de Gaulle 1" (for Terminals 1 and 3) and "Aéroport Charles de Gaulle 2 TGV" (for Terminal 2).
- Trains run approximately every 10–15 minutes (more frequently during peak hours).
RoissyBus:
- A direct bus service that takes you to the opera (Paris Opéra stop) in the city centre.
- The journey takes approximately 60 to 90 minutes depending on traffic.
- It is a comfortable non-stop option, ideal if you are staying near the Opera.
City Buses:
- Lines 350 (to Gare de l’Est station) and 351 (to Nation). They are cheaper but slower, stopping at many stops.
Night Transport:
- If you arrive at night when the RER is not running, use the Noctilien night buses, specifically lines N140 and N143. These will take you to Gare de l'Est.
Tip: Save with a Navigo card! If you plan to spend several days in Paris and actively use public transport, inquire at the RER station ticket counters about the Navigo Easy or Navigo Découverte card. Although standard tickets can be bought at vending machines, a time-based subscription on a Navigo card (e.g., weekly) covering zones 1–5 will ensure significantly cheaper travel from and to the airport and unlimited movement throughout the city.
Private Transport (Taxi and Uber)
For maximum comfort, especially if you are travelling in a group or with a lot of luggage, you can choose private transport. However, beware of unofficial taxi drivers in the arrival halls.
Taxi:
- Official Taxi Parisien vehicles have a light on the roof.
- From the airport to the city centre, fixed fares apply (approx. €56 to the Right Bank, €65 to the Left Bank – prices may change, verify on the airport website).
- Taxi stands can be found in front of each arrival terminal.
Uber and apps:
- Services like Uber or Bolt are available at the airport and have specific pick-up points. The price may be lower than a taxi, but during peak hours, it can increase due to dynamic pricing.
Car rental:
- All major car rental companies have branches at the terminals. Ideal if you are heading outside Paris to all corners of France.
Parking
If you are arriving at the airport in your own car or being driven, it is important to know the parking options. The system is divided into zones for quick drop-offs and for long-term parking.
- Drop-off (Kiss & Fly): Zones for quick passenger drop-offs directly in front of the terminals (usually the first 10 minutes free).
- Terminal car parks (P1, PAB, PCD etc.): Covered car parks within walking distance, suitable for short-term parking.
- Long-term car parks (PR, PX): More distant economic car parks connected to the terminals by the automatic train CDGVAL. They are significantly cheaper for multi-day stays.
- Reservation: For the best prices, it is recommended to book parking online in advance.
Services and Waiting for Your Flight
You can make your time at CDG airport more pleasant with shopping, good food, or relaxation. The airport strives to present the best of French "art de vivre" (art of living). Whether you are looking for luxury fashion or just a coffee and croissant, the offer is wide.
Transfer Potential
As the largest airport near Paris, CDG is designed for efficient transit. Nevertheless, given its size, do not underestimate the time needed for transfers.
- CDGVAL: The free automatic train connects all terminals, car parks, and the TGV station. It runs approximately from 4:00 AM to 1:00 AM; at night, service is limited / replaced by bus transport.
- Airside buses: For transit passengers, there are shuttle buses that will take you between terminals without needing to leave the transit zone (if your visa and ticket allow).
- Minimum time: For transfers within one terminal, allow at least 60 minutes; between terminals, preferably 90 minutes or more.
- Luggage: For flights on a single ticket, luggage is usually checked through to the final destination.
Tip: Do you like to travel light and want to save money? How about packing into a travel backpack that perfectly fits airline carry-on limits? We offer cabin backpacks in dimensions 55 x 40 x 20 cm, cabin backpacks in dimensions 40 x 30 x 20 cm, and compact cabin backpacks 40 x 20 x 25 cm. To check what size carry-on luggage your airline accepts, we have prepared a clear table.
Lounges and Relaxation
Airport lounges offer an escape from the terminal bustle. They are available not only for business class but often for a fee for regular passengers too.
- Air France Lounges: Luxurious spaces with French gastronomy, showers, and quiet zones (accessible to status members and business class).
- Independent lounges: e.g., Sheltair / Extime Lounge in Terminal 2 or Star Alliance lounge in Terminal 1 (also accessible for a fee).
- Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, refreshments, daily newspapers.
Gastronomy and Shopping
Paris is the capital of fashion and gastronomy, and this is reflected at the airport. The airport offers top-notch restaurants and boutiques.
- Shopping: Extensive Duty-Free zones (Buy Paris Duty Free) with perfumes, cosmetics, and alcohol. Luxury boutiques from brands like Hermès, Chanel, Dior, and Cartier.
- Gastronomy: From fast food (McDonald's, Pret A Manger) to top-tier restaurants (e.g., I Love Paris by Guy Martin). Don't forget to visit Ladurée stores for iconic macarons as a last-minute gift.
- Services: Currency exchange, ATMs, pharmacies in every terminal, prayer rooms, and co-working spaces.
Comfort for Passengers with Children and Specific Needs
Travelling with family or with reduced mobility requires special care. Paris Aéroport strives to be accessible to all and offers a range of assistance services.
Children's Play Areas and Family Facilities
To make waiting for departure less tedious for the little ones, play areas are available.
- Children's play areas: Colourful play zones with a Gulli theme (French children's TV) in selected terminals.
- Care for the little ones: Changing and nursing rooms are standard in all restrooms.
- Strollers: Option to borrow airport strollers in the transit zone for free (at selected locations).
- Family security check: Often dedicated lanes at security control for families with small children.
Accessibility for Persons with Reduced Mobility (PRM)
The airport is fully accessible and offers a free assistance service for persons with reduced mobility (PRM). It is ideal to book assistance with your airline at least 48 hours before departure.
If you are flying with Air France, you can use their special Saphir programme, which will coordinate assistance throughout your journey.
- Assistance: Must be booked with your airline at least 48 hours before departure.
- Facilities: Accessible toilets, lifts, lowered counters, and dedicated parking spaces near entrances.
- Meeting points: Marked locations in the terminals where you can report and wait for an assistant.
Accommodation Nearby
If you have an early morning departure or a very long overnight layover, it is worth staying directly at the airport or in its immediate vicinity. The range of hotels in the Roissypole area is wide.
- Directly in transit: YOTELAIR (Terminal 2E) – ideal for a short sleep or shower during a layover without needing to go through passport control.
- At the terminals: Sheraton Paris Airport Hotel is located directly above the TGV station in Terminal 2.
- Roissypole: An area near Terminal 3 accessible by CDGVAL train, where you will find hotels such as ibis, Novotel, Hilton, and CitizenM.
- Shuttle service: Some more distant hotels in the municipality of Roissy-en-France offer their own shuttle bus for free or for a fee.
Final Tips
To ensure your journey through Charles de Gaulle Airport goes smoothly, we have compiled a few proven tips. This airport is a complex organism, and preparation pays off.
- Arrive on time: For international flights, be at the airport at least 3 hours beforehand; for European flights, 2 hours. Security checks can be thorough.
- Download the app: The "Paris Aéroport" app is a great helper for flight tracking, navigating terminals, and service information.
- Check your terminal: Always verify which terminal you are departing from before travelling to the airport. Transfers between T1 and T2G can take a considerable amount of time.
- Beware of strikes: Strikes in transport are not uncommon in France. Monitor news for any RER train or airline service disruptions.
- Free water: There are water fountains at the airport where you can refill an empty bottle after passing through security.
- Carry-on luggage: Pack electronics and personal items in your carry-on luggage. Be aware of liquids and sharp objects.
Tip: Find out what belongs and what doesn't belong on board an aeroplane! Our detailed guide will tell you what to look out for when packing your carry-on luggage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How to get from Charles de Gaulle Airport to the centre of Paris fastest?
The fastest and most reliable option is usually the RER B train, which will take you to Gare du Nord or Châtelet-Les Halles station in approximately 35–40 minutes. If you want to avoid dragging luggage on the metro, consider the RoissyBus or a taxi.
How many terminals does CDG airport have?
The airport has three main terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2 (comprising halls 2A-2G), and Terminal 3. All are connected by the automatic CDGVAL train.
Can I sleep at the airport?
Yes, but airport benches are not the most comfortable (many have armrests). A better option is the YOTELAIR hotel directly in transit or hotels in the Roissypole zone near Terminal 3.
Is there a direct connection between CDG Airport and Orly Airport?
Between CDG and Orly, passengers most often choose a combination of RER B and OrlyVal (CDG → RER B to Antony station → OrlyVal to Orly). Travel time is approximately 70–80 minutes depending on transfers. Occasionally, special bus services are also available, but their current operation always needs to be verified with the carrier or on the airport website.
Where can I find the TGV station at the airport?
The high-speed TGV train station is located in Terminal 2, between halls 2C/2D and 2E/2F. The station is called "Aéroport Charles de Gaulle 2 TGV".
Is there free Wi-Fi at the airport?
Yes, the airport offers unlimited free Wi-Fi connection for all passengers. For higher speed, it is possible to pay for a premium connection.
How do I get from CDG to Beauvais Airport?
Beauvais Airport is about 80 km away and is used by low-cost airlines. You can go to Porte Maillot in Paris and from there take a shuttle bus to Beauvais. There are also direct bus services/transfers between CDG and Beauvais (e.g., FlixBus type carriers depending on connections on a given day).
