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Best Ways To Get from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Orly Airport

clock Posted on February 10, 2026
Best Ways To Get from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Orly Airport

Let us discuss the best ways to get from Charles de Gaulle airport to Orly Airport.

Traveling between Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) and Orly Airport (ORY) is common for international and connecting travelers in Paris. While both airports serve the same city, they are located on opposite sides of Paris, making transfers a bit tricky especially with luggage or tight schedules.

This guide explains all the best ways to travel from CDG to Orly, including taxis, trains, and buses, with clear prices, routes, travel times, and comparisons to help you choose the most reliable option.

Option 1 - Taxi/Car

Top Paris Transfer

A taxi or private car transfer is the most comfortable, fastest, and stress-free way to travel from Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to Orly Airport (ORY). Since the two airports are located on opposite sides of Paris, navigating public transport with luggage and time constraints can be challenging.

This is why many travelers and mostly international passengers prefer booking a door-to-door private transfer.

With a professional service like Top Paris Transfer, your driver meets you directly at your CDG terminal, assists with luggage, and takes you straight to your Orly terminal without any changes or delays. This eliminates the uncertainty of public transport, missed connections, or language barriers.

Price

The average cost of a taxi or private transfer from CDG to Orly ranges between €70 and €120. The price depends on factors such as:

  • Vehicle type (standard sedan, executive car, or minivan)
  • Number of passengers
  • Time of travel (night or early morning transfers may cost slightly more)

Regular street taxis do not have a fixed amount. But that is not the case with private transfer services as they offer fixed pricing. This makes budgeting easier and avoids unexpected costs.

Route

Traveling by taxi from Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to Orly Airport (ORY) is the most direct, comfortable, and time-efficient option. If you are carrying luggage, traveling with family, or transferring between flights on a tight schedule, choosing a taxi helps.

The journey covers roughly 40–45 km, depending on the exact terminals and traffic conditions, and takes you across the northern and southern edges of Paris via major expressways.

Starting Point: Charles de Gaulle Airport

Your taxi journey begins at one of CDG’s terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2 (A–G), or Terminal 3. Licensed taxis are available at official taxi ranks outside each terminal. Once seated, the driver will head south toward Orly, avoiding the city center unless traffic conditions require an alternative route.

Also, make sure you tell the driver clearly about your drop either at Orly 1-2-3 or Orly 4.

Main Route Overview

The most commonly used and fastest route from CDG to ORY involves a combination of A1 Autoroute, Boulevard Peripherique, and A6 Autoroute. This route is preferred because it relies on high-capacity roads designed for long-distance and airport traffic.

Step-by-Step Route Explanation

  1. CDG to A1 Autoroute (Paris-bound)
    After leaving the airport, the taxi joins the A1 Autoroute, France’s oldest motorway. This road connects CDG directly with Paris and allows for smooth, high-speed travel away from airport congestion. The driver follows signs for Paris / Porte de la Chapelle.
  2. A1 to Boulevard Peripherique (Southbound)
    Near northern Paris, the taxi merges onto the Boulevard Peripherique, the circular ring road surrounding the city. This stretch is crucial because it allows vehicles to bypass inner Paris entirely. The driver travels counterclockwise (outer ring), heading toward southern Paris exits.

The Peripherique passes several well-known gates (portes) such as Porte de la Villette, Porte de Bagnolet, and Porte d’Italie. Traffic here can be heavy during rush hours (8–10 AM and 5–8 PM), but it remains the most efficient connector between highways.

  1. Exit Toward A6 Autoroute (Orly / Lyon direction)
    The taxi exits the Peripherique toward the A6 Autoroute, following signs for Orly / Lyon. This transition marks the final major leg of the journey. The A6 is a key southbound motorway linking Paris with southern France.
  2. A6 to Orly Airport Access Roads
    From the A6, the driver takes dedicated airport exits marked Aeroport d’Orly. Clear signage directs traffic separately toward Orly 1–2–3 and Orly 4, ensuring precise drop-off at your correct terminal. Airport access roads are well maintained and designed for quick terminal access.

Distance - approx. 40–45 km (depending on Orly 1-2-3/4)

Experienced taxi drivers continuously monitor traffic and may adjust the route slightly/ They may also use parts of A3, A86, or alternative exits to save time if congestion builds on the Peripherique.

Why This Route Is Preferred

  • Uses major highways, minimizing delays from traffic lights
  • Avoids central Paris, where congestion is highest
  • Provides predictable navigation even for first-time travelers
  • Ensures direct terminal drop-off without transfers

Comfort and Practical Advantages

A taxi offers door-to-door service, air-conditioning, privacy, and space for luggage. Unlike public transport, there are no stairs, platform changes, or risks of delays due to strikes or missed connections. This route is particularly ideal for early-morning or late-night transfers when public transport options are limited.

Time

Under normal conditions, the journey takes 45 to 60 minutes. During peak traffic hours (early mornings, evenings, or holidays), travel time can extend to 75–90 minutes. Private transfer drivers factor this in and plan accordingly, making this option the safest choice if you have a connecting flight.

Why This Option Is Best

  • No transfers or waiting
  • Ideal for luggage, families, and elderly travelers
  • Most reliable for tight schedules
  • Comfortable and private

For travelers who value time, convenience, and peace of mind, a private car transfer is the best overall option.

Option 2 – Train

Traveling from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Orly Airport by train is a cost-effective alternative, but it requires multiple steps, transfers, and careful planning. While it is cheaper than a taxi, it may not be ideal for travelers with heavy luggage or limited time.

Price

The total cost of the train journey typically ranges from €12 to €15 per person. This includes:

  • RER B ticket from CDG to Antony station
  • Orlyval automatic train from Antony to Orly Airport

Tickets can be purchased at CDG train stations from machines or counters. Prices may vary slightly depending on ticket combinations and updates by RATP.

Route

The journey involves the following steps:

Step 1: CDG Airport to RER B Station

Charles de Gaulle Airport is directly connected to the Paris regional rail network via RER Line B. RER stations are located at:

  • Aeroport Charles de Gaulle 1 (for Terminal 3)
  • Aeroport Charles de Gaulle 2 – TGV (for Terminal 2 A–G)

On your arrival terminal, you will see some signs and need to follow: “Paris by Train / RER B.” Ticket machines and counters are available in English, and you need to purchase a ticket valid to Antony.

Step 2: RER B from CDG to Antony

Once on the platform, board an RER B train heading south toward “Saint-Remy-les-Chevreuse” or “Robinson.” Trains toward Mitry-Claye go north and should be avoided.

The RER B line runs straight through Paris from north to south, making it the backbone of this transfer. From CDG, the train passes through major stations such as Gare du Nord, Chatelet–Les Halles, and Denfert-Rochereau before reaching Antony.

  • Travel time: ~60–70 minutes
  • Frequency: Every 7–15 minutes
  • Luggage: No dedicated racks; space can be limited during peak hours

Antony is a key interchange station in the southern suburbs and the official transfer point for Orly Airport.

Step 3: Transfer at Antony Station

At Antony, exit the RER B train and follow the clearly marked signs for “Orlyval.” The transfer does not require exiting the station complex, but it does involve changing platforms.

The Orlyval is an automated light metro specifically designed to connect Antony with Orly Airport. Note that Orlyval requires a separate ticket, even if you already have an RER ticket.

Ticket machines are located near the Orlyval platforms, and prices are fixed. The transfer at Antony requires walking between platforms and navigating signs, which can be confusing for first-time visitors.

Step 4: Orlyval from Antony to Orly Airport

The Orlyval runs directly from Antony to Orly Airport, stopping at:

  • Orly 1–2–3
  • Orly 4

Time

The average travel time is 70 to 90 minutes, including transfers. However, delays can occur due to:

  • Train frequency
  • Crowded platforms
  • Maintenance work
  • Missed connections

During peak hours, trains can be extremely crowded, making luggage handling difficult. 

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Affordable
  • Frequent departures
  • No traffic delays

Cons:

  • One major transfer
  • Not luggage-friendly
  • Can be confusing for tourists
  • Risky for tight flight connections

This option is best suited for solo travelers on a budget who are comfortable using public transportation and have sufficient time between flights.

Option 3 – Bus

The bus is the cheapest but slowest way to travel between Charles de Gaulle Airport and Orly Airport. It is generally chosen by travelers with flexible schedules who are looking to minimize transportation costs. 

Price

Bus travel typically costs between €10 and €20, depending on the route and operator. Common ticket options include:

  • Roissybus (CDG to Paris Opéra)
  • Orlybus (Paris Opéra to Orly Airport)

Some long-distance bus operators may also connect the two airports, but schedules are limited.

Route

A common bus route includes:

  1. Take Roissybus from CDG to Opéra
  2. Walk to the Orlybus stop
  3. Take Orlybus to Orly Airport

This route requires at least one transfer, and sometimes more if traffic or scheduling issues occur.

Time

The total travel time ranges from 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on:

  • Paris traffic
  • Waiting times between buses
  • Time of day

Buses are highly affected by congestion, especially during rush hours and weekends.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Cheapest option
  • Suitable for budget travelers
  • Direct airport bus services

Cons:

  • Long travel time
  • Multiple stops
  • Limited luggage space
  • Uncomfortable during peak hours

This option is best for travelers who are not in a hurry and are traveling light.

Comparison Table 

Transport Option

 

Price (€)

Time

Transfers

Best For

Taxi / Private Car

70–120

45–90 min

None

Fast, stress-free travel

Train

12–15

70–90 min

1

Budget travelers

Bus

10-20

90–150 min

1-2

Cheapest option

This article on Best Ways To Get from Charles de Gaulle airport to Orly Airport will help you plan your travel. Traveling between these two airports requires strategic planning as they are on either side of the city.

Choosing a taxi or private car transfer is the most practical and reliable choice. It offers direct, door-to-door service with no transfers, making it ideal for passengers with luggage, families, elderly travelers, or those with tight flight connections. Booking a professional service such as Top Paris Transfer ensures fixed pricing, experienced drivers, and a stress-free journey, even during peak traffic hours.

The train option, combining RER B and Orlyval, is suitable for travelers who want to reduce costs and are comfortable navigating public transportation. While affordable, it involves at least one transfer and can be crowded, particularly during rush hours. This option is best if you have sufficient time and are traveling light.

The bus option is the cheapest but also the slowest. Travel times can exceed two hours due to traffic and multiple stops, making it less suitable for travelers on a schedule. However, it may work for budget travelers with flexible plans.

FAQ

How far is Charles de Gaulle airport to Orly Airport?

The distance between CDG and Orly Airport is approximately 40 km (25 miles).

is there a train from Charles de Gaulle airport to Orly Airport?

Yes, but not direct. You must take RER B from CDG and transfer to Orlyval at Antony station.

how long does it take to get from Charles de Gaulle airport to Orly Airport?

Taxi: 45–90 minutes
Train: 70–90 minutes
Bus: 90–150 minutes
Travel time depends on traffic and time of day.

How much is a taxi from Charles de Gaulle airport to Orly Airport?

A taxi or private transfer typically costs €70 to €120, depending on vehicle type and travel time. Booking in advance ensures a fixed price.

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Top Paris Transfer Author