When considering a trip to the City of Lights, you’re likely to land at one of Paris’s four major airports: Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), Orly Airport (ORY), Beauvais–Tillé Airport (BVA), or Le Bourget Airport (LBG). Each of these gateways into the French capital offers a unique experience, with their own set of advantages and challenges. From plush lounges and dining options to the ease of getting to your final destination, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you decide which Parisian airport suits your travel needs best.
Airport Amenities
Let’s start with Charles de Gaulle Airport, the largest international airport in France and second largest in Europe. It’s a modern facility with a plethora of amenities including luxury shopping, a wide variety of dining options, and even showers to freshen up after a long flight. However, due to its size, navigating CDG can be overwhelming and time-consuming.
Orly Airport, on the other hand, offers a more manageable layout and fewer crowds, making it a less stressful experience overall. Although smaller, ORY still provides a decent selection of shops and eateries. Yet, it might fall short for those looking for high-end luxury brands or extensive dining options.
Beauvais–Tillé Airport is the smallest of the four and serves mostly low-cost carriers. The amenities here are considerably more basic, with a limited number of shops and food outlets. This might be a con for travelers who expect extensive services, but a pro for those who appreciate a straightforward, no-frills experience.
Le Bourget Airport is primarily used for general aviation and business jets, and isn’t typically an option for commercial airline passengers. However, it’s known for exclusive amenities catering to the private jet set, including luxurious lounges and high-end services.
Transportation Options
When it comes to transportation, Charles de Gaulle Airport is well-connected. It has its own train station with direct links to Paris and other major cities. Buses, taxis, and rental car services are also readily available. However, traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours, which might add stress to your travel.
Orly Airport benefits from proximity to the city and has a variety of transportation options, including trains, trams, buses, and taxis. It is often considered a more convenient choice if you’re staying in the southern parts of Paris.
Beauvais–Tillé Airport is significantly further from the city center and has fewer transport links. There’s a shuttle service to Paris, but it takes approximately 75 minutes, making it less ideal if you’re on a tight schedule or prefer quick transfers.
Le Bourget Airport, being a hub for private aviation, doesn’t offer the same public transport links as the other airports. Access is typically arranged through private transfers, which can be a con if you’re looking for the independence and flexibility that comes with public transport options.
Flight Availability
Charles de Gaulle Airport is a major hub, serving a vast number of international and domestic flights. It’s likely that you’ll find a flight to almost anywhere in the world from CDG. This abundance of options, however, can mean busier terminals and the potential for more delays.
Orly Airport, while smaller, still offers a healthy mix of domestic and European flights, with some long-haul options. It’s a good bet if you prefer a quieter airport with fewer passengers.
Beauvais–Tillé Airport is mainly served by low-cost airlines, so if you’re budget-conscious and your destination is served by this airport, BVA could be your best bet. However, flight options are more limited, especially for long-haul travelers.
Le Bourget Airport, being focused on private flights, does not offer commercial services, so it’s not an option for most travelers looking for scheduled flights.
Online Reviews
Online reviews can provide real-world insights into what to expect. Charles de Gaulle Airport often receives mixed reviews, with praise for its amenities but criticism for its complex layout and occasional long wait times.
Orly Airport generally gets better reviews for its user-friendly size and efficient processing, although some travelers note that dining options could be improved.
Beauvais–Tillé Airport‘s reviews trend towards the negative, with travelers frequently mentioning its basic facilities and the inconvenience of its location relative to Paris. Still, it’s often noted as sufficiently serving its purpose for low-cost travel.
Le Bourget Airport, while not commonly reviewed by the general public due to its private nature, is reputed for its high level of service and exclusivity.
In summary, if you’re looking for a full-service airport with extensive amenities and flight options, Charles de Gaulle Airport is your gateway into and out of Paris. For a less hectic and more straightforward experience, Orly Airport might be the right choice. Budget travelers heading to specific destinations may find Beauvais–Tillé Airport adequate. Finally, for those flying private, Le Bourget Airport offers an exclusive and luxurious travel experience.
We invite you to share your own experiences at Paris’s airports on our social media channels. Which airport do you prefer when flying into or out of Paris, and why? Let us know your thoughts!
