🛬 Roissy- Charles de Gaulle CDG airport ➜ Paris: the clearest (and most practical) guide
Getting to Charles de Gaulle (CDG) shouldn’t be an ordeal. First, let’s keep it simple: you have five credible options for getting to central Paris. Next, I explain which one to choose, depending on your budget, luggage and arrival time. I’ll also give you some feedback, indicative prices and step-by-step instructions. However, remember this: to pay as little as possible by car, I recommend BOLT (often the cheapest option among VTCs), but always compare the estimated fare in the app before confirming. What’ s more, the RER B is still unbeatable for the time/price ratio if you’re traveling light. On the other hand, a private transfer is the safest option after a sleepless night. So you can make an informed choice. Finally, if your flight leaves early, sleep close to the airport: in short, zero stress.
🧭 Understanding CDG in 2 minutes (T1, T2, T3 & CDGVAL)
CDG has three main terminals: T1, T2 (2A to 2G) and T3. They are linked free of charge by the CDGVAL automatic shuttle, which runs very frequently and also serves the parking lots. Signage is clear (FR/EN). For transport, note that the RER B serves T2 (integrated station) and Roissypôle (access via CDGVAL from T1/T3).
Official info Paris Airport (CDG)
🚗💸 My budget choice: BOLT (often the cheapest by car)
Why do I recommend BOLT? On my off-peak and daytime comparisons, the BOLT quote is very often lower than a fixed-rate cab and sometimes below the price of other VTCs. It’s paid in the app, without negotiation, and you see the estimate before you accept. On the other hand, in busy periods (peak arrivals, rain), there may be a surcharge: always check the price range at the precise moment you order (and compare with Uber/G7).
- Indicative price: variable according to traffic & demand (compare in the app before validating).
- Duration: 35-90 min depending on traffic.
- Pick-up: no official dedicated zone at CDG; follow your driver’s instructions in the app.
- Ideal if: you want the lowest possible car price at any given moment, with no cab queues.
Tip: open BOLT, Uber and G7 in parallel, refresh, and choose the best quote at the time. Very often (but not always), BOLT wins on price.
🚆 RER B: fast and unbeatable on the fixed-price side
For a constant, controlled cost, RER B remains the most economical option and often the fastest at rush hour. From CDG to Gare du Nord, Châtelet-Les Halles, Saint-Michel Notre-Dame: allow ~30-40 min.
- Fare: €13 (Ticket Paris Région <> Aéroports).
- How to get there:
- From T2: follow “Gare SNCF / Paris par train”.
- From T1/T3: take CDGVAL to Roissypôle, then RER B.
- Tickets: multi-language ticket machines or Île-de-France Mobilités app.
- Ideal if: tight budget, reasonable luggage, desire to avoid traffic jams.
Ticket Paris Région <> Aéroports (fares and conditions – IDFM) – RER B & CDGVAL – official Paris Aéroport page
🚌 Roissybus : direct CDG ➜ Opéra
Roissybus links all terminals directly to Opéra (9th), with no intermediate stops. It’s comfortable and easy if your accommodation is in the Opéra/Grands Boulevards area.
- Fare: €13.
- Frequency: every ~15-20 min.
- Duration: 60-75 min depending on traffic.
- Where to buy: RATP/IDFM app, vending machines, on board (CB/cash).
Official Roissybus – RATP page (fares & points of sale)
🚖 Official cab: fixed prices to Paris
Paris cabs apply flat rates from CDG: €56 right bank, €65 left bank. Follow only the “Taxi” signs and refuse all solicitations in the lobby (unauthorized cabs). CB payment obligatory, but keep a few euros for security.
Cab info – Paris Airport (official queue & landmarks)
🛎️ Private transfer: zero friction after a long flight
Booked in advance, greeted with a sign, flight tracking and a known price: private transfer means total peace of mind. Whether you’re travelling with your family or loaded up, it’s often the best compromise between comfort and time. It’s more expensive than an off-peak BOLT, but you don’t wait and you don’t quibble.
- Price: generally €60-80, depending on address and time of day.
- Duration: 35-60 min depending on traffic.
- Ideal if: late arrival, lots of luggage, desire for a door-to-door experience with no surprises.
🧠 Advice from a regular (anti-gallery)
- Compare BOLT/Uber/G7 in real time: choose the best price at time M (BOLT often wins on the budget, but not always).
- RER B during rush hour: aim for the front of the platforms, avoid the doors and keep your bag in front of you.
- Roissybus: perfect if your hotel is in Opéra; otherwise, plan a metro connection (lines 3, 7, 8).
- Cabs: head straight for the official rank; “Taxi Parisien” illuminated on the roof.
- Very early flight: sleep close to CDG to avoid the anxiety of the first RER.
🏨 Where to sleep near CDG (ideal early departure)
- Sheraton Paris Airport Hotel & Conference Centre (in the heart of T2, unbeatable for catching an early flight)
- citizenM Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (design, quick check-in, good value)
- ibis Styles Paris Charles de Gaulle (shuttle service, family rooms, early breakfast)
👉 To find your way around the city, read our Paris metro guide (maps, tickets, tips).
📊 Express summary: which option to choose?
| Option | Price | Duration | Who’s it for? |
|---|---|---|---|
| BOLT (recommended budget) | Variable (often the least expensive VTC) | 35-90 min | Best price car hunter |
| RER B | 13 € | 30-40 min | Tight budget, light travel |
| Roissybus | 13 € | 60-75 min | Destination Opéra/9e |
| Official cab | 56 € (RD) / 65 € (RG) | 40-70 min | Families, luggage, late arrivals |
| Private transfer | 60-80 € | 35-60 min | 100% comfort, zero friction |
🧳 My feedback (real field)
After dozens of round trips, here’s my trifecta: 1) BOLT when I see a very low estimate (often off-peak), 2) RER B when I’m traveling solo with backpack (I save time), 3) private transfer when I’m exhausted or with family. I avoid cabs when the queue is long, and take the Roissybus only if I sleep around the Opera. This method has saved me money, but above all energy – which is what counts most when you land.
❓ FAQ – CDG ➜ Paris
What’s the cheapest way by car between CDG and Paris?
Often BOLT, depending on demand and time of day. Always compare the live estimate with Uber and G7 when ordering.
How much does the RER B from CDG cost?
The Paris Région <> Aéroports ticket costs €13. It includes connections to the metro if you stay in the network without getting out.
Where does the Roissybus arrive in Paris?
At Opéra, right in the center. Convenient for hotels in the 9th/8th arrondissements. Metro connections 3, 7 and 8.
Is there a fixed cab fare from CDG?
Yes: €56 right bank and €65 left bank. Go only to the official marked lane.
Is the RER B safe with luggage?
Yes, but be careful: avoid the doors, keep your belongings in front of you, and choose carriages with lots of people.
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🌟 The right choice, at the right time
If you want to pay as little as possible by car, BOLT is my number one choice, provided you check the estimate live. If you prefer constant price and speed, RER B is king. If you want a serene door-to-door after a long-haul flight, choose a private transfer. And if your hotel is in Opéra, the Roissybus is biblically simple. Plan your journey before you land and enjoy: Paris awaits you.