Public Domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Charles de Gaulle Airport

Europe’s bustling Parisian gateway

Airport in France

Paris (23 km)

260 destinations

Add to list Destinations Open connection map

Charles de Gaulle Airport serves as a major gateway to France’s capital, Paris. Located about 23 kilometers northeast of the city center, it handles millions of passengers each year. The airport features multiple terminals for domestic and international flights with shops, restaurants and lounges available throughout. Connections to central Paris are made via train or bus services. Many airlines use CDG as a hub, making it an essential part of European travel routes. Its size and facilities reflect its role in global aviation.

Last update: 12 Oct 2026

* We earn a commission from some links on this page.

Paris Airport Summary

Charles de Gaulle Airport is an airport near Paris in France. It currently offers regular passenger service to 260 destinations operated by 109 airlines.

Top airlines

Air France (AF)

2587 flights per week

easyJet (U2)

297 flights per week

Air Algerie (AH)

96 flights per week

Top destinations

NCE Nice

LHR London

JFK New York City

Cheapest destinations

VRN Verona

MXP Milan

MAN Manchester

Best destinations

HND Tokyo

SIN Singapore

JFK New York City

France – Quick facts

Guide Etiquette Holidays Other

Power Grid:	230 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type E Type C: Type E: Read about power adapters
Currency:	Euro (EUR) £1 ≈ €1.19
Cashless info:	Rating 5/5 Cashless payments are widely accepted, especially in cities and tourist areas. Save with a travel credit card
eSIM providers:	Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison

Tipping:	Tipping is optional but appreciated in restaurants (5-10%) and for exceptional service.
Public drinking:	Public drinking is allowed in designated areas, but restrictions apply in some cities.
Public smoking:	Smoking is banned in indoor public spaces but common in outdoor cafes.

Bastille Day (July)	Parades and fireworks occur nationwide.
Easter (March/April)	Cultural celebrations and closures.
Christmas (December)	Markets and festive events.

Emergency contact:	Emergency Numbers: 112 (EU emergency), 15 (Ambulance), 17 (Police), 18 (Fire)
Taxi apps:	Uber, Bolt, Heetch
Other:	France offers diverse experiences, from art and culture to nature and cuisine. Be cautious in crowded areas.

Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) is France’s largest international airport and one of Europe’s busiest, serving over 72 million passengers annually. Spread over 32 square kilometers, it features a complex of multiple terminals designed to handle a vast range of short-haul and long-haul flights, including premium global carriers and budget airlines.

The airport is famous for its impressive architecture, including the iconic octopus-shaped Terminal 1 and the sprawling Terminal 2 with its multiple sub-terminals. Facilities have received continual upgrades in recent years to improve passenger flow, security and comfort, with a focus on luxury retail and French gastronomic experiences.

However, travelers should prepare for the airport’s sheer size and potential delays. Navigating between terminals can be time-consuming despite shuttle trains and security or customs lines can be lengthy during peak travel times. Congestion around the airport and occasional strikes affecting services are also things to watch out for.

Overall, CDG offers an essential, if sometimes hectic, passage into Paris and France, richly imbued with French culture and style, making it more than just an airport but an experience in itself.

Helpful tips for Charles de Gaulle Airport

Arrive at least two hours before departure for security and check‑in.
Use the free Wi‑Fi to download maps, flight updates and local transport schedules ahead of time.
Take advantage of the airport’s extensive duty‑free shops, but verify customs limits before purchasing high‑value items.
Explore Terminal 3’s art installations and panoramic views of Paris; they offer unique photo opportunities during layovers.

Available airport lounges

Air France La Première Lounge

An ultra-luxury lounge offering private suites, gourmet dining, spa services, and personalised assistance, exclusively for La Première first-class passengers.

Emirates Lounge

High-end lounge catering to Emirates first and business travellers, with luxury services and fine dining.

Air France Business Lounge Terminal 2E

Recently redesigned for enhanced comfort with spacious seating, buffet dining featuring French cuisine, and dedicated quiet zones. Access is for business class and elite frequent flyers.

Salon Ambassador

Premium lounge in Terminal 1 offering various amenities including fine dining and business facilities, accessible by status holders or pay-per-use.

British Airways Galleries Lounge

Accessible for premium passengers flying with British Airways, providing refreshments, work areas, and comfortable seating.

Salon ICARE

Located in Terminal 2F, offers a quiet and elegant space for relaxation and snacks. Available to eligible customers and for a fee.

Where to stay near Charles de Gaulle Airport

The airport area and nearby Roissy suburb offer a broad selection of hotels ranging from budget to luxury, ideal for layovers or early departures. For those wanting a complete Paris experience, staying in central Paris is recommended, as it is well connected by train and shuttle services.

Hotel recommendations

*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.

ibis Paris CDG Airport

8.1

INNSiDE Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

8.8

Holiday Inn Express Paris - CDG Airport By IHG

8.6

citizenM Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

8.9

Standing Hotel Suites by Actisource

7.8

ibis Styles Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

8.4

Novotel Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

8.2

Geographotel Paris-Roissy CDG Airport

6.8

Novotel Suites Paris Cdg Airport Villepinte

8.1

Paris Roissy Charles de Gaulle Airport Hotel

7.8

Explore more accommodations

How to get from Paris Airport to popular destinations

To Paris city centre:
The most efficient way to reach Paris city centre is via the RER B train, which links Terminals 1 and 3 and Terminal 2 directly to central Paris in about 30-35 minutes. Trains run approximately every 10-15 minutes from early morning to late night, with tickets costing around €11 (£9.24). Taxis offer a direct, door-to-door service with fares averaging €50 – 60 (£41.98 – 50.38) depending on your destination in Paris and traffic, with a fixed fare to central Paris zones. Shuttle buses like RoissyBus connect CDG to the Opera area for about €13 (£10.92) with journeys around 60 minutes. Ride-hailing services and private transfers are widely available.

To Charles de Gaulle Villepinte Exhibition Center:
Located near the airport, accessible via shuttle or taxi. Local buses and hire car options provide convenient access, with travel times generally under 15 minutes, making it easy for conference visitors or business travellers.

To Other Paris airports:
Connections between Charles de Gaulle and other Paris airports, such as Orly, are possible via public transport combining train and metro, shuttle buses, or private transfers. Travel time varies but typically takes around one hour. Planning transfers carefully is important to handle luggage and timing.