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Charles de Gaulle (CDG) is about 25 km northeast of central Paris, and getting into the city changed in 2026: the RoissyBus, a favorite of first-time visitors, stopped running on February 28. The direct CDG Express train will not open until March 2027. Here is how to get from CDG to Paris today, and which option suits your trip.
Quick answer
- Cheapest and avoids traffic: RER B train, about 45 minutes to Gare du Nord and Châtelet-Les Halles.
- Easiest with luggage or kids: an official taxi at a flat fare, or a pre-booked private transfer.
- Late at night: a taxi or transfer; the RER B runs roughly 5:30 am to 11:30 pm.
- Gone: the RoissyBus (ended February 28, 2026).
Your Options Compared
| Option | Time to central Paris | Best for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|---|
| RER B train | About 45 min | Solo travelers, light luggage | Crowds at rush hour, stairs at some stations, weekend works |
| Express 9517 bus + Metro 14 | Longer, with a change | Travelers staying near Line 14 | Not direct; change at Saint-Denis Pleyel |
| Official taxi | About 45 to 60 min, traffic dependent | Families, heavy luggage, late arrivals | Use only the official rank |
| Uber and ride-hailing | Similar to taxi | App users | Surge pricing at busy times |
| Private transfer | Similar to taxi | Groups, kids, early mornings | Book ahead; check the meeting point |
1. RER B Train
The RER B leaves from stations inside Terminal 1 (via the CDGVAL shuttle) and Terminal 2 and runs about every 15 minutes from around 5:30 am to 11:30 pm. Useful stops are Gare du Nord (Eurostar), Châtelet-Les Halles (connections to many metro lines) and Saint-Michel Notre-Dame for the Latin Quarter.
- Ticket: you need the dedicated airport ticket, not a standard metro ticket. Buy it at the machines in the station or in the official IDF Mobilités or RATP app.
- Check works: parts of the line close for planned engineering, often on weekends, with replacement buses.
- Keep your bags close: the RER B is a known spot for pickpockets.
2. The New Bus After RoissyBus
The RATP replaced the RoissyBus with the Express 9517 bus, which links the airport area to Saint-Denis Pleyel, where you change to the fully automated Metro Line 14 into central Paris. It is cheaper than a taxi but not direct, so it suits travelers staying near Line 14 (for example around Saint-Lazare, Madeleine, Châtelet or Gare de Lyon).
3. Official Taxi
Paris taxis from CDG charge a flat fare set by the authorities: one rate for the Right Bank and one for the Left Bank of the Seine. Follow the "Taxi" signs to the official rank outside arrivals. Licensed drivers are not allowed to approach you inside the terminal, so ignore anyone offering a ride in the arrivals hall.
4. Private Transfer
A pre-booked transfer means a driver waits for you in arrivals with your name, tracks your flight if it is late and takes you straight to your hotel. It is the most relaxing option for families, groups, late-night arrivals and anyone with a lot of luggage. Compare fixed-price options with Kiwitaxi or GetTransfer.
Coming in 2027: CDG Express
The CDG Express, a direct train between the airport and Gare de l'Est, is scheduled to open on March 28, 2027, with trains about every 15 minutes and a journey of around 20 minutes. Until then, the RER B is the only rail link.
Arrival Checklist
- Data on arrival: a travel eSIM such as Saily works as soon as you land
- Airport train ticket bought in the app, or transfer pre-booked
- Hotel address saved offline
- Pickpocket-proof bag for the RER
Planning your days? See our guides to Eiffel Tower tickets and the Palace of Versailles. Flying in during a strike? Read airline strikes in Europe: your rights.
FAQ
Is the RoissyBus still running?
No. The RoissyBus between Charles de Gaulle and Opéra made its last trip on February 28, 2026. The replacement is the Express 9517 bus to Saint-Denis Pleyel, where you change to Metro Line 14.
What is the fastest way from CDG to central Paris?
Outside rush hour, a taxi or private transfer is usually quickest to your door. The RER B train takes about 45 minutes to Gare du Nord and Châtelet-Les Halles and avoids road traffic.
Is the CDG Express open?
Not yet. The direct CDG Express train to Gare de l'Est is scheduled to open on March 28, 2027, with a train about every 15 minutes and a journey of around 20 minutes.
Do Paris taxis from the airport have a fixed price?
Yes. Official Paris taxis charge a flat fare from CDG to Paris, with one rate for the Right Bank and another for the Left Bank. Only take a taxi from the official rank outside the terminal.
Can I use a regular metro ticket on the RER B to the airport?
No. Airport stations need a dedicated airport ticket. Buy the Paris Region to Airports ticket at the station machines or in the official app before you board.
Affiliate Disclosure: The Finer Route earns a commission from some of the services linked in this article, at no extra cost to you. Timetables, routes and opening hours change, so confirm the details with the official source before you travel.
