CDG Vs Orly: Which Paris Airport To Choose?

CDG vs Orly airport: the ultimate Paris airport showdown. Paris has two major airports: Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Orly. CDG is France’s largest, handling 72.2 million passengers in 2026, while Orly serves 33.1 million, focusing on domestic and short-haul European flights. CDG is 25 km northeast of Paris, with direct RER B train access (35 min to city center & Prices), while Orly is 14 km south, connected via Orlyval + RER B (30 min) or Tram 7. CDG has more international airlines (120+), while Orly is the hub for Air France’s domestic network and low-cost carriers like EasyJet and Transavia. Orly is often cheaper and faster for budget travelers, while CDG offers more luxury amenities, lounges, and nonstop global routes. Both airports have 24/7 operations, but CDG has more hotels near cdg airport for early flight on-site (10+) compared to Orly’s 3.

Key Takeaways

• CDG is France’s busiest airport, handling more passengers and international routes than Orly.
• CDG is farther from Paris (25 km) but offers a direct RER B train (35 min), while Orly (14 km) requires a transfer.
• CDG serves 120+ airlines with global reach, whereas Orly specializes in domestic and budget European flights.
• Orly is more cost-effective for budget travelers, while CDG provides luxury amenities and premium services.
• Both airports operate 24/7, but CDG has significantly more on-site hotels (10+ vs. Orly’s 3).

Location and Accessibility: How to Reach Paris from Each Airport

Side-by-side aerial shot of Paris' two major airports at sunset, emphasizing their distinct scales and operations.

CDG is located in Roissy-en-France, 25 km from Paris. The RER B train costs €11.45 and takes 35 minutes to reach the city center. The RoissyBus costs €16.20 and takes 50-60 minutes. Taxis range from €50-70 and take 45-60 minutes.

Orly is situated in Orly, 14 km from Paris. The Orlyval + RER B combination costs €12.10 and takes 30 minutes. The Tram 7 costs €2.10 and takes 35 minutes to Villejuif-Louis Aragon station. Taxis range from €35-50 and take 30-45 minutes.

Quick Answer: Orly is closer to Paris (14 km vs. CDG’s 25 km), but CDG’s RER B offers a faster direct train to central Paris (35 min vs. Orly’s 30 min with a transfer).

Airlines and Destinations: Who Flies Where?

CDG is the primary hub for Air France, Delta, and SkyTeam. It serves 320+ destinations, including nonstop flights to New York (8h), Tokyo (12h), and Dubai (6.5h). Orly is the hub for Air France’s domestic network (e.g., Lyon, Marseille, Nice) and low-cost carriers. Top routes include Barcelona (1.5h), Lisbon (2h), and Algiers (2h).

Quick Answer: CDG handles more international flights (320+ destinations) compared to Orly’s focus on domestic and short-haul European routes (e.g., Barcelona, Lisbon).

Contrast of public transport options connecting Paris city center to CDG and Orly airports.

Passenger Experience: Amenities, Lounges, and Comfort

CDG has three terminals with 10+ lounges, including Air France La Première and Lufthansa Senator. Shopping options include 120+ stores, with luxury brands like Hermès and Dior. Dining features 60+ restaurants, such as Paul Bocuse’s Le Comptoir. If you have a long wait, explore the Activities Inside.

Orly has two terminals (West & South) with five lounges, including the Primeclass Lounge. Shopping includes 60+ stores, with a focus on budget-friendly options like Duty Free and Relay. Dining offers 20+ options, including Brioche Dorée and Starbucks.

1. Check eligibility (business class, status, or paid access).
2. Locate lounge in your terminal (e.g., Terminal 2E: Air France La Première).
3. Present boarding pass and membership card at reception.

Quick Answer: CDG offers more luxury amenities and high-end dining (e.g., Café de Paris, Ladurée) compared to Orly’s focus on budget-friendly options.

Cost Comparison: Flights, Transfers, and Extras

Flight prices at Orly are often 10-20% cheaper for short-haul flights (e.g., Paris to Rome: €45 on EasyJet vs. €70 on Air France from CDG). Transfer costs are cheaper at Orly via public transport (€2.10 Tram 7 vs. €11.45 RER B from CDG). Parking at CDG starts at €15/day, while Orly charges €12/day.

Quick Answer: Orly is generally cheaper for flights and transfers, with average taxi costs to the Eiffel Tower at €38 vs. CDG’s €55.

Which Airport Is Best for Your Trip? A Tailored Guide

CDG is ideal for international travelers due to its long-haul routes and premium services. Orly wins for budget travelers with low-cost carriers and cheaper transfers. CDG offers more lounges, meeting rooms, and nonstop global connections (e.g., 18 flights/day to NYC). Orly’s smaller size and shorter walking distances (max 10 min between gates) make it less stressful for families.

Quick Answer: Choose CDG for international travel and business trips, and Orly for budget-friendly domestic flights and shorter transfers.

FAQ: CDG vs Orly Airport

Is CDG or Orly closer to Paris?

Orly is closer (14 km vs. CDG’s 25 km), but CDG’s RER B offers a faster direct train to central Paris (35 min vs. Orly’s 30 min with a transfer).

Which Paris airport is bigger, CDG or Orly?

CDG is significantly larger, covering 32.38 km² with 3 terminals, while Orly spans 15.3 km² with 2 terminals.

Can I fly into CDG and out of Orly?

Yes, but ensure your airlines allow it (e.g., Air France permits it for domestic-international connections). Allow 90+ minutes for transfers between airports via taxi or public transport.

Which airport has better dining options?

CDG has more high-end options (e.g., Café de Paris, Ladurée), while Orly focuses on quick, affordable meals (e.g., McDonald’s, Pret A Manger).

Are there hotels inside CDG and Orly?

CDG has 10+ on-site hotels (e.g., Pullman Paris Roissy CDG, Ibis Styles), while Orly has 3 (e.g., Novotel Paris Orly, Ibis Paris Orly).

Conclusion: CDG vs Orly Airport – Which One Should You Choose?

Choosing between CDG and Orly airport depends on your travel needs. If you're planning an international trip, CDG is the clear winner with its extensive network of 320+ destinations and premium amenities like luxury lounges and high-end dining. The airport's three terminals offer a wide range of shopping and entertainment options, making it ideal for travelers seeking comfort and convenience. However, if you're looking for budget-friendly options, Orly might be the better choice. With cheaper flight prices and transfers, Orly is perfect for domestic and short-haul European flights. Its smaller size and shorter walking distances make it less stressful for families and groups. Additionally, Orly's focus on budget-friendly dining and shopping options caters to travelers on a tight budget. Ultimately, the decision between CDG vs Orly airport comes down to your specific travel needs and preferences. For international travel and premium services, CDG is the way to go. For budget-friendly domestic flights and shorter transfers, Orly is the better option. Consider your travel plans carefully and choose the airport that best suits your needs.