A Practical Guide for First-Time Visitors with Luggage
Arriving at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) may feel overwhelming, but reaching the city center is easier than you think — especially if you know your options. This guide breaks down the main transportation methods, including what works best if you’re traveling with large luggage (28″ or more) and whether taxi fares are fixed.
1. RER B Train – Fast and Budget-Friendly
- Route: CDG to Paris Gare du Nord, Châtelet-Les Halles, Saint-Michel, and more
- Duration: 35–45 minutes
- Fare: €11.45 (2024)
- Frequency: Every 10–15 minutes
- Luggage: Not ideal for large suitcases during peak hours; limited luggage space and many stairs in central stations
Note: Make sure to keep your ticket — you’ll need it to exit in Paris.
2. RoissyBus – Direct and Luggage-Friendly
- Route: From all terminals to Opéra (central Paris)
- Duration: Around 60 minutes
- Fare: €16.20
- Frequency: Every 15–20 minutes
- Luggage: Suitable for large bags; dedicated luggage storage under the bus
Recommended for travelers heading near the 1st–9th arrondissement who prefer not to transfer.
3. Official Taxi – Fixed Fare and Most Comfortable
- Fare:
- €55 to Right Bank (e.g. Gare du Nord, Champs-Élysées)
- €62 to Left Bank (e.g. Latin Quarter, Eiffel Tower, Montparnasse)
- Duration: 45–70 minutes depending on traffic
- Luggage: Excellent for travelers with large or multiple bags
- Where: Official taxi stands outside each terminal
Yes, fares from CDG to central Paris are officially fixed by the French government. No need to negotiate or worry about meters — just use the signed taxi ranks marked “Taxi Parisien.”
Important: Never accept taxi offers from inside the terminal. Only use the official line outside.
4. Ride-Sharing (Uber, Bolt)
- Fare: €40–€80 depending on time and demand
- Luggage: Fine for 1–2 bags; consider Uber Van for extra space
- Pickup location: Designated ride-hailing zones near each terminal
Note: No fixed fare — prices change with traffic and time of day.
5. Private Transfer – Pre-Booked Door-to-Door Service
- Services: Welcome Pickups, Klook, Blacklane, etc.
- Fare: From €60–€100
- Luggage: Very good for families or travelers with large suitcases
- Extras: Meet-and-greet in arrival hall, English-speaking driver, direct hotel drop-off
A good choice if you want full convenience and minimal stress after a long flight.
6. Night Bus (Noctilien) – Only After Midnight
- Routes: N143 and N140 to Gare de l’Est
- Fare: Around €8
- Duration: 60–90 minutes
- Luggage: Not recommended for large bags; limited space and frequent stops
Use this only if you’re arriving after midnight and want to save money.
Best Option for 28”+ Luggage
| Method | Luggage Suitability | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Taxi | Excellent | Fixed fare, door-to-door, no transfers |
| RoissyBus | Very Good | Dedicated luggage space, no stairs |
| Private Transfer | Excellent | Meet-and-greet, good for multiple bags |
| RER B Train | Limited | Cheap but hard with big suitcases & stairs |
| Uber | Good (Van best) | Not fixed fare, depends on demand |
If you’re traveling with large luggage, the best options are:
- Official Taxi: Fixed fare, easy, and door-to-door
- RoissyBus: Direct to city center with good luggage support
- Private Transfer: Great for families or first-timers who want a smooth arrival
If you’re traveling light, RER B is a great budget choice — but avoid it during rush hour with bulky bags.
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