- Terminals
- 3 terminals (T1, T2 with halls 2A–2G, T3)
- Distance to city
- About 16 miles (25 km) northeast of central Paris
- Getting downtown
- RER B train (~35–50 min), Roissybus, taxi (flat fare), rideshare
- Min. connection time
- From ~60 min within T2; longer between terminals
- Wi-Fi
- Free Wi-Fi throughout
Paris Charles de Gaulle is France's largest airport and Air France's primary hub, connecting Europe with the rest of the world. Its sprawling layout — particularly the multi-hall Terminal 2 — has a reputation for being confusing, but with a little orientation it is very navigable.
This guide explains the terminal structure, the train into Paris, and how connections work at CDG.
Terminals & Layout
CDG has three terminals. Terminal 1 is a distinctive circular building used by various international carriers and Star Alliance members. Terminal 2 is the largest, split into halls 2A through 2G — it is the Air France and SkyTeam home. Terminal 3 is smaller and handles low-cost and charter flights. The terminals are connected by the free CDGVAL automated shuttle train.
Within Terminal 2, the halls are spread along a length of the airport, so even an intra-terminal connection can involve a walk or a shuttle between halls — check your hall (2A–2G) carefully.
Getting To & From Paris
| Option | Time to central Paris | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| RER B train | 35–50 min | Direct to Gare du Nord, Châtelet, and beyond. The fastest budget option. |
| Roissybus | ~60 min | Direct bus to Opéra in central Paris. |
| Taxi | 40–70 min | Flat-rate fares to the Left and Right Banks; traffic-dependent. |
| Rideshare | 40–70 min | Designated pickup points; surge pricing at peak times. |
Layovers & Connections
Connections within Terminal 2 can work from around 60 minutes if you stay within the same hall cluster, but allow more if you must move between distant halls or change terminals via the CDGVAL shuttle. Air France connections are usually well signposted within Terminal 2.
CDG sits about 35–50 minutes from central Paris by RER B, so a layover of 6+ hours can allow a quick trip into the city — though Paris's sights deserve more time, and you should budget for the return journey and security.
Planning a flight through CDG?
Estimate your flight time and compare fares before you book — then find a hotel right by the airport for early departures and long layovers.
Food, Lounges & Sleep
- Terminal 2 has the widest range of dining and the major Air France lounges; the international halls have excellent shopping.
- Lounges include Air France/SkyTeam lounges and Priority Pass options across the terminals.
- On-site and nearby hotels (Roissy area) are connected by CDGVAL or shuttle — useful for early flights.
- Free Wi-Fi is available throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
The RER B train is the fastest budget option — 35–50 minutes direct to Gare du Nord and Châtelet. The Roissybus goes to Opéra in about 60 minutes. Taxis charge a flat fare to the Left or Right Bank and take 40–70 minutes depending on traffic.