CDG to Paris: RER B, Roissybus & Taxi
Quick answer
The RER B train reaches central Paris (Gare du Nord) in about 30–35 minutes for around €11.80. The Roissybus serves Opéra in 60–75 minutes. Taxis to central Paris are a fixed €56–65. The RER is fastest but watch your belongings.
From Charles de Gaulle, the RER B train is the quickest, best-value route into central Paris — around 35–45 minutes to the Gare du Nord/Châtelet area, avoiding road traffic. The Roissybus serves Opéra, and taxis offer a fixed-fare door-to-door ride. On a layover, the RER B makes a focused Paris visit feasible with Schengen entry — see the CDG layover guide.
- RER B ~35–45 min to central Paris, traffic-free.
- Roissybus serves Opéra; taxis are fixed-fare door-to-door.
- Leaving needs Schengen entry.
- Worth leaving? See the CDG layover guide.
Charles de Gaulle is about 25 km northeast of Paris with several transfer options. The RER B is quick but can be crowded; buses and taxis offer comfort at a price. This guide compares them and notes the practical quirks of each, including the fixed-fare taxis.
RER B — fastest to the centre
The RER B suburban train links CDG to Gare du Nord, Châtelet and Saint-Michel in about 30–35 minutes for around €11.80. It's the quickest into the heart of Paris, though carriages get crowded and you should keep luggage and valuables close.
- ~30–35 min to Gare du Nord
- ~€11.80
- Connects to the Métro
Roissybus and buses
The Roissybus runs to Opéra in 60–75 minutes for a single fare, offering a seat and luggage space without changing trains — useful if your hotel is central and you'd rather avoid the RER's stairs and crowds.
Fixed-fare taxis
Official taxis charge a regulated flat fare — about €56 to the Right Bank and €65 to the Left Bank — taking 40–75 minutes depending on traffic. Only use the official rank; ignore drivers touting inside the terminal.
RER B, Roissybus or taxi?
The RER B is the fastest and cheapest into the centre, connecting to the metro at Gare du Nord and Châtelet. The Roissybus is a comfortable direct option to Opéra. Paris taxis to the centre charge a regulated flat fare, convenient with luggage but traffic-exposed. Allow time for CDG's size on the way back.
On a layover
With about seven-plus hours and Schengen entry, a focused visit is realistic via the RER B — confirm in the Schengen transit guide. With less, the airport's lounges are the better option.
The best way into the city from Paris?
Answer five quick questions and we'll rank taxi, train, bus, ride-hail and private transfer for your trip.
Guidance only — prices, service hours and rail links vary by airport. Check the specific route guide for fares and timings.
Best way from the airport: at a glance
| Mode | Approx time | Cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| RER B | ~35–45 min | Low | Speed and value, traffic-free |
| Roissybus | ~60 min | Medium | Direct, comfortable, to Opéra |
| Taxi (flat fare) | Traffic-dependent | High | Door-to-door, luggage |
The verdict
Pros
- Fast RER B train
- Fixed-fare taxis
- Direct Roissybus to Opéra
Cons
- RER B can be crowded
- Watch for pickpockets
- Traffic affects road options
Frequently asked questions
How do I get from CDG to central Paris?
The RER B train reaches Gare du Nord in about 30–35 minutes for around €11.80. The Roissybus and fixed-fare taxis are comfortable alternatives.
How much is a taxi from CDG to Paris?
A regulated flat fare of about €56 to the Right Bank and €65 to the Left Bank, taking 40–75 minutes depending on traffic.
Is the RER B safe with luggage?
Generally yes, but it gets crowded and pickpocketing occurs. Keep bags zipped and close, especially at busy stations.
What's the best way from CDG to central Paris?
The RER B train — about 35–45 minutes to the Gare du Nord/Châtelet area, avoiding traffic. The Roissybus serves Opéra, and taxis charge a regulated flat fare.
Can I visit Paris on a CDG layover?
With about 7+ hours and Schengen entry, yes — the RER B reaches the centre quickly. See the CDG layover guide and Schengen rules.
Layover tips that actually help
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