The Ultimate Guide to a Layover in Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG)

A layover at Paris CDG is the perfect excuse to trade terminal coffee for a freshly baked croissant near the Eiffel Tower. Don’t let your transit time go to waste when the magic of Paris is just a short train ride away.

⚠️ Before You Leave the Airport

Visa: Ensure you have entry rights for France.
Time: It takes approx 40 mins to reach the city.
Language: The primary language is French. (Download offline maps/translate if needed).

⏱️ Select Your Layover Duration

We have detailed, minute-by-minute itineraries based on your exact time window:

✈️ Airport to City: Transport Options

Layover Transport Pro Tip: Take the RER B train directly from CDG to central Paris; it is the fastest way to avoid traffic and costs about 11.80€ one way.

Method	Time Estimate	Cost	Verdict
RER B	40 mins	$	✅ Best for Speedruns
Taxi / Uber	60 mins	$$$	⚠️ Risk of Traffic

*Traffic in Paris is unpredictable. Always take the train if possible.

Layover Budget Calculator

Layover Budget Pro Tip: Avoid expensive airport currency exchanges and use a contactless travel card or Apple Pay, which are accepted almost everywhere in Paris.

How much cash (or card balance) do you need for a quick trip into Paris? Here is a safe estimate:

Transport (Round Trip): ~$9 USD
Meal & Coffee: ~$18 USD
Tipping: Service included (Service Compris). Round up.
Misc / Buffer: $10 USD
TOTAL NEEDED: ~$37 USD

Luggage Storage at CDG

Layover Luggage Pro Tip: Store your bags at the ‘Bagages du Monde’ lockers located in Terminal 2 near the TGV-RER station so you can explore the city hands-free.

You can find luggage storage at: Terminal 2: Level 4 (TGV Station), opposite the Sheraton Hotel..

WiFi & Connectivity

Layover Connectivity Pro Tip: Download an Airalo eSIM for instant data or take advantage of free high-speed Wi-Fi available throughout all CDG terminals.

Most travelers at CDG use the free airport WiFi.

Sleeping & Lounges

Layover Sleeping Pro Tip: For a quick nap, head to the ‘Instant Paris’ lounge in Terminal 2E or look for the comfortable reclining lounge chairs near the gates.

If you decide to stay inside CDG, look for rest zones near the international gates.

Ready for your Paris Speedrun?

Now that you have the essentials, go make the most of your Parisian speedrun and soak in the city’s iconic atmosphere. Just be sure to head back to the airport three hours before departure to clear security smoothly!

Disclaimer: Flight schedules and visa rules change. Always check your official airline app before leaving the terminal.