Arriving at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) is exciting, but the cost of getting into the city center can quickly eat into your budget. While a taxi offers speed, it comes with a fixed, high price (€56–€65).
Fortunately, Paris has highly efficient and budget-friendly public transport options. Here is a breakdown of the cheapest ways to get from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Paris, ranked from fastest to lowest cost.
1. RER B Train: Fastest and Best Value
The RER B is the suburban rail line that connects CDG directly to the heart of Paris. It offers the best balance of speed, price, and convenience.
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Cost: Approximately €13.00 (Full fare, one-way, as of 2025). Half-price for children (ages 4-9).
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Journey Time: 30–40 minutes to central stations (Gare du Nord, Châtelet–Les Halles).
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Convenience: Very high. The RER B stops at terminals 1, 2, and 3 (via the free CDGVAL shuttle) and takes you directly to the center, where you can easily transfer to the Metro network without buying a new ticket (as long as you don’t exit the station).
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How to Ride:
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Follow the blue and white signs marked “Paris par Train” or “RER B.”
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Purchase your “Paris Region <> Airports” ticket at the clearly marked machines or ticket desks.
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Take the train heading Direction Saint-Rémy-lès-Chevreuse.
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Pro Tip: Your RER ticket is valid for a single journey into the city. Keep it until you have fully exited the Metro/RER system, as you may need it to exit the final turnstile.
2. RoissyBus: Direct to the Center (Good for Single Destination)
The RoissyBus is a dedicated airport coach service operated by RATP (Paris’s public transport authority) that connects the airport directly to the Opéra district.
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Cost: Approximately €13.00 – €16.20 (Check price at time of travel; may vary slightly based on purchase method).
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Journey Time: 60 minutes (Scheduled) but highly dependent on Paris traffic.
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Convenience: High. It’s a direct route with dedicated luggage space, and the drop-off point at Opéra is a central area surrounded by Metro lines (3, 7, 8).
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How to Ride:
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Follow the signs for “Bus” or “RoissyBus.”
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The bus departs from all terminals.
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You can purchase the ticket from the driver or at the ticket machines near the bus stops.
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When to Choose the RoissyBus: If your hotel is located near the Opéra Garnier area, this is a perfect, simple, one-stop transport option.
3. Local Public Buses (Bus 350 / 351): The Absolute Cheapest
For the ultimate budget traveler who prioritizes cost over time and comfort, the standard RATP public buses are the cheapest way to travel.
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Cost: The price of a standard public transport ticket, approximately €2.15 per ride.
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Journey Time: 70–90 minutes (Highly variable; subject to all city traffic and local stops).
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Convenience: Low. These are standard city buses, meaning they have limited space for large luggage and make frequent stops.
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Routes:
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Bus 350: Connects CDG to Paris – Porte de la Chapelle (Northern Paris).
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Bus 351: Connects CDG to Paris – Nation (Eastern Paris).
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How to Ride: You can pay for the journey using a Navigo Easy Pass loaded with a ticket, or by tapping a contactless bank card directly on the dedicated reader when you board.
Budget Traveler Warning: Only choose this option if you are traveling light (backpack only) and are not in a hurry. The long duration and lack of dedicated luggage racks can be frustrating after a long flight.
CDG to Paris: Comparison Summary
| Method | Cost (Approx.) | Time (Scheduled) | Best For |
| RER B Train | €13.00 | 30–40 min | Best Overall Value & Speed |
| RoissyBus | €13.00 – €16.20 | 60 min (Variable) | Direct link to Opéra; good luggage space |
| Local Bus (350/351) | €2.15 | 70–90 min (Slowest) | Absolute lowest price; light luggage only |
| Taxi (Fixed Rate) | €56 (Right Bank) / €65 (Left Bank) | 35 min (Variable) | Ultimate convenience & speed for groups (up to 4 people) |
By choosing the efficient RER B train or the local public bus, you can save significant money that can be better spent on a fantastic Parisian meal or a perfect glass of French wine!