Passengers waiting for an RER train
The RER B train connects Charles de Gaulle Airport with central Paris. Trains run from the airport stations to Gare du Nord, Châtelet–Les Halles, Saint-Michel Notre-Dame, Denfert-Rochereau, and other major stations across the city. The journey takes about 35 to 45 minutes, depending on the train and destination.
Airport journeys require a dedicated RER ticket rather than a standard Paris Metro ticket. Tickets are available at the airport stations before boarding the train. For more detailed information, see our guides to the Paris RER, Paris Metro, and Metro tickets.
RER B trains depart from the stations serving Charles de Gaulle Airport terminals. The line runs south into Paris, stopping at Gare du Nord, Châtelet–Les Halles, Saint-Michel Notre-Dame, Luxembourg, and Denfert-Rochereau before continuing beyond the city.
The trip from CDG to central Paris takes about 35 to 45 minutes, depending on the train and destination. Gare du Nord is the first stop in Paris and one of the main interchange stations for Metro and train connections. Châtelet–Les Halles sits near the center of the city and connects with several Metro and RER lines.
Electronic signs on the station platforms display the next departures and destinations. Follow the signs for RER B, then board a southbound train toward Paris.
A driver meets you at the terminal and takes you directly to your hotel. A private airport transfer begins your visit with door-to-door service from the airport to your accommodation. Book your airport transfer before you travel.
Taking the RER is fast, but it requires one more step after you arrive in Paris station. To get to your hotel you will need to catch a taxi or make a Metro connection, which adds time and effort when you're carrying luggage.
A private airport transfer meets passengers in the arrivals hall and drives directly to the final destination. Luggage remains in the vehicle throughout the trip, with no ticket machines, station platforms, or train changes along the way.
For families, groups, and travelers arriving with several suitcases, the price difference between train tickets and a shared vehicle is smaller than it first appears. See our guide to Paris airport transfers for details.
Buying an RER ticket
Buying an RER ticket at CDG is straightforward. Ticket machines and staffed counters are located near the entrances to the airport's RER stations. Machines offer several language options and accept credit cards.
Tickets must be purchased before entering the platform area. Keep your ticket until the end of the trip, as it is required to pass through the exit gates at stations in Paris.
If you are uncertain which ticket to buy, station staff can help. Airport tickets are different from the standard tickets used on the Paris Metro and buses.
RER B connects Charles de Gaulle Airport with central Paris
A standard Paris Metro ticket does not cover travel between Charles de Gaulle Airport and central Paris. Airport journeys on the RER B require a dedicated airport ticket.
Standard Metro tickets are available on Navigo Easy cards and through the official transportation mobile apps. These tickets are used for travel on the Metro, buses, trams, and parts of the RER network within Paris. Airport journeys are priced separately.
After arriving in Paris, standard Metro tickets are suitable for most day-to-day travel around the city. For more information, see our guide to Paris Metro tickets.
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