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Booked a flight into Charles de Gaulle and a connection out of Orly, or the other way around? You are not alone: many travelers combine a long-haul flight with a European or domestic flight that leaves from the other Paris airport. The two airports are about 22 to 28 miles (35 to 45 km) apart, on opposite sides of the city, with no airside connection. This guide explains how long the transfer really takes, how much time to allow between flights, and the easiest way to do it with luggage.
This guide is part of our Paris Airport Transfers Guide.
Key Takeaways
- CDG to Orly by car: about 50 minutes to 1 hour 15, depending on traffic.
- By train: about 1 hour 15 to 1 hour 30 with at least one change.
- Allow time: plan at least 4 to 5 hours between flights when you change airports.
- Easiest: a private driver meets you at CDG arrivals and drops you at your Orly terminal.
Why the CDG to Orly Connection Needs Planning
CDG is north-east of Paris and Orly is south. To go from one to the other, you leave the airport after passport control, collect your bags, cross or circle around Paris, then check in again for your next flight. Unless both flights are on the same ticket with a connection guaranteed by the airline, missing the second flight is your responsibility.
Traffic is the main unknown. The fastest routes use the A1 and A86 or the Paris ring road, and both can slow down at rush hour, roughly 7:30 to 10 AM and 5 to 8 PM on weekdays.
CDG to Orly: Options Compared
| Option | Travel time | Changes | Luggage | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Private car service (FR Transfer) | 50 min to 1 h 15 | None, terminal to terminal | Chauffeur handles bags | Tight connections, families, groups |
| Taxi | 50 min to 1 h 15 | None | Up to 4 people, limited trunk | Couples with light luggage |
| Rideshare app | 50 min to 1 h 15 | None | Car type not guaranteed | Light travelers |
| RER B + metro line 14 | About 1 h 15 to 1 h 30 | 1 change at Châtelet | Stairs, crowds | Solo budget travelers |
| RER B + Orlyval | About 1 h 15 to 1 h 30 | 1 change at Antony | Two trains with bags | Budget travelers |
How Much Time to Allow Between Flights
| Step | Typical time |
|---|---|
| Passport control and baggage claim at CDG | 30 to 60 min |
| Drive from CDG to Orly | 50 min to 1 h 15 |
| Check-in and bag drop at Orly | Closes 45 to 60 min before an international flight |
| Security at Orly | 15 to 30 min |
| Recommended minimum | 4 to 5 hours between landing and departure |
With less than 4 hours, a private car is the safest option: no waiting at a taxi rank, no train changes, and a chauffeur already in the arrivals hall when you come out.
Book your CDG to Orly transfer
Send us both flight numbers. We track your arrival and get you to your next terminal on time.
The Private Car Option, Step by Step
- Before you fly: send us both flight numbers and your Orly terminal.
- At CDG: your chauffeur tracks your flight and waits in arrivals with a name sign.
- On the road: the chauffeur chooses the fastest route in real time.
- At Orly: drop-off at the departures door of your terminal, Orly 1, 2, 3 or 4.
The same service works the other way, from Orly to CDG, for travelers arriving on a European flight and leaving on a long-haul flight.
A Long Layover? See Paris on the Way
With 8 hours or more between flights, you can turn the transfer into a short city tour: Eiffel Tower photo stop at the Trocadéro, the Champs-Élysées, the Louvre and Notre-Dame, then on to the other airport. Your luggage stays in the car with the chauffeur. Read our Paris city tour with a private chauffeur for an itinerary, and ask us for a combined price.
Which Car for Your Airport Connection?
| Vehicle | Passengers | Suitcases | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mercedes V-Class (luxury van) | Up to 7 | Up to 7 | Families and groups with luggage, up to 7 passengers |
| Mercedes S-Class (luxury sedan) | Up to 3 | Up to 2 | Couples and business travelers |
| Mercedes-Maybach GLS (ultra-luxury SUV) | Up to 4 | Up to 4 | VIP guests who want maximum comfort between flights |
| Cadillac Escalade (full-size SUV) | Up to 6 | Up to 5 | Groups of up to 6 who prefer a full-size SUV |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get from CDG to Orly?
About 50 minutes to 1 hour 15 by car depending on traffic, and about 1 hour 15 to 1 hour 30 by train with a change.
How much time do I need between a flight at CDG and a flight at Orly?
We recommend at least 4 to 5 hours between landing and departure, to cover passport control, baggage claim, the drive and check-in.
Is there a shuttle between CDG and Orly?
There is no direct free shuttle between the two airports. The options are a private car, a taxi, a rideshare app or public transport with at least one change.
Can the driver wait if my first flight is late?
Yes. Your chauffeur tracks the flight and adjusts the pickup time. If the delay threatens your connection, contact your airline as soon as possible.
Do you also drive from Orly to CDG?
Yes, the transfer works in both directions, with meet and greet in the arrivals hall at Orly.
Changing airports in Paris?
Terminal to terminal, flight tracking, English-speaking chauffeur and a fixed price.