Passing through Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)? Located about 28 km from central Paris, CDG is France’s main international gateway, featuring three main terminals and passenger-friendly facilities to make your layover comfortable and stress-free.
Things to Do at the Airport
CDG offers plenty to keep travelers entertained. Play video games, table football, or chess, enjoy exhibitions and art displays, or take a stroll around the terminals. Bars, restaurants, and luxury shops are available, plus workstations with charging points for business travelers.
Airport Hotels & Lounges
For short rests or longer stays, CDG has transit hotels and lounges. YotelAir in Terminal 2E offers cabins and showers for as little as 4 hours. Nearby hotels are connected by the free CDGVal shuttle. Premium lounges in Terminals 1 and 2, including Air France and Star Alliance, provide showers, nap pods, Wi-Fi, and complimentary meals.
Layover Activities in Paris
With enough time and the correct visa, leave the airport to explore Paris:
- Eiffel Tower: Reach in under an hour via RER train or taxi.
- Notre-Dame Cathedral: Only 40 minutes by train.
- Explore local gems like Shakespeare & Company bookstore or flower markets.
For guided sightseeing from the airport, book 2–8 hour transfers to popular destinations like Versailles, Opera Garnier, Champs-Élysées, the Eiffel Tower, and even Champagne Region & Reims.
Tips for a Short Layover
- Rest in designated terminal zones.
- Use high-speed Wi-Fi for flights or planning.
- Enjoy cafés like Café Eiffel or EXKi in Terminals 2E/2F.
- Explore art installations or photo galleries in Terminal 2E.
- Avoid airport currency exchange; use cards or ATMs for better rates.
Tips for a Long Layover
- Book a YOTELAir cabin for 4+ hours.
- Relax in premium lounges with showers, meals, and nap pods.
- With 6–7 hours, visit central Paris via RER B or taxi.
- Pre-book sightseeing rides to avoid waiting.
- Use luggage storage near Terminal 2 for freedom to explore.
Flight Connections & Transit Info
- Visa: Certain nationalities may require a transit or Schengen visa.
- Flight connections: 10 min between gates in the same terminal; ~1 hr 35 min between different terminals.
- Single booking: Luggage is checked through; follow “Connecting Flight” signs.
- Separate bookings: Collect luggage and follow standard departure procedures.
- Overnight layover: Most passport holders can enter visa-free for up to 90 days; some may need airport transit or short-stay Schengen visas.
Internal Transport Options at CDG
- CDGVAL: Free automated train connecting Terminals 1, 3/Roissypôle, Parking PR & PX, Terminal 2. Runs every 4 min, 24/7.
- Shuttle N1: Airside bus in Terminal 2E (Gates K, L, M), every 7 min.
- Shuttle N2: Airside bus connecting 2F and 2G, 05:30–23:00, every 7 min.
- LISA Shuttle: Automated airside train in Terminal 2E, linking check-in/security to remote gates K, L, M.
