Overview

Roissy-Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), which began service on 8 March 1974, is located near Roissy-en-France. The airport complex actually straddles the junction of three departments: Val d'Oise (95), Seine-et-Marne (77), and Seine-Saint-Denis (93) in Ile-de-France (see map).

Charles de Gaulle Airport complex
(click to enlarge)

Airport terminals

The airport has three main terminals (fr. Aérogares):

• Terminal 1

  The oldest terminal (opened in 1974) was built with an avant-garde design which is maintained today, even though interior sections of the structure have been renovated and modernized. It consists of a single main building for check-in and baggage claim, with 7 satellites for arrivals and departures. Each satellite can handle about 5 aircraft at any given time. Underground walkways with moving sidewalks connect the satellites to the main building.

• Terminal 2

  Terminal 2 was originally built exclusively for Air France flights, but has since been expanded significantly and now also hosts other airlines. It consists of multiple halls which are joined together by ground-level or below-ground passageways. The seven halls are named 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E, 2F and the separate 2G (which opened March 2009 for Schengen Area flights).

CDG Terminal 2E Departure Lounge.
(click to enlarge)

• Terminal 3

  This terminal – formerly called T9 – hosts charter and low-cost airlines. Consisting of a single hall, it is located 1 km/0.62 mi. from Terminal 1, but the walking path is 3 km/1.9 mi. long. The RER and CDG-VAL trains are at a distance of 300 m/980 ft. on foot.
  
  (See list of airlines and destinations by terminal.)

Navigating between terminals

Passengers arriving on different flights at separate terminals who wish to meet each other, and those who will be taking an RER-B commuter express to Paris or a TGV train to other destinations in France, may board the free 24-hour VAL (Véhicule Automatique Léger) shuttle train which makes frequent runs between terminals 1, 2, 3 and the rail stations – plus two remote car parks – within 8 minutes.

While it is possible to walk the length of Terminal 2 from Halls A&B through E&F (using the moving sidewalks in some places), the distance is significant and can take more than 15 minutes; 2G is located 2.5 km/1.6 mi. away from terminals 2A-2F. Depending on your stamina (and luggage), you may find it more practical to take one of the free TransRoissy shuttle buses:

• N1 connects terminals 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E, 2F, and the RER/TGV rail station (see route map);
• N2 connects terminals 2E & 2F with the remote terminal 2G (see route map); and
• N3 connects terminals 2C & 2D with both the RER/TGV rail station and the remote terminal 2G (see route map).

For suggested methods and routes between terminals and airports, consult the interactive Connecting Flights Guide.

Escalator from Arrivals
to baggage claim at CDG
(click to view gallery)

Baggage handling

Upon approaching the baggage claim areas, be sure to avail yourself of the free luggage carts – which are generally parked next to the baggage carrousels or conveyor belts. They will save you considerable effort in navigating to the exits and beyond!

As a precaution against terrorist incidents, French airports have eliminated all short-term baggage lockers. However, for travelers on a short layover at CDG who may be interested in visiting Paris unencumbered by their bags, there is a private "left luggage" service called Bagages du Monde situated at Terminals 2-E/F above the TGV station (facing the VAL stop). Rates are €6 per bag for up to 6 hours, €12 for 6-12 hours, and €15 per day. Hours: 6:00 a.m. - 9:30 p.m., 7 days a week; check-in and check-out time is usually 5 minutes or less.

Announcements – the Roissy chime

Until 2005, every PA (public address) announcement made at Terminal 1 was preceded by a distinctive chime, nicknamed "Indicatif Roissy" and composed by Bernard Parmegiani in 1971. The chime can be heard in the Roman Polanski film Frantic. Although the chime was officially replaced by the "Indicatif ADP" chime in late 2005, there recently have been unconfirmed reports that Indicatif Roissy has occasionally returned.

Seeking assistance

Many airport staff can speak English; they are friendly when approached in a courteous manner (say "Bonjour, Madame/Monsieur!" first), and will give advice when needed. In each terminal there is a clearly marked Information desk where personnel can assist travelers with any questions or directions, and where one can pick up bus or train schedules.

Transport to and from Roissy-CDG

Transportation between CDG and Paris – or to Orly Airport for connecting flights throughout Europe – is possible by car, taxi, bus, RER (train), privately-operated shuttles, and limousines. A few of these options will also offer transport to certain suburbs and/or Disneyland area hotels. Your own choices may be influenced not only by your budget, but also by how much luggage you are carrying and your ultimate destination.

The distance from CDG to central Paris (75001) is roughly 28 km or 17 miles (consult travel times for each arrondissement, or neighborhood). From CDG to Orly is approximately 41 km (26 miles), and CDG to Disneyland is about 40 km (25 miles).

Car Hire / Rentals

Roissy-Charles de Gaulle Airport offers the convenience of picking up a car hire/rental quickly after your flight has landed – usually in the same terminal – thereby avoiding a trip into the city.

Book online for best selection and lowest price.

On the other hand, if you plan to visit Paris for a few days or longer before driving off into the countryside, you may save some money and avoid parking issues by picking up your vehicle at a number of central city locations (including railroad stations) toward the end of your Paris stay.

We would tend to discourage renting a car at all if you plan to remain in Paris for the duration of your trip – traffic is horrendous, parking can be difficult (and expensive) in the city, but public transportation is easy and extensive. In case of a special occasion – such as a dinner cruise on the Seine or at the Eiffel Tower, with pick-up at your hotel or apartment – you might wish to consider arranging a private chauffeured sedan instead.

There are six car rental agencies located in the airport:

Available car makes include: Audi, BMW, Chevrolet, Citroën, Fiat, Ford, Jeep, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Opel, Peugeot, Porsche, Renault, Volkswagen, Volvo, and more (varies by location). Body styles include: Mini/Economy, Compact/Midsize, Family Size, Luxury, Sports Car, SUV/4WD, and Cabriolet/Convertible.

Booking your car hire in advance can save considerably on the base rental, insurance, and – particularly for non-residents of the European Union – the very high French TVA (en. VAT, or Value-Added Tax).

Discover France has partnered with Auto Europe to offer easy online booking of the widest selection of models to suit your needs and budget. Founded in 1954, Auto Europe is an international car hire broker (consolidator) which has negotiated the guaranteed lowest rates with all major rental companies.

Based on the model you select, your vehicle pick-up will be pre-arranged at any one of the Charles de Gaulle Airport or Paris City agencies, according to your preference. Toll-free customer service is available round-the-clock – 24/7. For longer visits (21 days or more), an attractive lease-buyback program is also available, featuring your choice of brand-new Peugeot models.

For the rules of the road, driver tips, information about speed limits, fuel, highway tolls, rest areas, parking, and a glossary of useful terms – see our article "Driving In France".

Limousines

Limousines may be frequently found near each exit from the terminals, and though the chauffeurs may try very hard to seduce you with their charm, you can expect to pay €100-200 to ride in style.

A few words of caution are in order: Finding a reputable, licensed limo at the curbside is not guaranteed, as there are a number of "gypsy" drivers who operate at the airports without authorization or proper insurance. Also be aware that French transportation laws prohibit licensed operators from soliciting you to use their services.

Should you choose this method of transport, be certain that you have agreed to the exact final cost to your destination, before allowing the first bag to be loaded. Preferably, you would have reserved your ride in advance, through a limousine company's web site or by phone, and received an e-mail or faxed confirmation of your fare.

Taxis

Due to their unpredictable cost, we recommend that you avoid taking a taxi. Since the fare depends on traffic, taxis can become rather expensive – particularly during the morning rush hour, when the A1 freeway becomes a congested nightmare. (Most overnight flights from North America tend to arrive during this timeframe.)

A Taxi Parisien rooftop sign.
(click to enlarge)

A taxi ride into Paris can take between 40 minutes to 2 hours, costing between €40 (minimum) and €60 or more – depending on the arrondissement. The CDG airport's web site (www.adp.fr) estimates around €50 during daytime hours, plus a surcharge for evenings after 7 p.m., Sundays and/or holidays.

In addition to the metered fare, there is a supplement of €1 for each piece of luggage after the first (weighing in excess of 5kg and placed in the luggage compartment), as well as €3 for a fourth passenger. Families traveling with infants should keep in mind that taxis will not have a child seat available; they are exempt from this requirement.

When you phone for a taxi to return from Paris back to the airport, the meter starts running from the point where the taxi was dispatched – which could be anywhere in the city. Consequently, the fare showing on the meter may already be €7-10 by the time you board the vehicle at your hotel.

• Be prepared to pay the driver cash (in Euros); drivers must issue a receipt if you request one.
• Some taxis also accept credit cards, which will be indicated in a notice on the back side window (amounts over €15 only).
• Since many drivers do not speak English, it's a good idea to have your destination address written down or printed out.
• Parisian taxis are required to accept passengers of limited mobility with wheelchairs, and there is no charge to carry a wheelchair.
• Smoking in taxis is normally prohibited, unless the driver happens to want a cigarette, in which case it may be negotiable.
• Taxis do not provide infant- or child-seats. Parents with infants or toddlers should seek out shuttle operators who provide such seats.
• It is customary to tip the driver about 10% of the fare, if service is good and the cab is clean.

Shared and Private Shuttle Vans

An affordable alternative to the high cost of taxis and other private transportation, various airport shuttle companies offer air-conditioned, non-smoking, 7- and 8-passenger minivans with comfortable seating and ample cargo space.

Volkswagen minivan – shared or private shuttle.
Also available, for private transfers only:
9-15 pax minibus & 16-49 pax coach.
(click to see other views)

Courteous English-speaking drivers will assist you with your luggage, then drive you safely from any CDG terminal directly to your hotel or other address in Paris. Some companies also provide transport to outlying suburbs (by prior request) and the Disneyland-Paris Resort area.

While Roissybus and Air France shuttle fares may be somewhat cheaper, they do oblige you to walk, navigate the Métro with your luggage, or take a taxi from their limited drop-off points in Paris to your hotel, thus increasing your final cost and time to your destination. By contrast, the minivan shuttles provide "door-to-door" service, combining convenience and the shortest travel time at reasonable rates.

Ideal for couples, small groups, or families with children (some operators offer child seats for added safety) – these shuttles plan their passenger loads so that no more than 3 stops are made on any one trip into the city (private shuttles are also available). Advance reservations are required. You will be asked to provide your arrival time, flight number, and airline; the operator monitors your flight's arrival status by Internet, assuring that a driver will be there to greet you – even if your flight is delayed.

RoissyBus

The regional public transportation authority, RATP (Régie Autonome des Transports Parisiens), offers a special bus service between Roissy-CDG and 9, rue Scribe (9th arrondissement) near the famous Opéra Garnier, in the heart of Paris. While it may take some time to leave the airport as it picks up passengers from various terminals, the route from the airport to its destination is direct, with no intermediate stops in the city.

Running between 6:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m., the RoissyBus departs every 15 minutes (20 minutes after 8:45 p.m.), and the journey lasts approximately 45 to 60 minutes – somewhat longer during rush-hour. The bus leaves from the following airport locations:

Aérogare/Terminal 1: exit door #32 on the arrivals level. Aérogare/Terminal 2: 2A-C (exit A9), 2B-D (exit D11), on the arrivals level; 2E-F (exit 5), gallery level. Aérogare/Terminal 3 (formerly T9): bus station. (View brochure and route map.)

A one-way Roissybus fare is €10.00 (no child discount is available). Other valid fares – when purchased for Zones 1-5 – include the Paris Visite pass (1, 2, 3 or 5 days), the weekly or monthly Navigo Découverte, and the yearly Imagine R student pass (valid on weekdays only). One-day Mobilis passes are not accepted.

This is not a "coach bus"; there is no storage compartment underneath. It is actually an articulated city bus (with an accordion center connecting two halves). At the front and in the middle, there are two small shelves for luggage.

Paris City Bus

The bus lines 350 (terminus Gare de l'Est, 10th arrondissement) and 351 (terminus Nation, 11th & 12th arrondissements) serve the airport's terminals 1 and 2. Both lines run 7 days a week, and can take up to 2 hours to reach the terminus.

350/351 bus stops at CDG

• Bus 350 starts running around 6:00 a.m. (every 17-21 minutes on weekdays, roughly every half-hour on weekends); the last bus leaves Roissy-CDG at 10:30 p.m. (see PDF route map)
• Bus 351 starts running around 7:00 a.m. (roughly every half-hour on weekdays, weekends, and holidays); the last bus leaves Roissy-CDG at 9:37 p.m. (see PDF route map)

Though the travel times for these buses exceed those of the other public transportation options (due to numerous stops made between Roissy and the terminus), they are by far the most economical choice. Furthermore, they afford a leisurely and fairly pleasant view of Paris neighborhoods passing along the route.

If your Paris accommodations are located in the 18th arrondissement (Montmartre), or the 9th/10th near the Gare du Nord or Gare de l'Est, then Bus #350 will drop you closest to your destination. Likewise, if you will be staying in the 20th close to Porte de Montreuil or in the 11th/12th near Place de la Nation and the Cimetière du Père Lachaise, then Bus #351 is your best bet.

The one-way 350 or 351 bus fare from CDG to Paris is €5.10 (€6.00 when purchased on-board) – or three (3) t+ tickets (not transferable to another bus or the métro).

Other valid fares – when purchased for Zones 1-5 – include the Paris Visite pass (1, 2, 3 or 5 days), the weekly or monthly Navigo Découverte, and the yearly Imagine R student pass (weekdays only).

Noctilien (Night Bus)

The night-time bus lines N140 and N143 (each terminating at Gare de l'Est, 10th arrondissement) serve airport terminals 1, 2, and 3.

Both lines run 7 days a week. N140, with 18 stops, takes about 82 minutes to reach the terminus; N143, an "express" with only 9 stops, takes about 55 minutes. From the Gare de l'Est, one can connect with 16 other Noctilien lines, plus the métro (lines 4, 5 & 7, after 5:30 a.m.) and SNCF trains.

• Bus N140 departs from Terminal 3 at 1:00 a.m., 2:00 a.m., and 3:00 a.m. (the last 4:00 a.m. departure does not go to Paris; it ends at Gare d'Aulnay-sous-Bois), stopping at Terminals 1 and 2 within 3 and 10 minutes thereafter (see PDF route map)
• Bus N143 departs from Terminal 3 at 12:02 a.m. and at half-hour intervals until 4:32 a.m., stopping at Terminals 1 and 2 within 4 and 12 minutes thereafter (see PDF route map)

The one-way N140 or N143 bus fare from CDG to Paris is €5.10 (€6.00 when purchased on-board) – or three (3) t+ tickets (not transferable to another bus or the métro).

Other valid fares – when purchased for Zones 1-5 – include the Paris Visite pass (1, 2, 3 or 5 days), the one-day Mobilis, the weekly or monthly Navigo Découverte, and the yearly Imagine R student pass.

RER-B3 (express commuter train)

Roissy-CDG is served by the RER (Réseau express régional) rail line, part of the Paris métro system, toward the city and its southern suburbs. These express trains with limited stops run from 5 a.m. to 12 midnight, departing every 10-15 minutes on weekdays – somewhat less frequently on weekends and holidays.

Platform of the RER station at CDG

There are two RER stations within the airport complex, both of which fall within Zone 5 of the RATP's transit system (zones determine fares; the city of Paris falls within zones 1-2). A station situated midway between the 2C/2D and 2E/2F terminal buildings (see map) is the line B3 terminus ("Aéroport Charles de Gaulle 2 – TGV"); the second station ("Aéroport Charles de Gaulle 1") is situated next to terminal 3.

All the airport's terminals, RER/TGV stations, and remote car parks can be reached by taking the free CDG-VAL, an automated and driverless rail shuttle with five stops.

The B3 train takes about 25 minutes to reach the Gare du Nord railway station (10th arrondissement), 28 minutes to Châtelet–Les Halles (1st arr.), and 35 minutes to Denfert-Rochereau (14th arr.). There are seven stops within Paris; four of these offer connections (fr. correspondances) to certain métro and other RER lines, as follows:

• Gare du Nord (métro lines 2, 4, & 5; RER lines D & E)
• Châtelet–Les Halles (métro lines 1, 4, 7, 11, & 14; RER lines A & D)
• St-Michel Notre-Dame (métro lines 4 & 10; RER line C)
• Luxembourg
• Port-Royal
• Denfert-Rochereau (métro lines 4 & 6)
• Cité-Universitaire

The one-way RER fare is €9.50 for adults, and €6.65 for children (ages 4-10). Other valid fares – when purchased for Zones 1-5 – include the Paris Visite pass (1, 2, 3 or 5 days), the weekly or monthly Navigo Découverte, and the yearly Imagine R student pass (weekdays only).

Transport between Roissy-CDG and Orly airports:
To get to Orly Airport from CDG Airport, take the RER-B (direction Massy Palaiseau or Saint-Rémy-lès-Chevreuse) to Antony station, and then take the Orlyval (automated shuttle train) to the Orly-Ouest or Orly-Sud terminals. Traveling from Orly to CDG, take the Orlyval to Antony station, then the RER-B to Aéroport Charles de Gaulle. The combined one-way fare is €20.30 for adults and €12.05 for children. Once again, the Paris Visite pass (Zones 1-5) is valid for this trip.

A note of caution – Senior citizens, travelers with heavy luggage, disabled persons, or families with small children in tow are forewarned that navigating by rail from Roissy-CDG to one's hotel in Paris may require considerable effort:

• Transfers from subterranean RER platforms to connecting métro lines in Paris can involve several steep sets of stairs and some very long walks, particularly at Gare du Nord and the gargantuan Châtelet–Les Halles complex.
• Since RER-B does not connect directly with five of the métro lines (3, 8, 9, 12, 13), a second transfer is required to reach hotels situated near those lines.

TGV Train Station

Charles de Gaulle airport has its own TGV – Train à Grande Vitesse, 'high-speed train' – station that is part of the LGV Interconnexion Est rail line, offering connections to various cities in France and throughout Europe. The platform is located in the same station as the RER-B3 terminus, between airport terminals 2C/2D and 2E/2F (see map).

For TGV schedules and fares, visit the SNCF web site.

Your Transport Questions

If you have other questions regarding public bus or rail transportation (including the Paris Métro), you can also call the RATP English Information Center at 08.92.68.41.14 from a land line; the call will cost you €0.34 per minute in France.

Birds and Other Animal Hazards at the Airport

The grassy lands on which the airport is located are notorious for rabbits and hares, which can be seen by airplane passengers at certain times of the day. The airport organizes periodic hunts and captures to keep the population within manageable levels.

Bird control personnel at CDG
(click to see image gallery)

Bird strikes are a recognized hazard in the aviation industry. Because thousands of planes are struck by birds each year, aircraft designers and airport officials do all they can to minimize the risk of accidents.

Jean-Luc Briot, an ornithologist with France's Civil Aviation Administration in Paris, says French aviation authorities receive 800 impact reports from pilots annually, of which 10-15% are classified as "serious" – resulting in damage to the aircraft or flight delays.

At Charles de Gaulle Airport, fixed runway speakers are used to scare birds away, according to an ADP spokesman. Airport agents stationed on each runway are equipped with flares and noisemakers that allow them to play the sounds of a bird in distress, thereby frightening other birds. As a result of such prevention measures, Air France has reduced its number of collisions by a third during the past 10 years, says Briot.

Ed. note: On 2 April 2001, Flight AA 63 (a Boeing 767-323ER) was forced to return to Paris-CDG when multiple birdstrikes at 12,000 feet caused cabin depressurization. One bird entered the flight deck via the P1-1 panel on the captain's left side. There were no passenger/crew fatalities or injuries associated with this incident. (See photographs of damage to aircraft.)

An 18-year Layover... really!

According to "The Budget Traveller's Guide to Sleeping in Airports", CDG is the worst airport in the world to stay overnight.* Apparently that condition did not deter one remarkable individual from calling the airport home for an astounding 18 years.

On 26 August 1988, Mehran Karimi Nasseri found himself held at Charles de Gaulle airport by immigration. He claimed he was a refugee, but his refugee papers had been stolen. After years of bureaucratic wrangling, it was concluded that Nasseri had entered the airport legally and could not be expelled from its walls; but since he had no papers, there was no country to deport him to either, leaving him in residential limbo.

Nasseri continued to live within the confines of Terminal 1 at the airport until 2006, even though French authorities had since made it possible for him to leave if he so wished. Nasseri was the possible inspiration for the 2004 film The Terminal (starring Tom Hanks). In July 2006 he was hospitalised and later taken care of by charities; he did not return to the airport.

*(See also the traveler reviews of Charles de Gaulle Airport at Skytrax.)

Hotels at Charles de Gaulle

If your trip's purpose is just a quick business meeting before jetting off again, or you are in Paris on a layover – and sleeping inside the airport does not appeal to you – there are twelve hotels conveniently situated near or within the CDG complex, some of which offer day rooms for short stays. Due to the layout of the numerous airport terminals and satellites, transit hotels in the airside areas of the airport are not available.

• Best Western Paris CDG Airport (4 stars) – 5 minutes from airport, 10 min. from Villepinte Parc des Expositions. Free shuttle. Restaurant serves a continental & buffet breakfast and international cuisine; bar/lounge open for drinks. Amenities include: fitness center, sauna, free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, tea & coffee-making facilities, private bathroom, all rooms accessible with an elevator, non-smoking throughout. 1, allée du Verger, 95700 Roissy-en-France.
  
  
• Golden Tulip Paris CDG Airport - Villepinte (4 stars) – Situated between CDG and Villepinte Parc des Expositions, 2 min. from A1 & E15 highways. Free shuttle. 153 air conditioned, contemporary style rooms w/ sitting area. Breakfast buffet served each morning; La Rose des Vents restaurant serves dishes made from fresh ingredients; evening time, guests can relax in the bar with a free international newspaper. Amenities include: fitness center, sauna, satellite TV, free Wi-Fi, tea & coffee maker; on-site private parking available. 11, allée du Verger, 95700 Roissy-en-France.
  
  
• Hilton Charles de Gaulle Airport (4 stars) – 5 minutes from airport. Free shuttle from Terminal 2F. Day rooms are available between the hours 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, & dinner; bar/lounge open for drinks; room service 24/7. Amenities include: indoor pool, health club, sauna, steam room, business center, small meeting rooms, secretarial services. Roissypôle, rue de Rome, 93000 Tremblay-en-France.
  
  
• Holiday Inn Paris - Charles de Gaulle Airport (4 stars) – 123 air-conditioned guestrooms. Free shuttle at scheduled times (arrange in advance). Restaurant & a snack bar/deli; hot & cold buffet breakfasts each morning (surcharges apply); bar/lounge open for drinks; room service during limited hours. Amenities include: fitness facility, complimentary wireless Internet access in public areas. 4, allée du Verger, 95700 Roissy-en-France.
  
  
• Hyatt Regency Paris - Charles de Gaulle (4 stars) – Located next to CDG, 5 min. from Villepinte Parc des Expositions. 388 air-conditioned, non-smoking, sound-proofed rooms. Free shuttle. Apollo Restaurant: themed buffets or selected menus; daily buffet breakfast; relax with a drink in the Bar Cosmos. Amenities include: concierge service, indoor pool, 24-hour fitness center, sauna, 2 tennis courts, flat-screen TV, priv. bathroom, avail. Wi-Fi (€22/day) & room service, reduced rates at nearby Paris International Golf Club. 351, avenue du Bois de la Pie, 95700 Roissy-en-France.
  
  
• Ibis Budget Roissy CDG Paris Nord 2 (2 stars) – Three miles from airport, 5 min. from Villepinte Parc des Expositions. 250 air-conditioned rooms. Free shuttle from TGV/T2 & RER/T1. Healthy buffet breakfast served every morning; vending machines near 24-hour front desk offer drinks & snacks. Amenities include: free Wi-Fi , free newspapers, satellite LCD TV, iron, alarm clock, private bathroom. 335, rue de La Belle Étoile, 95700 Roissy-en-France.
  
  
• Kyriad Roissy Villepinte - Parc des Expositions (4 stars) – Located 5 min. from CDG, 285 yards from Villepinte Parc des Expositions & RER station, 30 min. from Disneyland. 78 air-conditioned, modern rooms. The classy Brassière restaurant serves a buffet breakfast and traditional French cuisine; enjoy a drink in the lounge/bar. Amenities include: 24-hour front desk, elevator, free Wi-Fi in public areas, private bathroom, tea & coffee making facilities, satellite TV. 53, avenue des Nations, 93420 Villepinte.
  
  
• Marriott Paris - Charles de Gaulle Airport (4 stars) – One mile from airport. Free shuttle 6 am - 11 pm, Terminals 1&2. 300 air-conditioned rooms, a French brasserie for afternoon & evening meals, 24-hour room service, intimate bar for drinks, Grab 'n' Go boutique. Amenities include: fitness center, sauna, 24 fully-equipped meeting rooms, business center, modern bathroom, satellite TV, Wi-Fi; Revive bedding ensures a comfortable night's sleep. Zone Hôtelière, Allée du Verger, 95700 Roissy-en-France.
  
  
• Novotel Paris Charles de Gaulle Terminal (4 stars) – Center of CDG, a short walk from T3, connected to terminals by free CDG-Val (automated metro). 201 air-conditioned, sound-proofed rooms; day rooms available 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. Restaurant and bar. Amenities include: free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV, minibar, tea & coffee maker, hairdryer, free toiletries, priv. bathroom, laundry, drycleaning, breakfast in room, play area w/ books & game consoles, and a ticket service; on-site parking is available. Roissypôle, Route de l'Épinette, 93000 Tremblay-en-France.
  
  
• Première Classe Roissy Charles de Gaulle Paris Nord 2 (2 stars) – Three miles from airport (easy access via shuttle), 10 min. from Villepinte Parc des Expositions, 10 miles from Parc Astérix. 87 air-conditioned rooms. Buffet breakfast served daily in the bright breakfast room; drinks & snacks avail. from vending machines. Amenities include: 24-hour front desk, night porter, TV w/ built-in alarm, free Wi-Fi, priv. bathroom w/ shower, rooms for guests with limited mobility available, newspapers avail. in lobby, priv. on-site parking (cars & buses). Zac du Parc de Roissy, Allée des Vergers, 95700 Roissy-en-France.
  
  
• Pullman Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (4 stars) – Located in the heart of the airport, 5 min. from Villepinte Parc des Expositions, 4 miles from Gonesse Golf Club. Free shuttle to/from 3 terminals. 344 a/c, sound-proofed guest rooms. L'Escale Restaurant serves international gourmet cuisine, buffet breakfast every morning; enjoy a drink in the Cape Bar. Amenities include: 24-hour front desk, heated indoor pool, fitness center, flat-screen satellite TV, free Wi-Fi, coffee maker, minibar, marble bathroom, private on-site parking, ticket service, computers in the lobby. Roissypôle Ouest, Rue de l'Échelle, 95700 Roissy-en-France.
  
  
• Sheraton Paris Airport Hotel & Conference Center (4 stars) – Located inside the airport, just above the RER train station (Terminal 2). Day rooms available 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. 252 a/c, sound-proofed rooms w/ separate sitting area. Les Saisons café serves daily buffet breakfast; Les Étoiles restaurant serves French cuisine; there is also a club lounge bar. Amenities include: Link@Sheraton 24-hour business center, tour desk, currency exchange service, fitness center, sauna, satellite TV, tea & coffee-making facilities. Aérogare CDG 2, 95700 Roissy-en-France.
  
  
• See also: Park Inn by Radisson Charles de Gaulle Airport, Résidhome Roissy Village (double rooms & suites with full kitchen), Roissy Chambres (B&B with 6 en-suite rooms).

On the other hand, if you are visiting Paris on holiday, please have a look at our extensive selection of hotels and short-term apartment rentals in the city. You can search for properties close to dozens of famous landmarks and train stations, or find a cozy retreat in the suburbs.

Services at Charles de Gaulle

From a local landline/payphone*, you can call the Aéroports de Paris information hotline at 3950 (the cost is €0.34/minute incl. tax; additional fees may be charged by your local telephone operator) or dial +33 1.70.36.39.50 from abroad.
Web site: aeroportsdeparis.fr.

* Payphone use will require a credit card or télécarte (prepaid phone card).

Information Desks

In partnership with the Île-de-France region, the airport provides five welcoming information desks, located in the areas beyond baggage claim. You can get assistance with your itinerary, practical information, a range of services (including hotel reservations), and a selection of tourist products.

• Terminal 1, Arrivals level, Gate 4 (7:00 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.)
• Terminal 2-C, facing Gate 12 (7:00 a.m. - 2:15 p.m.)
• Terminal 2-D, Gate 5 (8:00 a.m. - 10:30 p.m.)
• Terminal 2-E, Arrivals level, Gate 8 (7:00 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.)
• Terminal 2-F, Arrivals level, Gate 10 (7:00 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.)

Useful Numbers

• Air Transport Gendarmerie (fr. Gendarmerie des Transports Aériens): 01.48.62.17.00
• Business Service Center: 01.48.62.22.90 local phone; +33 1.48.62.22.90 from abroad*.
• Customs (fr. douanes), 24h/24: 01.48.62.62.85 local phone; +33 1.48.62.62.85 from abroad*.
• Flight Information: 01.48.62.22.80 local phone; +33 1.48.62.22.80 from abroad*.
• Immigration: 01.48.62.31.22 local phone; +33 1.48.62.31.22 from abroad*.
• Parking: 01.48.62.63.63 local phone; +33 1.48.62.63.63 from abroad*.
• Police/Emergencies/Security, 24h/24: 01.48.62.31.22 local phone; +33 1.48.62.31.22 from abroad*.

* or from a mobile phone with a foreign number/SIM card (roaming service), not a French cell number.

Lost & Found (fr: Objets Trouvés)

For items left behind on a plane, you should contact your airline directly. For items lost within the airport terminals, there are Lost & Found offices located at:

• Terminal 1:
  Halls 5-6, next to the CDG-VAL entrance; open 8:30 a.m. - 12 noon and 1:00 - 4:30 p.m.; phone: 01.48.62.13.34 ; e-mail: objetstrouves-cdg1@adp.fr.
• Terminal 2:
  between Halls A-B-C-D (near the Post Office); open: 9:00 a.m. - 12 noon and 1:00 - 5:30 p.m.; phone: 01.48.16.63.83 ; e-mail: objetstrouvescdg2@adp.fr.

Note: After a certain period of time has passed, the airport turns found objects over to the Paris police department (36, rue des Morillons, 75015 Paris; métro Convention, line 12), which estimates that 40,000 lost items are returned to their owners each year. They can be reached at 08.21.00.25.25 (a €0.12/minute toll applies).

There appears to be plenty of anecdotal evidence, including numerous online forum posts, which would suggest that the Lost & Found staff at CDG can be rather unhelpful to foreigners. Some posts have gone so far as to accuse the staff of stalling about found property until the waiting period has expired, with the intention of keeping such items for themselves. While we are unable to verify these claims and can only hope that CDG staff intentions are less sinister, our strongest recommendation is that you keep your wits about you, safeguard your valuables to the best of your ability, practice caution and common sense in all public spaces – particularly in transportation hubs and near tourist attractions, where thieves and pickpockets prey on unsuspecting travelers! (See articles "Feeling Safe in Paris" and "Pickpockets in Paris" for more tips.)

Emergency & Medical Services

1. The Medical Center attends not only to emergencies but also to general medical problems.

• at Terminal 2F:
  pre-security, Arrivals level, Gate 017; open 24/7; phone: 01.48.62.28.00 or 01.48.62.53.33/32; for emergencies, dial 15 (SAMU, urgent medical aid service) or 18 (fire; fr: pompiers) from any land line or pay phone.

2. Drugstores carry para-pharmaceutical products, regulation-size first-aid kits and other travel-related items. They are located in two terminals and several halls:

• at Terminal 1 (Pharmacie Segreto / La Pharmacie du Voyage):
  pre-security, boutique level (level 2, hall 6); open Mon. - Sat. 8:00 a.m. - 7:20 p.m., Sun. 9:00 a.m. - 7:20 p.m.; phone: 01.48.62.24.10.
• at Terminal 2A:
  pre-security, boutique level (near Post Office), open 7 days/wk., 7:20 a.m. - 7:20 p.m.; phone: 01.48.62.62.00.
• at Terminal 2D (Pharmacie Landraud):
  pre-security, boutique level, open 7 days/wk., 9:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.; phone: 01.48.62.62.00.
• at Terminal 2F (Pharmacie Roissy 2F):
  pre-security, Departures level, open 7 days/wk., 9:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.; phone: 01.48.16.58.58.

Persons With Disabilities, Special Needs

All facilities at Roissy-Charles de Gaulle Airport are ADA-compliant. Should you need special attention due to a disability, we recommend contacting your airline 48 hours prior to your departure time.

With advance notice, personnel at CDG can provide assistance for disabled and reduced-mobility passengers. Upon landing and getting off the airplane, you will be greeted by a CDG representative who can assist with your transportation. Traveler's Aid: 01.48.16.45.24 local phone; +33 1.48.16.45.24 from abroad.

Banking

The global HSBC Bank provides 25 automatic teller machines (ATMs) throughout the CDG Airport, and also maintains two full-service branches – offering cash advances, assistance in case of loss/theft of travelers checks or credit cards, buying and selling travelers checks and many international currencies, as well as value-added tax (fr: TVA) refunds. Services are available:

• at Terminal 1:
  public area, Departures, boutique level, open Mon. - Sat., 8:30 a.m. - 7:15 p.m.; phone: 01.48.62.84.60; fax: 01.48.62.89.91.
• at Terminal 2, between halls D & F:
  public area, TGV/RER Station, boutique level, open Mon. - Sat., 8:45 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; phone: 01.48.62.33.99; fax: 01.48.16.53.83.

American Express

• at Terminal 1:
  pre-security, Departures level, near gate 26; post-security, Arrivals level, baggage claim 30; open 6:30 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
• at Terminal 2A:
  pre-security, near gate 5, open 6:00 a.m. - 10:30 p.m.
• at Terminal 2B:
  pre-security, between gates 5 & 7; post-security, Departures level; open 6:00 a.m. - 10:30 p.m.
• at Terminal 2C:
  pre-security, between gates 5 & 6; open 6:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.; near gate 5, open 6:00 a.m. - 10:30 p.m.; post-security, Departures level, near Arrivals gates, open 7:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
• at Terminal 2D:
  pre-security, near gate 6, open 6:30 a.m. - 10:30 p.m.; post-security, Departures, near gate 2, open 6:00 a.m. - 10:30 p.m.
• at Terminal 2E:
  pre-security, Arrivals between 2E & 2F and at Departures; post-security, near boarding area and next to 53 La Galerie Parisienne.
• at Terminal 2F:
  pre-security, Arrivals level, near gate 11, open 6:00 a.m. - 11:30 p.m., and gate 6, open 6:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m., and between 2E & 2F; post-security, Schengen area next to 2F1, Departures, entrance to F1 module, open 6:30 a.m. - 10:45 p.m.
• at Terminal 3:
  pre-security, Departures Hall, open 6:30 a.m. - 10:45 p.m.

Assorted Euro notes and coins.
(click to enlarge)

Currency Exchange

Both HSBC Bank and American Express provide currency exchange services. There are also 20 Travelex locations situated throughout the airport.

Ed. note: Travelex is notorious for charging very high fees to exchange currencies, recently reported to be as high as 8.5% of the total funds exchanged, PLUS a €3.50 transaction fee. Instead, we recommend using a debit card with a 4-digit PIN to obtain local funds from an ATM, and using either a credit or debit card for purchases.

North American credit and debit cards containing a magnetic strip (as opposed to European cards with a smart chip) will generally not work in automated vending machines, such as those which dispense rail tickets. When confronted with such a situation, there is little one can do but queue at a ticket counter instead, where the clerk/cashier can swipe your card. [See related article.]

Wi-Fi / Internet Access

Free Wi-Fi is available at Roissy-CDG for 15 minutes. Beyond that, you can pay a fee to extend your time. Time cards may be purchased at the Relay Stores or directly online from HubTélécom. The cost is €1.90 for a 30-minute connection, €4.50 for 90 minutes; an "unlimited" day pass is €9.90 (valid only on the day you begin to use it). Tip: Don't buy a day pass at 10 p.m., because you will only get to use the Wi-Fi for 2 hours.

If you don't have your own mobile device or laptop computer and need Internet access, there are two options:

• Atlanteam Cyber Café – Located airside in Terminals 1, 2-E and 3. Cost: €2 for 15 minutes, €3 for 30 minutes, €5 for 1 hour.
• Multimedia Terminals – Located airside and landside in all terminals. Rates: Internet access (chat rooms, e-mail, instant messaging, web cam, web phone) €0.15 per minute, black & white printing €0.90/page, color printing €1/page, digital printing (such as photos): €2 each.

Restaurants & Pubs

Travelers can dine at the various bars, cafés and restaurants in the airport.

• Bar 140, sandwiches & juice/wine bar (Terminal 2-A, after customs), phone: none listed.
• Bar 407, sandwiches & juice/wine bar (Terminal 1, after customs, gates 10-38), phone: none listed.
• Bar 428, sandwiches & juice/wine bar (Terminal 1, after customs, gates 40-48), phone: none listed.
• Bar Manhattan (Terminal 1, after customs), phone: none listed.
• Bar du Point de Rencontre (Terminal 1, public area, arrivals level), phone: none listed.
• Bill Bentley Pub, British-style pub (Terminal 2-D, after customs), phone: 01.48.62.54.85.
• Bistrot Fontaine des Halles, authentic bistro (Terminal 2-A), phone: none listed.
• Brioche Dorée, sandwiches/salads & pastries (Terminal 1, public area, departure & CDG-VAL levels, bonded area, gates 70-78; Terminal 2-A, public area & after customs; Terminals 2-B & 2-C, public area), phone: none listed.
• Café Londres (Terminal 1, after customs), phone: 01.48.64.93.14.
• Café NSEE (Terminal 2-E, after customs), phone: 01.74.37.13.41.
• Caffè Ritazza, coffee shop (Terminal 1, public area & after customs; Terminal 2-B, public area; Terminals 2-A, 2-C, 2-D, after customs; Terminal 3), phone: 01.48.16.07.10.
• Café Sélect, pastries & snacks (Terminal 2-A, public area east; Terminal 2-B, after customs west; Terminal 2-D, public area), phone: 01.48.16.10.05.
• Caviar House & Prunier, seafood bar (Terminal 2-A/2-C, after customs), phone: 01.74.37.11.51.
• Le Comptoir Quotidien, desserts & pastries (Terminal 2-F, public area), phone: 01.74.37.74.04.
• L'Escale Parisienne (Terminal 2-C, after customs; Terminal 3, public area), phone: none listed.
• Exki, sandwiches & salads/soups (Terminal 2-A, after customs), phone: none listed.
• France Café (Terminals 2-B & 2-D), phone: 01.48.64.51.90.
• Frenchy's Be Relax, Parisian brasserie (between Terminals 2-A & 2-C, public area), phone: none listed.
• Le Grand Comptoir, traditional brasserie (Terminal 1, public area, arrivals & Boutiques levels; xxx), phone: none listed.
• Hippopotamus, steakhouse/American bar (Terminal 1, public area; zone 2D), phone: 01.48.62.53.25.
• Illy Café, Italian coffee (Terminal 2-F, after customs), phone: none listed.
• Les Marchés de Paris, self-service grill (Terminal 2-A, after customs), phone: none listed.
• McDonald's, fast food/burgers (Terminal 1, public area; Terminals 2-A, 2-B, 2-C, public areas), phone: 01.48.16.24.14.
• Pergola Café International, sandwich bar (Terminal 3, public area), phone: none listed.
• Pizza Hut (Terminal 2-B, public area), phone: none listed.
• Salmon House, fish restaurant (Terminal 2-B, public area), phone: none listed.
• Starbucks, coffee shop (Terminal 1, public area, departure level; Terminals 2-B, 2-D), phone: none listed.
• La Terrasse de Paris, pastries & sandwiches/salads (Terminal 1, after customs, level 11), phone: 01.48.16.03.86.

Continued: Le Bourget Airport