Orly Airport to Paris: all transport options

Orly Airport is located approximately 13 km south of central Paris and primarily serves domestic and medium-haul flights, often making it quieter than Charles de Gaulle. If you are travelling alone and want a quick and comfortable solution, the combination of Orlyval tram with the metro or RER is usually the best option, with a total duration of around 35 to 45 minutes. If you are a couple, public transport remains convenient, but many prefer a taxi when the hotel is not near a metro station.

Families with children and a lot of luggage often choose a taxi or a pre-booked private transfer, as switching between tram and metro with luggage can be tiring. For a night arrival, after midnight, the choice is mainly limited to a taxi or a pre-booked private transfer, as most public transport lines do not operate around the clock.

Below we analyse all options for getting from Orly to central Paris, with indicative costs, journey duration, and practical tips for every type of traveller.

Summary comparison of options

Mode	Duration	Cost	Frequency	Hours
Orlyval and RER B	35 to 45 minutes	13 to 14 euros	every 5 to 10 minutes	approximately 06:00 to 23:00
Orlybus	40 to 60 minutes	about 11.5 euros	every 10 to 20 minutes	approximately 06:00 to 00:30
Taxi	30 to 45 minutes	35 to 45 euros fixed fare to city centre	immediately available	around the clock
Private transfer or shuttle	30 to 45 minutes	45 to 90 euros	by booking	around the clock
Car rental	30 to 50 minutes	from 38 euros per day	immediately available	around the clock

Prices are indicative, valid as of September 2026, please check before your trip.

Train or metro from the airport

The automated Orlyval tram connects Orly's terminals with Antony station, where you board the RER B to continue towards central Paris, with stops at locations such as Denfert Rochereau and Chatelet Les Halles. The total journey takes approximately 35 to 45 minutes depending on your final destination within the city. If you are travelling with large luggage, please note that changing from Orlyval to RER B requires a few minutes walk within Antony station, which is worth factoring into your total time. Many travellers prefer to alight at an intermediate RER B station and continue by metro, to avoid congestion during peak hours in the city centre.

Tickets and prices

The combined Orlyval and RER B ticket costs approximately 13 to 14 euros for adults. You can buy it from automatic machines at the tram departure station or via a mobile app before your arrival. Keep your ticket until the end of the journey, as checks are carried out at the entry and exit barriers. You can also buy the ticket directly via the Île-de-France Mobilités app, which saves time queuing at machines during peak hours. Prices are indicative, valid as of September 2026, please check before your trip.

Frequency and stops

Orlyval runs every 4 to 7 minutes for most of the day, while the RER B has a frequency of approximately every 10 to 15 minutes. The service stops around 23:00, so those arriving later will need an alternative transport solution.

Bus and express lines

The Orlybus connects the airport directly with Denfert Rochereau square in central Paris, with a journey taking approximately 40 to 60 minutes depending on traffic. It is a good option if your accommodation is located near this area or if you prefer to avoid changing between tram and train. The ticket costs approximately 11.5 euros and can be purchased at the stop's machines or via an app. It operates from early morning until late evening, with reduced frequency during off-peak hours. The buses have luggage space next to the doors, which is useful if you are travelling with large suitcases and do not want to hold them during the journey. Prices are indicative, valid as of September 2026, please check before your trip.

Taxi from the airport

Official taxis are parked in designated areas outside the arrivals halls. For journeys to central Paris, a fixed fare applies, ranging from approximately 35 to 45 euros depending on which bank of the Seine you are heading to, while the journey usually takes 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic. Most companies do not charge extra for one or two suitcases, but it is a good idea to ask before boarding if you have more luggage. Ride-hailing apps operate normally in the area and often offer a more predictable price, especially during peak hours. It is good to keep your journey receipt, especially if it is a business trip and you need documentation for expenses. Prices are indicative, valid as of September 2026, please check before your trip.

Private transfer and shuttle

If you are travelling with family, with a lot of luggage, or want certainty about your arrival time, you can pre-book a private transfer with a driver who will meet you in arrivals with a sign. The cost ranges from 45 to 90 euros depending on the vehicle type, number of passengers, and destination address, but it saves you from waiting in a taxi queue. Shared shuttle vans are also available at a lower cost per person, although the journey takes longer due to intermediate stops at other hotels. Prices are indicative, valid as of September 2026, please check before your trip.

Car rental, when it's worth it

Car rental at Orly mainly makes sense if you are planning excursions outside Paris, for example to Fontainebleau or the areas south of the capital. Within the city, a car is not cost-effective, as parking is expensive, roads are narrow, and several central areas have traffic restrictions for vehicles without a suitable environmental permit. Rental costs start from approximately 38 euros per day for an economy class, not including tolls and fuel. If you want to combine the city and surrounding areas, it is better to rent the car towards the end of your stay. Prices are indicative, valid as of September 2026, please check before your trip.

Night arrival, children, luggage and accessibility

Orly has lifts and ramps in most areas, with a relatively shorter distance between terminals compared to Charles de Gaulle, which makes it easier for parents with pushchairs. During peak hours, Orlyval and RER B can be crowded, so families with luggage often prefer a taxi or private transfer for more comfort. For arrivals after midnight, options are limited to taxis or a pre-booked private vehicle, as most public transport lines do not run. It is a good idea to have your transfer booked in advance if you land very late, to avoid delays at an empty airport.

How much does the transfer cost in total

For a solo traveller, the most economical option is the Orlybus, costing approximately 11.5 euros, while the combination of Orlyval and RER B costs a little more but is faster. For a couple, the combined cost of two public transport tickets remains lower than a taxi, unless you prefer the comfort of a direct transfer to the hotel. For a family of four with luggage, a taxi with a fixed fare or a private transfer often works out more cost-effective per person compared to four separate tickets, especially if you factor in the time and hassle of transporting luggage. In any case, it is advisable to budget 11.5 to 90 euros depending on your choice. Prices are indicative, valid as of September 2026, please check before your trip.

Common mistakes made by travellers

• Confusing Orlyval with RER B and buying separate tickets instead of a combined one.
• Not keeping the ticket until the end of the journey and facing a fine during an inspection.
• Incorrectly assuming that the fixed taxi fare also applies to journeys outside central Paris.
• Not checking if their hotel is better served by an Orlybus stop rather than an RER station.
• Renting a car for their entire stay in Paris, without calculating the cost of parking in the city centre.

Where to stay and what to read before your trip

If you are planning to combine Paris with other European cities, you can read the accommodation guide for Florence or the guide for Lisbon, two popular destinations for a European city break. If you intend to continue to Spain, the guide for Madrid is also useful, while those wanting an alternative destination in Switzerland can check the guide for Geneva. For families travelling with children, the general guide for holidays with children is useful, with organisational ideas that also apply to urban trips outside Greece.

Frequently asked questions

What is the fastest way from Orly to central Paris?

The combination of Orlyval and RER B is usually the fastest way, reaching the centre in 35 to 45 minutes. Taxis and Orlybus are more affected by road traffic, especially during peak hours, so their duration can exceed one hour under adverse conditions.

How much does a ticket from Orly to the city centre cost?

The combined Orlyval and RER B ticket costs approximately 13 to 14 euros, while the Orlybus costs approximately 11.5 euros. Both options are easily purchased from automatic machines or via a mobile app. Prices are indicative, valid as of September 2026, please check before your trip.

Is there a fixed price for taxis from Orly to the city centre?

Yes, official taxis from Orly to central Paris have a fixed fare of around 35 to 45 euros, depending on which bank of the Seine your destination is on. This price applies regardless of road traffic.

Is it worth renting a car for visiting Paris from Orly?

Within the city, a car is not cost-effective due to expensive parking and traffic restrictions. It is only worth it if you are planning excursions outside the city, such as to Fontainebleau, in which case it is better to rent it towards the end of your stay.

Does Orlyval operate 24/7?

No, Orlyval operates approximately from 06:00 to 23:00. For arrivals after this time, the only realistic option is a taxi or a pre-booked private transfer, as night bus lines have limited frequency.

What is the best option for a family with small children?

For families with a pushchair and luggage, a private transfer or a taxi with a fixed fare offers more comfort than switching between tram and train. If you are travelling outside peak hours, the Orlybus remains a practical and economical alternative.

Conclusion

Getting from Orly Airport to central Paris is relatively straightforward, with several reliable options to suit every budget and need. The choice between public transport, taxi or private transfer depends primarily on the amount of luggage, time of arrival, and how comfortable you wish to be during the journey.

If you plan your transfer in advance, especially for a night arrival or if travelling with small children, you will start your holiday in Paris without unnecessary stress or delays.