Charles de Gaulle Airport Guide

Terminals and the CDGVAL shuttle

The free automatic CDGVAL train links Terminal 1, Terminal 3 and the Terminal 2 area, running every few minutes. Within Terminal 2, some halls connect on foot while others need the shuttle or a bus.

• 2E and 2F are close together and connected. 2A and 2C are paired. 2G sits apart and is reached by a dedicated bus.
• If your boarding pass says 2G, add at least 30 minutes. It catches people out regularly.
• Terminal 1 is a circular building with satellites reached by underground walkways.
• Allow 60 to 90 minutes for a connection that crosses terminals with a passport check in between.

Airport to city: reaching Paris

Paris taxis from the airport use flat fares to the left bank and right bank, which removes the traffic risk from the price. Use the official rank and ignore anyone offering a ride inside the terminal.

The RER B station is inside the airport, with stops at Terminal 3 and Terminal 2. From Terminal 1, take the CDGVAL to Terminal 3 first.

Check-in and security

Arrive three hours before long-haul flights and two hours for European departures. Passport control for departures outside the Schengen area is a second queue after security, and it can be the slower of the two in the morning.

• Automated passport gates are available to many nationalities and cut the queue significantly.
• Self-service bag drop is widespread. Print or scan your tag at the kiosk before joining the drop queue.
• Some halls have small, cramped security areas. If your hall looks busy, that is normal rather than exceptional.

Lounges

The strongest lounge choice is in 2E and 2F, where long-haul departures concentrate. Independent lounges accept paid entry and lounge programme cards in several halls. Access is hall-specific, so check that the lounge you plan to use is behind the same security point as your gate.

Restaurants and food

Food at CDG is better than its reputation, particularly in the newer satellites, where bakeries and brasserie-style restaurants sit alongside the usual fast options. Landside cafes in Terminal 2 are cheaper than airside ones if you have time before check-in.

Wi-Fi and charging

Free Wi-Fi covers the terminals with a simple connection page. Power sockets are common in the newer satellites and sparser in older parts of Terminal 1 and the A to D halls.

Baggage storage

Left luggage services operate at the airport, generally in the Terminal 2 area, with security screening before storage. Opening hours do not always cover the full day, so check timings before planning a trip into Paris around them.

Airport hotels

Several hotels sit inside the airport complex, including one attached to Terminal 3 and others a short shuttle ride away in the Roissypole area. For an early departure from a distant hall, the on-site options are worth the premium.

Sleeping at the airport

CDG stays open overnight, and passengers do sleep here, but comfort is limited and the quieter corners are cold. There are sleep pod facilities in parts of the airport if you want somewhere enclosed for a few hours.

Family services

• Baby care rooms with changing tables and bottle warming are available in the main halls.
• Play areas are provided in several satellites, generally near the central seating.
• Priority lanes for families with young children exist at many security points.

Accessibility

Assistance is arranged through your airline and should be requested at least 48 hours ahead. Call points are marked at terminal entrances and in the rail station. Step-free access is available throughout, including on the CDGVAL shuttle.

Layover guide

Connections within 2E and 2F can work in about an hour. Anything involving 2G, Terminal 1 or Terminal 3 needs two hours or more. With six hours or more, central Paris is realistic by RER B, provided you are comfortable with the Schengen entry check.

Things to do nearby

The old town of Roissy-en-France is a few minutes away and pleasant for a short walk. Beyond that, central Paris is the only real destination, and the RER B makes it possible on a long layover.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Terminal 2E, 2F and 2G?

They are separate halls within Terminal 2. 2E and 2F are connected, while 2G is a separate building reached by shuttle bus, so allow extra time.

How do I get from CDG to central Paris?

The RER B train takes about 35 to 50 minutes. Coaches, buses, fixed-fare taxis and private transfers are the main alternatives.

Is CDGVAL free?

Yes, the automatic shuttle between terminals is free and runs frequently, including through the night.

How long should I allow for a CDG connection?

One hour within the same hall pair, two hours or more if you change terminals or need a passport check.