France’s Main Airports
- Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG): the largest airport and the main hub for long-haul flights.
- Paris Orly (ORY): closer to the city, used for many European and some long-haul routes.
- Paris Beauvais (BVA): used by some low-cost airlines. It is much farther from Paris, so add the bus transfer time and cost.
- Nice (NCE): the gateway to the Riviera.
- Lyon (LYS), Marseille (MRS) and Bordeaux (BOD): useful if you are exploring regions rather than starting in Paris.
When Are Flights Cheaper?
- Cheaper: November to March, outside Christmas and school holidays.
- Pricier: July and August, and around Easter and Christmas.
- Midweek flights are often cheaper than weekends.
How to Find a Better Fare
- Compare several airlines and sites, and check the airline’s own site before you pay.
- Compare the total price, including bags and seat fees.
- Be flexible with dates, and check nearby airports in your own country.
- For a multi-city trip, an open-jaw ticket (into Paris, out of Nice) can save you a day of backtracking.
- Allow enough time between connecting flights, and prefer a single ticket if you are connecting.
Flying Within France
For most routes the train is quicker once you count airport time, and often cheaper. Flights make sense for long routes, such as Paris to Nice, if the fare is good. Check baggage rules, because short domestic flights often have strict limits.
Before You Fly
- Visa and entry system: check the rules in our France visa guide before you book. The Entry/Exit System can take extra time on arrival.
- Strikes: rail and air strikes happen in France fairly often. Check the day before travel, and consider flexible tickets and travel insurance.
- Connectivity: a travel eSIM saves you from roaming charges. See the eSIM deals.
- Insurance: consider cover for delays and cancellations.
From the Airport to Your Hotel
- Paris: trains, buses and taxis connect the airports with central Paris. Check the current options and fares on arrival, because routes and works change.
- Nice and other cities: trams, trains and buses link the airports with the center, and taxis are easy.
- Hotel transfer: some hotels can arrange pickups.
Next Steps
Once your flight is sorted, plan where to stay, the best time to visit France and a France itinerary. You can also read the full France travel guide.
