How to Get From Charles de Gaulle Airport to Eiffel Tower: 2026 Guide
Posted on
January 30, 2026
Arriving at Charles de Gaulle Airport after a long flight can be tiring, particularly when you are carrying luggage, travelling with children, or dealing with jet lag. The Eiffel Tower is approximately 32–35 kilometres from the airport, and the journey normally takes between 40 and 60 minutes by road. However, travel times can become considerably longer during busy periods.
Travellers deciding how to get from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Eiffel Tower can choose between the RER train, public buses, an official airport taxi, a ride-hailing service, a shared shuttle, or a pre-booked private transfer. This guide compares the approximate price, journey time, luggage convenience, comfort, and reliability of each option.
This guide is ideal for first-time visitors to Paris, couples planning a city break, families travelling with luggage, business travellers working with a fixed schedule, and passengers staying near the Eiffel Tower, Trocadéro, Champ de Mars, or the 7th arrondissement.
As a Paris-based airport transfer provider, Paris Private Shuttle regularly assists travellers arriving at Charles de Gaulle, Orly, and Beauvais airports. This gives us practical insight into airport pickup procedures, Paris traffic patterns, luggage requirements, and the difficulties passengers can experience when navigating public transport after a flight.
What Is the Best Way to Get From Charles de Gaulle Airport to Eiffel Tower?
The best option depends on your budget, arrival time, luggage, and preferred level of comfort. The RER is usually the most economical practical choice, while an official taxi offers a direct journey at a regulated fixed fare. A pre-booked private shuttle is generally the most convenient option for families, groups, business travellers, and passengers who want a driver waiting when they arrive.
The main options are:
- RER train: Best for solo travellers and couples travelling light.
- Public bus: Best for budget travellers who are not in a hurry.
- Official taxi: Best for passengers wanting direct transport without pre-booking.
- Uber or another ride app: Best for travellers already comfortable using ride-hailing services.
- Shared shuttle: Best for budget-conscious travellers who still prefer airport pickup.
- Private shuttle: Best for families, groups, business travellers, and passengers carrying several suitcases.
For most first-time visitors with luggage, an official taxi or pre-booked private transfer offers the simplest journey. Public transport is cheaper, but it normally requires at least one connection and some walking.
How Far Is Charles de Gaulle Airport From Eiffel Tower?
The road distance from Charles de Gaulle Airport to the Eiffel Tower is approximately 32–35 kilometres, depending on the route taken and the passenger’s exact drop-off point.
Under normal traffic conditions, the drive usually takes around 40–60 minutes. During weekday morning traffic, the evening rush hour, major events, or roadworks, the journey may take 60–90 minutes.
The Eiffel Tower is located on the Left Bank of the River Seine in Paris’s 7th arrondissement. Nearby pickup and drop-off areas include:
- Quai Jacques Chirac
- Avenue de la Bourdonnais
- Avenue de Suffren
- Champ de Mars
- École Militaire
- Trocadéro, across the Seine in the 16th arrondissement
Taxi fares differ depending on whether your destination is on the Right Bank or Left Bank of the Seine. Because the Eiffel Tower is on the Left Bank, the official CDG-to-Paris Left Bank taxi rate applies.
Passengers staying near Trocadéro should confirm the exact hotel address. Some properties are located on the Right Bank, which may affect the official taxi fare.
Transport Options From Charles de Gaulle Airport to Eiffel Tower
Prices below are approximate and based on official 2026 fares or typical market ranges. Traffic, public transport disruptions, availability, seasonal demand, and the exact drop-off point may affect the final cost and journey time.
Option 1: Get the RER Train From Charles de Gaulle Airport to Eiffel Tower
The RER train is usually the most practical low-cost public transport option.
Take the RER B from either Aéroport Charles de Gaulle 1 or Aéroport Charles de Gaulle 2 TGV. There is no direct RER train to the Eiffel Tower, so you must change to another line.
One common route is:
- Take the RER B from Charles de Gaulle Airport.
- Change at Saint-Michel–Notre-Dame.
- Take the RER C towards Versailles Château, Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines, or Pontoise, depending on the service.
- Exit at Champ de Mars–Tour Eiffel.
Another option is to take the RER B to Denfert-Rochereau, change to Metro Line 6, and exit at Bir-Hakeim. The Eiffel Tower is approximately a 10-minute walk from Bir-Hakeim station.
The official Paris Region Airports ticket costs €14 per adult journey in 2026. It can be loaded onto a Navigo Easy card or, on compatible devices, purchased using a smartphone.
Approximate price: €14 per adult
Approximate duration: 60–80 minutes
Connections: Usually one interchange
Walking: Approximately 8–15 minutes, depending on the final station
Pros:
- Low fixed public transport price
- Avoids most road traffic
- Frequent services during normal operating hours
- Suitable for solo travellers and couples
Cons:
- No direct train to the Eiffel Tower
- Stairs, platforms, and station corridors can be difficult with luggage
- Crowded during peak commuting periods
- Disruptions or engineering works may affect RER B and RER C services
- Pickpocketing is a concern in crowded tourist areas and stations
Best for: Solo travellers, couples, students, and visitors carrying limited luggage.
Luggage considerations: Most trains have space near doors and seating areas, but there is no reserved luggage storage. Large suitcases can be difficult to manage during busy periods or when changing platforms.
Which Terminal at Charles de Gaulle Airport Has Train Access?
Charles de Gaulle Airport has two main RER stations.
Passengers arriving at Terminal 2 can follow signs to Aéroport Charles de Gaulle 2 TGV. The station is located between the Terminal 2C/2E and 2D/2F areas. Walking time varies considerably because Terminal 2 is divided into several halls.
Passengers arriving at Terminal 1 must take the free CDGVAL automatic airport shuttle to the Terminal 3/Roissypôle area. From there, they can access the Aéroport Charles de Gaulle 1 RER station.
Passengers arriving at Terminal 3 can normally walk to the Aéroport Charles de Gaulle 1 station at Roissypôle. The walk generally takes around 5–10 minutes, depending on the arrival exit.
The CDGVAL connects Terminals 1, 2, and 3/Roissypôle and is free within the airport. The Terminal 2 railway station can also be reached by CDGVAL from Terminals 1 and 3.
Check planned services using the SNCF Connect train timetable before travelling.
Option 2: Get a Bus From Charles de Gaulle Airport to Eiffel Tower
There is no direct public bus from Charles de Gaulle Airport to the Eiffel Tower. A bus journey requires at least one Metro connection and normally takes longer than the RER.
RoissyBus, which previously operated between CDG and the Opéra area, stopped running on 1 March 2026. Travellers should therefore avoid relying on older guides that still recommend it.
Current alternatives include Bus 350 to Porte de la Chapelle and Bus 351 towards Nation. Bus 350 takes approximately 60–80 minutes just to reach Porte de la Chapelle, after which passengers must continue by Metro to the Eiffel Tower area. The standard Bus-Tram ticket costs €2.05 when purchased in advance on a Navigo Easy card or supported smartphone.
A possible Bus 350 route is:
- Take Bus 350 from CDG to Porte de la Chapelle.
- Take Metro Line 12 towards Mairie d’Issy.
- Exit at Concorde.
- Change to Metro Line 8 towards Balard.
- Exit at École Militaire.
- Walk approximately 10–15 minutes to the Eiffel Tower.
This route is inexpensive but involves a long journey, multiple stages, and limited convenience with luggage.
Approximate price: From €4.10 when using advance Bus-Tram and Metro-Train-RER tickets
Approximate duration: 90–120 minutes or longer
Connections: Normally one or two Metro connections
Pros:
- One of the cheapest options
- Useful when the RER is disrupted
- Bus 350 and Bus 351 provide daytime airport connections
Cons:
- No direct bus to the Eiffel Tower
- Long journey
- Multiple connections
- Limited luggage convenience
- Journey time is affected by road traffic
Best for: Travellers prioritising the lowest possible fare over speed and convenience.
Luggage considerations: Airport bus services can accommodate luggage, but moving suitcases through Metro stations after the bus journey may be difficult.
Option 3: Get a Taxi From Charles de Gaulle Airport to Eiffel Tower
Official airport taxis provide direct transportation from the terminal taxi rank to the Eiffel Tower or a nearby hotel.
The Eiffel Tower is on the Left Bank, so the official fixed fare between Charles de Gaulle Airport and the Paris Left Bank is €65 in 2026. The official Right Bank fare is €56.
This means the regulated taxi cost from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Eiffel Tower should normally be €65 when the journey begins at an official CDG taxi rank and ends at a Left Bank address within Paris.
Official fixed fares apply between Charles de Gaulle Airport and the Eiffel Tower area because the destination is within Paris. The rates are regulated by French authorities.
Additional booking or approach fees may apply when a taxi is ordered in advance rather than taken from the official airport rank. Passengers should confirm these charges when reserving.
Approximate price: €65 from an official CDG taxi rank
Approximate duration: 40–60 minutes in normal traffic
Rush-hour duration: Up to 60–90 minutes
Pros:
- Direct door-to-door transport
- Regulated fare
- Available from designated airport taxi ranks
- No train changes or heavy walking
Cons:
- Taxi queues may be long during busy arrival periods
- Traffic can significantly increase journey time
- Vehicle size may not suit large groups or excessive luggage
- Passengers cannot always choose a specific vehicle type
Official taxis generally accept major payment cards, but it is sensible to confirm payment options before departure.
Only use the clearly marked official taxi ranks outside the terminals. Ignore people approaching passengers inside the terminal and offering an unofficial taxi service.
Option 4: Get Uber or Ride Apps From Charles de Gaulle Airport to Eiffel Tower
Ride-hailing apps offer another direct road transport option. The price is normally displayed in the app before the booking is confirmed.
A typical journey may cost approximately €50–€90, although the fare can become higher during periods of strong demand, bad weather, public transport disruption, or major Paris events.
Approximate price: €50–€90
Approximate duration: 40–90 minutes, depending on traffic
Pricing: Dynamic and demand-based
Pros:
- Price estimate displayed before booking
- Cashless payment
- Several vehicle categories may be available
- Trip and driver details appear in the app
Cons:
- Surge pricing can exceed the official taxi fare
- Airport pickup points can be confusing
- The driver may cancel the booking
- Passengers need mobile data and sufficient battery power
- Waiting time varies according to driver availability
Charles de Gaulle Airport is large, and ride-app pickup areas may not be immediately outside the arrivals exit. Passengers must follow the instructions in the app and confirm the correct terminal, door, and pickup zone.
Ride apps are best for passengers familiar with app-based pickups who are comfortable navigating the airport meeting point independently.
Option 5: Get a Shared Shuttle From Charles de Gaulle Airport to Eiffel Tower
A shared shuttle carries passengers from different bookings in the same vehicle. Each traveller is dropped off at a separate hotel or address.
A shared shuttle is different from a private shuttle. With a shared service, you may need to wait for other passengers, and your journey may include several stops. With a private service, the whole vehicle is reserved for your booking and travels directly to your destination.
Approximate price: €30–€50 per passenger
Approximate duration: 60–120 minutes
Availability: Must normally be reserved in advance
Pros:
- Door-to-door service
- May cost less than a private vehicle for one passenger
- No need to navigate the RER or Metro
- Luggage is carried in the vehicle
Cons:
- Waiting for other passengers may delay departure
- Multiple hotel stops increase journey time
- Less privacy
- Limited availability at very early or late hours
- Luggage allowances may be restricted
Best for: Solo travellers who want door-to-door transport but do not mind sharing the journey.
For two or more passengers, compare the total shared-shuttle cost with an official taxi or private transfer. The price difference may be relatively small after multiplying the per-person fare.
Option 6: Get a Private Shuttle From Charles de Gaulle Airport to Eiffel Tower
For travellers who prioritise comfort, reliability, and door-to-door service, a private transfer is often considered the most convenient option.
A pre-booked vehicle is reserved exclusively for the passenger or group. The driver monitors the flight, meets the passengers at the agreed airport meeting point, assists with luggage, and travels directly to the Eiffel Tower area.
Paris Private Shuttle provides fixed-rate transfers using vehicles suited to couples, families, business passengers, and larger groups. Available vehicle categories may include Mercedes E-Class cars, Mercedes V-Class vehicles, and spacious minivans.
The service can include:
- A fixed price confirmed before travel
- Airport meet-and-greet service
- Flight arrival monitoring
- Luggage assistance
- English-speaking drivers
- Child seats or boosters when requested
- Direct transportation without additional passenger stops
- 24/7 customer support
- Free booking with payment at the end of the journey
A private transfer is particularly useful when travelling with young children, several suitcases, elderly passengers, mobility limitations, or a group that would otherwise need more than one taxi.
You can view the private shuttle transfer from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Eiffel Tower for vehicle and booking information.
Approximate price: Fixed quotation confirmed during booking
Approximate duration: 40–60 minutes in normal traffic
Waiting: Driver meets the booked passengers
Privacy: Entire vehicle reserved for one booking
Pros:
- Confirmed price
- Direct door-to-door service
- No airport taxi queue
- Suitable vehicle selected for the group and luggage
- Convenient for families and business travellers
- Support available before and during the journey
Cons:
- Costs more than public transport for a solo traveller
- Advance booking is recommended
- Journey time remains dependent on road traffic
Charles de Gaulle Airport to Eiffel Tower Transport Comparison
Here is a side-by-side comparison of the main transport options from Charles de Gaulle Airport to the Eiffel Tower:
| Option | Approximate Price | Typical Time | Luggage | Comfort | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RER train | €14 per adult | 60–80 minutes | Limited | Moderate | Solo travellers and couples |
| Public bus | From about €4.10 | 90–120+ minutes | Difficult with connections | Basic | Lowest-budget travellers |
| Official taxi | €65 | 40–90 minutes | Good | Good | Direct travel without pre-booking |
| Uber or ride app | €50–€90 | 40–90 minutes | Good | Good | App users |
| Shared shuttle | €30–€50 per person | 60–120 minutes | Moderate | Moderate | Solo door-to-door travel |
| Private shuttle | Fixed booked price | 40–90 minutes | Very good | High | Families, groups and business travellers |
Fares and times should be checked again before travelling, particularly during public transport disruption, large events, or holiday periods.
Cheapest Way to Get From Charles de Gaulle Airport to Eiffel Tower
The cheapest option is normally Bus 350 followed by the Metro. However, this journey is long and requires connections.
For most travellers, the RER B is the better balance between price and journey time. The €14 airport ticket covers the airport rail journey and allows passengers to continue towards central Paris using the appropriate connected rail route.
Fastest Way to Get From Charles de Gaulle Airport to Eiffel Tower
A taxi, ride-hailing vehicle, or private shuttle is normally fastest when traffic is moving well. A direct road journey can take approximately 40–60 minutes.
During severe congestion, the RER may be faster because it avoids road traffic. However, the rail journey still involves a connection and walking from the final station.
Most Comfortable Option
A pre-booked private shuttle is normally the most comfortable option because the vehicle is reserved for your booking, the driver meets you at the airport, and there are no public transport connections or additional passenger stops.
An official taxi is also convenient, although passengers may need to queue and cannot always choose a vehicle based on their group size or luggage.
Quick Decision Guide
- RER train: Faster than the public bus, but less convenient than door-to-door transport.
- Public bus: Cheaper than most alternatives, but considerably slower and more complicated.
- Official taxi: More direct than the train, but subject to traffic and airport queues.
- Ride app: Convenient when vehicles are available, but prices can rise during high demand.
- Shared shuttle: Easier than public transport, but slower than a private vehicle because of additional stops.
- Private shuttle: More expensive than public transport, but offers the highest level of convenience, privacy, and luggage support.
Best Option for Families With Luggage
Families carrying suitcases, a pushchair, and children’s bags may find the RER difficult, especially during peak periods.
An official taxi can work for a small family with standard luggage. However, a pre-booked private minivan is generally more suitable when child seats, additional luggage space, or a larger vehicle are required.
Families should request child seats or boosters when booking because they may not be available automatically.
Best Option for First-Time Visitors
First-time visitors often benefit from a taxi or private transfer. Both options avoid ticket machines, platform changes, station exits, and the need to navigate from the final station to the accommodation.
A private transfer provides additional reassurance because the meeting procedure, price, vehicle category, and destination are arranged before arrival.
Best Option Late at Night
Passengers arriving late should check the time required for passport control, baggage collection, and terminal navigation—not only the scheduled flight arrival time.
The RER B normally operates from early morning until late evening, but exact final train times can change because of maintenance work. Paris Aéroport currently lists RER B service from CDG 2 TGV at approximately 4:50 a.m. to 11:50 p.m.
After rail services stop, night buses, taxis, ride apps, and pre-booked transfers remain possible. For a late-night arrival, a reserved private transfer removes the need to check last-train connections after collecting luggage.
When Public Transport May Not Be Ideal
Public transport may not be the most practical choice when:
- Your flight arrives after 10:30 p.m.
- You are travelling with three or more large suitcases
- You have children under five
- A passenger has reduced mobility
- You are unfamiliar with the RER and Metro network
- You are staying at a property far from a station
- Planned engineering work affects the RER B or RER C
- You are travelling during a strike
- You need to reach an appointment at a fixed time
For Travellers Who Arrive After Midnight
The standard RER and Metro networks do not operate throughout the night. Noctilien night buses generally operate between approximately 12:30 a.m. and 5:30 a.m. Routes N140 and N143 connect Charles de Gaulle Airport with Gare de l’Est, but passengers must continue from central Paris to the Eiffel Tower area.
Taxi availability is normally better than public transport after midnight, although queues and waiting times can increase when several late flights arrive together.
A pre-booked transfer avoids searching for a vehicle, navigating a night-bus connection, or waiting at a taxi rank after a long flight.
Should You Pre-Book Your Airport Transfer From Charles de Gaulle Airport?
Pre-booking is recommended when price stability, vehicle availability, and a simple arrival process are priorities.
A confirmed reservation provides:
- A known price before travel
- A vehicle selected for the group and luggage
- An agreed airport meeting procedure
- No need to join the airport taxi queue
- Better preparation for late-night or early-morning arrivals
- Greater reliability during holidays and peak travel periods
Pre-booking is particularly useful during summer, school holidays, major sporting events, fashion events, trade exhibitions, and periods of public transport disruption.
Practical Travel Tips
Where to Buy Public Transport Tickets
The €14 Paris Region Airports ticket can be purchased from airport ticket machines, transport counters, the Île-de-France Mobilités application, or compatible mobile wallets. It may also be loaded onto a Navigo Easy card.
Buy the correct airport ticket before entering the RER system and keep your ticket or validated device until you have completely exited the network.
How to Avoid Unofficial Taxis
At Charles de Gaulle Airport:
- Follow official “Taxi” signs after baggage reclaim.
- Use only the designated taxi rank.
- Do not accept unsolicited offers inside the terminal.
- Confirm that the official fixed Paris fare applies.
- Check that the vehicle has the required taxi identification.
- Request a receipt at the end of the journey.
When to Pre-Book
Reserve early when travelling:
- During July or August
- At Christmas or New Year
- During French school holidays
- With a group of five or more passengers
- With child-seat requirements
- With oversized or excessive luggage
- After 10:30 p.m.
- During a major event in Paris
Luggage Advice
Keep passports, wallets, phones, and travel documents in a secure personal bag. Do not place essential items in luggage stored away from your seat.
When booking a road transfer, provide the number and approximate size of suitcases. A standard sedan may not accommodate four passengers with four large bags, while a V-Class or minivan may be more appropriate.
Traveling During Transport Strikes
French transport strikes and planned engineering works can reduce or suspend RER, Metro, and bus services. Check official transport updates shortly before leaving the airport.
During disruptions, demand for taxis and ride-hailing vehicles can increase quickly. This can produce longer taxi queues, reduced ride-app availability, and higher dynamic pricing.
Passengers travelling during a known disruption should consider reserving a private transfer in advance rather than waiting until they land.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a fixed taxi fare from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Eiffel Tower?
Yes. The Eiffel Tower is on the Left Bank of Paris, so the official fixed taxi fare from Charles de Gaulle Airport is €65 in 2026 when using the designated airport taxi rank.
How long does it take from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Eiffel Tower?
A direct road journey normally takes approximately 40–60 minutes. During rush hour or heavy congestion, it can take 60–90 minutes. The RER journey generally takes around 60–80 minutes, including a connection and walking.
Is there a direct train from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Eiffel Tower?
No. Passengers must take the RER B and change to the RER C, Metro Line 6, or another suitable central Paris connection. Champ de Mars–Tour Eiffel and Bir-Hakeim are among the closest stations.
Is Uber cheaper than a taxi from CDG to the Eiffel Tower?
It can be cheaper when demand is low. However, ride-app fares are dynamic and may exceed the €65 official taxi fare during busy periods. Compare the displayed fare before confirming the booking.
Can I pre-book an airport transfer at Charles de Gaulle Airport?
Yes. A private transfer can be reserved before arrival. The booking can include a fixed price, airport meeting service, flight monitoring, luggage assistance, and a vehicle selected for the number of passengers.
Is a private transfer worth it?
A private transfer is often worthwhile for families, groups, business travellers, passengers arriving late, and anyone carrying several suitcases. Solo travellers with limited luggage may prefer the lower price of the RER.
What is the cheapest practical route from CDG to the Eiffel Tower?
Bus 350 followed by the Metro is generally the cheapest route, but it can take more than 90 minutes. The RER B is more expensive but usually provides a faster and simpler public transport journey.
Book a Private Transfer From Charles de Gaulle Airport
Paris Private Shuttle offers direct airport transportation from Charles de Gaulle Airport to the Eiffel Tower and nearby Paris hotels.
Bookings include fixed pricing, airport meet-and-greet service, English-speaking drivers, luggage assistance, and 24/7 customer support. Families and groups can request an appropriate vehicle and child seats before travelling.
Book your private transfer from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Eiffel Tower.
Updated for 2026 – Includes the latest transport fares and travel times.
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