How to Get From Charles de Gaulle Airport to Gare Montparnasse Train Station
Posted on
January 30, 2026
The process of working out how to get from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Gare Montparnasse Train Station involves more than simply selecting the quickest route; you must also take into account which terminal you arrive at, the luggage you are carrying, the number of people in your group, the time of day, and how much time you have before your train departs.
Gare Montparnasse is about 35 to 45 kilometres from Charles de Gaulle Airport. You can take the RER and Metro, a public bus, an official airport taxi, a ride-hailing app, a shared shuttle, or a pre-booked private transfer.
Taking public transport is generally the most inexpensive option; although a taxi or a private shuttle is more expensive, it does take you straight to the station, avoiding the need to use ticket machines, make changes between lines, walk through the long corridors of the station, or carry your suitcases around the Paris transport system.
Paris Private Shuttle offers transfer services from Charles de Gaulle, Orly, and Beauvais airports. Our team regularly arranges airport pick-ups, handles luggage requirements, assists with delayed flights, processes family bookings, and helps with time-sensitive connections to Paris railway stations.
What transport option is best?
The RER B and the Metro generally offer the best combination of low cost and journey time for one or two travellers with only light luggage.
If you have several suitcases, are travelling with young children, have limited mobility, are travelling with a large group, or have a train departure you cannot afford to miss, a taxi or private transfer is more appropriate.
The main options are:
- RER B and Metro: This option is appropriate for single travellers, couples, and people who have luggage that is easy to manage.
- Public bus: This is the cheapest option, but it is slow and takes a roundabout route.
- Official taxi: It is possible to get direct transport without having to book in advance.
- Uber or one of the other ride-matching services: This is a good option for travellers who are comfortable locating the airport pick-up area.
- Shared shuttle: This option can work well for solo travelers who want some flexibility.
- Private shuttle: Pre-booked direct transport is available for families, groups, business passengers, and travellers who have important train connections.
A private car isn't always the cheapest option, since its main benefit is eliminating the need to transfer, buy tickets, wait in taxi queues, and carry luggage between trains and platforms.
Distance and Travel Time
The usual distance by road from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Gare Montparnasse is between 35 and 45 kilometres.
The exact route will vary depending on the terminal you arrive at, road conditions, traffic restrictions, and the driver's chosen route.
Typical travel times are:
- Normal road traffic: 45 to 60 minutes
- Morning or evening rush hour: 60 to 90 minutes
- Severe congestion or major disruption: More than 90 minutes
- RER and Metro: Around 60 to 80 minutes, excluding some waiting and walking time
- Public bus with connections: Around 90 to 130 minutes
Gare Montparnasse is located in the 15th arrondissement on the Left Bank of Paris, and taxi fares set by the authorities from Charles de Gaulle Airport vary depending on whether the destination is on the Left Bank or the Right Bank.
Allow Time Beyond the Drive
The estimated driving time begins as the vehicle leaves the airport and does not cover the time needed to:
- Leave the aircraft
- Pass through passport control
- Collect checked luggage
- Walk through the terminal
- Reach the taxi rank, railway station, or driver meeting point
- Enter Gare Montparnasse and find the correct departure area
If you are transferring from an international flight to a train, allow enough time for both the airport arrival procedure and the trip through Paris.
Transport Prices at a Glance
The fares and journey times below are approximate; actual travel times can be affected by traffic, engineering work, strikes, service demand, seasonal travel, and temporary disruptions.
| Transport option | Approximate price | Typical journey time | Main consideration |
|---|---|---|---|
| RER B and Metro | €14 per adult | 60–80 minutes | One interchange and station walking |
| For public buses | €2.05 or more when connections are included | 90 to 130 minutes | The cheapest option but also indirect |
| Official airport taxi | €65 fixed fare | 45–90 minutes | Direct but queues are possible |
| Uber or ride app | Around €50–€90 | 45–90 minutes | Dynamic pricing and designated pickup areas |
| Shared shuttle | Around €30–€55 per person | 70–120 minutes | Shared stops may delay arrival |
| Private shuttle | Fixed pre-booked rate | 45–90 minutes | Direct service reserved for your booking |
Option 1: RER B and Metro
The most frequently used public transport option is to take the RER B from Charles de Gaulle Airport, then switch to Metro Line 6.
Recommended Route
1.Go on the RER B* from Charles de Gaulle Airport towards central Pari.s.
2.Get offe the RER at *Denfert-Rochereau.*.
- Change to Metro Line 6 towards Charles deGaulle Étoile.e.
- Get off at Montparnasse Bienvenue.
- Go through the station complex by following the signs until you reach Gare Montparnasse.
You can also change at Châtelet–Les Halles and take Metro Line 4, but since Châtelet is a large interchange with long corridors and multiple levels, the route to Denfert-Rochereau is generally easier to follow if you are travelling with luggage.
Estimated journey time: 60 to 80 minutes
Estimated adult fare: €14
Main interchange: Denfert-Rochereau
Best suited to: Solo travellers, couples, and passengers with light luggage
Advantages
- Lower fare than a taxi or private transfer
- Frequent daytime services
- Rail journey is not affected by road congestion
- One main change on the recommended route
- Predictable ticket price
Disadvantages
- Suitcases must be carried and managed throughout the journey
- Long corridors and walking distances are possible
- Lifts and escalators may not always be close to your route
- Trains can be crowded
- Engineering works, strikes, and temporary closures may affect services
- You still need to walk from Montparnasse–Bienvenue to the mainline station area
In 2026, a full-fare single ticket to the Paris Region Airports costs €14; eligible passengers may pay a reduced fare of €7. This ticket includes the rail journey to the airport and any eligible further connections within the Paris transport network.
The RER B lines usually run from early in the morning until about 11.50 p.m., and on weekdays headways are generally between 10 and 20 minutes, though they can change due to evening work or service disruptions.
Before you travel, check the official SNCF train timetable, especially if your train departing from Gare Montparnasse has a fixed departure time.
Finding the RER Station at Charles de Gaulle Airport
The main railway access points at Charles de Gaulle Airport are for the RER B.
Terminal 1
There is no RER platform directly under Terminal 1.
Take the free CDGVAL airport shuttle to the railway station called Aéroport Charles de Gaulle 1, located near Roissypôle. The time it takes to get to the station varies depending on your arrival gate, the distance you have to walk, and the waiting time, but it's usually about 15 to 25 minutes.
Terminal 2
Passengers arriving at Terminals 2C, 2D, 2E, or 2F should look for signs indicating Aéroport Charles de Gaulle 2 TGV.
The walk time depends on your arrival gate and can range from 10 to 25 minutes; those arriving at terminals 2A, 2B, or 2G may have to walk farther or use a shuttle service from the airport.
Terminal 3
Terminal 3 is a short walk from the Aéroport Charles de Gaulle 1 station; follow the signs for Roissypôle and the RER B.
You can buy RER and TGV tickets from the ticket machines and manned ticket offices in the airport railway areas.
Option 2: Public Bus
There is no direct public bus service running from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Gare Montparnasse.
For the majority of bus trips, you have to go to a different part of Paris before travelling on the Metro, by local bus, taxi, or by using another form of transport.
Previously, RoissyBus provided service running between Charles de Gaulle Airport and the Opéra district, but that service ceased on 1 March 2026; therefore, any older guides that recommend RoissyBus may no longer be accurate.
The cheaper public bus services are routes 350 and 351 or the Express Line 9517, but none of these routes ends at Gare Montparnasse.
Estimated journey time: 90 to 130 minutes
The basic fare is estimated at about €2.05, plus connecting tickets.
Best suited to: Travellers whose main priority is paying the lowest possible fare
Advantages
- Very low starting fare
- An alternative when the RER is disrupted
- May suit travellers already familiar with buses and Metro connections in Paris
Disadvantages
- No direct route to Gare Montparnasse
- At least one additional connection is normally required
- Road traffic can significantly increase the journey time
- Difficult with several large suitcases
- Higher risk of arriving late for an onward train
A public bus is generally not the most practical option when connecting a flight and a train. It may be worth considering only if you have very little luggage, have several hours to spare, and don't mind making more than one change.
Option 3: Official Airport Taxi
Official taxis take you straight from your Charles de Gaulle terminal to Gare Montparnasse.
In the airport, go to the taxi stand indicated by the signs. Take part in the official queue outside the terminal and do not accept the transport offers made by people who are coming towards passengers in the arrivals area.
Since Gare Montparnasse is on the Left Bank, the regulated fare from Charles de Gaulle Airport in 2026 is €65.
Official fixed fare: €65
Estimated journey time: 45 to 90 minutes
Best suited to: Travellers who want a direct ride without booking beforehand
The fixed fare for the journey from the airport to Paris includes an official taxi trip from Charles de Gaulle to a destination on the Left Bank. In some cases, limited authorised supplements may be applicable, for example when advance reservations or passenger arrangements are made.
Ask the driver to explain any supplement before the journey starts.
It is generally possible to pay by card in official taxis, but it makes sense to have another way of paying as well.
Main Taxi Considerations
Once you're in the taxi, an official one is very simple. The only thing you have to worry about is how long you will have to wait.
Queues can become longer during:
- Busy international arrival periods
- Rail or Metro disruption
- Public transport strikes
- Bad weather
- Major events in Paris
- Holiday travel periods
This doesn't mean larger taxis or minivans will always be available at the rank.
Option 4: Uber or Another Ride-Hailing App
Uber and other ride apps offer direct transport between Charles de Gaulle Airport and Gare Montparnasse.
Prices are set dynamically and depend on current demand, road traffic, the vehicle type chosen, and the number of drivers available.
Typical fare range: Approximately €50 to €90
Estimated journey time: 45 to 90 minutes
Best suited to: Travellers comfortable using an app and locating an airport pickup area
When demand is low, a ride-sharing fare can be less than the official taxi rate. However, during peak arrivals, strikes, adverse weather, or large events, surge pricing can cause the fare to exceed the regulated taxi rate.
Finding Your Driver
Drivers using ride-apps do not necessarily pick up passengers right outside the arrival door.
The app may direct you to:
- Another terminal level
- A car park
- A designated collection zone
- A specific door or meeting point
You will need mobile data and enough battery to contact the driver and confirm your location.
If you're not familiar with Charles de Gaulle Airport, arranging a pickup is more complicated than joining the official taxi queue or meeting a pre-booked transfer driver.
Option 5: Shared Shuttle
The same vehicle carries passengers who have individual bookings.
The service can involve multiple airport pick-ups, stops at hotels, or drop-offs at stations before reaching Gare Montparnasse.
Estimated fare: Approximately €30 to €55 per person
Estimated journey time: 70 to 120 minutes
Best suited to: One or two passengers with flexible arrival plans
Advantages
- May cost less than a private vehicle for one passenger
- Airport collection may be included
- Less walking than using the RER and Metro
- No need to carry luggage between public transport lines
Disadvantages
- Departure may be delayed while waiting for other passengers
- Extra stops can substantially increase the journey time
- Less privacy than a private transfer
- Luggage restrictions may apply
- Not recommended for a close train connection
Check the luggage allowance before booking, since pushchairs, sports equipment, oversized suitcases, and unusually large bags may require prior approval.
Option 6: Private Shuttle
The private shuttle has been booked just for you and the passengers listed on your reservation.
You will be taken straight from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Gare Montparnasse without shared stops or transfers.
You can arrange a private shuttle transfer from Charles de Gaulle Airport with Paris Private Shuttle before your flight.
The service described on this page includes:
- A fixed price confirmed before travel
- Airport meet-and-greet service
- Flight monitoring
- Help with luggage
- Direct transport to Gare Montparnasse
- No shared passenger stops
- English-speaking drivers
- Vehicles for individuals, families, and groups
- Child seats when requested in advance
- 24/7 customer support
It is especially useful to have a private transfer if multiple people are sharing the cost, if you need a bigger vehicle, or if it would be difficult to carry your luggage around the RER and Metro.
It could also suit older travellers, passengers with children, business travellers who have to stick to a fixed schedule, and anyone who has to connect with an important mainline train.
What Happens After You Arrive
Your arrival method will vary depending on the mode of transport you choose.
Public Transport
Once you have collected your bags, follow the signs to the RER station. Either purchase your ticket from an authorised machine or at the ticket counter, then take the RER B towards central Paris.
You have to look after your bags for the entire journey, including when you change at the Metro and when you walk through Montparnasse–Bienvenue.
Official Taxi
Go to the taxi stand indicated by the airport signs, join the official queue, and wait for the next available taxi.
Inform the driver of your intention to be going to Gare Montparnasse and check that any supplement suggested has been confirmed before you leave.
Ride App
On arrival, open the app and follow the instructions for the assigned pickup point. Make sure your phone stays on so you can contact the driver.
Private Transfer
The transfer is arranged based on the flight information provided at the time of booking, and the service team can monitor the flight to track its scheduled arrival and any reported delays.
Luggage assistance and direct transfer to Gare Montparnasse are included as stated in the service information on the original page after you have met the driver.
Vehicles, Passengers, and Luggage
Paris Private Shuttle offers transportation for individuals, families, and groups.
The original service information states that you can request larger vehicles and child-seat options before arrival. When booking, passengers should provide accurate details about their group and luggage so the right vehicle can be arranged.
Tell the transfer provider in advance when travelling with:
- Several large suitcases
- A pushchair
- A wheelchair
- Sports equipment
- Oversized luggage
- Unusually shaped bags
- More passengers than a standard car can carry
It is not reasonable to assume that an ordinary taxi or a standard ride-app vehicle will provide enough room for a large group and all their luggage.
Cheapest Way to Reach Gare Montparnasse
The basic fare, which is advertised at the lowest rate, is generally a combination of a public bus and local transport.
However, this route may take 90 minutes or longer and usually requires extra tickets and changes. It does not provide a direct service from the airport to the station.
For most tourists, the RER B and the Metro provide a cheaper option. Although the adult fare of €14 is more than the standard bus fare, the route is generally quicker and requires fewer changes.
If you are travelling as a family or in a group, compare the total cost of public transport for all passengers with the cost of using one private vehicle.
Fastest Way to Reach Gare Montparnasse
There isn't one option that is consistently the fastest.
Under calm road conditions, a licensed taxi or private shuttle can arrive at Gare Montparnasse in about 45 to 60 minutes.
In situations of serious road congestion, the RER B and the Metro can be faster since most of the journey is by rail.
A direct train can still reduce the time it takes to get somewhere since you won't need to buy tickets, wait on the platform, change trains, or walk through the big station corridors with your luggage.
Best Choice for Families With Luggage
People with children and several bags generally find it easier to take a taxi or private shuttle than to use the RER and Metro.
Public transport requires everyone to manage:
- Ticket gates
- Platforms
- Train boarding
- A line change
- Escalators or stairs
- Crowded carriages
- Suitcases and pushchairs
- The walk through Montparnasse–Bienvenue
By booking your minivan in advance, you can ask for appropriate luggage space and child seats before your trip.
Best Choice for First-Time Visitors
First-time visitors with light luggage can use the RER B and the Metro, provided they follow the signs at the stations and make one connection.
For passengers who don't want to deal with ticket rules, airport access, Metro changes, or ride-app meeting zones right after their flight, a direct vehicle is a better option.
Pre-booking ensures transport is arranged before you arrive.
Best Choice Late at Night
An official taxi or pre-booked private transfer is usually the most dependable late-night option.
Normal RER B services do not run overnight. Timetables also vary by date, station, and planned engineering work.
Night buses may be available, but people arriving on a late flight should check the official transport timetable rather than assuming an RER service will still be running. Check the official transport timetable rather than assuming that an RER service will still be operating.
When Public Transport May Not Be Practical
Consider a taxi or pre-booked vehicle when:
- Your flight arrives late in the evening
- You have three or more large suitcases
- You are travelling with young children
- A passenger has limited mobility
- You are unfamiliar with the RER and Metro
- Your train departure leaves little room for delay
- Engineering work affects the RER B
- A strike or major event is disrupting public transport
The €14 train fare offers good value for one traveller. For a family or group, the total saving may be smaller once every passenger needs a ticket.
How much time for connection should you allow?
The original page suggests that for a flight into another country followed by a train journey from Gare Montparnasse, you should allow at least three to four hours between your flight's scheduled arrival and the train's departure.
Additional time may be needed when:
- You must pass through non-EU immigration
- You have checked luggage
- Your flight arrives during rush hour
- Separate tickets are non-refundable
- Transport strikes or engineering work are expected
- Severe weather is affecting airport or road operations
The scheduled landing time is not the same as the time you will leave the terminal, since queues for immigration, luggage collection, walking time between terminals, and waiting for transportation can all affect your connection.
Gare Montparnasse is a large station, so after you arrive, allow time to enter the station, check the departure board, and reach the correct platform area.
Should you pre-book your airport transfer?
It is advisable to book in advance if you have a fixed train departure, need a minivan, require child seats, or expect to travel during a busy time.
The main benefits are:
- The price is confirmed before travel
- A vehicle is allocated in advance
- You do not need to join the airport taxi queue
- Vehicle size can be selected according to passengers and luggage
- Child seats can be requested before arrival
- The service team receives your flight details
- Flight monitoring can be used to follow reported delays
Booking in advance is especially useful during school holidays, major events in Paris, transport strikes, severe weather, and peak summer travel.
Practical Travel Tips
Buy Tickets From Official Sources
You can buy public transport tickets at airport ticket machines, at manned counters, or through authorised transport apps.
Check Live Services
The RER, Metro, buses and mainline trains may be affected by engineering work, strikes and temporary closures. Check up-to-date information before leaving the airport.
Avoid Unauthorised Taxis
Don't agree to taxi rides offered without being asked inside the terminal. Passengers using official taxis should follow the airport signs to the assigned taxi rank.
Keep Travel Documents Accessible
Make sure that your passport, train ticket, booking confirmation, phone, and charger are kept in a place where you can easily access them.
Check Your Montparnasse Departure Area
Gare Montparnasse includes several departure areas and long internal walkways. Check the departure board when you arrive and allow enough time to reach your platform.
Declare Special Luggage
Tell the transfer company in advance about pushchairs, wheelchairs, sports equipment, oversized bags, or unusually large quantities of luggage.
Plan for Strikes
When public transport is disrupted, taxi and ride-app demand usually increases. This can result in longer queues, fewer vehicles, and heavier road traffic. Even if you book a car in advance, you will still need to leave extra time, since road congestion usually rises when there is a major disruption to rail or Metro services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a direct train from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Gare Montparnasse?
No. There is no direct RER service to Gare Montparnasse.
The usual route is to take the RER B to Denfert-Rochereau and change to Metro Line 6 for Montparnasse–Bienvenue.
How much is the RER from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Gare Montparnasse?
The full adult Paris Region Airports ticket is listed as €14 in 2026. A reduced €7 fare may apply to eligible passengers.
How long does the journey take?
A direct road journey normally takes around 45 to 60 minutes in normal traffic. During rush hour or severe congestion, it may take 60 to 90 minutes or longer.
The RER and Metro usually take about 60 to 80 minutes, not including waiting and walking time.
Is there a set taxi fare for the journey from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Gare Montparnasse?
Yes, since Gare Montparnasse is situated on the Left Bank, the regulated taxi fare from Charles de Gaulle Airport in 2026 is €65.
Use the official taxi rank at the airport to get the regulated service.
Is Uber less expensive than a licensed taxi?
It may be less expensive when demand is low, but ride-app prices are dynamic.
During peak airport arrivals and bad weather, where can I find the RER at Terminal 1?
Where do I find the RER at Terminal 1?
Take the free CDGVAL shuttle from Terminal 1 to the Aéroport Charles de Gaulle 1 railway station near Roissypôle.
Can I pre-book a private transfer?
Yes. You can arrange a private transfer before your flight using your arrival details, passenger numbers, luggage requirements, and requested vehicle type.
What happens if my flight is delayed?
The private transfer service described on this page includes flight monitoring.
Can I request a child seat?
The service information states that you can request child-seat options in advance.
How much time should I leave before my train?
The page recommends allowing at least three to four hours When you are travelling with checked luggage, go through non-EU immigration, use separate non-refundable tickets, or are travelling during strikes or peak traffic periods, allow more time.gration, using separate non-refundable tickets, or travelling during strikes or peak traffic.
Should one book a private transfer?
It may be worthwhile for families, groups, business travellers, people with several bags, and anyone with an important train connection.
People travelling alone and carrying only light luggage, who have plenty of time, will usually save money by using the RER B and the Metro.
Book a Private Transfer to Gare Montparnasse
Paris Private Shuttle offers pre-booked transport from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Gare Montparnasse with fixed pricing, airport meet-and-greet service, flight monitoring, luggage assistance, English-speaking drivers, and 24/7 customer support.
You can book a private transfer from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Gare Montparnasse before travelling.
Updated for 2026 – Includes the latest transport fares and estimated travel times.
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