Orly Airport: Paris’s Southern Gateway

If you’re a frequent traveler to Paris, you’ve probably heard of Orly Airport (ORY). Located just 14 kilometers south of the French capital’s center, Orly is the city’s second-largest airport, welcoming millions of passengers every year. Unlike the more internationally renowned Charles de Gaulle, Orly is often the point of entry for those flying in from smaller European cities or on domestic French flights. In this complete guide, we’ll explore the best ways to leave the airport and reach the heart of Paris.

Orly is divided into two terminals: Orly Ouest (West) and Orly Sud (South). Both offer the same services and transportation options, so don’t worry—your experience will be practically identical no matter which terminal you land in. The key is knowing how to get out safely, affordably, and comfortably.

The Three Main Transport Options from Orly to Paris

Just like at Charles de Gaulle, Orly offers several alternatives for getting to the city center. The good news is that all options are accessible, fast, and well-signposted. You can choose between the Orlyval (an automated train), buses, taxis, or ride-sharing apps like Uber and Bolt. Each has its pros and cons, so we’ll break it all down so you can make the best decision for your travel style.

Orlyval: The Fastest Transport

The Orlyval is an automated train that connects the airport to Denfert-Rochereau station in just 14 minutes. It’s the quickest way out of Orly if you’re in a hurry. The train runs from about 6:00 AM to midnight. The fare is €12.45 per person (2026 price), and the ride is comfortable and driverless—the train is fully automated.

Once at Denfert-Rochereau, you can hop on the RER B metro line or regular metro lines to reach your accommodation. If you’re staying in the Marais, Latin Quarter, or near the Louvre, this is an excellent choice. The total journey from leaving the airport to reaching the center takes between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on your final destination.

The Orlyval is operated by RATP (Régie Autonome des Transports Parisiens) and is a smart investment by the French capital in modern infrastructure. The train is very reliable—delays are extremely rare. Stations have elevators, so even with large suitcases, you can board without any trouble. Trains run every 4-6 minutes during the day and every 10-15 minutes at night.

Orlybus: The Classic and Budget-Friendly Option

If you’re looking to save a few euros, the Orlybus is your best bet. This bus connects Orly directly to Denfert-Rochereau, with a travel time similar to the Orlyval (about 30 minutes, depending on traffic). The price is much more wallet-friendly: €8.70 per person.

The bus departs every 15-20 minutes during the day and is comfortable for small to medium-sized suitcases. The downside is that it’s subject to Paris traffic, so during peak hours (8:00-10:00 AM, 5:00-8:00 PM), the trip can take up to 45 minutes. But if you’re not in a rush and want to save money, it’s definitely worth it.

The Orlybus was one of Europe’s first dedicated airport bus lines and remains reliable and well-maintained. The buses are modern, air-conditioned (a lifesaver in the Parisian summer), and equipped with luggage space. You can buy your ticket directly on the bus or at the automatic machines in the airport.

Taxis, Uber, and Bolt: Comfort vs. Cost

If you’re traveling with heavy luggage, in a group (splitting costs), or simply prefer a direct taxi from the airport to your hotel, this is the most comfortable option—but also the priciest. An official taxi (white or black) from Orly to central Paris costs between €40 and €60, depending on your destination neighborhood.

Uber and Bolt (alternative ride-sharing apps) offer slightly lower prices during normal hours, but can surge significantly during peak times or on weekend nights. A typical ride runs €35 to €50. Travel time is 20 to 45 minutes, again depending on traffic.

An important tip: if you choose a taxi, use the official taxis from the airport’s waiting line. They have fixed prices and are regulated. Don’t accept offers from informal drivers who approach you outside the official area—they sometimes try to charge double.

Differences Between Orly and Charles de Gaulle: Which to Choose?

Many travelers wonder, “Why land at Orly instead of Charles de Gaulle?” The simple answer is—you usually don’t get to choose. The airline decides which airport your flight goes to. But if you’re planning a future trip and do have a choice, here are the differences:

Charles de Gaulle (CDG): It’s the largest and most international. Located 25 km from the center. Offers more flight options (especially long-haul international). The RER B is fast (25 minutes) but pricier (€12.15). The city has flights from major foreign airlines. The terminal is more complex with more corridors.

Orly: More compact and less crowded. Located 14 km from the center (closer!). Best for domestic French flights and regional European routes. The Orlyval is just as fast as the RER B, and the Orlybus is cheaper. Generally less chaos and shorter lines. Much easier to navigate.

In short: Orly is usually the better arrival experience—less stress, closer, and with efficient transport. If you have the option, choose Orly! Many experienced travelers prefer Orly for exactly these reasons.

Practical Tips for Your Arrival at Orly

Currency Exchange, Roaming, and First Things First

Right after leaving the baggage claim area, you’ll find currency exchange counters and ATMs. The exchange rate at the airport isn’t the best, but it’s convenient if you arrived without euros. If possible, withdraw euros from an ATM—they usually have better rates than direct exchange counters. Look for ATMs from banks like BNP Paribas or Société Générale, which have more competitive fees.

If you don’t have international roaming activated or are worried about your phone bill, the airport has stores for local carriers (Orange, SFR, Bouygues) where you can buy a prepaid SIM card or local chip. Many tourists also use eSIMs—it’s a modern option we recommend. You can activate an eSIM from a French carrier (like Orange) before you even leave home, via an app.

Where to Buy Your Transport Ticket

If you’re using the Orlyval or Orlybus, you can buy your ticket directly at the automatic vending machines in the airport (they accept credit cards and cash). There’s no need to buy online in advance—machines are everywhere, and lines are quick, especially if you arrive outside peak hours. The machines have Portuguese-language interfaces in some cases, and always have clear images to guide you.

Operating Hours

The Orlyval runs from 6:00 AM until approximately midnight (last departures go until 12:30 AM). If you arrive after that, unfortunately the Orlyval will have stopped. In that case, your Uber, taxi, or night bus (there are special late-night buses) will be your only options. The Orlybus also has night service, but it’s less frequent—every 30-40 minutes instead of 15-20.

Luggage and Comfort

All transport options accommodate large suitcases. The Orlyval has special luggage racks, the Orlybus has a luggage hold, and taxis obviously have plenty of trunk space. If you’re traveling with a large backpack, all are equally comfortable. Just make sure your suitcase doesn’t exceed airline limits—if it does, you’ll face issues at check-in anyway, not just on the way out.

Frequently Asked Questions About Orly

How much does each transport option from Orly cost?

Here’s a summary of updated prices (2026):

• Orlyval: €12.45 (14 minutes to Denfert-Rochereau)
• Orlybus: €8.70 (30 minutes to Denfert-Rochereau)
• Official taxi: €40-60 (time varies with traffic)
• Uber/Bolt: €35-50 (time varies, fluctuates with demand)

Which option is best for me?

If you’re in a hurry and traveling solo: Orlyval. If you want to save money: Orlybus. If you have a lot of luggage or are in a group (splitting costs): Taxi/Uber. If you want a balance of price and comfort: Orlyval + RER B combo.

Can I bring a bicycle or skateboard on the Orlyval?

No. The Orlyval does not allow bicycles or skateboards. If you traveled with a bike, store it at your accommodation after arriving (there are storage services) or use an Uber/taxi.

What if my flight is delayed and I arrive at 2:00 AM?

In that case, the Orlyval will have already closed. Your best bet is to use Uber, Bolt, or a taxi. Prices might be a bit higher at night (surges), but it’s unavoidable. Another budget-friendly option (if you want to save a few euros) is to spend a night at the airport in a local hotel and catch the first Orlyval/Orlybus in the morning—there are cheap capsule hotels near Orly, starting at €40-60 per night.

Which station is closest to my hotel?

Denfert-Rochereau is in the 14th arrondissement. From there, you can take:
– RER B north (for Notre-Dame, Île de la Cité, Marais)
– Metro lines 4 and 6 to various areas
– Bus lines to anywhere

If your hotel is in another arrondissement, simply take a connecting metro or bus from Denfert-Rochereau station. Generally, the total trip from Orly to any hotel in Paris won’t exceed 45 minutes.

Final Tips: Safety and Documentation

Before you travel, have on hand: a valid passport, your hotel reservation confirmation, and the emergency numbers for your credit cards (in case you need to freeze a card abroad). Upon arrival at Orly, keep your documents and valuables close to your body. Don’t accept help from strangers with your luggage—this is a common tactic used by thieves. If you feel unsafe at any point, immediately approach an airport employee.

Conclusion: Leaving Orly with Confidence

Orly Airport is an exceptional gateway to Paris. With efficient transport, good prices, and less chaos than Charles de Gaulle, it’s the ideal way to start your trip to the French capital. If you arrive during the day, the Orlyval will get you to the center in under 30 minutes. If you want to save money, the Orlybus is your best bet. And if you have heavy luggage or are traveling with family, a taxi is worth every cent of comfort.

Remember: airport arrivals and departures are moments of transition. Treat yourself well, don’t rush unnecessarily, and savor that first moment in Paris—even the trip from the airport is part of the experience. Safe travels!