We have a few days in Paris coming up soon. From there, we're going to Ethiopia, via Frankfurt. Our flight leaves Paris at 8:45 a.m. We're staying at the Hilton La Defense and I noticed that the metro does not start running until 5:30 a.m. If we get on the first train, will that get us to the airport in time? How far ahead of time should we plan to be at the airport? Thanks!!
Posted by
Kingston, Wa, USA
18 posts
Angie- I just went through this exact same situation two weeks ago. The airlines generally want you there 2-3 hours early for international flights. Personally I would (and did) take a taxi to Charles de Gaulle since there was some construction being done on the RER and I didn't want to take any chances on being late. My taxi ended up costing about 50 Euro since there was no traffic that early in the morning. I would say you could easily make it to the airport by the time your flight leaves via the RER, but I would recommend a taxi for your situation. Just my opinion though...
Posted by
Sacramento, California U.S.A.
10609 posts
I would be concerned about time. You have 3 hours and 15 minutes if the train comes at the exact time the metro starts up, then you have to get to the RER to get to CDG. It is best to get to CDG 3 hours before your flight. I would either take a taxi or an airport shuttle, just to be on the safe side.
Posted by
Seattle, WA, USA
1068 posts
Me three - TAXI. It's just so much easier on the nerves! Yes, it can be a tad pricey, but is well worth the knowledge that you will make it to the airport in time. Since you're staying at a Hilton, you should have no problems arraging for a taxi with the front desk or concierge - that is, if you have any language worries.
Posted by
Seattle, USA
990 posts
CDG airport is notorious for confusing, long lines for international flights. I would allow three hours, especially if you are unfamiliar with the airport. Have you considered shortening your stay at the Hilton La Defense and staying at the CDG Hilton for the last night? They will shuttle you directly to your departure terminal. Eat dinner in town and then head out to the Hilton to spend the night.
Posted by
OP
Albuquerque, NM
3 posts
Thanks for the advice, everyone. I did consider staying at the CDG Hilton our last night. But my in-laws are providing our accommodations with their reward points and I didn't want to make it complicated for them. Maybe I'll just talk to my mother-in-law and see what she thinks. Seems like that might be the way to go to avoid a big taxi fee.
Posted by
L'Occitanie, France
10633 posts
Staying at the airport Hilton is a good idea.
Posted by
Redlands, Ca, USA
358 posts
I would not take the metro/RER to CDG airport unless I had minimal luggage. The RER has not been running consistently due to the strike especially during oct. If you stay at the Hilton La Defense I would take a taxi to CDG. If you move the last night and stay at the CDG Hilton you can take the metro/RER and get off where the Hilton/Novotel is located. Only bad thing my son who has lived in Paris since 2001 will not take the RER at night to CDG as he and his friends do not feel safe after the train leaves the Paris city limits. You can take the RER express that only stops at the 2 airport stops.