TRANSPORTATION - PARIS AIRPORT TO HOTELS

The first time I was in Paris I took a shuttle and was convinced the driver was trying to kill us all with his driving. I refuse to ever take a shuttle in Paris again. Last year we took the bus from the airport to the station near the hotel. The bus is right outside the doors at the airport, the luggage can be stowed under the bus, there are a couple of stops once you get in the city, and it is the most relaxing experience. Unless the hotel is nowhere near one of the bus stations, it is a good alternative to either the train or shuttle. Wheeling luggage through the streets wasn't a problem, but we pack light.

Just how luggage do you have? We have always used the train because it is convenient to our hotel. The train will have plenty of room for luggage. The train is reasonable and quick. Street traffic, depending on the time, can be awful in Paris.

There will be room on the train for your luggage. We were four with two a piece (bringing stuff to family not our stuff). Keep in mind that everyone getting on at the airport will have luggage, so it can be a bit of a rush but stand near the train when it comes in and don't be shy about getting on first.

Don't feel bad for taking up room on the train with your luggage, even if people glare at you. 1. They would have done the same thing, if they had been there first (I can't stress this enough) 2. Chances are, if they are french, they paid about 1/4 of the price for their ticket, you paid full price, take the luggage space.

Besides the luggage area located at the ends of each car (which I have been using safely for 11 years) there is storage above your seats, and under your seats.

Keep in mind I am refering to the SNCF/TGV if you are talking about the RER then you should be ok as long as it isn't rush hour.

TAKE A TAXI! You might have to wait in line to get a taxi, but the line is very orderly. We found it to be much easier to have someone take us door to door.

I flew into CDG last week and took the RER into town. It's 8,20euro. With 6 of you, it might make more sense to take a taxi. What Metro station is your hotel near? Perhaps someone can give you an idea of the cost for a taxi. The other thing about the Metro/RER station is dragging your luggage up/down the stairs. If you are all adults, no biggie. Small kids might have a prob with their luggage on the stairs.

But the most you are going to get in a car is three people and luggage. If you have more than carryon, then the shuttle would make the most sense.