Orly Airport Transport (2026): How to Get to Paris City Centre from Orly

Arriving at Orly Airport—Paris’s second-busiest gateway—can feel overwhelming if you’re unfamiliar with its transport links. Unlike Charles de Gaulle, Orly’s layout is more compact, but navigating thetransportation optionsto the city centre requires careful planning to avoid delays, scams, or wasted time. Whether you’re a first-time tourist or a repeat visitor, understanding thebest routes—from theRER train (via Orlyval)to theOrlybus—will save you frustration and money. In this guide, we’ll break down every practical option, highlightcommon mistakes travellers make, and share insider tips to ensure a smooth journey from Orly to Paris’s heart in 2026.

**Why Orly Airport’s Transport Options Matter

Orly Airport handles around 30 million passengers annually, many of whom are international tourists. Unlike Charles de Gaulle, which offers direct high-speed rail links (like the RER B and Transilien trains), Orly’s connections are more limited—and often less intuitive. The airport’s location14 kilometres south of central Parismeans even the fastest routes take at least 30 minutes. Yet, many visitors overlook key details:ticket prices, peak-hour crowds, or the hidden costs of taxis. For example, theOrlybus(a direct shuttle to Denfert-Rochereau) is cheaper than a taxi but can bepacked to capacityon weekends, forcing you to stand. Meanwhile, theRER B (via Orlyval)is efficient but requires careful ticket validation—failing to do so can lead to fines up to€50.

**A Common Mistake: Assuming All Trains Stop at the Same Stations

One of the most frequent errors is assuming that all RER B trains from Orly terminate at the same central stations. In reality, some local trains(marked with a letter ‘L’) stop at every station, adding10–15 minutesto your journey.Express trains(marked with a letter ‘E’) skip intermediate stops, making them ideal for reachingChâtelet-Les HallesorSaint-Michelquickly. For those heading toMontparnasse, note that the RER B does not serve this station directly; you’ll need to transfer atDenfert-Rochereau and continue via Métro Line 4 or Line 6.

**Step-by-Step: Your Fastest Routes from Orly to Paris

**Option 1: RER B Train (Fastest for Most Travellers)Time:30–40 minutesCost: approximately €12–€15 depending on ticket combination

The RER B is the most efficient way to reach Paris’s core from Orly. However, there is no direct RER station at the airport. You must first take the Orlyval shuttle to Antony station, then connect to the RER B.

  1. Locate the Orlyval station: Follow signs from arrivals and take the shuttle to Antony.
  2. Transfer to RER B: Board the train toward central Paris.
  3. Validate your ticket at Antony station before boarding the RER.

**Option 2: Orlybus (Cheapest but Slower)

The Orlybusis a direct shuttle toDenfert-Rochereau. It runs every 15–20 minutes and takes around 45–55 minutes depending on traffic.

It does not pass major landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and does not go to Opéra Garnier.

**What People Get Wrong: 5 Common Orly Transport Mistakes

  1. Assuming the RER B goes to Montparnasse directly

    • You must transfer at Denfert-Rochereau and continue via Metro.
  2. Not validating RER tickets

    • Validation happens before boarding the RER at Antony.
  3. Overpacking the Orlybus

    • Limited luggage space.
  4. Taking random taxis without checking prices

    • Only use official taxis.
  5. Ignoring strike or delay updates

    • Always check RATP updates.

Frequently asked questions

What’s the fastest way to get from Orly to Paris?
The RER B (via Orlyval) is typically the fastest option, taking around 30–40 minutes to central stations like Châtelet-Les Halles or Saint-Michel. You must first take the Orlyval shuttle to Antony station to connect to the RER B.
Is the Orlybus a good alternative?
The Orlybus is convenient for budget travellers, running every 15–20 minutes to Denfert-Rochereau (about 45 minutes). However, it’s slower than the RER and can be crowded, especially on weekends.
Can I take a taxi or ride-hailing service?
Yes, but costs vary significantly. Official taxis from Orly to central Paris typically charge €30–€50 (fixed rates apply). Ride-hailing apps like Uber or Bolt may offer competitive rates, but always confirm the driver’s licence plate matches the app’s details to avoid scams.
What if I miss the train or bus?
If you miss public transport, taxis or private transfers are your best backup. For peace of mind, book a private transfer in advance—companies like Welcome Pickups or KiwiTaxi offer fixed prices and meet-and-greet services at the airport.
Are there any restrictions for travellers with heavy luggage?
The RER (via Orlyval) and Orlybus are accessible, but taxis or private transfers are more convenient if you have large suitcases or mobility needs.
How do I buy tickets for the RER or Orlybus?
Tickets for the Orlyval + RER B combination can be purchased at automated machines or via the RATP app. The Orlybus uses contactless payment (credit card, mobile wallet) or single-use tickets sold at the airport.