How to get there
How to Get to Paris from the US and Canada: Direct Flights, Transportation, and Travel Tips
Updated Sat, Dec 27, 2025
Paris offers direct flights from major US cities like NYC, LA, and Chicago. CDG Airport connects to downtown via RER B train in 45 minutes.
Overview
Ease of getting there
Traveling to Paris from North America is straightforward with numerous direct flight options from major cities. Most US travelers fly directly into Charles de Gaulle Airport from cities like New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Miami on carriers including Air France, Delta, and American Airlines. Canadian travelers connect through Montreal, Toronto, or Vancouver. The journey takes 7-9 hours from the East Coast and 10-12 hours from the West Coast. Once you land, the RER B train connects CDG to central Paris in 45 minutes for just €12. Immigration moves quickly with digital passport gates for most visitors, while customs is typically hassle-free for tourists.
Customs and immigration
EU passport control at CDG features automated gates for US and Canadian passport holders, reducing wait times to 10-20 minutes during peak periods. Immigration officers rarely ask questions beyond trip purpose and duration. Customs operates on a green/red channel system with most tourists walking straight through the green nothing-to-declare lane. Random bag checks occur but delays are minimal. Total airport exit time averages 30-45 minutes from plane to train platform.
Flights from the US / Canada
Direct flights operate from New York JFK, Los Angeles LAX, Chicago ORD, Miami MIA, Boston BOS, Atlanta ATL, and San Francisco SFO to Charles de Gaulle Airport. Air France offers the most frequent service with daily flights from major hubs. Delta, American Airlines, and United also provide direct routes. Canadian travelers fly direct from Montreal YUL and Toronto YYZ, or connect through Vancouver YVR. Peak summer season sees increased frequency with some routes offering twice-daily service.
From airport to city center
Charles de Gaulle Airport sits 25 kilometers northeast of Paris center. The RER B commuter train provides the fastest connection, running every 10-15 minutes to Châtelet-Les Halles and Gare du Nord stations in 35-45 minutes for €12. Airport shuttles cost €18-25 and take 60-90 minutes depending on traffic. Taxis range from €50-70 to central Paris and take 45-75 minutes. The newer CDG Express train launches direct service to Gare de l'Est in just 20 minutes for €24.
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