Quick Answer
The best overall way to travel from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to Gare du Nord train station is by taking the RER B train. This direct commuter rail service takes approximately 35 minutes, costs a fixed â¬11.40 per adult, and runs directly from the airport terminals to the station beneath Gare du Nord. It's the optimal balance of speed, cost, and convenience, avoiding Paris traffic entirely.
By Train: The RER B Line (Fastest & Most Recommended)
The RER B is an express suburban train that provides the most efficient and reliable rail link between CDG Airport and central Paris, with Gare du Nord being one of its major hubs. It's the top choice for most travelers due to its dedicated rail right-of-way, which guarantees a consistent travel time unaffected by road congestion.
Step-by-Step Guide to Taking the RER B
- Find the Station: Follow signs for âParis by Trainâ or âRERâ in your terminal.
- Terminal 1: Take the free CDGVAL automated shuttle to the âAéroport Charles de Gaulle 1â RER station.
- Terminal 2: Stations are located within the terminal buildings (e.g., âAéroport Charles de Gaulle 2 TGVâ near TGV stations).
- Terminal 3: A short walk or CDGVAL ride to Terminal 1's station.
- Purchase Your Ticket: Buy a ticket for Zones 1-5 at the ticket machines or counters. The price is â¬11.40 (2024 price). You cannot use a standard â¬2.10 Metro ticket for this journey. Keep your ticket until you exit at Gare du Nord.
- Board the Train: Ensure you take a train with âParisâ as its final destination (e.g., Robinson or Saint-Rémy-lès-Chevreuse). Check the overhead displays. Trains run every 10-15 minutes from approximately 5:00 AM to 00:30 AM.
- Arrive at Gare du Nord: The journey takes about 35 minutes. Gare du Nord is a major stop. Exit the RER B platforms and follow signs for the âGare du Nord Grandes Lignesâ (mainline trains) or street exits.
Alternative Train & Rail Options
While the RER B is the primary choice, other rail services exist:
| Service | Route | Best For | Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|
| TGV/Intercités | CDG 2 TGV Station â Gare du Nord | Travelers already at Terminal 2 with a high-speed rail ticket to another French city. | You need a pre-booked long-distance ticket; not a cost-effective shuttle. |
| RER B + Metro | CDG â ChâteletâLes Halles â Metro to Gare du Nord | Only if RER B is disrupted between Châtelet and Gare du Nord. | Adds an unnecessary transfer. The direct RER B is simpler. |
By Bus: Budget-Friendly Alternatives
Buses are the most economical surface transport, ideal for budget-conscious travelers who aren't in a hurry. However, travel times can vary significantly (60-90+ minutes) due to Parisian traffic.
RoissyBus â Direct to Opera (Then Metro to Gare du Nord)
Operated by RATP, this is the most comfortable dedicated airport bus.
- Route: Stops at all CDG terminals â Paris-Opéra (corner of Rue Scribe and Rue Auber).
- Ticket: â¬16.60 (or â¬11.40 if using a Navigo Easy card with correct fare loaded).
- Frequency: Every 15-20 mins, from 6:00 AM to 12:30 AM.
- Final Leg to Gare du Nord: From Opéra, take Metro Line 7 (direction: La Courneuve) for 4 stops (~8 mins) to Gare du Nord. You'll need a separate Metro ticket (â¬2.10).
Public Bus Lines 350 & 351 â The Cheapest Option
These standard RATP public buses are the absolute cheapest way, but also the slowest and least comfortable with luggage.
- Route 350: CDG â Gare de l'Est (a short walk from Gare du Nord).
- Route 351: CDG â Place de la Nation (requires a Metro transfer).
- Ticket: A standard t+ ticket (â¬2.10) is valid only if you already have one (e.g., on a Navigo card or carnet). Otherwise, you must buy a Zones 1-5 ticket (â¬11.40) from the driverâeliminating the price advantage.
- Travel Time: 60 to 90+ minutes, highly traffic-dependent.
Night Buses (Noctilien)
For flights arriving between 12:30 AM and 5:00 AM, the RER B is not running. Your only public transit options are the night buses:
- N140 & N143: Connect CDG to Gare de l'Est. Frequency is low (every 30-60 mins).
- Consideration: These can be less safe-feeling late at night and are challenging with luggage. A taxi is often a wiser choice for night arrivals.
By Taxi & Private Transfer: Door-to-Door Convenience
This is the most direct and comfortable option, but also the most expensive. It is recommended for groups of 3-4, those with heavy/multiple bags, travelers with mobility issues, or for late-night/early-morning travel when public transport is limited.
Official Taxis
- Fixed Fare: A trip from CDG to any destination on the Right Bank of Paris (which includes Gare du Nord) has a government-regulated fixed price of â¬55 (daytime, 10 AM - 5 PM).
- Metered Fare: Outside fixed-fare hours, the metered rate applies. The total typically ranges from â¬55 to â¬70, depending on traffic. The fare covers all passengers (up to 4) and standard luggage.
- Where to Find Them: Use only the official taxi ranks located outside each terminal. Never accept rides from solicitors inside the terminals.
Pre-Booked Private Transfers
Services like Welcome Pickups or SunTransfers offer a premium experience.
- Advantages: Your driver waits for you in arrivals with a name sign, assists with luggage, provides a guaranteed fixed price paid in advance, and uses professional vehicles.
- Cost: Typically â¬60-â¬90 for a standard car, depending on the service level and vehicle type. Slightly more expensive than a random taxi, but offers predictability and reliability.
- Best For: First-time visitors, families, business travelers, or anyone wanting a completely hassle-free start to their trip.
Ticket & Transport Cost Comparison
This table summarizes all key options to help you decide the best balance of cost, speed, and convenience for your journey from CDG to Gare du Nord.
| Transport Method | Approx. Travel Time | Approx. Cost (2024) | Transfers | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RER B Train (Recommended) | 35 mins | â¬11.40 | Direct | Most travelers: Best mix of speed, price & reliability. |
| RoissyBus + Metro | 60 - 80 mins | â¬16.60 + â¬2.10 | 1 (Bus to Metro) | Budget travelers preferring a bus to central Paris first. |
| Public Bus 350/351 (Cheapest*) | 70 - 100+ mins | â¬2.10* or â¬11.40 | Possible (Bus to Walk/Metro) | Extreme budget travelers, *with existing t+ tickets. |
| Official Taxi (Fixed Rate) | 40 - 60 mins | â¬55 (fixed) | Direct | Groups of 3-4, heavy luggage, late-night arrivals. |
| Pre-Book Private Transfer | 40 - 60 mins | â¬60 - â¬90 | Direct | Stress-free, guaranteed service, families, business. |
Note: All travel times are estimates and can be significantly longer for road-based transport during rush hour (7-10 AM, 5-8 PM).
Traveler Insights & Essential Tips
Navigating with Luggage
- Avoid Rush Hour on RER B: If you have large suitcases, try to avoid taking the RER B between 8:00-9:30 AM and 5:00-7:00 PM on weekdays. Trains are packed with commuters, making luggage space scarce and boarding difficult.
- Elevator Access: While Gare du Nord RER station has elevators, they can be out of service or hard to find. Be prepared to use escalators or stairs with your bags.
- The Taxi Tipping Point: For two people with two large bags each, the cost difference between the RER B (â¬22.80) and a fixed-rate taxi (â¬55) shrinks. The taxi's door-to-door convenience often becomes worth the extra â¬30.
Safety & Awareness at Gare du Nord
- A Major Hub = High Pickpocket Risk: Gare du Nord is one of Europe's busiest stations. Always keep your wallet/phone secure and be wary of distractions, especially around ticket machines and crowded platforms.
- Late-Night Arrivals: The station area can feel less secure late at night. Have your route planned in advance. If you arrive via RER B after 10 PM, consider walking directly to your hotel or taxi rank without lingering.
Timing & Booking Advice
- Public Transport Strikes: France experiences periodic transport strikes. Before traveling, check the status of the RER B on the RATP website or local news.
- Pre-Book for Peace of Mind: If your flight lands after 11:00 PM or before 6:00 AM, or you are anxious about the journey, pre-booking a reliable private transfer is an excellent investment to start your trip stress-free.
- Validate Your Ticket: If you use a paper RER/Bus ticket, you must validate it by inserting it into the small yellow machine at station entrances or on buses. An unvalidated ticket is considered invalid and can result in a fine.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the fastest way to get from CDG Airport to Gare du Nord?
The fastest way is the RER B train, taking about 35 minutes directly from the airport terminals to Gare du Nord station, with no traffic concerns.
What is the cheapest way to get from Charles de Gaulle to Paris Nord?
The cheapest public transport option is the RER B train, with a standard ticket costing â¬11.40. Public buses like the 350 or 351 are slightly cheaper (â¬2.10 with a t+ ticket if you have one), but are much slower.
Is there a direct train from CDG to Gare du Nord?
Yes, the RER B line provides a direct, no-transfer train service from CDG Airport terminals (stations: CDG 1 or CDG 2 TGV) straight to Gare du Nord.
How much is a taxi from CDG to Gare du Nord?
A fixed-rate taxi from CDG to any right-bank Paris destination, including Gare du Nord, costs â¬55. The metered fare typically ranges from â¬55-â¬70 depending on traffic. Always ensure the meter is on or the fixed rate is agreed upon.
Can I use the Paris Metro ticket for the RER from CDG?
No. A standard Paris Metro t+ ticket (â¬2.10) is only valid within central Paris. To travel from CDG Airport, you must purchase a specific ticket for zones 1-5, which costs â¬11.40. This ticket can be bought at RER stations or automated kiosks at the airport.
Is Gare du Nord safe at night?
Gare du Nord is a major, busy transit hub. While generally safe, it's advisable to stay alert, especially late at night. Stick to well-lit, populated areas inside the station. For very late arrivals (after midnight), a pre-booked taxi or private transfer might offer more security and convenience.
What if my flight arrives late at night?
The RER B runs until about 00:30 (12:30 AM). For arrivals after this time, your main options are night buses (Noctilien lines N140 and N143), which are infrequent, or a taxi/private transfer. Pre-booking a transfer is highly recommended for late-night arrivals.
How do I get from CDG to Gare du Nord with lots of luggage?
While the RER B has luggage space, navigating stations with multiple large bags can be challenging due to stairs and crowds. For significant luggage, a taxi or pre-booked private transfer is the most comfortable and direct option, offering door-to-door service.