Quick Answer
The best overall way to get from Paris Orly Airport to Versailles is by combining the Orlyval metro and RER trains. This route offers the best balance of speed, cost, and frequency. The total journey time is approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 20 minutes, and the total cost is around €15.30 for a one-way ticket. The key transfer points are Antony (for Orlyval to RER B) and Saint-Michel - Notre-Dame (for RER B to RER C).
By Train: The Step-by-Step Guide (Orlyval + RER)
This is the most recommended route for most travelers, offering reliability and a fixed cost. It involves three seamless segments.
The Route: Orly (ORY) → Antony → Saint-Michel → Versailles
- Orlyval to Antony: Follow signs to “Paris by Train” in your terminal. Board the Orlyval automated metro. It runs every 4-7 minutes. Journey: 8 minutes.
- RER B to Paris: At Antony station, transfer to the RER B line (direction: Mitry-Claye or Aéroport Charles de Gaulle). Get off at Saint-Michel - Notre-Dame. Journey: 20-25 minutes.
- RER C to Versailles: At Saint-Michel, follow signs for RER C. Take a train on the VICK or VITY branch (destination: Versailles Château Rive Gauche). Get off at the final stop. Journey: 25-30 minutes.
Detailed Cost & Ticket Options
You have several ticket choices for this journey:
| Ticket Type | Coverage | Approx. Cost (One-Way) | Best For | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Direct Ticket (Orlyval + RER) | Covers Orlyval + RER B + RER C in one go. | €15.30 | One-time travelers, simplicity. | Orlyval ticket machines at the airport. |
| Navigo Découverte (Weekly Pass) | Unlimited travel on RER/Metro/Bus in all zones (1-5) for a calendar week (Mon-Sun). Orlyval requires a €10.30 supplement. | €30 (pass) + €10.30 (supplement) = €40.30 | Visitors staying 4+ days in Paris with extensive travel. | Major Metro/RER stations; requires a passport photo. |
| Paris Visite Pass (Zones 1-5) | Unlimited travel for 1,2,3, or 5 consecutive days. Orlyval requires a €10.30 supplement. | €47.55 (3-day) + €10.30 (supplement) | Tourists with packed Paris+Versailles itineraries over a few days. | Tourist offices, airport, metro stations. |
Pro Tips for the Train Journey
- Validate Your Ticket: Keep your ticket until you exit the final station in Versailles. You will need it to pass through turnstiles.
- Luggage Space: Use the multi-purpose areas at the ends of Orlyval/RER cars. Avoid rush hours (8-10 AM, 5-7 PM) with large suitcases.
- Transfer at Saint-Michel: Allow 5-10 minutes for the transfer. Signs are clear, but the station is large.
- Final Stop: Ensure your RER C train is going to Versailles Château Rive Gauche, not Versailles-Chantiers (a different, farther station).
By Bus + Train: The Budget-Friendly Alternative
For those looking to save a few euros, replacing the Orlyval with a bus is an option. The most common combo is Orlybus + RER.
Option 1: Orlybus to Denfert-Rochereau
- Take the Orlybus from outside any terminal (runs every 10-20 mins). Get off at the final stop, Denfert-Rochereau in Paris. Journey: 25-35 mins.
- At Denfert-Rochereau, take the RER B (direction: Mitry-Claye) for 2 stops to Saint-Michel - Notre-Dame.
- Transfer to the RER C to Versailles as described in the train section.
Cost: Orlybus (€11.20) + Standard RER B/C ticket (€4.05) = €15.25. Saves only €0.05 compared to Orlyval but involves traffic risk and less seamless transfer.
Option 2: Private Airport Shuttles
Companies like BlaBlaCar Bus or shared-ride vans offer door-to-door service. They must be pre-booked online.
- Pros: Direct, no transfers, meet at the terminal.
- Cons: More expensive than train (€25-€40 per person), schedule-dependent, longer if multiple drop-offs.
- Best for: Small groups who value convenience over absolute lowest cost.
By Taxi & Private Transfer: Door-to-Door Convenience
This is the most expensive but simplest option, ideal for specific circumstances.
Official Paris Taxis
Use only the official taxi ranks outside each terminal (Halls 1, 2, 3, 4). The fare to Versailles is regulated.
- Day Rate (10 AM - 5 PM): Approximately €65 - €80.
- Night/Early Morning/Sunday Rate: Approximately €80 - €100+.
- Journey Time: 30-50 minutes (highly traffic-dependent).
- Payment: Cash and cards are generally accepted.
Pre-Booked Private Transfers (Recommended)
Booking in advance with a reputable company (e.g., Welcome Pickups, Suntransfers) offers advantages:
- Fixed Price: No surprise meter jumps.
- Meet & Greet: Driver waits in arrivals with a name sign.
- Vehicle Choice: Sedans, vans, minibuses for groups.
- Cost: Similar to or slightly higher than taxi meter (€70-€110).
When to Choose This Option: Late-night/early-morning arrivals, traveling with 3+ people or heavy luggage, mobility issues, or simply valuing time and comfort over cost.
Ticket & Cost Comparison: At a Glance
| Transport Method | Total Journey Time (Approx.) | Estimated Cost (One-Way) | Transfers | Best For | Our Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train (Orlyval + RER) | 60 - 80 mins | €15.30 | 2 (Antony, Saint-Michel) | Most travelers, budget-conscious, standard hours. | ⭐ BEST OVERALL |
| Bus + Train (Orlybus + RER) | 75 - 95 mins | €15.25 | 2 (Denfert, Saint-Michel) | Ultimate budget savers (minor saving). | Good Alternative |
| Private Airport Shuttle | 45 - 75 mins | €25 - €40 pp | 0 (Direct) | Small groups wanting direct service. | Convenient |
| Taxi / Private Transfer | 30 - 50 mins | €65 - €100+ | 0 (Direct) | Families, groups, late arrivals, luxury. | 🏆 FASTEST / MOST CONVENIENT |
Note: Train is the cheapest, while taxi/transfer is the fastest under ideal traffic conditions.
Traveler Experience & Insider Tips
Beyond schedules and fares, here’s practical advice from seasoned travelers to make your journey smoother.
💡 Luggage Logistics
- Luggage Delivery Service: If you have heavy bags, consider City Locker or similar services at the airport to send your luggage directly to your hotel in Paris/Versailles, freeing you for a hassle-free train ride to the palace.
- Stairs at Saint-Michel: The transfer between RER B and C involves some stairs. If you have mobility concerns or very heavy luggage, look for elevator signs or factor in extra time.
⏰ Timing is Everything
- Avoid Rush Hour: Trains between 8-10 AM and 5-7 PM are packed with commuters. Traveling outside these windows is much more comfortable.
- Check RER C Schedules: The RER C line has frequent engineering works on weekends. Always check the latest schedule on the Transilien website or via apps like Citymapper.
- Versailles Palace Hours: The palace is closed on Mondays. Plan your airport transfer accordingly if going directly.
🎫 Ticket Savvy
- Buy the Correct Ticket at the Airport: To avoid fines, purchase the specific “Orlyval + Paris” ticket (€15.30) from the yellow Orlyval machines, not a standard Metro ticket.
- Keep Your Receipt: If using a taxi, ensure you get a receipt. For pre-booked transfers, have your confirmation email/voucher handy.
FAQs: Paris Orly to Versailles
Is there a direct train from Orly Airport to Versailles?
No, there is no single direct train. The most efficient public transport route involves a combination: First, take the Orlyval automated metro to Antony station, then transfer to the RER B train towards Paris, get off at Saint-Michel - Notre-Dame, and finally transfer to the RER C train heading to Versailles Château Rive Gauche. The total journey typically takes 1 hour to 1 hour 20 minutes.
What is the cheapest way to get from Orly to Versailles?
The cheapest option is combining the Orlyval + RER trains. A standard one-way ticket for the full Orlyval + RER B + RER C journey costs approximately €15.30 per adult. For even greater savings, consider the Navigo Découverte weekly pass if staying in Paris for multiple days, or the Orlybus + RER combo which is slightly cheaper but involves a bus ride to Denfert-Rochereau.
How long does a taxi take from Orly to Versailles?
A taxi or private transfer takes about 30 to 50 minutes, depending heavily on traffic conditions. While it's the fastest door-to-door option in light traffic, it is significantly more expensive, with fares ranging from €65 to €100+.
Can I use the Paris Visite travel card for this journey?
Yes, but with limitations. The Paris Visite card (zones 1-5) covers the RER B and RER C portions of the trip. However, you must purchase a separate supplement ticket (€10.30 as of 2024) for the Orlyval shuttle between the airport and Antony station, as it is operated by a different company.
What is the best option for late-night or early-morning arrival?
For arrivals outside standard public transport hours (roughly 5:30 AM - 12:30 AM), a pre-booked private transfer or taxi is the only reliable option. Night buses do not serve this specific route. Always pre-book to ensure availability and a fixed price.
Is it easy to travel with luggage on the train to Versailles?
It is manageable but can be challenging during peak hours. Orlyval and RER trains have dedicated luggage areas but can get crowded. The main difficulty is the transfer at Saint-Michel - Notre-Dame, which involves stairs and corridors. For heavy or multiple bags, consider a taxi/transfer or use a luggage delivery service from the airport.
Are there direct buses from Orly Airport to Versailles?
No, there are no direct public buses. The most relevant bus option is the Orlybus to Denfert-Rochereau in Paris, followed by the RER B and RER C trains. For a more direct coach service, you would need to look at private airport shuttle companies, which offer shared or private rides but are more expensive than trains.
Which is better: flying into Orly or Charles de Gaulle (CDG) for visiting Versailles?
Orly Airport (ORY) is significantly closer and more convenient for a trip to Versailles. The journey from ORY takes about 1-1.5 hours by train. From Charles de Gaulle (CDG), the train journey to Versailles requires more transfers and takes at least 1.5 to 2 hours, making Orly the preferred airport if your primary destination is Versailles.