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Charles de Gaulle Airport Transportation

If you are flying to France it is likely that you will be flying into Charles de Gaulle Airport. It's the largest of the three Paris area airports followed by Orly and Beavais Airports. There are many different ways to get from Charles de Gaulle into the center of Paris, each with their own advantages.

History

Charles de Gaulle Airport has been open since 1974. At that time there was only one terminal open. This terminal was built by French architect Paul Andreu. The airport itself was named after Charles de Gaulle. De Gaulle fought in in both World War I and World War II. It was during the second war that he began leading the Free French Forces. He gave hope and leadership to the French people during the German occupation. He was recognized as a hero in Paris as well as the rest of France. He went on to become the head of the French government.

Building

Charles de Gaulle Airport is the second busiest airport in all of Europe, second only to London's Heathrow Airport. It is one of the top ten busiest airports in the entire world. The airport is made up of three main terminals, however it feels more like nine terminals. The second terminal is divided up into letters from A through G. In order to get around the airport you can use the CDGVAL train system. Most of the terminals have restaurants, both fast food and sit down. They also have stores and posts offices for convenience. Currency can be exchanged throughout the airport as well.

Airlines

There are hundreds of airlines that fly in and out of Charles de Gaulle Airport. Flights come to this airport from all over the world. Most of the large international airlines fly to Charles de Gaulle so it is likely if you are coming from the Unites States you will fly into this airport. Air France uses Charles de Gaulle as their main hub. Large american airlines such as Delta, American Airlines, United, and US Airways use Charles de Gaulle Airport as well.

Bus

Once you arrive at Charles de Gaulle Airport, you are only about 15 miles from central Paris. There are two main bus lines servicing the airport. They are the 350 and 351. Tickets can be purchased at the airport or on the bus. A third option is the Roissy Bus which is a shuttle that goes from the airport to the center of Paris. This bus makes less frequent stops than the 350 and 351.

Taxi

There are many taxi stands at the airport. If you decide to take a taxi into Paris be prepared to spend at least 50 euro or more. Make sure that you are taking an official Paris taxi with a sign on the top of the vehicle that says Parisien Taxi. Do not take a ride from someone who solicits you saying they are a taxi driver.

Train

Taking the train from Charles de Gaulle Airport is the fastest way to get into the center of Paris. You do not take the Metro from the airport, but rather the RER. This is the suburban commuter train of Paris. There are two stations at the airport. You can buy your ticket at the airport, or you can buy a Visite Paris Card. This will allow you to have unlimited rides on public transit. This ticket can be purchased over the internet before your trip.

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Charles de Gaulle Airport Transportation