Getting Around

There are dozens of ways to get to and from Paris's two international airports (Orly and Charles de Gaulle) ranging from rapidfire shuttle trains to the standard assortment of pokey public buses. Private shuttles and taxis are also plentiful. There's even a bus that runs solely between the two airports. Say what you will about driving around Paris -- the city's public transportation (with the exception of buses) is world class.

The most charming of Paris's public transport options, the underground Métropolitain (and its sister system the RER) is a massive network. No matter where you are chances are there's a metro station within a few blocks. Likewise the public bus system runs everywhere, but the hours leave a lot to be desired. It's best avoid trying to get anywhere on a bus on a Sunday or a holiday. The Noctambus network dominates in heavily trafficked areas once the underground and the day buses go to sleep.

Paris is pretty compact, roughly 6 miles across, that you can walk everywhere. So this, coupled with the excellent transportation system, suppress any desire to drive. Driving around Paris is a job best reserved for the terminally aggressive. If you don't have lots of time to kill, you're better off taking public transportation. Likewise with bicycles: Parisians don't much like to share the road and bikes aren't allowed on the metro.

For everything you need to know about getting from Orly and Charles de Gaulle airports to Paris hotels and transportation between Paris activities, Paris restaurants, and more, use the RATP website (www.ratp.info) as your Paris travel guide. Here, you can find scheduling information, maps, pricing, and more. The RATP website features five different languages.