by Selecting the best airline for your trip to Paris begins with understanding your options and what each carrier offers. Whether it’s the friendly service of British Airways or the expansive network of American Airlines, direct flights to the City of Light are plentiful.
Reputable airlines provide extensive route choices and enhance the travel experience with quality in-flight entertainment, dining options, and comfortable seating. Your journey should start easily, and arrive at one of Paris’s central airports, ready to explore the romance and history of the French capital.
When planning your trip, considering which Parisian airport to land in is as crucial as your chosen airline. The city is served by three main airports – Charles de Gaulle (CDG), Orly (ORY), and Beauvais-Tillé (BVA) – each offering different routes and amenities. Airlines like Air France may offer premium experiences and perhaps more flexible schedules.
Meanwhile, budget-conscious travelers have many options with carriers offering competitive pricing without compromising essential services. Accurate comparisons and savvy planning are the keys to finding the ideal flight that aligns with your itinerary and budget expectations.
Table of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- What Airline is Best for Flights to Paris?
- What Can You Expect on the Flight?
- Which Airport Is Better to Fly to Paris?
- Airports Near Paris
- Airlines Operating Direct Flights to/from Paris
- Average Flight Time to Paris from the U.S.
- The Best Airlines to Fly to Paris from the U.S.
- Air France
- Delta Airlines
- American Airlines
- United Airlines
- Budget Airlines to Fly to Paris
- French Bee
- Air Tahiti Nui
- The Best Airlines to Fly to Paris Within Europe
- Which Airline Is Best for Your Trip to Paris?
- Finding Cheap Flights to Paris
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Which airlines offer the most comfortable flights to Paris?
- How do I choose between Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports for my Paris trip?
- What are the most cost-effective times of year to book flights to Paris?
- What days of the week are best for finding lower fares on flights to Paris?
- Find Things to Do in Paris
- Find Accommodation
- Explore Paris With Our Guides & Reviews
Key Takeaways
- Choosing a reputable airline ensures a pleasant flight experience with amenities and service.
- Paris is accessible through several airports, each with unique airline offerings and routes.
- Strategic planning and comparison are essential for finding the best flights that meet your preferences and budget.
What Airline is Best for Flights to Paris?
When selecting an airline for your Paris journey, consider Air France and Delta Airlines as leading options.
Air France is lauded for its extensive network and premium amenities, especially if you want to indulge in business class comfort. With its hub at Paris-Charles de Gaulle airport, you benefit from streamlined services and enhanced access to French destinations.
Delta Airlines offers excellent connectivity from numerous cities in the United States straight to Paris. The airline garners praise for its customer service and overall dependability.
Airline | Known For | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
Air France | Network, Business Class Comfort | Direct access to France |
Delta Airlines | Global Reliability, Staff Service | Dependable U.S. connections |
When traveling in business class, look for carriers that offer lie-flat seats, gourmet dining, and enhanced privacy. Both airlines mentioned provide amenities that align with these preferences, ensuring a restful and luxurious experience.
In-flight comfort is crucial, especially for long-haul flights. Seat comfort, legroom, and personal entertainment systems are key factors that both airlines address with a focus on enhancing your travel to Paris. By prioritizing these carriers, you’re more likely to enjoy a journey characterized by comfort, superior service, and French flair that starts the moment you board.
What Can You Expect on the Flight?
When traveling to Paris by air, your boarding experience varies by airline and service class. However, standard amenities across most carriers include in-flight entertainment, food selection, and differentiated experiences in business class seats.
In-flight Entertainment:
Expect a personal entertainment system loaded with movies, TV shows, music, and games. International flights often feature a diverse selection ranging from Hollywood blockbusters to European cinema, ensuring hours of content to keep you engaged.
- Movies & TV Shows: Latest releases, classics, and international titles
- Music: Wide variety of albums and playlists
- Games: Interactive games, from trivia to puzzles
Food:
Enjoy a menu crafted with attention to both taste and presentation, with some airlines featuring meals curated by renowned chefs. Your options include:
- Economy Class: Complimentary meal and beverage service; snacks available for purchase on some airlines
- Special Meals: Dietary and religious-based meals upon request
Business Class Seats:
Recline in more spacious seating that often converts into a flat-bed for restful sleep on longer flights. The enhanced privacy, additional storage, and upgraded meal service create a refined atmosphere.
- Seat Features: Adjustable headrest, increased legroom, personal reading light
- Amenities Kit: High-quality headphones, skincare products, and travel essentials
Your flight to Paris will be an initial taste of French hospitality, with airlines striving to provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience before you even land in the City of Light.
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Which Airport Is Better to Fly to Paris?
When you decide to fly to Paris, you’ll primarily choose between three airports: Charles de Gaulle (CDG), Paris Orly (ORY), and Beauvais (BVA).
- Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG): Situated 25 km northeast of Paris, CDG is the largest airport and serves as the main hub for international travelers. It’s the go-to option for most major airlines. The airport offers extensive flight options, including long-haul international and domestic flights. Transport to the city includes trains (RER B), buses, taxis, and car rentals.
- Paris Orly Airport (ORY): Located 13 km south of Paris, Orly is closer to the city and often preferred for its convenient size and lesser crowd. It is well-connected to the city by trams (T7), Orlyval train service, buses, taxis, and car rentals. ORY is often chosen for European, domestic, and Middle Eastern flights.
- Beauvais Airport (BVA): 85 km north of Paris, Beauvais is a smaller airport mainly serving budget airlines and charter flights. While significantly farther from Paris, it’s a cost-effective option for travelers not minding the extra travel time. Transport into Paris includes the shuttle service to Porte Maillot and other bus services.
Airport | Distance to Paris | Main Airlines | Transportation Options |
|---|---|---|---|
Charles de Gaulle | 25 km NE | Air France, British Airways, American Airlines | RER B, buses, taxis, car rentals |
Paris Orly | 13 km S | Air France, EasyJet, Vueling | Trams (T7), Orlyval, buses, taxis |
Beauvais | 85 km N | Ryanair, Wizz Air | Shuttle bus to Porte Maillot |
Each airport offers a different experience tailored to your travel needs—be it international reach through CDG, ORY’s proximity to Paris, or BVA’s budget-friendly flights. Consider your priorities such as distance to your accommodation, flight options, and your budget when choosing the airport for your Paris visit.
Airports Near Paris
When traveling to Paris, you have a selection of airports. Each serves the city with varying amenities and access to transportation options.
Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)
International & Domestic Flights
- Located 14.2 miles (approximately 22.7 kilometers) northeast of Paris.
- Major international hub with extensive flight options.
- Connected by RER B train to central Paris, travel time around 30-50 minutes.
Paris Orly Airport (ORY)
International & Domestic Flights
- Situated 8.9 miles (approximately 14.3 kilometers) south of Paris.
- Second busiest French airport, offering many flights to destinations around the world.
- Linked by Orlyval (automatic train) to Antony station, then RER B train to the city, around 30 minutes.
Beauvais Airport (BVA)
Mostly Low-Cost European Carriers
- Found 43 miles (approximately 69 kilometers) north of Paris.
- Smaller and used predominantly by budget airlines.
- Shuttle buses available to Paris, taking about 75 minutes to Porte Maillot.
For quick and hassle-free travel into Paris, Orly Airport (ORY) is closest to the city with excellent public transport connections. To cater to international flights and a wider range of destinations, Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) is the primary gateway, although it’s slightly farther from the city center. Choosing the right airport depends on your origin, destination, and the airlines you prefer. Each airport offers various services like taxis and shuttle buses to reach your final destination in the city of lights.
Airlines Operating Direct Flights to/from Paris
Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport serves as France’s premier international gateway, offering numerous direct flights globally. Key domestic options enable seamless access to the iconic capital.
From the U.S.:
For your transatlantic journey, consider these carriers:
- Air France: Offers the most extensive network of nonstop flights from various U.S. cities to Paris.
- American Airlines: Connects major cities with Paris, providing another reliable option.
- United Airlines: Operates direct routes from its U.S. hubs to Paris.
- Delta Airlines: Completes the list of American carriers with direct services to the French capital.
European Carriers:
Various airlines across Europe ensure you can fly directly to Paris from numerous European cities.
Within France:
Domestic flights are plentiful, connecting multiple regions to the heart of French culture.
When planning your Parisian getaway, direct flights enhance convenience, minimizing transit time. Ensure you review the latest schedules as routes and frequencies can change.
Average Flight Time to Paris from the U.S.
When planning your trip from the U.S. to Paris, it’s essential to consider flight duration. Non-stop flight times vary by departure city:
- East Coast: Approximately 7 to 8 hours to Paris.
- West Coast: Usually around 10 to 12 hours.
For instance, a non-stop flight from New York City typically takes 7 to 8 hours. If you’re flying from Los Angeles, the duration extends to about 10 to 11 hours due to the increased distance. Factors such as wind patterns and specific flight routes can also affect these times.
Remember, direct flights are the quickest way to reach the City of Light. Layovers, often required when flying from smaller airports or seeking lower fares, will add to your travel time. Always check your itinerary for total travel time when booking, as layover duration can vary widely.
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The Best Airlines to Fly to Paris from the U.S.
When planning your trip to Paris, selecting a reputable airline is crucial for a comfortable, convenient journey. Here are your top choices for airlines with direct routes from the U.S. to Paris.
Air France
- Destination Airports: Paris-Charles de Gaulle (CDG), Nice (NCE)
- U.S. Departure Cities: 14 major cities including New York (JFK), Los Angeles (LAX), and San Francisco (SFO)
- Connectivity: Extensive network within France and Europe
As France’s flagship carrier, Air France offers the most nonstop flights from the U.S. to France. You have the advantage of landing in Paris, from where connecting to other French or European cities is a breeze.
Delta Airlines
- Frequent Flyer Program: SkyMiles
- U.S. Departure Cities: Multiple, with strong East Coast presence
- Notable Service: Economical and premium options
Delta Airlines collaborates with Air France to give you enhanced connectivity. Your SkyMiles can be earned and redeemed on flights to Paris, potentially upgrading your experience to Delta One for lie-flat seats.
American Airlines
- Notable Routes: Direct flights from cities such as Dallas (DFW) and Miami (MIA)
- Service Classes: Basic Economy to Flagship First
- Amenities: Wi-Fi, premium dining, lie-flat seats in premium cabins
American Airlines competes strongly on comfort and additional amenities. You’ll find options for every budget, with the potential for a luxurious experience in higher classes.
United Airlines
- Frequent Flyer Program: MileagePlus
- U.S. Departure Cities: Including hubs like Chicago (ORD) and Denver (DEN)
- Alliance: Star Alliance member, offering broad connections
United Airlines provides ample opportunity to utilize MileagePlus miles when booking your Parisian getaway. Enjoy comprehensive service, with some flights offering the new Polaris business class for restful transatlantic travel.
Budget Airlines to Fly to Paris
When planning your trip to Paris, consider flying with budget airlines like French Bee or Air Tahiti Nui to save on airfare without compromising on experience.
French Bee
French Bee offers competitive fares to Paris, which could provide significant savings on your trip. You’ll find that French Bee operates flights to Paris from various locations, giving you flexible options to choose from.
- Destinations: San Francisco, New York City, and more
- Discounts: Periodic promotions, especially during off-peak seasons
Air Tahiti Nui
While not typically categorized as a budget airline, Air Tahiti Nui can surprise you with affordable options for flights to Paris. Occasional deals can make their prices comparable to those of budget carriers.
- Destinations: Los Angeles and other major cities
- Discounts: Limited-time offers and partner airline deals
The Best Airlines to Fly to Paris Within Europe
Choosing the right airline can enhance your trip when traveling to Paris from within Europe. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and Lufthansa are among the top picks for their reliability, extensive networks, and quality service.
KLM operates from its hub in Amsterdam, offering flights to Paris with excellent customer care and punctuality. Your experience on board includes comfortable seating and a range of in-flight entertainment options.
Lufthansa, Germany’s flagship carrier, provides frequent flights to Paris from multiple cities across Europe. Its commitment to safety and passenger comfort is evident through its modern fleet and attentive service.
For budget-conscious travelers, low-cost carriers offer competitive prices and often fly into Paris’ smaller airports which may be closer to your final destination. Keep in mind that these airlines may have additional fees for baggage and onboard services.
In choosing your airline, consider:
- Route networks: Larger carriers like KLM and Lufthansa have extensive networks, making connections convenient.
- Flight frequency: More flights mean more flexibility in planning your itinerary.
- Airport hubs: Airlines like KLM through Amsterdam’s Schiphol have streamlined processes for transfers.
- Fares: Balance cost with the benefits provided by full-service carriers.
- Service class: Look for business class offerings on full-service airlines for a more luxurious journey.
Flight durations vary, but with these airlines, you can expect a swift and comfortable journey to the heart of France. Remember to review each airline’s policies on luggage and check-in to ensure a smooth takeoff to your Parisian adventure.
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Which Airline Is Best for Your Trip to Paris?
When selecting an airline for your Paris adventure, consider major carriers offering direct routes from key US cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco. Air France, American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Airlines are notable for their extensive networks and direct flights to Paris.
- Air France is known for its French flair and direct routes from several US locations.
- American Airlines offers a balance of good service and frequent flights to Paris.
- United Airlines often provides competitive pricing and a wide range of departure times.
- Delta Airlines stands out for its customer service, familial accommodations, and operational reliability.
If you’re traveling from across the Atlantic and prefer a touch of British charm, British Airways offers numerous departure points and is praised for its courteous staff and onboard offerings.
For budget-conscious travelers, companies like French Bee may appeal with their cost-saving options, friendly service, and in-flight amenities.
Comfort and customer service are critical factors to weigh; hence, inspect the seating options, legroom, and in-flight services each airline provides. Many airlines have online platforms where you can easily compare these features.
Here’s a simple breakdown of what to expect:
Airline | Highlights |
|---|---|
Air France | French experience, extensive network |
American Airlines | Balance of service and frequency |
United Airlines | Competitive pricing, various departures |
Delta Airlines | Stellar customer service, family-catering |
British Airways | British charm, multiple departures |
French Bee | Economical, pleasant service |
Choose an airline that connects you to the romance of Paris and suits your travel preferences, needs, and budget.
Finding Cheap Flights to Paris
Securing affordable tickets to Paris requires a strategic approach. Begin by comparing prices across multiple flight comparison websites. Websites like Skyscanner and KAYAK offer a comprehensive view of various airlines’ pricing, helping you pinpoint the best deals for both one-way and round-trip tickets.
Discounts and Deals
Airfares fluctuate frequently, so it pays to monitor for price drops. Some travel platforms provide alerts or even offer price drop protection, promising refunds if the ticket price decreases after your purchase.
Utilizing Miles and Points
Leverage any accrued miles or points from airline loyalty programs or credit cards. Redeeming these can substantially reduce the cost of your ticket, sometimes even covering the full flight cost.
Timing Your Purchase
- Early Booking: Often, booking several months in advance secures lower rates.
- Last-Minute Deals: Conversely, some airlines offer last-minute discounts to fill empty seats.
Travel Dates Flexibility
- Off-Peak: Flying during the mid-week or off-season can lead to significant savings.
- Flexible Dates: Sites like Expedia allow you to view a range of dates to find the cheapest options.
Table 1: Comparison of Potential Savings
Booking Platform | Round-Trip Starting Price | Additional Benefits |
|---|---|---|
Skyscanner | $304 | Comprehensive price comparison |
$23 | Price Drop Protection | |
KAYAK | $145 | Detailed filters for best deals |
Air France | $474* | Direct bookings with the airline |
Prices are indicative and can change. Checking the prices directly through the airlines or comparison sites can provide the most up-to-date information. Remember, the best flight for you balances cost, convenience, and comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
When planning a trip to Paris, selecting the right airline and understanding the logistics of your arrival can be crucial for a comfortable and cost-effective journey. Below are answers to some common questions that can help streamline your travel plans to the City of Lights.
Which airlines offer the most comfortable flights to Paris?
Airlines known for comfort and service quality on flights to Paris include Air France and Delta Airlines. These carriers often provide more legroom, elevated cuisine, and enhanced entertainment options.
How do I choose between Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports for my Paris trip?
Choose Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) if you’re looking for a vast array of international flights and easier access to long-distance trains. Orly Airport (ORY) is closer to the city center and may be a more convenient choice for domestic or European flights.
What are the most cost-effective times of year to book flights to Paris?
To save on flight costs, consider booking during the off-peak tourist seasons, such as fall (October to November) and late winter (January to March). Airlines often reduce prices during these periods to encourage travel.
What days of the week are best for finding lower fares on flights to Paris?
Typically, booking your flights for a midweek departure, such as Tuesday or Wednesday, is best. Weekend flights tend to be more expensive due to higher demand.
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