The Best France Airports to Fly into for Your Next Trip
Choosing the right airport for your trip to France can make a significant impact on your overall travel experience. With many airports serving different regions and cities in France, it’s essential to select one that’s convenient and accessible to your final destination. Factors such as flight schedules, transportation options, and proximity to tourist attractions should all be considered when choosing the best airport to fly into. If you’re planning a trip to France, it’s helpful to check out a France airports list to see which airports are available for you to fly into.
In this article, we will explore some of the best airports to fly into for your next trip to France. We will highlight the airports that serve the most popular tourist destinations, including Paris, Lyon, Nice, and Marseille. Additionally, we will provide information on transportation options, flight schedules, and other essential details to help you make an informed decision about which airport is best for your travel plans. So let’s check out aeroports francais!
Overview of France Airports
France has many airports, both big and small, that serve various regions of the country. Some of the major airports in France include Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), Paris Orly Airport (ORY), Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS), Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE), Marseille Provence Airport (MRS), and Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD).
When choosing the best airport to fly into, it’s essential to consider the location and size of the airport, as well as the number of France airports international flights it receives. For example, CDG is the largest airport in France and serves as a major international hub, with flights to destinations all over the world. ORY is located closer to the city center and serves more domestic and regional flights. LYS, NCE, and MRS are smaller airports that serve their respective regions and receive international flights from various destinations in Europe and beyond. BOD is located in the southwest of France and is also a smaller airport that primarily serves regional and domestic flights. It is one of the most popular South of France airports.
Additionally, some airports may be more convenient for certain tourist destinations. For example, NCE is an ideal airport to fly into for those visiting the French Riviera, while CDG or ORY are better options for those visiting Paris. Ultimately, the choice of airport depends on your final destination and travel plans, so it’s important to research and compare the different options before booking your flight.
Best Airports for Paris
Paris is one of the world’s most beloved tourist destinations, and as such has two major airports serving it: Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) and Orly Airport (ORY). Both offer excellent options for travelers visiting Paris; however, CDG is the larger and more renowned. Charles de Gaulle and Orly are the two major France airports near Paris, so they are usually the most convenient options for travelers visiting the city. Let’s check out some of the top Paris France airports.
Location and Transportation Options: CDG is situated 25 kilometers (16 miles) northeast of Paris and accessible by a variety of modes of transport such as trains, buses, taxis and rental cars. The RER B train line provides a direct link between CDG and central Paris with a journey time of around 30 minutes. In addition, there are various bus options that offer connections throughout the city.
Airlines and Flights: CDG is one of Europe’s busiest airports, serving as a major hub for Air France. It also receives flights from many other international airlines like Delta, United, Emirates, Singapore Airlines. There are direct flights from CDG to many major cities around the world including New York City, London, Tokyo, and Dubai.
Services and Facilities
Services and Facilities: CDG has three terminals, with Terminal 2 being the largest and most modern. Here you will find an array of services like restaurants, shops, lounges and duty-free stores as well as currency exchange offices, ATMs and baggage storage facilities. For those with long layovers in CDG, they provide free shuttle bus service between terminals plus activities like art exhibitions or spa treatments.
Overall, CDG is an ideal destination for travelers to Paris, offering a range of transportation options, flights and services. However, it’s essential to remember that the airport can be busy and confusing so allow yourself plenty of time to navigate it and make connections. Anyways, If you’re flying to France, it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on news of any France airports strike that may cause delays or cancellations.
Orly Airport
Orly Airport (ORY) is the second major airport serving Paris and is located about 14 kilometers (9 miles) south of the city center. It is one of the France biggest airports.
Location and transportation options: ORY is easily accessible by public transportation, with several bus and train options connecting the airport to different parts of the city. The Orlyval train provides a direct connection between ORY and the RER B train line, which connects to central Paris. Additionally, there are several bus options that provide connections to different parts of the city, including the Orlybus, which provides direct service to Denfert-Rochereau in central Paris. Generally, all of these France air airports are very famous.
Airlines and flights: ORY primarily serves domestic and regional flights, with Air France being the largest carrier at the airport. However, there are also several international airlines that offer flights to destinations in Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. Some of the airlines that operate at ORY include easyJet, Ryanair, and Transavia.
Services and facilities: ORY has two terminals, with Orly 4 being the larger and more modern of the two. The airport has a range of services and facilities, including restaurants, cafes, shops, and duty-free stores. There are also currency exchange offices, ATMs, and baggage storage facilities. For those with long layovers, ORY offers a relaxation area in Orly 3, as well as a range of other activities, such as video games and a children’s play area.
Overall, ORY is a convenient option for those traveling to Paris, particularly for those arriving from domestic or regional destinations.
Beauvais-Tille Airport (BVA)
Beauvais-Tille Airport (BVA) is a smaller airport located about 85 kilometers (53 miles) north of Paris. While it is not as well-connected as CDG or ORY, it can be a budget-friendly option for travelers visiting Paris. It is one of the best Northern France airports.
Location and transportation options: BVA is located quite far from Paris, and as such, transportation options can be more limited. The most common mode of transportation is by bus, with several companies providing direct services to Paris, with journey times ranging from 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes. There is also a shuttle bus that connects the airport to the nearby Beauvais train station, which provides connections to other parts of France.
Airlines and flights: BVA primarily serves low-cost airlines, with Ryanair being the largest carrier at the airport. There are direct flights from BVA to many cities in Europe, including London, Dublin, Barcelona, and Stockholm.
Services and facilities: BVA has a single terminal building with a range of services and facilities, including restaurants, cafes, shops, and duty-free stores. There are also currency exchange offices, ATMs, and baggage storage facilities. However, the facilities are more limited than at larger airports, and there are no lounges available for passengers. France airports skiing is also something a lot of people wonder about.
Overall, BVA can be a good option for budget-conscious travelers, but it’s important to be aware of the limitations in terms of transportation options and facilities. It may also be more suitable for those with flexible schedules, as flight schedules can be more limited than at larger airports.
Best Airports for the French Riviera
Nice Cote d’Azur Airport (NCE) is the primary airport serving the French Riviera and lies approximately 7 kilometers (4 miles) west of Nice. The south of France is home to many popular tourist destinations, and there are several France airports south that serve the region, including Nice and Marseille.
Location and Transportation Options: NCE is well connected to the surrounding region by public transportation, with several bus and train options connecting it to various parts of the French Riviera. The Nice Airport Express bus provides direct service to central Nice as well as popular destinations like Cannes or Monaco. There’s also a tramway connecting the airport to downtown Nice as well as a train station offering connections throughout the region.
Airlines and Flights: NCE airport offers a diverse selection of airlines and flights, serving both domestic and international destinations like several cities in Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. Popular airline operators at NCE include Air France, EasyJet, and Ryanair.
Services and Facilities: NCE Airport boasts two terminals, with Terminal 2 being the larger and more modern of the two. It provides a host of services like restaurants, cafes, shops as well as currency exchange offices, ATMs and baggage storage areas. For those with longer layovers at NCE, there’s a relaxation area with comfortable seating plus video games and children’s play area to keep you occupied.
Overall, NCE is an accessible and well-connected airport for those traveling to the French Riviera. It also offers plenty of international connections for those wanting to explore other parts of Europe or venture further afield, making NCE an ideal choice. Each France airports name is unique and corresponds to a specific location, making it easy for travelers to find the right airport for their trip.
Cannes-Mandelieu Airport
Cannes-Mandelieu Airport (CEQ) is a smaller airport located about 7 kilometers (4 miles) west of Cannes.
Location and Transportation Options: CEQ is well-connected by public transportation, with several bus options connecting it to different parts of Cannes and the surrounding region. Furthermore, there are plenty of taxi and car rental services available.
Airlines and Flights: CEQ primarily offers private and charter flights, with a focus on business and leisure travel. Some of the airlines that operate at CEQ include Air Corsica and Heli Securite.
Services and Facilities: CEQ has one terminal building with a variety of services and amenities, such as a restaurant, cafe, shop and currency exchange offices. There are also ATMs and a VIP lounge available to passengers.
Overall, CEQ is a great option for those traveling on private or charter flights who desire an exclusive and luxurious airport experience. Unfortunately, it may not be suitable for budget travelers or those searching for more flight choices.
Marseille Provence Airport
Marseille Provence Airport is located approximately 27 kilometers northwest of Marseille, in the town of Marignane. It is easily accessible by car, as it is located near the A7 and A55 motorways. Travelers can also reach the airport via public transportation, including shuttle buses and trains. The shuttle bus runs from Marseille Saint-Charles train station to the airport every 15-20 minutes and takes around 25 minutes. The airport also has a train station, with regular services to Marseille, Aix-en-Provence, and Avignon. It is one of the France busiest airports.
The airport serves a range of airlines, including Air France, Ryanair, easyJet, and Volotea, with flights to both domestic and international destinations. Popular international destinations include Barcelona, Istanbul, and London.
Passengers at Marseille Provence Airport can enjoy a range of services and facilities, including restaurants, cafes, and bars, as well as duty-free shops, fashion boutiques, and souvenir shops. The airport also offers free Wi-Fi, charging stations, and a business center with meeting rooms and printing facilities. For those traveling with children, there is a children’s play area, and baby changing facilities are available throughout the airport. Other services include a prayer room, currency exchange, and car rental desks.
Best Airports for Wine Country
Bordeaux-Merignac Airport (BOD), situated 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) west of Bordeaux, is the primary airport serving this wine region.
Location and Transportation Options: BOD is well connected to the surrounding region through public transportation, with several bus options connecting it to Bordeaux city center and other destinations nearby. Furthermore, Navette Aeroport operates a shuttle service providing direct connections to Bordeaux’s main train station. Taxis and car rental services are also available.
One important tip to bear in mind before visiting France is new travel regulations. From 2025, the EU will launch the European Travel Information and Authorization System, ETIAS France, to enhance the EU’s safety capabilities and improve traveler experience. So be ready, because some of the rules are going to be different in these airports.
Airlines and Flights: BOD airport offers a diverse selection of airlines and flights to domestic and international destinations, such as several cities in Europe and North Africa. Popular airline operators at BOD include Air France, EasyJet, and Ryanair.
Services and Facilities: BOD’s single terminal building offers an array of services and amenities, such as restaurants, cafes, shops, currency exchange offices, ATMs, and a VIP lounge for passengers.
Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport (LYS)
France international airports offer flights to destinations all over the world, making it easy for travelers to connect to other countries.
Lyon-Saint-Exupery Airport (LYS), situated 20 kilometers (12.5 miles) east of Lyon, is the primary airport serving the Rhone wine region. France big airports are quite popular.
Location and Transportation Options: Lyon-St-Charles International Airport is well served by public transportation, with several bus and tram options connecting it to Lyon city center and other regional destinations. There’s also a train station at the airport with direct connections to Lyon and other cities within the region. Taxis and car rental services are also available at LYS.
As mentioned above, ETIAS will change a lot of things about travel around Europe. Everyone who will want to visit France after 2025 will need ETIAS visa. But thankfully, ETIAS application for Canadian citizens is a simple procedure, taking only 15 minutes. All you have to do is to complete the application form by providing your personal information and submitting it alongside your biometric passport.
Airlines and Flights: LYS airport offers a vast selection of airlines and flights to domestic and international destinations alike, such as several cities in Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. Popular carriers that fly into LYS include Air France, EasyJet, Turkish Airlines.
Services and Facilities: LYS has two terminal buildings featuring a variety of services and amenities, such as restaurants, cafes, shops and currency exchange offices. There’s also an ATM machine at LYS airport and a VIP lounge for passengers to relax in. Furthermore, there’s a dedicated wine bar featuring wines from France’s Rhone wine region as well as other French regions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right airport is an important decision when planning a trip to France. The best airport for you will depend on your specific travel needs and preferences, such as your destination, budget, and the airlines you prefer to fly with. This article has provided an overview of some of the best airports to fly into for different regions of France, including Paris, the French Riviera, and wine country. France Paris airports offer a range of services and facilities, including transportation options, dining options, and duty-free shopping.
For travelers visiting Paris, Charles de Gaulle Airport and Orly Airport are the two main options, with CDG being the larger of the two and offering more international flight options. For those heading to the French Riviera, Nice Côte d’Azur Airport is the main airport, offering a range of airlines and flights to destinations within France and around the world. Meanwhile, wine lovers may want to consider flying into Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport or Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport, which are both well-connected to the surrounding wine regions. France airports code is a three-letter code used to identify each airport, which is especially important when booking flights or checking in online.
We didn’t cover France all airports in this articles, but we mentioned the most important ones. Regardless of which airport you choose, it’s important to do your research and plan ahead to ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience. Check airline schedules, transportation options, and the services and facilities offered at each airport to make the most of your trip to France.