Charles de Gaulle (CDG) & Orly (ORY)
Arriving in Paris
CDG sits 25 km northeast of the centre; the drive runs 45–75 minutes depending on the périphérique. Official taxis hold a flat regulated fare between the airport and each bank of the city, so a metered surprise should never happen. A pre-booked car waiting in arrivals removes the queue entirely, which after a long-haul is the whole point.
The luxury car
Paris rewards the upgrade on arrival more than most cities: cobbles, narrow hotel entrances and porters who expect a proper car. An executive saloon with a driver who knows the service entrance of your hotel turns a fraught arrival into a quiet one.
A chauffeur by the hour
Take a chauffeur for a day out to Versailles, Giverny or Champagne. Half a day covers Versailles comfortably; a full day gets you two Champagne houses in Reims and back before dinner.
- · Only take taxis from the official rank — never from anyone approaching you inside the terminal.
- · Tipping is not expected; rounding up or 5% for help with luggage is generous.
- · Ask your hotel which entrance the car should use — several Right Bank hotels have a discreet side door.