Paris-Orly Airport

Overview

Paris Orly Airport (ORY) is one of the two major international airports serving Paris, alongside Charles de Gaulle (CDG). Located closer to the city centre than its larger counterpart, Orly handles a mix of domestic, European, and some intercontinental flights. It is a key hub for Air France and a base for low-cost carriers such as Transavia and easyJet. The airport primarily serves passengers travelling to and from southern Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, and the French overseas departments. With its proximity to central Paris, Orly is a convenient choice for those visiting the capital or the surrounding Île-de-France region.

Location & Access

Orly Airport sits about 14 kilometres (9 miles) south of Paris city centre, straddling the communes of Orly and Villeneuve-le-Roi in the Val-de-Marne department. Its southern location makes it especially convenient for travellers heading to or from the southern suburbs of Paris or the Loire Valley.

By Public Transport: The easiest way to reach central Paris is via the Orlyval automated shuttle train, which connects the airport to Antony station on RER B. From Antony, RER B trains run directly to major stations like Châtelet–Les Halles, Saint-Michel–Notre-Dame, and Gare du Nord. The entire journey takes about 25–35 minutes to central Paris. Alternatively, the Tram 7 line links Orly’s terminal to the Villejuif–Louis Aragon metro station (Line 7). Buses also serve the airport, including the Orlybus route to Denfert-Rochereau and several city bus lines.

By Road: Orly is well connected by the A6 and A86 motorways. Taxis and ride-sharing services are available, with a fixed fare to destinations within Paris (currently around €30–€35 for the right bank). The airport also offers valet parking and multiple paid car parks, including a multi-storey car park and open-air lots, all wheelchair-accessible.

Bicycle Access: Paris’s Vélib’ bike-sharing scheme has stations near the airport, and cycling routes connect Orly to the city’s network, though it is not the most common option for airport transfers.

Facilities

Orly Airport provides a range of services to ensure a comfortable journey. All terminals have free Wi-Fi, accessible throughout the public areas. The airport is well equipped for passengers with reduced mobility, with wheelchair-accessible parking, entrances, seating, and toilets throughout. Baggage storage services are available for those wishing to explore Paris without their luggage. Changing tables are present in restrooms, making it family-friendly. The airport also features a variety of shops, restaurants, and lounges, though specific brands are not listed here. For passengers needing assistance, the airport’s information desks are staffed during operating hours.

About the Region

Orly Airport serves the Paris region, one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. Paris itself is renowned for its art, culture, cuisine, and landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral. The surrounding Île-de-France region offers historic palaces like Versailles and Fontainebleau, as well as charming towns along the Seine. Orly’s location is particularly convenient for exploring the Loire Valley’s chateaux or heading south towards Lyon and the French Alps. The area has a temperate climate, with mild winters and warm summers, making it a year-round destination.

Practical Information

• Website: https://www.parisaeroport.fr/orly
• Phone: +33 1 70 36 39 50
• Hours: The airport is not open 24 hours; it closes overnight. Check with your airline for exact check-in and boarding times. Peak hours are typically around 4 pm and 5 pm, so expect longer queues then.
• Terminals: Orly has three terminals (1, 2, and 3) but they are interconnected. Terminal 1 handles most Air France flights, Terminal 2 is for low-cost carriers, and Terminal 3 is used by charter and some international airlines. Shuttle buses and walkways connect them.
• Currency: Euro (€). ATMs are available in all terminals.
• Luggage: Baggage storage is located in the arrival areas of Terminal 1 and 2.

For the latest information on flight status, transport, and services, always refer to the official website or contact the airport directly.