Layover in Paris: An Expert Guide to Scheduling Your Stopover

Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) is the main international airport in France. It’s also the second-busiest airport in Europe. Located about 25 kilometers from the center of Paris, CDG is the home base for Air France and connects travelers from all over the world. Each year, millions of people pass through its terminals.

If you have a layover in Paris, you’re in for something special. You can enjoy your time right at the airport or, if you have enough hours, take a short trip into the city. This guide will show you how to make the most of your stop.

To make your time even easier, try Qeepl. It’s a smart luggage storage service near Paris airports and popular spots in the city. You can leave your bags in a safe place and enjoy your layover with less stress — walk around, relax, or grab a meal without dragging your suitcase with you.

Paris Transit Visa Requirements

The first thing to consider when planning your layover in Paris is whether you need a transit visa. This depends on your citizenship, the length of your layover, and whether you plan to exit the international transit area.

Travelers from certain countries are required to obtain an Airport Transit Visa (ATV) even if they do not plan to enter France. This includes nationals of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, and Pakistan.

Others can transit through French airports without a visa as long as they stay in the international zone. However, if you wish to leave the airport and visit Paris during your stopover, you may need a short-stay Schengen visa (Type C), depending on your nationality and travel documents.

The best way to check your visa requirements is by visiting the official French visa website, which offers clear, updated information based on your country of origin.

What to Do at the Airport During Your Paris Layover?

If your layover is less than five hours, it’s usually best to remain inside the airport. Between security checks, transport times, and boarding procedures, you may not have enough time to safely explore the city.

Thankfully, Charles de Gaulle Airport has plenty to offer inside the terminals. Let’s take a look at what you can do while waiting for your next flight.

Restaurants Worth a Stop

Dining at CDG can be a surprisingly delightful experience. Try Culinaire Bazaar in Terminal 3 for a modern French dining experience with seasonal menus and elegant presentation.

If you’re looking for something quicker, head to Paul, a French bakery chain known for its sandwiches, croissants, and fresh pastries. It’s ideal for a light meal with a Parisian touch.

Best Stores to Browse Between Flights

Charles de Gaulle is known for its shopping options. The airport features luxury brands like Chanel, Dior, and Hermès, perfect for a stylish souvenir.

For something local, stop by La Maison du Chocolat or Fragonard, where you’ll find French sweets, fragrances, and beauty products. Duty-free shops also offer wine, cosmetics, and gourmet items.

Lounges and Nap Zones

CDG has several lounges, including the elegant Air France Lounge, which features showers, meals, and quiet areas. Pay-per-use lounges like Instant Paris are open to all travelers and offer beds, food, and workspaces.

If you’re just looking for a quick rest, Terminal 2E has a YotelAir with nap cabins available by the hour. There are also reclining chairs and quiet corners throughout the airport for a more casual break.

Facilities, Services, and Wi-Fi Access

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. It’s strong enough for streaming, calls, and browsing. There are also charging stations, baby rooms, and business corners.

For wellness, some terminals include spas and massage chairs. Pharmacies, baggage wrapping services, and multilingual help desks are also available to make your layover smoother.

How to Spend Long Layover in Paris?

If your layover is longer than six hours and you meet the visa requirements, heading into Paris is a must. The train from CDG to the city center takes about 30–40 minutes, making it possible to explore even on a tight schedule.

8-Hour Layover in Paris

Begin your city tour with a ride on the RER B train to Gare du Nord. From there, you can walk to Montmartre or hop on the metro to visit the Louvre Museum. Even if you don’t go inside, the glass pyramid is a great photo stop.

Stop for a café lunch in the Latin Quarter or near Île de la Cité, home to the Notre-Dame Cathedral. Make sure to return to the airport with at least two hours to spare.

12-Hour Layover in Paris

With more time, you can visit more iconic sites. After the Louvre, stroll along the Seine River to the Eiffel Tower or take a boat cruise for a relaxing view of the city.

Visit Musée d’Orsay or explore Le Marais, known for its shops and art galleries. For dinner, try a local bistro offering French classics like duck confit or steak frites before heading back.

24-Hour Layover in Paris

A full day in Paris allows you to experience the city’s rhythm. Start with breakfast at a café, then visit Versailles or Montmartre for panoramic views.

Spend your afternoon walking through Tuileries Garden, browsing at Galeries Lafayette, or relaxing at the Luxembourg Gardens. In the evening, enjoy a show at the Opéra Garnier or take in the sparkling Eiffel Tower before returning to the airport.

How to Handle Overnight Layover in Paris?

If your layover lasts through the night, there are several great places to stay near the airport. Thanks to a wide range of hotels located inside or just outside Charles de Gaulle Airport, you can easily find an option that suits your travel style and budget:

• CitizenM Paris Charles de Gaulle: Just a 5-minute walk from Terminal 3, this stylish hotel is known for its smart room controls, cozy beds, and ultra-modern design. Self-check-in kiosks make the process fast and easy. Nightly rates typically start at €120.
• YOTEL Paris CDG: Located right inside Terminal 2E, YOTEL offers futuristic cabins that are perfect for short overnight rests or even a few hours of sleep. Rooms are compact but functional, and you can check in any time. Prices start from around €90.
• Sheraton Paris Airport Hotel: This is the only hotel located directly inside Terminal 2, making it one of the most convenient options if you don’t want to step outside. Rooms are spacious, quiet, and well-equipped, with amenities like 24-hour room service and a fitness center. Rates begin at approximately €180.
• Ibis Styles Paris CDG Airport: A budget-friendly hotel just outside the terminal area, offering a free shuttle service. Rooms are modern and clean, and breakfast is included in most bookings. Expect to pay around €100 per night.
• Novotel Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport: Situated very close to the terminals, this hotel is great for both families and business travelers. It offers spacious rooms, a restaurant, and meeting spaces. Rates usually start from €130.

With these convenient options and direct access from the terminals, spending the night during your Paris layover can be both restful and efficient.