Can I tap with a foreign bank card?

Most systems now support open-loop contactless. Keep a backup paper ticket when traveling with a group to avoid tapping each person manually.

Buses rarely charge extra, but airport expresses may require storing big bags in designated racks.

CDGFranceTPL: fare-hacker-playbook

Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

Paris, France

Drop-off

Central Paris (Châtelet–Les Halles / Opéra area)

Pin before customs

Fastest

RER B

rail · 6-15m

Data

Nov 28

Audit

Quick verdict

Fastest into town

Service: RER B
Headway: 6-15
Backup: Roissybus · 15-20m

Note

Suburban rail line B from CDG stations “Aéroport Charles de Gaulle 1” and “Aéroport Charles de Gaulle 2 – TGV” to central Paris stops such as Gare du Nord and Châtelet–Les Halles in about 25–30 minutes. Trains run roughly every 6–15 minutes from early morning until around midnight in both directions.

Budget focus

Paris: Fare Hacker Playbook

Ways to shave costs without blowing your schedule. Targets queries likeparis airport busandcdg to city centerfor eSIM funnels.

Cheapest viable route

Brief

Usually slower but dramatically cheaper than the flagship airport express.

Service: Roissybus
Mode: coach
Freq: 15-20m
Note: Direct airport coach between all CDG terminals and Paris Opéra (11 rue Scribe, near Palais Garnier) with easy metro and bus connections across central Paris. Operates roughly 05:15–00:30 with departures about every 15–20 minutes depending on time of day.

Passes and bundles

Brief

Look for day passes that include the airport zone plus metro, tram, or ferry transfers. Load value online to avoid kiosk surcharges.

When to splurge

Brief

Worth the premium when you have back-to-back meetings or tight onward connections downtown.

Service: RER B
Mode: rail
Freq: 6-15m
Note: Suburban rail line B from CDG stations “Aéroport Charles de Gaulle 1” and “Aéroport Charles de Gaulle 2 – TGV” to central Paris stops such as Gare du Nord and Châtelet–Les Halles in about 25–30 minutes. Trains run roughly every 6–15 minutes from early morning until around midnight in both directions.

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FAQs

01Can I tap with a foreign bank card?: Most systems now support open-loop contactless. Keep a backup paper ticket when traveling with a group to avoid tapping each person manually.
02Any luggage fees?: Buses rarely charge extra, but airport expresses may require storing big bags in designated racks.