Welcome to Paris Orly Airport (ORY) – Your Gateway to the City of Light
Located approximately 13 kilometers (8 miles) south of central Paris, Paris Orly Airport (ORY) serves as a key airport for both domestic and international flights, especially within Europe, the Middle East, and overseas French territories. Once the primary airport of the French capital before the rise of Charles de Gaulle (CDG), Orly Airport remains a popular choice among travelers seeking convenient access to southern Paris, Versailles, and beyond. In this airport guide, explore everything you need to know about Paris Orly Airport—from terminals and ground transport to dining, shopping, and insider tips that ensure a stress-free journey.
1. Quick Facts & Overview
- Airport Code: ORY
- Location: Orly, France—around 13 km (8 mi) south of Paris
- Passenger Volume: Over 31 million travelers annually (pre-pandemic figures)
- Primary Airlines: Air France (domestic/European routes), Transavia, easyJet, Vueling, plus other international carriers
- Terminals: Four distinct areas consolidated into two main zones: Orly 1–2–3 and Orly 4
- Key Routes: Domestic flights across France, European city hops, plus select long-haul destinations (French overseas territories, Africa, Middle East)
Paris Orly Airport is recognized for its shorter distances to central Paris compared to CDG, making it a favored airport for regional or European connections. With modernized terminals and efficient transport links, ORY remains a top pick for travelers wanting quick access to the heart of Paris.
2. Terminal Layout & Facilities
Orly Airport previously consisted of two terminals (Sud and Ouest). Renovations have rebranded these into interconnected zones:
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Orly 1–2–3 (former Orly Ouest)
- Houses a mix of domestic and Schengen flights, with Air France operating many routes here.
- A new boarding lounge linking Orly 1, Orly 2, and Orly 3 for seamless passenger flow.
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Orly 4 (former Orly Sud)
- Primarily handles international and some long-haul services, including Transavia, Vueling, and other carriers.
2.1 Check-In & Departures
- Check-In Counters: Signposted according to airline; overhead screens guide you. Arrive at least 2 hours before European flights, 2–3 hours for intercontinental routes.
- Security & Border Control: Depending on Schengen or non-Schengen flights, you may pass passport checks after security—factor in extra time if traveling outside the EU.
2.2 Arrivals & Baggage Claim
- Baggage Carousels: Each arrivals hall has multiple carousels; flight information boards highlight carousel assignments.
- Customs: EU arrivals generally pass minimal checks; non-EU travelers go through immigration.
- Information Desks: Located in arrivals halls for onward travel inquiries, lost property, or airport guidance.
2.3 Passenger Services
- Free Wi-Fi: “Paris Aéroport Free WiFi”—follow prompts for basic browsing. Premium packages may be available for faster speeds.
- ATMs & Currency Exchange: Numerous machines, plus Travelex or similar desks in both arrivals and departures.
- Medical Center: Some terminals have a first-aid station—ask information staff if needed.
3. Ground Transportation
3.1 Orlyval Automated Metro
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Rapid Transfer to RER B
- Connects Orly Airport to Antony station (~8 minutes), where you can catch the RER B into central Paris.
- Orlyval runs every 4–7 minutes, costing around €9.30 (Orlyval + RER B combined) for a single journey to central Paris.
3.2 RER C (Pont de Rungis)
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Shuttle Bus to Pont de Rungis Station
- A 10-minute bus from Orly leads to the RER C line, then ~25–30 minutes into central Paris.
- Tickets can be purchased at airport kiosks or station machines.
3.3 Tramway T7
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Direct Tram Connection
- Runs from Orly 4 to Villejuif–Louis Aragon (Line 7 of the Paris Métro).
- Affordable option (~€1.90) but can take longer if heading into central Paris; great for local areas or budget travelers.
3.4 Orlybus & Bus 183
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Orlybus
- Operates between Orly 4 and Denfert-Rochereau station in southern Paris (30–40 minutes).
- Single fare ~€9.50.
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Bus 183
- Budget alternative heading to Porte de Choisy station in southeast Paris (~€2 single fare), though slower with multiple stops.
3.5 Taxis & Ride-Sharing
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Official Taxis
- Flat rate: ~€32 from Orly to Left Bank (Rive Gauche); ~€37 to Right Bank.
- Stands outside arrivals—look for licensed cabs, avoid unlicensed touts.
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App-Based Services
- Uber, Bolt, or local French apps operate at Orly. Wait at designated pickup zones—confirm the license plate and driver details.
3.6 Car Rentals
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Rental Counters
- Major providers (Avis, Hertz, Europcar, Sixt) located in arrivals areas.
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Driving to Paris
- A6 or A106 motorways lead into central Paris, but traffic can be heavy during peak hours; plan accordingly.
4. Parking at Paris Orly Airport
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Orly Parking P2, P3, P4
- Short-to-mid-term lots near Orly 1–2–3. Walking distance or a quick shuttle.
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Parking P5, P6
- Closer to Orly 4—ideal for flights departing from the southern terminals.
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Economy Lots
- More budget-friendly daily/weekly rates but located further away; free shuttle to terminals every 10–15 minutes.
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Drop-Off Zones
- Dedicated “Dépose Minute” lanes for quick passenger drop-offs—strict time limits apply.
(Book online for better rates and guaranteed spots, especially during peak holiday seasons.)
5. Lounges & Priority Services
5.1 Airline Lounges
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Air France Lounge (Orly 1, Orly 2)
- Access for Business Class, Flying Blue Elite, or paid day passes if capacity allows.
- Amenities: Snacks, beverages, free Wi-Fi, quiet work areas.
- Other Carrier Lounges (e.g., Iberia, TAP) depending on airline schedules and eligibility.
5.2 Icare Lounge (Orly 4)
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Independent Lounge
- Pay-per-use for ~€35–€40, or included with certain membership programs (Priority Pass).
- Offers light buffet, drinks, comfortable seating, flight info boards.
5.3 Fast Track Security
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Premium Lanes
- Certain airlines (Business/First Class) or frequent flyer statuses provide priority lanes.
- Check if your ticket or loyalty membership qualifies.
6. Dining & Shopping
6.1 Food & Beverage
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French & International Cuisine
- Boulangeries for pastries, classic French brasseries, plus fast-food chains (McDonald’s, Starbucks).
- Many outlets open early and close late, catering to flight schedules.
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Cafés & Bars
- Sample espresso, sandwiches, or a glass of wine—particularly in Orly 1–2–3’s modern dining zones.
6.2 Duty-Free & Retail
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Duty-Free (Buy Paris Duty Free)
- Perfumes, cosmetics, spirits, luxury goods—tax-free for eligible flights outside the EU.
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Fashion & Accessories
- French brands (Longchamp, Lacoste), electronics shops, travel essentials, souvenirs of Paris.
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Supermarket & Pharmacies
- Mini grocers selling local snacks, pharmacy items for any last-minute medical needs.
7. Nearby Accommodations
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Ibis Paris Coeur d’Orly Airport
- A short walk from Orly 4. Budget-friendly rooms, on-site restaurant—perfect for early departures.
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Novotel Paris Orly Rungis
- ~10-minute drive or shuttle from terminals. Mid-range comfort, meeting rooms, family-friendly.
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Mercure Paris Orly Rungis
- Contemporary design, restaurant/bar, free airport shuttle—great for business travelers.
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City-Center Hotels (Paris)
- Around 30 minutes away by Orlyval+RER or taxi, offering everything from luxury 5-stars near the Champs-Élysées to boutique inns in Montmartre.
8. Top Attractions Near Paris Orly
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Central Paris
- Iconic sites like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame, and Champs-Élysées all reachable within 30–45 minutes via RER or taxi.
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Versailles
- The grand Château de Versailles is ~45 minutes away by car or RER C (with a shuttle connection).
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Disneyland Paris
- Roughly 40–50 minutes east via car or RER A from central Paris—families can plan a day trip.
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Fontainebleau
- Known for its historic chateau and forest, ~1 hour southeast by car or train from Gare de Lyon.
9. Travel Tips for Paris Orly Airport
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Arrive Early
- 2 hours before domestic/Schengen flights, 3 hours for long-haul/international routes.
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Online Check-In
- Many carriers like Air France, Transavia encourage web check-in to speed up bag-drop and bypass counters.
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Watch Baggage Allowances
- Low-cost airlines enforce strict size/weight rules; check guidelines to avoid extra fees.
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Peak Traffic Times
- Mornings (6–9 AM) and late afternoons (4–7 PM) can be crowded—plan transport accordingly.
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Cash vs. Card
- Credit cards widely accepted, but always keep some euros on hand for taxis, small shops, or emergencies.
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How far is Orly Airport from central Paris?
A: Roughly 13 km (8 miles). With Orlyval+RER B, expect ~30–35 minutes to reach central stations; taxis can take 20–40 minutes depending on traffic.
Q2: Is there a left-luggage facility at Orly Airport?
A: Left-luggage services can be limited. Inquire at information desks or check official Paris Aéroport websites for the latest offerings.
Q3: Do I need a visa if I have a layover at Orly?
A: Depends on your nationality and final destination. France follows the Schengen Area rules—consult official government sites or your airline for up-to-date requirements.
Q4: Is there free Wi-Fi?
A: Yes, “Paris Aéroport Free WiFi” offers basic connectivity. Premium plans may be available for streaming or large file downloads.
Q5: Can I easily transfer between Orly 1–2–3 and Orly 4?
A: The Orly internal shuttle (Orlyval or walkways) connects the two zones. Signs throughout the terminals guide you to the correct corridor.
Conclusion
From its recently modernized terminals to efficient rail and bus links, Paris Orly Airport (ORY) offers a convenient gateway for exploring the City of Light, Versailles, and the wider Île-de-France region. Whether you’re seeking quick domestic hops, low-cost European routes, or limited intercontinental options, Orly’s strategic location means you’ll reach central Paris in no time. Keep this airport guide at your disposal for the latest on Orly’s parking, lounge access, transport tips, and local attractions—guaranteeing a smooth start or finish to your French escapade.
