Something to do in Paris for only 2-3 hours?

Question

I have a 5 hour layover in CDG (Paris) airport. Is that enough time to go into the city to have brunch? I'm checking my bags through to my final destination. I've been to Paris before but not in a long time. I was thinking of going down to the nieghborhood where the Notre Dame is and strolling around for lunch. What is the fastest, least expensive way to get there from the airport and back?

Answer 1

Well, you'll spend 38 minutes getting to the Notre Dame - St. Michel stop on the RER from CDG (not counting waiting time, time to buy tickets) . You'd be cutting it pretty fine but it can be done. You might consider going one extra stop to the Luxembourg gardens and having a sandwich and a glass of wine at the little cafe in the park. its a great place for people watching.

Answer 2

A 5 hour visit can be done on paper, but you're at too much of a risk of getting lost or confused in the transit system. RER may be 35 minutes, but this occludes transfer to and from the actual airport terminal, which can take some time.

My advice, this time round, is to Forget Paris, like the movie title.

It's an itch you'll have to scratch some other time :)

Answer 3

You're cutting it close, but if you feel like seeing Paris the Air France shuttle bus (no you do not need to fly Air France airlines, as it's open to anyone) runs to Montparnasse, a fun area in Paris, regularly and comfortably.  Forget the train (time consuming), and taxi (expensive) and go for the shuttle.  Once in Montparnasse you can visit  the roof top of Tour Montparnasse, for a nominal fee.  Check the opening times before you go. You can't miss it as it's the highest building in all of Paris. The view of Paris is great.  Grab a lunch, shop a little and then you're set to take your shuttle from Montparnasse back to the airport.  Have fun, my friend!

Answer 4

go to shopping at champs elysees. Like that you can also visit Arc de triomphe

Answer 5

don't fool with the train.  Arrange an airport pick up service to take you into Paris and another to meet you 3 hours later to return to the airport.  Make the drop off/pick up point somewhere on the Left Bank at the Seine -- maybe Blvd St. Germaine de Pres -- so you don't have to deal with Right Bank traffic mess.  You don't have time for brunch so pick up something to eat on the street or a patisserie. Walk across the bridge to Notre Dame.  Enjoy lunch on the plaza or the quay along the Seine.  Stroll. Will probably cost you $400 and is worth it.

Answer 6

by RER (n°A I think) it will be the less expensive. go to montmartre in 18° to see the "sacré coeur". it is a very romantic and wonderful place where you 'll have the view of all paris.

but 5 hours  is very short

Answer 7

Visit the Quartier Latin