May 27, 2026

How to go from Paris Orly airport to Eiffel tower

Arriving in Paris is one of those unforgettable travel moments. And for many tourists, the first thing they want to see is the iconic Eiffel tower.

If you land at Paris Orly airport, you are actually quite close to central Paris compared to other airports. The journey is simple once you know the best transport choices, whether you want the fastest public route or the easiest transfer with luggage.

This guide explains exactly how to go from Paris Orly airport to the Eiffel tower, with practical tips, metro connections, and the best tourist-friendly options like Terravision.

Quick overview of the journey from Paris Orly airport to Eiffel tower

Paris Orly airport is located about 15 km south of Paris. The Eiffel tower is on the western side of central Paris, near the Seine River.

On average, the journey takes:

35–50 minutes using Orlyval + metro

45–70 minutes using an airport bus transfer

Longer during rush hour or peak tourist season

Tourists generally choose between:

A classic public transport combination (Orlyval + metro)

A direct airport bus transfer such as Terravision

Connecting through major hubs like Montparnasse or Porte Maillot

If you are visiting Paris for the first time, comfort and simplicity can matter just as much as speed.

Best ways to travel from Paris Orly airport to Eiffel tower

Paris has one of the best transport systems in Europe, and Orly airport is well connected. Here are the most useful ways for tourists.

Classic option: Orlyval and metro

The most popular public transport route from Paris Orly airport to the Eiffel tower is a combination of the Orlyval shuttle and the Paris metro.

This option might take a bit of time :

Take the Orlyval shuttle from your terminal at Orly airport

Ride to Antony station

Transfer to the RER B train toward Paris

Get off at Denfert-Rochereau

Change to Metro line 6 toward Charles de Gaulle–Étoile

Exit at Bir-Hakeim station, one of the closest stops to the Eiffel tower

From Bir-Hakeim, the Eiffel tower is only a short walk away.

Direct airport bus transfer by Terravision

If you prefer a simpler and more comfortable arrival, a direct airport transfer bus can be a great option.

Terravision offers a dedicated airport bus service from Paris Orly airport into Paris, designed for tourists who want an easy start to their trip.

Terravision is especially convenient because:

Tickets can be booked online in advance

Coaches have space for luggage

Pricing is fixed, so you avoid surprises

It reduces the stress of metro transfers after a flight

Terravision shuttle arrives at Montparnasse. From Montparnasse, reaching the Eiffel tower is fast and simple.

Arrive at Montparnasse-Bienvenüe station

Take Metro line 6 toward Charles de Gaulle–Étoile

Get off at Bir-Hakeim station, the closest metro stop to the Eiffel tower

Travel time is usually around 15–20 minutes.

What to do or visit around Eiffel Tower

Once you arrive, the Eiffel tower area offers much more than just the monument itself. Many tourists spend an entire afternoon exploring nearby attractions.

Here are some must-see places within walking distance.

Champ de Mars park : The large green park in front of the Eiffel tower is perfect for picnics, relaxing after your journey, taking classic Eiffel tower photos. It is one of the most popular open spaces in Paris.
Trocadéro viewpoint : For the best panoramic view of the Eiffel tower, cross the river to the Trocadéro gardens. This spot is famous for sunrise and sunset photos, wide open viewpoints, street performers and atmosphere
seine river cruises : A Seine cruise is one of the most enjoyable tourist activities in Paris. Many boats depart near the Eiffel tower and offer 1-hour sightseeing tours, evening dinner cruises, beautiful views of Notre-Dame, the Louvre, and bridges
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris : Although restoration continues after the fire, Notre-Dame remains one of the most historic sites in Paris. Located on Île de la Cité and easy to combine with Sainte-Chapelle.
Palais Garnier (Opéra de Paris) : The Palais Garnier is one of the most elegant buildings in Paris and a highlight for architecture fans.
Musée d’Orsay: Just across the Seine, the Musée d’Orsay is one of the best museums in Paris, famous for Impressionist masterpieces by Monet, Van Gogh, and Renoir. Travel time from Eiffel tower: about 10–15 minutes

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Terravision shuttle go directly to the Eiffel tower?

No. The Terravision shuttle runs from Paris Orly airport to Montparnasse. From Montparnasse, you can reach the Eiffel tower quickly by taking Metro line 6 to Bir-Hakeim.

Can I combine the Eiffel tower with other major attractions in one day?

Yes. The Eiffel tower pairs very well with Musée d’Orsay, Arc de Triomphe, Seine river cruise. It’s one of the best areas in Paris for a full sightseeing day.