May 12, 2026

How many terminals are there in Charles de Gaulle airport?

If you are flying to or from Paris, one of the first practical questions you may ask is: how many terminals are there in Charles de Gaulle airport?
The answer is simple at first glance, but the reality is more detailed and important for tourists to understand.

Charles de Gaulle airport, often called CDG or Roissy, is one of Europe’s largest airports. Knowing its terminal structure can save you time, reduce stress, and help you plan airport transfers and connections with confidence.

This guide explains the terminal layout clearly, shows who uses each terminal, and gives practical transport tips for tourists.

Overview of Charles de Gaulle airport terminals

Charles de Gaulle airport has three main passenger terminals:

Terminal 1
Terminal 2 (divided into several sub-terminals)
Terminal 3

While there are only three main terminals, terminal 2 is so large that it functions like a small airport on its own. This is where most confusion comes from, especially for first-time visitors to Paris Charles de Gaulle airport.

Quick facts about Charles de Gaulle airport

Located about 25 km northeast of central Paris, Charles de Gaulle airport handles over 65 million passengers each year and serves as the main hub for Air France and SkyTeam airlines. As one of the busiest airports in Europe, identified by the code CDG, it offers excellent global connectivity for tourists, but its large size also means longer walking distances and a greater need for careful planning, especially when changing terminals or arranging transport into Paris.

Terminal 1 at Charles de Gaulle airport

Terminal 1 is the oldest terminal at Charles de Gaulle airport and is easy to recognize thanks to its circular design. It looks different from most modern terminals and uses underground walkways and escalators to connect levels.

Terminal 1 mainly handles international flights outside the Schengen area, operated by various global airlines.

Facilities include:

Passport control and customs
Duty-free shopping
Restaurants and cafés
Lounges for long-haul passengers

Who should use terminal 1?

Terminal 1 is mainly used by:

Long-haul travelers
Passengers flying to or from non-European destinations
Airlines not based in terminal 2

If your flight departs from terminal 1, arrive early. The layout is unique and may take longer to navigate.

Terminal 2 at Paris Charles de Gaulle airport

Terminal 2 is the largest and busiest terminal at Paris Charles de Gaulle airport. It is the main base for Air France and many European and international airlines.

Instead of one single building, terminal 2 is divided into several connected sections, each with its own letter.

Breakdown of terminal 2 sub-terminals

Terminal 2 includes the following sub-terminals:

2A – Mainly international flights outside Schengen
2B – European flights
2C – Some European and international services
2D – Short- and medium-haul flights
2E – Long-haul international flights
2F – Schengen area flights
2G – Regional flights (requires shuttle access)

Each sub-terminal has its own check-in areas, security, and gates. Some are connected by walking corridors, while others require a shuttle.

Why terminal 2 can be confusing for tourists

Tourists often underestimate terminal 2 because:

Distances between gates can be long
Some connections require buses or trains
Signage uses both letters and numbers
Terminal 2G is not walkable from others

Always check your exact sub-terminal before arriving at the airport.

Terminal 3 at Charles de Gaulle airport

Terminal 3 is the smallest terminal at Charles de Gaulle airport. It mainly serves:

Charter flights
Low-cost airlines
Seasonal services

Facilities are limited compared to terminals 1 and 2. Expect basic services, fewer shops, and simpler dining options.

Terminal 3 is separate from the main terminal complex, so allow extra time for ground transportation.

How to move between terminals at Charles de Gaulle airport

Getting between terminals is straightforward if you know your options. Most inter-terminal transport is free and clearly signposted.

CDGVAL automated shuttle

The CDGVAL is a free automated train that runs inside the airport.

It connects:

Terminal 1
Terminal 2
Terminal 3
Parking areas
RER B train stations

Trains run every few minutes and operate throughout the day. This is the fastest way to move between main terminals.

Shuttle buses and walking paths

In addition to CDGVAL:

Shuttle buses connect terminal 2 sub-terminals and terminal 2G
Covered walking paths link several terminal 2 buildings

Walking is possible in some areas, but distances can be longer than expected. Always follow airport signs rather than relying on intuition.

Transport from Charles de Gaulle airport to Paris

Once you leave the terminal, choosing the right transport into Paris is essential for a smooth arrival.

RER B train (metro connection)

The RER B is the fastest public transport option to central Paris.

Travel time: about 35–45 minutes
Major stops: Gare du Nord, Châtelet–Les Halles, Saint-Michel
Trains depart from terminal 2 and terminal 3 stations

This option is affordable and efficient, but can be crowded during peak hours.

Bus options from Charles de Gaulle airport

Several bus services connect the airport with Paris:

Roissybus: direct service to Opéra area
Public city buses: cheaper but slower
Airport shuttle buses

For tourists looking for comfort, luggage space, and fixed stops, the Terravision airport bus service is a popular option. Terravision offers direct transfers between Charles de Gaulle airport and central Paris locations, making it especially convenient after long flights or with heavy luggage. You can find details on their official service page.

Tramway and local connections

Tramways mainly serve suburban areas around Paris rather than the city center.

They are useful if:

Your accommodation is outside central Paris
You are staying long-term
You want local connections at a lower cost

For most tourists, trains or buses remain the better choice.

FAQ

What is the best terminal to shop or eat at in Charles de Gaulle airport?

Terminal 2 has the widest range of restaurants, cafés, and duty-free shopping. If you have extra time before your flight, it’s generally the best terminal to explore.

Are there hotels inside Charles de Gaulle airport terminals?

Yes, several hotels are located directly at or near terminal 2 and can be reached easily by shuttle or walking paths. This is convenient for early departures or long layover.

What should I do if I arrive at the wrong terminal?

Don’t panic. You can use the free CDGVAL train or airport shuttle buses to reach the correct terminal. Always allow extra time, especially if you need to pass through security again.