Paris Layover Guide: The Best Things To Do
Got a layover in Paris? Lucky you! Even with just a few hours between flights, you can still sneak in a little Parisian magic—if you plan it right. Whether you’re itching for a quick Eiffel Tower glimpse, a riverside stroll, or a flaky croissant that puts all others to shame, here’s how to make the most of your layover in the City of Light.
🕒 First Things First: Time Check
Before you start dreaming of croissants and Seine views, you need to figure out exactly how much time you really have.
- Customs at CDG can be notoriously slow—plan for at least an hour just to get through.
- Getting to downtown Paris from CDG takes about one hour on the RER B train.
- You’ll also need another hour to return, plus two hours at the airport before your flight.
🔁 That means you should subtract four hours from your layover time right off the bat. If you’ve got 7+ hours total, you’re golden for a quick Parisian escape.
✨ Tip: Buy your RER B tickets online ahead of time to skip another long line at the airport.
🚤 Option 1: Hop on a Seine River Cruise
If you want to see a lot of the city without the stress of hopping from metro to metro, a Seine river cruise is a brilliant choice. The cruises depart from central spots like Port de la Bourdonnais (near the Eiffel Tower) and glide past some of Paris’s most iconic landmarks—including Notre Dame, the Louvre, and Musée d’Orsay. Opt for a hop-on hop-off cruise for more flexibility.
It’s efficient, scenic, and super relaxing. You’ll cover a lot of ground in just about an hour—perfect for a layover.
Book here: Paris Seine River Sightseeing Cruise
🏙️ Option 2: Pick a Neighborhood and Soak It In
If you’re not in the mood for a river cruise, another great option is to pick a single neighborhood and explore it on foot. The Latin Quarter is a fantastic choice—central, lively, and full of classic Parisian charm. Stroll down its cobbled streets, pop into a quaint café, or visit the iconic Shakespeare & Company bookstore. You’ll be close to the Seine, Notre-Dame, and the Pantheon, making it easy to soak up some culture before heading back to the airport.
🚐 Option 3: Join a Layover Tour (Zero Stress)
If the thought of trains, tickets, and time calculations gives you anxiety, consider a guided layover tour. These are designed specifically for travelers with limited time in Paris and usually include:
- Airport pick-up and drop-off
- A personalized mini-tour of the city
- Stops at top sights (Eiffel Tower, Champs-Élysées, etc.)
You won’t need to plan a thing—just sit back, soak up the views, and make the most of your mini Paris adventure.
Book here: Paris Private and Customized Tour with Driver-Guide for Layovers
🧳 Not Enough Time to Leave the Airport?
If you’re stuck at CDG with a short layover or missed your window due to delays, don’t worry—there’s still a way to enjoy your time.
- Grab a bite and relax at The French Taste by Guy Martin.
- Go shopping: Duty-free shops are scattered throughout the terminals, but for something more Parisian, browse boutiques like Longchamp, Ladurée, or even Relay for books and souvenirs.
- Get your game on: Yep — CDG is also home to free PS5 gaming zones, located in some terminals. It’s the perfect way to pass the time if you’re a gamer or just want to unwind with something fun and immersive.
✈️ Final Thoughts
Paris isn’t a city that lets you pass through without a little flirtation. Even if you’ve only got a few hours, a layover here can become a highlight of your trip—as long as you know how to manage your time wisely.
With the right plan (and maybe a little river breeze or a flaky pastry in hand), your Paris layover might just leave you planning a longer return trip.
