Paris Hotel map

Getting there

Planes

A taxi from Charles de Gaulle international airport to the centre costs about €50; buses and trains run regularly into town at a fraction of the cost. RER/TGV trains run from CDG to Gare du Nord every 15 minutes from 5.30am to 10.30pm, and take 35 minutes. Orly airport, southeast of Paris, handles domestic and European flights.

Trains

There are six main stations in Paris, all of which are central and link to the fantastic Métro underground system (www.ratp.fr). Eurostar is by far the best way to travel there from London: trains from Kings Cross (and mainland Europe) arrive into Gare du Nord. GoldSmith members have access to exclusive Leisure Select rates on Eurostar – visit the Mr & Mrs Smith members' area for details.

Automobiles

Parking can be a challenge in Paris, and expensive; you’re better off without the bother of a hire car. Instead, rent Vélib pushbikes from one of the 24-hour self-service stands (www.velib.paris.fr). From about €8.50, you can get a multi-trip ticket (Paris Visite) to use on the Métro, buses and trams.