France (Paris) travel guide
Most Indian travellers reach France through Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG). Nonstop flights from Delhi and Mumbai take about nine to ten hours. Flights from other Indian cities usually need one stop and take about twelve to fourteen hours. From Paris, high-speed TGV trains link the main cities, and the Metro and RER cover the capital.
Facts checked 3 Nov 2026
Getting to France from India is straightforward, but the route matters. Only two Indian cities have nonstop flights to Paris in the information we hold, so most travellers connect through a Gulf or European hub. The right choice depends on your city, your budget and how much time you want to spend in transit. This guide covers the airports, the flight times from each Indian city, and the rail links you will use once you land.
Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) is the main long-haul gateway, with the most international connections. Paris Orly (ORY) is used for some international and European connections. If you are visiting the Riviera, Nice Côte d'Azur airport (NCE) is an important secondary airport, and Lyon (LYS), Marseille (MRS) and Toulouse (TLS) also serve regional trips. Direct India to France options change by airline and season, so check current schedules before you book.
These times are typical and can change with the schedule. Verify operating dates before you book.
For one-stop routes, compare the total journey time, not only the fare. A short connection can be risky at large hubs, so allow enough transfer time. Check whether your bags are checked through to Paris. A longer connection can be worthwhile if it avoids an overnight airport wait. If you land late, plan to keep your first night in Paris rather than transferring to another region the same day.
Paris-Charles de Gaulle is the usual arrival point for our packages. Each package includes an airport transfer by private vehicle, so your driver meets you on arrival. A morning arrival suits hotel check-in, but allow time for immigration and luggage delays. If you travel independently, rail and taxi options from the airport are both available.
High-speed SNCF TGV trains connect major cities, including Paris with Lyon, Marseille and Strasbourg. Regional trains serve smaller towns and the routes to the Riviera, where Nice works as a base for Èze, Antibes, Monaco and Cannes. In Paris, the Metro and RER cover most districts. Book long-distance SNCF trains ahead, using the SNCF Connect app, because advance booking usually lowers the fare and secures your timing.
Our Paris & Nice Côte d'Azur 7N package uses a high-speed train from Paris to Nice, booked as part of the itinerary. For a simpler Paris-only trip, the Metro and taxis cover all the city sightseeing.
A regional car helps in Provence, the Loire Valley and the Alps, where some sights are spread out and public transport is less frequent. A private vehicle or small-group tour is often more practical for the Loire châteaux. Paris traffic is heavy, so a car is rarely the practical choice inside the city.
You need a Schengen visa before you fly to France for tourism. Check the process and documents in the France visa guide for Indians, and apply early, since appointments and biometrics take time. Passport validity rules also apply, so check them before you book.
Travellers commonly recommend spending three to four days in Paris first, rather than starting with a long rail transfer. Book the Paris to Nice train early if you plan a Riviera stop. Compare journey times rather than fares only, and keep your first day light after a long flight.
This guide is compiled from published transport and tourism information and traveller reports. It was last checked on 2 November 2026. Flight schedules and airlines change by season, so confirm the current options with your airline or planner before booking.
Ready-made trips
Paris 4N
Paris 5N
Paris 3N · Nice 4N
*Approximate price per person, excl. GST. Contact us for exact pricing.
Packages cover stays, transfers, sightseeing and meals as listed. Flights are not included. Prices are per person, excl. GST.
FAQs
Short answers to what travellers ask about France (Paris).
Delhi and Mumbai have nonstop flights to Paris-Charles de Gaulle, taking about nine and ten hours. Other Indian cities usually connect through a Gulf or European hub. Schedules change by season, so check current options before booking.
Paris-Charles de Gaulle is the main gateway with the most international connections. Paris Orly serves some connections, and Nice is the airport for the Riviera. Pick the airport that matches your first base and your onward travel.
Typically about thirteen hours, with one connection through a Gulf or European hub. Pune can sometimes offer better options via Mumbai, so compare schedules. Allow enough transfer time at each connection. Choose a connection with through-checked baggage, since a short change at a large hub can be risky.
Our packages include an airport transfer by private vehicle. If you travel on your own, rail and taxi options from the airport are available. Taxis in Paris cost more than the Metro, so compare options on arrival.
Yes, through the SNCF Connect app or the SNCF website. Book in advance, because advance fares are usually lower and popular timings can fill. Keep your ticket details saved on your phone, and allow time for station security checks.
Not in Paris. A regional car helps in Provence, the Loire Valley and the Alps, where sights are spread out. The Loire is also well served by a private vehicle or a small-group tour, which avoids infrequent local connections.
For most routes between major cities, the high-speed train is a practical choice. Compare total journey time, including station or airport transfers and check-in, before you decide between a flight and a train. Book the train early, since advance fares are usually lower.
Check your Schengen visa, passport validity and the transit rules for any airport stop. Confirm your baggage allowance and whether it is through-checked. Keep your itinerary and accommodation proof available for immigration, with digital copies as well as printed ones.
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