6 tips to avoid traffic jams to Paris Orly airport

Published on 16 septembre 2022

Between parking, traffic on the ring road, and the A6, travelers have several options to reach Paris-Orly Airport. This page provides practical advice to avoid traffic jams and save time.

Paris-Orly Airport is one of the busiest airports in Île-de-France. Traffic can be particularly heavy on roads like the A6 or A86, especially during peak hours.

These tips will help you save time and arrive relaxed and on schedule at your terminal.

1. Avoid Peak Hours 🕐
- When to leave ?
- Pratical tips
2. Use Public Transport 🚌
- RER B + Orlyval
- Tramway 7 / OrlyBus
3. Opt for a Motorcycle Taxi 🏍️
4. Take a Less Crowded Route 🚗
5. Book a Hotel Near the Airport 🏨
6. Save Even More time with Blue Valet Parking 🅿️

1. Avoid Peak Hours 🕐

Peak hours around Paris can quickly turn a 20-minute trip into more than an hour. Try to plan your departure outside of heavy traffic periods.

When to leave ?

Traffic around Paris-Orly is usually heaviest between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m., and between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. If possible, avoid the A6a and N7 during these times.

To optimize your journey, leave before 7 a.m. or after 9 a.m. Real-time traffic apps like Waze, Google Maps, or Coyote can help you bypass slowdowns.

Pratical tips

Leaving early in the morning, late in the evening, or even in the middle of the day can allow you to travel freely. Always check roadworks and weather conditions to adjust your route.

Example: Instead of leaving at 5 or 6 p.m., choose an off-peak time and depart earlier. Around 4 p.m., many people are still at work. You can use this time to grab a snack or visit the airport shops before your flight.

2. Use Public Transport 🚌

Taking public transport is more convenient if you don’t want to get stuck in traffic. You can also choose between several options :

RER B + Orlyval

The RER B is the fastest option, taking you to Antony before transferring to the Orlyval shuttle, which goes to Orly West or Orly South. Departing from central Paris, the cost is only €9.30.

Travel time: about 30–45 minutes

Tramway 7 / OrlyBus

Tramway 7 is the most economical solution, costing only €1.90 for a 1 hour 20-minute journey from central Paris.

3. Opt for a Motorcycle Taxi 🏍️

If you travel light, a motorcycle taxi can reduce travel time by avoiding traffic while being less polluting than a car.

For a weekend, you can choose to travel light, and if you’re not carrying much, a motorcycle taxi is much faster than cars. You will likely avoid long traffic jams and won’t miss your flight.

Additionally, travel time will be reduced. Moreover, a motorcycle taxi is less polluting than a diesel car, so it’s a win-win.

4. Take a Less Crowded Route 🚗

If you don’t want to take public transport and don’t have flexible hours, you will need to drive your own car even during peak times.

In this case, it’s better to take a less-known route to avoid traffic jams. The goal is to reach the south via the N104 before joining the A6. In theory, there is less traffic. You can also use an app like Waze to save time.

5. Book a Hotel Near the Airport 🏨

What if you book a hotel near the airport? You could spend a night there before your flight the next day, avoiding all the road hassle. You have many hotels to choose from, such as:

Ibis Paris Coeur d'Orly Airport

This nice hotel is only 300 meters from Orly Airport. The rooms are simple and well-decorated. In the morning, you can enjoy a fresh breakfast. You can even read the free newspapers on site before hitting the road.

Orly Superior Hôtel

If you are looking for something even cheaper without compromising quality and comfort, this hotel offers a perfect balance of comfort and unbeatable prices. Located 1.3 km from the airport, it offers lovely rooms with private bathrooms. Free Wi-Fi is available if you need to work.

Howard Hotel Paris Orly Airport

If you’re looking for a touch of luxury, this is the place for you. This beautiful hotel is located just 5 minutes from the airport. With a 24-hour reception, the hotel also offers a free shuttle service on request. The rooms are beautiful, comfortable and air-conditioned. You can enjoy a light snack before setting off.

6. Save Even More time with Blue Valet Parking 🅿️

You’re flying from Orly Airport and unsure who to entrust your car to? Blue Valet is here to help. You can book online via our app. Once on-site, you can hand over your car to an expert valet at the drop-off point.

Upon returning, you’ll retrieve your vehicle at the same location. This saves you considerable time. You can leave calmly, knowing your car is safe in a secure parking area thanks to Blue Valet.