Practical information: Everything you need to know about Paris-Orly airport

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Practical information: Everything you need to know about Paris-Orly airport


Are you traveling for your next vacation or business trip from Paris-Orly Airport? From distances and access routes to required documents and detailed terminal layouts, discover everything you need to know about the Orly terminals.

Paris-Orly Airport is located approximately 10 to 14 km south of Paris. As the second-largest airport hub in France after Roissy CDG, it welcomes around 33 million passengers every year.

How Many Terminals Does Paris-Orly Airport Have?

Historically, the airport was divided into two main areas: Orly South (Sud) and Orly West (Ouest). Since March 2019, the layout of the Paris-Orly terminals was completely redesigned to unite the entire airport under a single connected terminal complex:

  • Orly 1 and Orly 2: Corresponding to the former Orly West terminal.
  • Orly 3: The modern junction building connecting Terminals 1-2 to Orly 4.
  • Orly 4: Formerly known as Orly South.

All Orly terminals feature a complete range of amenities, including restaurants, duty-free shops, children's play areas, VIP lounges, and information desks.

Detailed Overview of Orly Terminals (1, 2, 3, and 4)

Orly 1 and Orly 2: Fast-Track Domestic & Schengen Flights

Orly 1 and Orly 2 are modern terminal buildings designed for fast and efficient passenger boarding. The layout is straightforward: Level 1 is dedicated to departures, while the Ground Floor handles arrivals.

Equipped with automated self-service bag drop systems, passengers can check in their luggage in under 30 seconds. These terminals primarily operate flights to mainland France, Corsica, and European Union destinations (serviced by both legacy and low-cost carriers).

Orly 3: The Heart of the Airport

Serving as an architectural bridge, Orly 3 connects Orly 1-2 with Orly 4. It houses a central security checkpoint, numerous boarding gates for international and domestic flights, and a major retail/shopping lounge.

Orly 4: International & Long-Haul Flights

Formerly Orly South, Orly 4 mainly operates flights departing for North Africa, French Overseas Territories, and other international destinations. Departures are located on Level 1, while arrivals are centralized on the Ground Floor. A mix of budget and full-service airlines operate from this terminal.

Comparison Table of Paris-Orly Terminals

To help you navigate easily before departure, here is a detailed breakdown of each terminal's key features:

Orly Terminal Former Name Main Destinations Levels & Layout Recommended Car Parks
Orly 1 Orly West (Gates A/B) Mainland France, Corsica, Schengen area Level 0: Arrivals
Level 1: Departures
P2, P3, P4a
Orly 2 Orly West (Gate C) France, European Union, Low-cost routes Level 0: Arrivals
Level 1: Departures
P2, P3
Orly 3 New Junction Building Long-haul, Europe, International Level 0: Arrivals
Level 1: Departures
P3, P4a
Orly 4 Orly South North Africa, Overseas Territories, International Level 0: Arrivals
Level 1: Departures
P4a, P4b, P4c

How to Access Orly Terminals by Car

Paris-Orly Airport is easily reachable via several major roadways from central Paris and the Île-de-France region:

  • Nationale 7 (N7): Direct from Paris Porte d'Italie, Athis-Mons, Juvisy, and Évry.
  • A106 Highway: Dedicated airport spur branching directly off the A6 motorway (from Paris or Lyon).
  • A86 Highway: Ideal for bypassing outer ring roads.

Depending on traffic conditions, drive time takes between 15 to 30 minutes from Paris (Porte d'Orléans). Always check real-time traffic status before setting out.

When Should You Arrive at Orly Airport?

To ensure a stress-free experience, we recommend arriving at your terminal:

  • 2.5 hours before departure for domestic flights.
  • 3.5 hours before departure for international or long-haul flights.

This extra time allows you to find parking, check in hold luggage, and navigate security screening smoothly.

Essential Travel Documents Required

Before heading to your Orly terminal, verify that you have all necessary travel paperwork:

  • Boarding Passes & Bookings: Print your boarding pass or save the digital QR code on your mobile device. Passengers traveling with cabin bags only can proceed directly to security.
  • Identification: For domestic and intra-EU travel, European citizens must present a valid national ID card or passport. For international flights outside the EU, a valid passport is mandatory, along with a visa if required by the destination country. Check official government travel portals for up-to-date entry regulations.

Where to Park at Orly Terminals?

If you arrive by car, various parking choices are available: official covered or outdoor car parks within walking distance of the Orly terminals, valet services, as well as nearby hotel and discount parking lots offering free shuttle transfers.

To save money on your holiday or business trip, plan ahead and find affordable parking at Paris-Orly Airport tailored to your departure terminal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Paris-Orly Terminals

Can you walk between terminals at Paris-Orly Airport?

Yes. Following the airport redesign and the creation of the Orly 3 connecting building, all terminals (Orly 1, 2, 3, and 4) are linked indoors and fully accessible on foot via covered walkways.

How do I know which terminal my flight departs from at Orly?

Your departure terminal (Orly 1, 2, 3, or 4) is listed on your flight booking confirmation and electronic boarding pass. It is also displayed on airport road signs and available on your airline's official website.

What is the fastest way to get from Orly 1 to Orly 4?

You can walk through the connected terminal building in about 10 to 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can hop on the free automated Orlyval shuttle train connecting the different airport sectors.

What is the difference between official airport parking and private parking at Orly?

Official airport car parks are located directly adjacent to the terminals for immediate walk-in access. Private off-site parking facilities offer budget-friendly rates alongside free shuttle services or valet options.



Associated car parks