How to Get to Fontainebleau. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel to Paris

Major Airports

Paris has two main airports serving global destinations.

Airport Information

Paris-Orly Airport (ORY): South of Paris, handles domestic and European flights, some international.
Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG): Northeast of Paris, France's largest international airport. Frequently offers more direct flight options.
Both airports contain extensive facilities including duty-free, restaurants, car rental, currency exchange, and lounges.

Flight Considerations

All major global airlines operate flights to CDG and ORY. Direct flights exist from numerous cities worldwide.

Booking & Pricing

Flight fares typically peak during summer (June-August) plus national holidays.
Shoulder seasons (April-May, Sep-Oct) generally present better value.
Booking several months in advance usually yields better rates. Consider Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for deals.

Duty-Free Shops

Extensive duty-free purchasing travelers.

Dining Options

A broad range of restaurants and cafes.

Connectivity

Wi-Fi access throughout airport terminals.

Airport Transfers to Fontainebleau

From Paris-Charles de Gaulle CDG

Take RER B to Châtelet-Les Halles or Gare du Nord.
Transfer to RER A (one stop) or Metro Line 4 to Gare de Lyon.
From Gare de Lyon, take Transilien R train to Fontainebleau-Avon station.
Total journey: Approximately 1.5 - 2.5 hours. Typical cost: €25-€30.

From Paris-Orly ORY

Take Orlyval transfer to Antony station, then RER B.
Transfer to RER B to Châtelet-Les Halles or Gare du Nord.
Continue as above to Gare de Lyon, then Transilien R train to Fontainebleau-Avon.
Total journey: Approximately 1.5 - 2 hours. Typical cost: €20-€25.

Taxi & Private Transfer

Convenience

A direct taxi or private transfer has the most convenience for reaching Fontainebleau.

Cost

This is the most expensive option. From ORY: €100-€150. From CDG: €150-€200.

Travel Time

Journey time is 1-1.5 hours, depending on the state of the traffic in Paris and on the motorway.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Train travel is the main land transportation method for reaching Fontainebleau from Paris.

Train Information

Direct Transilien R line trains run frequently from Paris Gare de Lyon to Fontainebleau-Avon station.
Trains run every 20-30 minutes during peak hours. The voyage is approximately 40-60 minutes.
One-way ticket costs approximately €10-€15.

Local Connections from Station

From Fontainebleau-Avon station, local transport reaches the town center and château.

Bus & Walking Options

Local bus Line 1 (Les Lilas) has frequent service (every 10-15 minutes) from the station.
Bus the trip is about 10-15 a short time to town center/Château.
Alternatively, a a walk from the station to the the heart of the village is 20-25 minutes.

Self-Driving & Car Rentals

Renting a car offers flexibility for exploring the region.

Rental & Requirements

Valid driver's license needed. IDP recommended for non-EU licenses. Minimum driving age typically 21.
A credit card is needed for the deposit. Young driver surcharge may apply for under 25s.
Major companies like Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt, Budget have offices in The city of lights airports. Some have local alternatives or delivery. DiscoverCars.com for comparisons.

Driving Conditions & Parking

France features a well-maintained road network.

Roads & Rules

Roads are generally in excellent condition. Autoroutes (motorways) are toll roads.
There are strict speed limits (50 km/h urban, 80 km/h rural, 110-130 km/h highways).
Paid parking is available in Fontainebleau town center (public parking lots, street zones). Pay at meters or via apps.

Important Land Travel Notes

Long-distance bus options directly to Fontainebleau are limited. The train leaving From paris generally has a faster connection.
Driving in Paris city center can be challenging due to traffic and intricate road layouts. Driving directly to Fontainebleau from the outskirts of Paris or from the airports is simpler.
Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is illegal within France.

Sea or river arrivals are not applicable for Fontainebleau. This is an inland destination.
Motorcycle and scooter rentals are limited in Fontainebleau itself; more alternatives are in larger cities like Paris.
There are no exit fees apply upon departure from France. AirHelp may assist with flight compensation.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

Plan your departure well in advance, particularly for overseas flights.

Airport Timing

For flights abroad from Paris airports (CDG or ORY), attempt to get THERE two-3 hours before scheduled departure.
For domestic or Schengen flights, 1.5-2 hours is generally adequate.
Allow extra time for security checks, especially during peak travel seasons, and for potential traffic delays to the airport.

Station Facilities

Facilities vary by departure point, supporting your journey.

Departure Points

Fontainebleau-Avon station has basic facilities (ticket machines, waiting area).
Paris Gare de Lyon has extensive facilities (shops, restaurants, lounges).
Paris-Charles de Gaulle and Paris-Orly airports have comprehensive services, supporting comfort before takeoff.

Train Travel

Efficient connections back to Paris Gare de Lyon.

Car Return

Return rental cars at Paris airports for convenience.

Airport Departure

Extensive facilities available at CDG and Orly for departing travelers.

Travel Reminders

Booking Advice

For the most favorable rates and availability, book flights and major accommodations in advance, especially in the high season.

Optimize Bookings

Book flights several months prior for better value.
Consider package deals when accessible for mixed savings.
Be flexible with travel dates to capitalize on lower prices.

Travel Day Efficiency

Streamline your travel day for a smooth experience to and from Fontainebleau.

Smooth Transitions

Pack light when feasible to ease transport.
Have digital tickets and documents ready on your phone.
Familiarize yourself with airport/train station layouts.

Driving & Parking Tips

Navigation

Use GPS or a reliable map application for navigation, especially on toll roads.

Toll Roads

Keep small bills or a credit card ready for automated toll booths on autoroutes.

Parking Payments

Many parking meters accept plastic payment, but some could still be coin-only. Mobile parking apps are common.

Final Transit Note

Consider taking the train from Paris Gare de Lyon. It is the most direct plus budget-friendly way to reach Fontainebleau from the capital.

How to Get to Fontainebleau