France is one of the world’s most visited countries and one of the best-served from the US. The right airport, and the right season, make the trip easier and cheaper.
France at a glance
- Main gateways: Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Orly (ORY); also Nice (NCE) and Lyon (LYS).
- Busiest fare periods: June to August, Easter, and the Christmas holidays.
- Often better-value periods: November to March, outside the holidays.
When to fly
Summer is the busiest, and August is when many French residents take their holidays, so some shops and restaurants close. Spring and autumn are mild and moderately priced, and winter is quieter outside the Christmas and New Year weeks.
Routings and baggage
Air France, Delta, United and American have flown non-stop from several US cities to Paris, and other travelers connect through other European hubs. Basic economy fares on transatlantic flights often exclude checked bags, so compare fares with a bag included.
Airports and getting around
Charles de Gaulle has a direct RER train into central Paris, and Orly is linked by tram and metro connections. France’s high-speed TGV trains connect Paris with Lyon, Nice and other cities, and booking early can be cheaper. Strikes affect trains and airports from time to time, so check your travel day.
How to pay less on flights to France
- Travel off-peak. November to March outside the holidays is usually cheapest. June to August, Easter and Christmas are the busiest, and many French residents take holidays in August.
- Compare Paris airports. Charles de Gaulle has the most non-stop service from the US, while Orly can suit some routes, so price both.
- Check the baggage. Basic economy on transatlantic flights often excludes checked bags, so compare fares with one included.
- Use the TGV. Flying to Paris and taking a high-speed train, booked early, can cost less than a separate domestic flight.
For the general method, see how we find cheap flights. Send us your dates and a specialist compares the options for this route.
Before you go
France is in the Schengen area. Check passport validity and the current entry rules for your nationality, including any European electronic travel authorization that has started, through official sources. Health requirements are minimal. See the CDC page for France.
Last reviewed: October 27, 2026. Airline routes, schedules, baggage rules and entry requirements change, so your specialist confirms the current options when they quote your trip.
Planning a trip? See our France flights page, or send us your dates for a quote.
Questions, answered.
When is the cheapest time to fly to France?
Late autumn and winter outside the holidays, roughly November to March, is usually cheapest. June to August, Easter and Christmas are the busiest.
Are there non-stop flights from the US to Paris?
Yes. Air France and several US airlines have flown non-stop from many US cities to Paris Charles de Gaulle. Confirm the current routes when you book.
How do I get from Charles de Gaulle to central Paris?
The RER B train runs directly into the city, and buses and taxis also serve the airport.
