A 5km Paris taxi costs €14–18 by metered cab — Uber typically runs €10–14 for the same trip. But airport fixed fares flip the equation: CDG→Right Bank is €55 by taxi or €50–80 by Uber depending on surge. Here's the full 2026 guide.
Paris has two distinct categories of paid transport: traditional metered taxis (taxi conventionné) and VTC — Voitures de Transport avec Chauffeur, the French term for app-based private hire vehicles including Uber, Bolt, Marcel, and Heetch. Both are heavily regulated; neither can legally operate outside their licensing class. For tourists, the practical choice comes down to price, availability, and whether you are heading to or from the airport — where fixed rates completely change the calculation.
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Traditional Paris taxis display a rooftop light — white when available, orange when occupied. You can hail them on the street (anywhere that is not a bus lane or no-stopping zone), pick them up at a rank, or book via the G7 or Taxis Bleus apps. The meter is mandatory for all in-city journeys. Two important things tourists misunderstand: first, taxis charge by the hour when stuck in traffic, not by distance — Paris gridlock can significantly inflate a fare. Second, luggage fees (€1 per large bag) and fourth-passenger supplements apply and are legal.
Uber operates legally in France under the VTC licensing framework. All Uber drivers must hold a VTC licence — a professional qualification distinct from a taxi licence. UberX is the standard option; Uber Green, Uber Comfort, and Uber Black are also available. Unlike London or New York, Uber in Paris is typically cheaper than a metered taxi for city trips under 10km. The app shows upfront pricing before you confirm, which removes the meter anxiety common with traditional cabs. Surge pricing applies during high-demand periods: New Year's Eve, major events at Stade de France, and Friday–Saturday nights in tourist areas.
Paris introduced mandatory fixed-rate fares between Charles de Gaulle (CDG), Orly (ORY), and the central zones of Paris in January 2016. Every licensed taxi charges the same flat rate regardless of route taken or time of day: CDG to the Right Bank (Rive Droite: 1st–9th, 10th–12th, 18th–20th arrondissements) costs exactly €55. CDG to the Left Bank (Rive Gauche: 5th–7th, 13th–15th arrondissements) costs €62. Orly to the Right Bank is €35; to the Left Bank, €41. These rates are non-negotiable and cannot legally be increased. Uber does not have a fixed airport rate — during surges, Uber can easily exceed the taxi flat rate and is not capped.
At CDG and Orly, look for the official taxi rank (queue de taxis) outside arrivals. Licensed taxis are always metered (for city destinations) or fixed-rate (for in-city Paris). Any driver approaching you inside the terminal who offers a flat rate is almost certainly an unlicensed tout — decline and walk to the official rank.
Tipping is not expected in Paris taxis. The fare shown on the meter (or the fixed airport rate) is complete. If you wish to show appreciation, rounding up to the nearest euro or leaving €1–2 for exceptional service is sufficient and will be received warmly. Do not feel guilty for paying the exact fare shown.
How much does a taxi from CDG to Paris city centre cost?
A fixed rate applies: €55 to the Right Bank (1st–12th, 18th–20th arrondissements) and €62 to the Left Bank (5th–7th, 13th–15th arrondissements). These rates are mandatory for all licensed taxis and apply 24 hours a day.
Is Uber cheaper than a taxi in Paris?
For city trips under 10km, yes — UberX is typically €3–5 cheaper than a metered taxi. For airport journeys, taxis have fixed regulated rates that often beat Uber, especially when Uber is surging. Always compare both apps for airport runs.
Are Paris taxis safe and honest?
Licensed Paris taxis are regulated and honest. The only risk is taking an unlicensed vehicle — never accept offers from drivers inside terminal buildings. Always use the official taxi rank or book via the G7 app.
Does Uber surge in Paris?
Yes — Uber applies dynamic pricing during high demand. Major events, public holidays (especially New Year's Eve and Bastille Day), Friday–Saturday nights, and airport peak arrival times all trigger surge pricing. There is no legal cap on surge for VTCs in France.
What is the night rate for Paris taxis?
The night tariff (Tarif B) applies from 19:00 to 07:00 on weekdays, all day on Sundays and public holidays. The per-km rate rises from €1.12 to approximately €1.57. The fixed airport rates do not change at night.
Can I take Uber from Orly Airport?
Yes — Uber has a designated pick-up area at Orly (follow signs for VTC/ride-hail). The licensed taxi fixed rate from Orly is €35 (Right Bank) or €41 (Left Bank) — compare with the Uber price before you commit.
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