Exploring Orly Airport: Things To Do While Waiting For Your Flight

what to do at orly airport

Paris Orly Airport is located just 10km south of Paris, attracting around 33 million passengers each year. If you're facing a long layover, there are plenty of things to do at the airport and nearby. Within the airport, you can visit the rotating galleries showcasing Parisian art and culture, or relax in one of the lounges with unlimited food and drinks. Outside the airport, you can explore the city of Orly, visit the Contemporary Art Museum in Val de Marne, or wander through the lush Forêt de Senart. If you have more time, Paris is only a 50-minute train ride away, offering endless opportunities for sightseeing, dining, and shopping.

Characteristics Values
Location 10km or 14km south of Paris
Distance from Paris 5 miles or 10km
Transport to Paris RER B and C train lines, bus, taxi, Uber, car-hire service
Transport time to Paris 50 minutes
Car parking Official car parks, valet services, discount car parks
Terminals Orly 1, Orly 2, Orly 4, Orly 3
Eateries Over 30 eateries, including fast-food, cafes, bars, restaurants, lounges
Shopping Over 30 boutiques, duty-free areas, bookstores, souvenir shops
Entertainment Massage chairs, art galleries, library, cinemas, parks
Nearby attractions Rungis International Market, Contemporary Art Museum in Val de Marne, Forêt de Senart, Fort de Sucy, Aviation Museum

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Explore the city of Orly, less than 10km from the airport

Paris Orly Airport is located just 10km south of Paris, making it an ideal entry point for anyone looking to explore the city. The airport is easily accessible by public transport, with the RER B and C train lines connecting it to the Paris metro and city centre, departing every few minutes. The trip takes about 50 minutes one way. You can also take the Orly Bus shuttle service from Denfert-Rochereau, in the 14th arrondissement, with a ticket costing €10.30.

If you have a long layover, Paris is a great option for a day trip. With its iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and romantic atmosphere, there's something for everyone in the City of Lights. Stroll along the Seine River, take in the views from the Eiffel Tower, or explore the charming neighbourhood of Montmartre. Don't forget to try some of the city's famous cuisine, like croissants, macarons, and cheese.

For those who don't want to venture too far, the city of Orly is just a stone's throw away from the airport. Orly is a commune in the Val-de-Marne département, offering a glimpse into local French life. While there, you can visit the Les Médiathèques D'orly library or explore the many civic centres, monuments, and statues the city has to offer.

If you're looking for a more relaxed option, there are plenty of things to keep you entertained at the airport itself. Indulge in some retail therapy at the over 30 boutiques and duty-free shops, or satisfy your taste buds at one of the 30 eateries, including fast-food joints, cafes, and sit-down restaurants. You can also take advantage of the massage chairs located throughout the airport, starting at just €2. Art enthusiasts can enjoy rotating galleries showcasing works of Parisian art and culture, and bookworms can borrow from the modern library in Terminal 4’s Hall B.

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Visit the Contemporary Art Museum in Val de Marne

Paris Orly Airport is located 10km south of Paris and is the second airport in France, welcoming around 33 million passengers each year. If you have a long layover, you can pass the time by visiting the Contemporary Art Museum in Val de Marne.

The MAC VAL, or Val-de-Marne Museum of Contemporary Art, is based in Vitry-sur-Seine town centre, close to Paris. It was inaugurated in 2005 and is the only museum in France exclusively dedicated to the French art scene from the 1950s to the present day. The museum is housed in a beautiful white building with contemporary architecture that blends into the cityscape. With a total area of 13,000 square metres, 4,000 of which are devoted to exhibitions, the museum offers a rich cultural experience.

The museum's permanent collection features over 2,000 works of art, including pieces by renowned artists such as Christian Boltanski, Pierre Soulages, and Annette Messager. The collection provides a comprehensive overview of French artistic creation, with two to three temporary exhibitions showcased annually. The museum also hosts international artists in residence, contributing to cultural exchange and dialogue.

To make the discovery of modern art accessible to all, the MAC VAL team offers innovative experiences for visitors. Guided tours, free audio guide tours, workshops for children and families, and multi-sensory tours are available. The museum also has a pleasant restaurant and a surrounding public garden where visitors can relax and enjoy the atmosphere.

To get to the museum from the airport, you can take the RER B or C train lines, which connect the airport to the Paris metro and city centre. Alternatively, you can take bus line 172 or tram line 9 to reach the museum directly. With its proximity to Paris and convenient transportation options, the MAC VAL is an excellent choice for those seeking cultural enrichment during their layover at Orly Airport.

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Take a taxi to the nearby Forêt de Senart

If you're looking for something to do near Orly Airport, you could take a taxi to the nearby Forêt de Senart. This 3,000-hectare park is the perfect place to enjoy the outdoors and get some fresh air. Once a former Royal hunting ground, it is now a popular spot for cyclists, runners, and rollerbladers, as well as those who just want to stretch their legs. The lush and green forest is home to over 1,000 different plants, and you may even spot some wildlife, such as hares, pheasants, deer, and squirrels.

The distance from Orly Airport to Forêt de Senart is approximately 25.3 kilometres by road, and the drive takes about 24 to 26 minutes. Taking a taxi is the fastest way to get there, and it will cost you around $45 to $60. Alternatively, you can take a combination of the bus and train, which will take about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

If you have more time to explore the area, you can also visit the city of Orly, which is located less than ten kilometres from the airport. Orly has a surprising amount of entertainment options and a variety of restaurants to choose from. You can also take a free walking tour of Paris, which is only about 10 kilometres away from the airport.

For art lovers, the Contemporary Art Museum in Val de Marne (MAC/VAL) is a 15-minute drive from Orly Airport. This modern art museum features 13,000 square metres of exhibition space, showcasing art from the 1950s to the present.

With so many options, you're sure to find something to do near Orly Airport that suits your interests!

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View the ancient military fortress, Fort de Sucy

Paris Orly Airport is located approximately 10-14km south of Paris, with plenty of things to do and see nearby. One such attraction is the ancient military fortress, Fort de Sucy, which is located in Sucy-en-Brie and is one of the last examples of stone architecture from the end of the 19th century.

The fort was built between 1879 and 1881 to reinforce the protection of Paris after the 1870 siege and is part of the second fortified belt of Paris. During the 1870 war, Paris was encircled and besieged by the Germans for several months. Although the capital had been protected by a line of forts since 1840, they were too close to the city, and so after the war, the French decided to build a new line of eighteen forts, including Fort de Sucy.

The fort's exceptional entrance building, casemates in the moat, and firing platforms showcase the grandeur of its era. It played an important logistical role during the two world wars but never saw combat. The barracks, which could accommodate 372 men and 10 officers, were unfortunately destroyed by a munitions depot explosion in 1944. Abandoned by the army and overtaken by nature, the fort was purchased by the town of Sucy in 1970.

Since 1996, a dedicated group of volunteers has been working to restore the fort to its original state and offers guided tours throughout the year. The free tours are offered on the first Sunday of each month at 3 pm, with other paid tours available upon request. The passionate volunteer guides bring the fort's history to life, explaining its role and how soldiers lived within its walls. They also showcase the evolution of costumes and weapons through the ages.

If you plan to visit Fort de Sucy and Paris Orly Airport, it is important to arrive early for your flight. It is recommended that you arrive at the airport 3.5 hours before an international flight and 2.5 hours before a domestic flight. Additionally, there are many shops, restaurants, and other attractions at the airport itself.

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Shop at the boutiques, convenience stores, and duty-free areas

Paris Orly Airport is a shopper's paradise, with over 30 boutiques, convenience stores, and duty-free areas to explore. Whether you're a fashionista, a foodie, or just looking for some last-minute souvenirs, you'll be spoilt for choice.

Let's start with the boutiques. For those with a sweet tooth, La Maison du Chocolat is a must-visit. With boutiques in Terminals 1, 3, and 4, you'll be tempted by an array of high-end chocolates and creative pastries. Their signature praliné recipes come in an assortment of 40 chocolate bonbons, and you'll also find colourful macarons, decorated mendiants, and artisan chocolates created by the renowned chef Nicolas Cloiseau.

In the mood for some fashion retail therapy? Orly Airport has you covered with over 30 boutiques to choose from. Treat yourself to some new outfits, accessories, or a much-needed massage—those massage chairs located throughout the airport are a steal at just €2! If you're a sports enthusiast, check out the PSG store, the official shop of Paris Saint-Germain's football club.

Convenience stores are also plentiful at Orly Airport. You'll find Carrefour City in Terminals 1, 3, and 4, offering a range of food, snacks, and any last-minute essentials you might need. Monop'daily by Relay in Terminal 3 is another great option for snacks and convenience items.

And let's not forget the duty-free areas. The Extime duty-free store is a great place to stock up on indulgences like alcohol, cigarettes, chocolates, and beauty products. Take advantage of the tax-free prices, but remember to price-check to ensure you're getting a good deal. Duty-free stores are known for their international brands, but you'll also find some homegrown French products to truly immerse yourself in the Parisian experience.

Frequently asked questions

Orly Airport has over 30 eateries, including fast-food and to-go options, cafes, bars, and sit-down restaurants. Paul, Pret a Manger, and McDonald’s are great for those in a rush, while Bellota-Bellota, Cafe Cubiste, or Caviar House & Prunier Seafood Bar are ideal for leisurely meals.

There are more than 30 boutiques for fashion and luxury goods, as well as convenience shops, Duty-Free areas, and bookstores. You can also buy last-minute souvenirs at the Disneyland Paris shop or PSG, the official store of Paris Saint-Germain’s football club.

Orly Airport is located just 10km from Paris, so you can easily visit the French capital. The Contemporary Art Museum in Val de Marne is a 15-minute drive from the airport, and the Fort de Sucy is a 20-minute drive. The city of Orly itself is also less than 10km from the airport and offers plenty to see and do.

There are various car parks available at Orly Airport, suitable for all budgets. You can also take the RER B and C train lines to the Paris metro and city centre, which depart every few minutes and take about 50 minutes one way.

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