If you’ve spent some time on this blog before, you know I love making your travels around Paris worth every step, especially if you’re visiting to or from Disneyland Paris. As always, I am keen on making your trips smoother, smarter, and a little more magical. Whether you’re returning for more tips or planning your very first family trip to Disneyland Paris, I am glad you stopped by.
Today, let’s talk about one of the most common questions I get: How exactly do you get from Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to the Explorers Hotel?
The Explorers hotel is concealed jut minutes away from Disneyland Paris, and is a favorite among families. You get to experience Pirate-themed rooms, an indoor aquapark, cinema, and free shuttle to the Disney parks, it is comfortable, convenient, and fun.
Whether you’re traveling with kids or not, with your best friends, with a special someone or even alone, you’re about to have the time of your life.
The distance from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Explorers Hotel is around 43 kilometers (27 miles), and depending on what means of transportation you’re taking, the trip can range from 40 minutes to one hour and 30 minutes. However, how smooth the journey ends is determined on a lot of factors.
Your best bet for an enjoyable transit to Explorers hotel is to use the most appropriate means of transportation for yourself and/or your team.
This is a necessity because after a long flight, the last thing you want is confusion. Let’s keep this leg of your journey smooth, trouble-free, and even enjoyable.
This guide breaks down all the best options: train, bus, taxi, and private transfer and what you must know about each one of them.
Ready? Let’s explore your options.
Option 1: Train From Charles de Gaulle Airport to Explorers Hotel
If you’re looking for a cost-effective and somewhat quick way to get from Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to the Explorers Hotel, hopping on the train might be your best bet.
France’s public transport system is efficient and well-connected, and even though it requires a transfer or two, it’s a solid option for budget-conscious travelers who don’t mind navigating a few steps.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Fast: Once you’re on board, the train moves swiftly and predictably. You won’t experience any traffic delays or unnecessary stops.
- Budget-friendly: The train is one of the cheapest options available, especially if you’re traveling solo or as a couple.
- Beautiful Scenery: If you’re a lover of nature or aesthetic scenes, you will enjoy riding the train. You get to enjoy views of suburban Paris as you travel through local neighborhoods and countryside.
Cons:
- Transfers Required: When using the train, you’ll need to make at least one transfer from RER B to RER A, and then possibly catch a hotel shuttle or taxi from the final stop.
- Quite Confusing: Especially when you’re with kids, heavy luggage, or right after a long flight, managing stairs, platforms, and transfers can be overwhelming. Thus, using the train can become another chore, and not a pleasant trip.
- Limited luggage space: Unlike airport shuttles or private cars, trains don’t have designated space for big suitcases. What this means is that you’d have to limit the number and bulkiness of your luggage, or you risk inconveniencing yourself and other passengers alike.
Tickets & Booking
Purchasing a train ticket in Paris is a straightforward process, and there are multiple ways to do it:
- RER ticket machines at CDG Airport (English available).
- SNCF ticket counters at the airport.
- Online booking: You can visit sites like SNCF connect or RATP. They offer advance booking and planning tools.
Approximate Cost:
Approximately a train ticket costs €17–€20 per adult, depending on route and time. Children under 4 years travel free, and children between 4–10 get discounted fares.
Travel Time & Frequency
The journey involves two main segments:
1. RER B Line: Board at Aéroport Charles de Gaulle 2, TGV station. Ride toward Robinson/Saint-Rémy-lès-Chevreuse and get off at Châtelet–Les Halles (Paris city center). This leg takes about 35 minutes.
2. Transfer to RER A Line: At Châtelet–Les Halles, follow signs to the RER A line and board the train heading to Marne-la-Vallée, Chessy (this is the Disneyland station). This segment takes about 40 minutes.
Once you arrive at Marne-la-Vallée, the Explorers Hotel is just 10 minutes away by taxi, hotel shuttle, or local bus. The hotel typically offers free shuttles from the station, so it’s worth checking their schedule ahead of time.
The total travel time is approximately 1 hour 15 minutes, including transfers.
The train departs every 10–20 minutes, so you won’t have to wait long. And the service runs from early morning to around midnight.
While the train option isn’t the most direct, it’s an affordable and reliable choice.
Option 2: Bus
If you’re looking for a stress-free, family-friendly, and affordable way to get from Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to Explorers Hotel, the Magic Shuttle is a great and exciting option. This is the official Disneyland Paris shuttle partner, and it’s designed with convenience in mind, especially for guests heading to Disney hotels like Explorers.
Bus Routes & Stops
The Magic Shuttle leaves directly from CDG Airport and travels to the Disneyland Paris hotel zone, including Explorers Hotel.
The magic shuttle has the following departure Points at CDG:
- Terminal 1 (Exit 32).
- Terminal 2E/2F (between Exits 8 & 9).
The stops include: Disneyland Hotel area, selected Disney and partner hotels (Explorers Hotel is on the route), and Marne-la-Vallée station.
The bus operates a service frequency which allows them to commute every 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the time of day and season.
The shuttles are typically modern, air-conditioned coaches with comfortable seats and luggage compartments. This is perfect after a long-haul flight with kids or bags in tow.
This is also a direct service, which means there are no train transfers and no dragging bags through stations. You only need to hop on and enjoy the ride.
Bus Fares & Schedules
The Magic Shuttle offers fixed pricing, which makes it easier to budget your trip.
- Adults (12+): Around €24 one-way.
- Children (3–11): Around €11 one-way.
- Kids under 3: Free.
The travel time is approximately 1 hour 15 minutes depending on traffic and hotel stops, and the operating hours are between 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, but it’s always best to check the schedule in advance, especially if arriving early or late.
You can purchase tickets online in advance via the official Magic Shuttle website or through trusted platforms like Viator.
Some hotels also allow booking upon arrival, but availability isn’t guaranteed during peak seasons.
If you want a direct route with no transfers, don’t mind a few hotel stops, and value affordability and simplicity, the Magic Shuttle is a great option, especially for families with younger kids.
It may take a little longer than a private transfer, but it’s easy, comfortable, and designed with Disney travelers in mind.
Option 3: Private Transfer & Taxi Services
If you’re traveling with kids, elderly relatives, lots of luggage, or perhaps you just want to step off the plane and relax right away into a comfortable ride, then a private transfer or taxi is hands-down the most convenient way to get from Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to Explorers Hotel.
While it may cost a bit more than public transport, the ease, speed, and comfort can make it well worth it, especially after a long international flight.
We especially recommend Paris Airport Pickup: a reliable, family-friendly private transfer service that’s earned the trust of thousands of travelers. Their services are competitively priced, easy to book online, and tailored for airport-to-hotel transfers across Paris, including Disneyland-area hotels like Explorers.
Benefits of Private Transfers
Here’s why private transfers are a top-tier choice for many families and travelers:
- Direct door-to-door service: No transfers, stops, or confusion. Your driver picks you up at the arrival terminal and drops you directly at the hotel entrance.
- Zero waiting: You get to skip queues, avoid deciphering train schedules, and rest easy knowing your ride is waiting, even if your flight is delayed.
- Ultimate comfort: Private taxis are spacious, air-conditioned vehicles. Some even come with booster seats and child seats on request.
- English-speaking drivers: Paris Airport Pickup understand that language barrier is a real problem and hence, cater to diverse travellers who may not be native French. What this means for you is that you get to ride with an English-speaking chauffeur, which makes communication much easier.
If convenience is your priority, private transfer wins hands down.
Estimated Taxi & Private Car Costs
After knowing all these, your next question is likely, so what should you budget for this kind of comfort?
If you’re booking a taxi from CDG to Explorers Hotel, you need approximately €90–€120, depending on traffic, day/night timing, and luggage.
Nighttime rides or weekend trips may attract surcharges.
However, if you’re using private transfer via Paris Airport Pickup, the price is around €75 (fixed rate, no hidden fees) when booked in advance.
This is ideal for groups, families, or if you have heavy luggage.
Booking Your Private Transfer
One of the best parts of booking a private ride is how simple and fast it is.
- Book online in minutes at Paris Airport Pickup.
- Choose your pickup time, flight info, number of passengers, and optional extras like car seats.
- Your driver will be waiting at the arrivals area with your name on a sign.
- Another bonus, especially if you’re traveling with young kids or multiple suitcases is that your driver helps with the luggage.
It’s a premium experience without the premium price tag, and you get peace of mind knowing your transportation is completely taken care of even before you land.
Book Taxi With Paris Airport Pickup
Comparing All Transport Options
| Option | Travel Time | Cost (Per Person) | Convenience | Best For |
| Train | 75 minutes | €17-€20 | Moderate | Budget/solo travelers |
| Bus (Magic Shuttle) | 75-90 minutes | €23-€25 | Easy | Families not in a rush |
| Private Transfer | 40-60 minutes | €75-€120 (per car) | High | Families, Groups, Comfort seekers |
The train is great for those on a tight budget, and especially nice for solo travelers or couples who are familiar with European public transport.
The Magic Shuttle bus is ideal for families who prefer simplicity. It’s easy to board, kid-friendly, and takes you directly to Explorers Hotel for about €23–€25 per person. Expect a relaxed ride with no transfers.
While the private transfer provides the most comfort, privacy and convenience, especially after a long flight.
Getting from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Explorers Hotel doesn’t have to be complicated. You just need to leverage the option that matches your travel style, budget, and comfort level.
And now you have been duly informed. If the private transfer is it for you, click here to book your ride.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance is approximately 43 kilometers (which is about 27 miles). However, it depends on the transportation method you choose. Whether you opt for the train, bus, or private taxi, your total travel time would not exceed an hour and a half. This also, is factoring in traffic, transfers, and wait times.
The RER train is typically the most budget-friendly option, and it costs around €17–€20 per person. It’s a great choice for solo travelers or those comfortable navigating public transit with a few transfers along the way.
Yes! The Magic Shuttle offers direct service from CDG Airport to Disneyland hotels, including Explorers Hotel. It’s a comfortable and hassle-free ride that caters especially to families and Disney-bound travelers.
A standard taxi ride can cost anywhere from €90 to €120, depending on traffic and time of day. For better value and peace of mind, consider booking a private transfer in advance starting from €75 per car.
Editorial Staff’s at Paris Airport Pickup are experts in Paris transportation.
