If you are planning a trip from Milan to Paris but are having trouble deciding whether to travel by train, plane or car, you have come to the right place. Read on for our tips on the best ways to get from one point to another. We will help you evaluate all the pros and cons of each form of transport for this particular route.
What is the distance you will cover?
Milan is just under 400 miles from Paris, which means that most people will choose to fly. This is by far the most efficient method of traveling between the two main cities.
However, if you can afford a little extra time, taking the train or renting a car to travel this route can offer a more scenic – and potentially more relaxing and enjoyable – way to get to the French capital.
Flights: your best options
International carriers, including Alitalia and Air France, and regional low-cost carriers, such as Easyjet and Ryanair, offer daily flights from Milan to Paris, arriving at Roissy-Charles de Gaulle Airport and Orly Airport. Flights to Beauvais Airport located on the outskirts of Paris (including some Ryanair flights) tend to be a cheaper option, but you will need to plan at least an additional hour and fifteen minutes to get to central Paris.
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Take the train: High-speed train or spend the night in style?
You can reach the French capital from Milan Central Station in about 7.5 hours if you take the direct train. On the French side, it will be on the high-speed TGV rails, which will significantly speed up the journey from that point onwards.
For a slower but potentially more romantic ride (at least in the old sense of the word), night trains on the Artesia night line will take much longer, but are another viable option. Just make sure you can drive a whole night in one of its rickety sleepers, and you won’t wake up groggy and restless like some of us.
Women should also be aware that they are often mixed, which can lead to potentially uncomfortable situations. Private sleepers are much more expensive, but they may be worth it if you are concerned about sharing them with strange men.
Arrive by car: scenic routes… and toll fees
It can take eight to nine hours or more to get to Paris by car, but it can be a pleasant way to see northern Italy and France. Remember, it is not much greater than the distance between Los Angeles and San Francisco!
However, there is a big difference: you should expect to pay toll fees at various points during the journey between Italy and France. You will need to budget accordingly and accept the fact that there are no ‘free’ roads on this route.
Are you traveling from other Italian cities? Read these related features:
- How to get from Venice to Paris
- How to travel from Rome to Paris
Arriving in Paris by plane? Learn about ground transportation options
If you are arriving in Paris by plane, you will have to figure out how to get to the city center from the airports. Read more in our complete guide to ground transportation options. Also check out our comprehensive guide to Paris airports for more detailed information on how to get to the French capital and to choose the best way to get to the center.
