Getting Online at Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG)
eSIM from 1,00 USD · 100 MB. Networks: Free Mobile (5G), SFR (5G).
Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG): your options on arrival
The first thing you need on arrival: transport, maps and a message home. Having data before leaving the terminal saves time and stress.
Option 1: eSIM (activate before your flight)
- Buy the eSIM on Wi-Fi at home or your hotel, and save the QR / activation link in your email.
- Install the eSIM profile: iPhone → Settings → Mobile Data → Add Plan. Android → Settings → Network → Add eSIM.
- On landing, enable the eSIM line as "Mobile Data". You're online in 1–3 minutes.
Option 2: Airport Wi-Fi
Free at most terminals, but often limited by time caps and slow during peak hours. Good only for basics (WhatsApp, email). Don't use it for banking apps or large downloads.
Option 3: Local SIM at the airport
May require passport and registration. Airport prices are typically 2–3× higher than in the city. There's often a queue — if you arrive late at night, shops may be closed.
What do you need in the first 30 minutes?
- Book transport: Uber, Bolt, G7 Taxi needs ~10 MB to search and confirm a ride.
- Maps: routing to your hotel uses ~5 MB in Google Maps, Citymapper (Paris).
- Message home: a WhatsApp text + photo ≈ 1 MB.