Getting from the airport to the city in Paris, Rome, Tokyo and Lisbon

Wherever you're flying, the same three questions decide the best route into town: what time you land, how much luggage you have, and where exactly you're staying. A train that's perfect at midday might have stopped running by the time a late flight lands, and a direct bus is worth more than a cheaper metro ride if you're carrying a big suitcase up and down stairs.

Look up the current timetable and fare on the airport's or operator's official website a few days before you travel, and save the route offline. Fares and timings change, so we haven't listed them here.

From Charles de Gaulle, the RER B suburban train runs into central Paris, stopping at stations including Gare du Nord and Châtelet–Les Halles, where you can change to the metro. It's usually the most practical option if you're travelling light. Roissybus runs to the Opéra area, and taxis between the airport and central Paris use fixed fares, which removes the worry about traffic.

Orly is closer to the city and is now served by metro line 14, which runs north through central Paris. There are also bus options and taxis. Whichever airport you use, check the RATP website for current routes before you go. Once you're in town, our Paris travel guide and Paris in 3 days itinerary take it from there.

Most international flights land at Fiumicino. The Leonardo Express train runs nonstop to Roma Termini, the main station, which suits most central hotels. Regional trains on the FL1 line are an alternative if you're staying near Trastevere or Ostiense, and they're often cheaper. Taxis from Fiumicino to the historic centre charge a fixed fare.

Ciampino, used mainly by low-cost airlines, has no direct rail link at the terminal; buses run to Termini and to Ciampino town station for onward trains. Check Aeroporti di Roma's website for the current options. Our Rome travel guide covers getting around once you arrive.

Haneda is the closer of Tokyo's two airports. The Keikyu line and the Tokyo Monorail both connect it to the rail network in central Tokyo, and airport limousine buses go direct to many hotels and major stations, which is handy with heavy bags.

Narita is further out. The JR Narita Express and the Keisei Skyliner are the fastest rail links into the city, and there are cheaper buses and slower trains too. If you're arriving tired after a long flight, a direct bus to your hotel can be worth it. Our Tokyo travel guide explains IC cards, which work on most trains and buses once you're in the city.

Lisbon's airport is unusually close to the city. The metro's red line starts at the airport, and you can change to other lines for the centre; it's simple and good value if your bags are manageable. The Aerobus runs to central areas such as Baixa and Cais do Sodré, and taxis and ride-hailing cars are widely available for the short trip.

If your hotel is up one of Lisbon's many hills, a taxi straight to the door can save a steep walk with luggage. Our Lisbon travel guide and Lisbon in 3 days itinerary help you plan the days that follow.

At most big airports, official taxi ranks are clearly signed outside arrivals. Use those, or an app you trust, rather than accepting offers from people approaching you inside the terminal. Where fixed fares exist, as in Paris and Rome, confirm the fare before you set off.

If you're arriving late at night, it's worth booking a transfer in advance or at least knowing the official taxi option, so you're not left working it out after the last train has gone.

However you get into town, keep the arrival day light. Drop your bags, take a walk nearby and save the big sights for the next morning. Our guide on how to build a travel itinerary explains how to plan around flight times, and our AI trip planner drafts a first day that fits when you land.