Booking Your Flights to France
Back to Your ResourcesPlanning your travel is an important part of the journey. Below are simple guidelines to help you select the best flights, arrive comfortably, and avoid common travel pitfalls.
IMPORTANT: Arrival & Departure Airports
You will be arriving in Paris or Lyon, depending on your travel itinerary and flight package.
For travelers beginning in Paris, your arrival airport will be:
• Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)
For travelers joining directly in Lyon, your arrival airport will be:
• Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS)
When searching for flights, select:
• Round-trip travel
• Arrival city: Paris (CDG) or Lyon (LYS), depending on your itinerary
• Departure city: Lyon (LYS) unless extending your stay independently after the tour
Be sure to review your official tour itinerary carefully before booking flights to confirm your correct arrival and departure airports.
When Should You Travel?
Your tour dates are listed on your itinerary.
Keep in mind that you will be crossing time zones, which affects your departure and arrival days.
From the United States and Canada:
Most flights to Europe are overnight (+1 day flights)
Example:
If your tour begins on a Sunday, you will likely depart on Saturday.
Always double-check your arrival date and time before booking.
Arrival & Departure Timing
Arrival (Day 1)
Plan to arrive as early as possible, ideally before 12:00 PM
This allows time to settle in and prepare for any evening activities.
Departure (Final Day)
Book your return flight after 12:00 PM
This gives you a relaxed morning and avoids unnecessary stress.
If these times are not possible, choose the closest option available.
Pre-Tour Arrival (Recommended)
Arriving 1–2 days early is highly recommended.
Benefits include:
• Time to adjust to jet lag
• A more relaxed start to the tour
• Extra time to explore Prague
Our Day 1 is intentionally light, but travel fatigue can still affect your experience.
Many travelers choose to arrive early, creating an unofficial first day of exploration.
Getting the Best Flight Deals
There is no perfect formula, but these tips can help:
• Midweek flights (Tuesday or Wednesday) are often less expensive
• Sundays and Mondays tend to be more expensive
• Prices fluctuate frequently, so monitor fares over time
Savings can vary widely depending on timing and route.
Best Tools for Flight Research
Start by comparing options across multiple tools:
• Google Flights
• ITA Matrix by Google
The ITA Matrix is a powerful research tool with advanced filters, allowing you to explore routes, nearby airports, and timing options in detail.
Once you find your ideal flight, note the details and book directly through the airline.
Why Book Directly with Airlines
Booking directly provides:
• Better support during delays or cancellations
• Easier changes or upgrades
• Fewer complications than third-party booking sites
Third-party platforms may redirect you if issues arise, which can delay support when you need it most.
Choosing the Right Flight
When comparing options, consider:
• Total travel time (avoid overly long routes when possible)
• Layover duration and airport
• Flexibility (changeable or refundable tickets preferred)
A slightly higher fare is often worth a smoother experience.
Seat Selection Tip
If traveling with a companion:
• Choose a window and aisle seat in the same row
• Leave the middle seat open
If the flight isn’t full, it may remain empty.
If it fills, you can usually swap seats with ease.
Passport Requirements
Ensure your passport is:
• Valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date
• In good condition
If you need a new passport or renewal, apply as soon as possible:
Additional Travel Resources
Helpful guidance for air travel:
• U.S. Department of Transportation: Air Travel Tips
• Passenger Rights for Delays & Cancellations
Traveler Tip
The best flights balance price, timing, and comfort.
Take the time to research your options carefully. A well-planned flight creates a smoother, more enjoyable start to your journey.