Thinking about the gap between New York City and Paris? The two icons are separated by roughly one overnight flight across the North Atlantic. Expect about 3,635 miles (5,850 km) in straight-line distance, a 6–7½ hour eastbound flight, and a time jump that usually puts Paris six hours ahead. ✈️⏱️🌍
Distance at a glance
The great‑circle distance between NYC and Paris is about 3,635 miles (5,850 km). Exact mileage varies slightly by airport pair (JFK or EWR to CDG or ORY) and the day’s routing.
There’s no drivable route (hello, Atlantic Ocean 🌊). Realistically, you’ll fly—or take a transatlantic ship and continue by rail or air.
Key takeaways for travelers
- Distance: ~3,635 miles / 5,850 km.
- Flight time (nonstop): Eastbound ~6h45–7h30; Westbound ~7h45–8h45 (jet stream). ✈️
- Time difference: Paris is typically +6 hours; occasionally +5 during spring/fall clock changes. ⏰
- Major airports: NYC: JFK, EWR. Paris: CDG (main), ORY.
- Best value months: late Jan–Mar, mid‑Oct–early Dec (outside holidays).
Quick facts box
| Countries | United States ↔ France |
| Currencies | USD ($) ↔ EUR (€) |
| Languages | English ↔ French |
| Time Difference | Paris usually +6 hours vs. NYC |
| Average Nonstop Time | ~7 hours eastbound; ~8 hours westbound |
| Straight‑line Distance | ~3,635 miles / 5,850 km |
| Best Seasons | May–June, September–October |
Why flight times differ
Eastbound flights ride the prevailing westerly winds and the winter jet stream—often shaving 30–60 minutes. Westbound returns push into those winds, adding time. The route also curves north over the Atlantic along a great‑circle path, which is the shortest line on a globe. 🌬️🗺️
Airports and route basics
NYC departure
- JFK (Queens): The busiest gateway with many overnight departures.
- EWR (Newark): Plenty of nonstops; convenient from New Jersey and western Manhattan.
Paris arrival
- CDG – Charles de Gaulle: Main long‑haul hub with multiple terminals and extensive onward connections.
- ORY – Orly: Smaller, closer to central Paris; some long‑haul and many European services.
Most eastbound flights leave in the evening and land the next morning. Plan to sleep a bit on board 😴 and don’t book tight morning tours on arrival day.
Alternative: crossing by ship
Prefer a slow travel vibe? A transatlantic crossing is roughly 3,150 nautical miles and takes about 6–8 nights to the UK, after which a fast train or short flight gets you to Paris. It’s an experience, not a time saver. 🚢
Best time to visit for distance‑savvy travelers
Distance doesn’t change, but your comfort and budget do:
- May–June, September–October: Mild weather, long days, lively café terraces. 🌸🍂
- Late January–March: Often the best fares; pack for cold and possible rain.
- July–August: Warm and festive but pricier; some locals vacation in August.
- Holiday peaks: Late December and major events see higher prices and fuller flights.
Costs and ways to save
| Item | Typical Range (Roundtrip) | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Economy fare | $350–$1,100 | Search 6–10 weeks out; fly Tue–Thu; avoid major holidays. |
| Premium economy | $900–$1,600 | Great for overnight comfort without business‑class prices. |
| Business class | $2,000–$4,800+ | Watch for fare sales or use miles/points. |
| Seat & baggage fees | $0–$120+ | Basic fares can charge for seats and checked bags—read the fine print. 🧳 |
Getting into Paris after landing
From CDG
- RER B train: ~35–45 minutes to central stations; cost‑effective and frequent.
- Taxi/ride‑hail: ~45–70 minutes depending on traffic; fixed‑fare zones are common.
- Shuttles & buses: Useful if your hotel is near major stops.
From ORY
- OrlyBus or tram + metro: ~30–45 minutes to the Left Bank/central areas.
- Taxi/ride‑hail: Often a bit quicker than CDG given shorter distance.
Jet lag and timing tips
- Shift your clock by 1–2 hours the day before travel if you can.
- On board: Eat lightly, hydrate, and aim for a solid 3–5 hours of sleep. 🥤
- Arrival day: Get sunlight, move your body, and keep naps under 30 minutes.
- Clock quirks: Around late March and late October/early November, the US and Europe change clocks on different dates, briefly making the gap +5 hours.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Mixing up airports: Double‑check whether you land at CDG or ORY—and where your hotel is.
- Too‑tight connections: International flights plus passport control need buffer time.
- Forgetting arrival day: Evening departures land next morning—don’t schedule a packed first day.
- Overpacking: Many fares have strict baggage rules; weigh your bag at home. 🧳
- Not checking entry rules: Requirements can change—verify passport validity and any travel authorizations before you go.
FAQs
How many miles and kilometers separate NYC and Paris?
Roughly 3,635 miles (5,850 km) in a straight line, with small variations by specific airports and routing.
How long is a nonstop flight?
Usually ~6h45–7h30 eastbound from NYC to Paris and ~7h45–8h45 westbound back to the US, depending on winds and air traffic.
What is the time difference?
Paris is typically six hours ahead of New York. During a few weeks around spring and fall clock changes, it can be five hours.
Which airports should I choose?
From NYC: JFK or EWR. In Paris: CDG is the main long‑haul hub; ORY is closer to the city and serves many European and some long‑haul routes.
Can I travel by train or car?
No direct train or road exists across the Atlantic. You’d need to fly or take a ship, then continue overland in Europe.
Is this realistic for a weekend getaway?
Technically yes, but you’ll feel the jet lag. If you can, plan at least three or four nights to enjoy the city without rushing.
Where should I sit on the plane for views?
It’s an overnight eastbound flight, so views are limited. On clear mornings, left‑side windows sometimes catch sunrise as you approach France. 🌅
Do I need a visa?
Many travelers on short tourist stays don’t need a visa, but rules can change. Always check the latest entry requirements for your nationality before booking.
Conclusion
The gap between New York City and Paris is a single overnight hop—about 3,635 miles, seven hours in the air, and a six‑hour clock shift. Plan smart, pack light, and sync your sleep, and you’ll be sipping a café crème on the Seine by late morning. Bon voyage! ☕🗼
