Beauvais Airport (BVA) – Complete Travel Guide 2026

Beauvais–Tillé Airport quick facts

Beauvais–Tillé Airport serves as a primary operating base for Ryanair and handles flights from several European low-cost carriers. With its two compact terminals, the airport provides efficient service to roughly 4.5 million passengers annually, connecting Paris and the Hauts-de-France region to over 60 destinations across Europe and North Africa. The airport is officially branded as Aéroport Paris-Beauvais despite its location 85 kilometers from the capital.

Beauvais–Tillé Airport Terminal Map and Layout

Beauvais–Tillé Airport features a straightforward linear design with two adjacent terminals situated side by side. The compact layout makes navigation remarkably simple compared to larger international airports. Both terminals are located within the same building footprint, connected landside by a short indoor walkway that takes approximately two minutes to traverse.

Walking between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 covers a distance of roughly 100 meters through the main concourse. Since the terminals are not connected post-security, travelers must exit one terminal and re-enter the other if they require access to airside facilities in both buildings. The airport does not operate courtesy shuttles between terminals because the walking distance is minimal and entirely indoors.

Moving walkways are not available within the terminal complex, but the compact nature of the facility means they are unnecessary for most travelers. Passengers with reduced mobility can request wheelchair assistance at the information desk. For connecting flights, travelers should verify which terminal their onward flight departs from upon arrival, as the lack of post-security connectivity requires clearing security again when switching terminals.

Navigating Beauvais–Tillé Airport Terminals

Terminal 1

Terminal 1 serves as the primary hub for Ryanair flights and handles the majority of the airport's passenger traffic. This terminal features the main check-in hall with dozens of Ryanair counters, baggage drop points, and the primary security checkpoint. The departure lounge offers seating areas with views of the apron, a Relay convenience store, and an Aelia Duty Free shop. Dining options include a café serving hot and cold beverages, sandwiches, and pastries. Restrooms and baby-changing facilities are located near the departure gates.

Terminal 2

Terminal 2 accommodates flights from Wizz Air, Air Moldova, Blue Air, and other seasonal carriers. The check-in area is smaller than Terminal 1 yet provides efficient processing for the lower passenger volumes. After security, travelers find another Aelia Duty Free boutique, a bar area offering drinks and light snacks, and comfortable seating zones. Car rental agency desks are situated just outside Terminal 2 in the arrivals hall. The terminal features clean, modern facilities with clear signage in French and English throughout.

Transportation to and from Beauvais–Tillé Airport

Reaching central Paris or exploring the Picardy region from Beauvais–Tillé Airport is straightforward, with multiple ground transportation options available. The airport's distance from Paris means journey times are longer than those from Charles de Gaulle or Orly, yet the cost savings on flights often justify the additional transfer. Shuttle buses remain the most popular choice for budget-conscious travelers heading to the capital.

Getting to and from Beauvais–Tillé Airport by Car

Driving to Beauvais–Tillé Airport involves taking the A16 motorway from Paris or Amiens, exiting at junction 15 toward Beauvais centre. Traffic on the A16 is generally moderate, though weekday morning rush hours heading toward Paris can experience congestion. The journey from central Paris takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes in normal conditions, while the drive from Beauvais city center requires only 10 minutes.

Parking at the airport offers several tiers. Short-term parking (P1) is positioned directly opposite the terminal building and costs approximately $15 per 24-hour period. Long-term parking (P2 and P3) sits within a five-minute walk of the terminal, with rates around $11 per day. Economy parking (P4) offers the most budget-friendly rates at roughly $8 per day with a complimentary shuttle bus running every 15 minutes during operating hours. Private parking lots near the airport, such as Blue Parking and Ector, provide covered parking, valet services, and car wash options starting from $7 per day when booked in advance.

Several hotels near the airport offer park-and-fly packages, including the Ibis Budget Beauvais Aéroport and Hostellerie Saint Vincent. These packages typically include up to eight days of parking with a one-night stay. Advance booking through the airport's official website or parking comparison platforms secures the lowest rates, especially during peak summer travel periods.

The cell phone waiting lot, located along Route de l'Aéroport near the main entrance, allows drivers to wait free of charge for arriving passengers. Curbside drop-off directly in front of the terminal is permitted, with a strict 10-minute limit enforced by patrol staff. Vehicles left unattended at the drop-off zone are subject to fines and towing.

Getting to and from Beauvais–Tillé Airport by Rideshare or Taxi

Uber operates throughout the Beauvais area and provides service to and from the airport. The designated pickup point is located directly outside the arrivals hall, clearly marked with signage. Bolt, a popular European rideshare alternative, also services the airport with competitive pricing. Both platforms require passengers to request rides after reaching the designated pickup zone; pre-booking via the apps is not necessary but can reduce wait times during late-night arrivals. Fares to Beauvais city center average $15-20, while journeys to central Paris range from $130-170 depending on demand and vehicle category.

Official taxis are available at the rank outside Terminal 1 arrivals. Taxi drivers accept cash and major credit cards, though confirming card acceptance before departing is advisable. A taxi ride to Beauvais SNCF train station costs approximately $18, while the fixed fare to Paris is around $150 for up to four passengers.

Getting to and from Beauvais–Tillé Airport by Public Transportation

Official airport shuttle buses operated by Aerobus connect Beauvais–Tillé Airport directly to Paris Porte Maillot, located near the Palais des Congrès in the 17th arrondissement. Buses depart from directly outside the terminal building and take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic. Tickets can be purchased online, at the airport ticket desk, or from the driver for a slight premium. The shuttle schedule aligns closely with flight arrivals and departures.

Local bus line 6 and the Navette Aéroport service link the airport with Beauvais SNCF train station, where TER regional trains connect to Paris Gare du Nord in roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes. The combined bus and train journey offers a flexible alternative to the direct shuttle. T2C, the local transit operator, manages these connecting services with departures timed to major flights.

Key Amenities at Beauvais–Tillé Airport

ATMs

Several multi-currency ATMs are located throughout the airport. Two machines are situated in the Terminal 1 arrivals hall near the information desk, with additional ATMs available in Terminal 2 landside. These machines dispense euros and accept major international debit and credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, and American Express.

Lost and Found

The lost and found service is managed by the airport operations team. The office is located within Terminal 1 near the information desk and operates during regular terminal hours. Travelers can contact the service by calling +33 892 68 20 66 or emailing the provided address on the official airport website. Items found on aircraft should be reported directly to the operating airline.

Luggage Services

Luggage carts are available in both terminals near the check-in areas, provided free of charge. Luggage storage services are not currently offered at the airport, so travelers with long layovers should plan accordingly. Luggage wrapping service is available in Terminal 1 near the Ryanair check-in counters, costing approximately $10 per bag.

Pets

Designated pet relief areas are located outside both terminal buildings near the main entrances. Indoor relief facilities are not available post-security. Pets traveling in the cabin must remain in approved carriers that fit under the seat, while larger animals traveling in the hold should be checked according to each airline's specific pet policy.

Showers

Public shower facilities are not available at Beauvais–Tillé Airport. The airport does not have airline or independent lounges that offer shower amenities. Travelers requiring shower facilities may utilize services at nearby hotels such as the Ibis Budget Beauvais Aéroport, located within a five-minute shuttle ride.

Currency Exchange

Currency exchange counters operate within both terminals landside. The Terminal 1 exchange desk opens for the first departing flight and closes after the final arrival of the day. Terminal 2 features a smaller exchange counter with hours aligned to departure schedules. Competitive exchange rates for euros against major currencies including British pounds, US dollars, and Polish złoty are typically offered.

Smoking Area

Designated smoking areas are positioned directly outside both terminal exits before security. Smoking is prohibited throughout the interior terminal building and all airside areas, including departure gates and duty free shops. An outdoor smoking terrace is available airside in Terminal 1 near the boarding gates.

Terminal Building Features

The terminal complex maintains a functional, no-frills design that prioritizes efficient passenger processing. Both terminals underwent modernization in recent years, with improved seating, brighter lighting, and enhanced retail spaces. Waiting areas feature charging stations near most gate seats, and flight information displays are positioned at regular intervals throughout the concourse.

WiFi

Free public WiFi is available throughout both terminals. Travelers connect by selecting the Airport Beauvais network and accepting the terms of service on the landing page. The connection provides sufficient speed for email, messaging, and light browsing. Premium faster WiFi is not offered. Charging stations with USB ports and European standard power outlets are distributed near seating areas in both departure lounges.

Other Amenities

The information desk in Terminal 1 operates from 07:00 until 15 minutes after the final flight departure, providing multilingual assistance in French, English, Spanish, and Polish. Medical first aid services are available upon request through airport staff or the information desk. A prayer room is located in Terminal 1 landside near the check-in area, offering a quiet space for reflection. Baby-changing facilities are available in all restrooms throughout both terminals. The airport is fully accessible for passengers with reduced mobility, with ramps, elevators, and designated seating areas.

Airport Lounges at Beauvais–Tillé Airport

Beauvais–Tillé Airport operates as a budget-focused facility, and as such, premium lounge options are limited compared to major international airports. There is one small lounge space available, though offerings remain minimal and focused on basic comfort rather than luxury amenities.

Airline Lounges at Beauvais–Tillé Airport

No airline-branded lounges operate at Beauvais–Tillé Airport. Ryanair, as the dominant carrier, does not offer lounge facilities for any ticket class. Wizz Air and other operators similarly do not provide dedicated lounge spaces.

Credit Card-Affiliated Lounges

Beauvais–Tillé Airport does not currently host any credit card-affiliated lounges such as American Express Centurion Lounge or Capital One Lounge. Travelers accustomed to accessing lounges through premium credit cards should note that no such facilities exist at this airport.

Priority Pass Lounges at Beauvais–Tillé Airport

Priority Pass does not include any lounge or alternative experience at Beauvais–Tillé Airport. Neither restaurant credits, spa access, nor game room experiences are available through the program. Members should plan on using public seating areas and dining at available cafés before their flights.

Other Airports in the Region

Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)

Located just 25 kilometers northeast of central Paris, this massive international hub handles over 70 million passengers annually. Charles de Gaulle serves as the primary gateway for full-service international carriers and offers extensive shopping, dining, and lounge facilities. The airport connects directly to Paris via RER B train in approximately 35 minutes, making it the most convenient major airport for accessing the capital. It is recommended for travelers prioritizing direct flights, premium services, and proximity to Paris proper.

Paris Orly Airport (ORY)

Situated 13 kilometers south of Paris, Orly handles roughly 33 million passengers annually with a strong focus on domestic French routes and European leisure destinations. The airport features two terminals connected by the Orlyval light metro, which links to the RER B line toward central Paris. Orly offers more manageable crowds than Charles de Gaulle while still providing better connectivity than Beauvais–Tillé Airport. It is ideal for travelers heading to southern Paris neighborhoods or connecting to domestic flights within France.

Lille Airport (LIL)

Approximately 200 kilometers north of Paris near the Belgian border, Lille Airport serves the Hauts-de-France region with a compact single terminal handling about 2 million passengers yearly. The airport offers an open-air concourse design and ultra-short walking distances from check-in to gates. Parking sits mere meters from the terminal entrance. Lille Airport works well for travelers visiting northern France, Flanders, or destinations accessible via the nearby high-speed train station that connects to London, Brussels, and Paris in under one hour.

Beauvais–Tillé Airport Overview

Beauvais–Tillé Airport opened in 1956 as a modest regional airfield serving the Picardy region. Initially a military installation, the airport gradually transitioned to civilian use throughout the late 20th century. The airport's official name is Aéroport de Beauvais–Tillé, though it is commercially branded as Aéroport Paris-Beauvais to emphasize its role as a gateway to the French capital, despite being located 85 kilometers north of central Paris. This strategic positioning in the Hauts-de-France region allows the airport to serve budget-conscious travelers who prioritize low fares over proximity to the city center.

The facility operates as a civilian airport with no active military presence today. Annual passenger traffic has grown steadily, reaching approximately 4.5 million travelers. Two terminals manage the flow, with Terminal 1 handling the majority of Ryanair operations and Terminal 2 accommodating other low-cost carriers.

Beauvais–Tillé Airport Postal Code

Route de l'Aéroport
Tillé, Hauts-de-France
60000
France

Duty Free and Shopping at Beauvais–Tillé Airport

Duty free shopping is available at Beauvais–Tillé Airport through Aelia Duty Free boutiques located airside in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Since the airport primarily serves destinations within the European Union and a limited number of non-EU locations in North Africa and Eastern Europe, duty free pricing applies to passengers traveling to non-EU destinations. EU-bound travelers can still purchase from these shops at tax-inclusive prices. Shopping options remain compact yet cover essential travel retail categories.

The Relay convenience stores in both terminals offer newspapers, magazines, books, snacks, beverages, and travel essentials. Shopping before security is limited to vending machines and a small Relay outlet in the check-in hall. Post-security, travelers find a more curated selection designed for last-minute gift purchasing. Local French products, particularly gourmet foods and regional wines, make popular souvenirs. Prices for duty free alcohol bundles tend to be noticeably lower than those found in central Paris retail stores.

Dining options include a self-service café in Terminal 1 airside serving hot meals, sandwiches, salads, and pastries, and a bar in Terminal 2 offering beverages and light snacks. Coffee, croissants, and baguettes feature prominently as grab-and-go breakfast items. The airport lacks large international restaurant chains, instead offering locally operated eateries with simpler menus. Prices remain slightly elevated compared to city establishments but are reasonable by airport standards. Travelers looking for a more substantial meal may prefer to dine in Beauvais city center before heading to the airport, where authentic French bistros offer better value.

Security Wait Times at Beauvais–Tillé Airport

Security wait times at Beauvais–Tillé Airport are generally manageable due to the compact terminal design and focused operation schedule. During normal travel periods, passengers clear security within 10 to 20 minutes. Peak periods, particularly July and August weekends when holiday traffic surges, can extend waits to 30-45 minutes. The busiest times are early morning between 05:30 and 08:00, when multiple Ryanair departures cluster, and late afternoon between 16:00 and 18:00.

To minimize wait times, arriving at the airport at least two hours before departure is recommended. Online check-in reduces time spent in the check-in hall, and having boarding passes and identification ready at security speeds the process. The standard European Union security regulations apply: liquids must be in containers of 100ml or less, all carried in a single transparent resealable bag, and laptops and large electronics must be removed from carry-on luggage for screening. Beauvais–Tillé Airport does not offer TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, or CLEAR as these are United States-specific programs. No equivalent fast-track security program operates at this airport.

Beauvais–Tillé Airport Drop Off and Pick Up Information

The departures drop-off zone sits directly in front of the terminal building on the upper approach road. Drivers may stop for immediate unloading only, with a maximum stay of 10 minutes enforced. Unattended vehicles are prohibited at any time, and security patrols actively monitor the zone. Travelers requiring assistance with luggage can find free carts near the drop-off area.

The arrivals pick-up zone is located on the lower level directly outside the baggage claim exit. Short-term parking (P1) adjacent to the terminal is the most practical option for meeting arriving passengers, as curbside waiting is not permitted. The first 15 minutes in P1 are free, providing a convenient window for quick pick-ups.

A free cell phone waiting lot is available at the entrance to the airport complex along Route de l'Aéroport. Drivers can wait here until their arriving party calls to confirm they are ready at the curb. The lot has no amenities, but restrooms are available inside the terminal a short walk away. The Kiss and Fly zone, located in P1, offers free parking for up to 15 minutes for farewells or greetings. Commercial vehicles including taxis, ride-sharing cars, and shuttle buses use designated lanes at both arrivals and departures levels.

Flight Routes and Airlines at Beauvais–Tillé Airport

Ryanair dominates operations at Beauvais–Tillé Airport, using it as a major French operating base with dozens of routes spanning Europe and North Africa. Wizz Air provides additional eastern European connections, while seasonal carriers including Air Moldova and Blue Air supplement the schedule during peak travel months. SkyUp Airlines operates occasional charter services connecting to Ukrainian destinations.

Popular domestic destinations include flights to Marseille, Toulouse, and Bordeaux, though the airport's domestic network is limited given France's extensive high-speed rail system. International routes connect extensively to Italy, Spain, Portugal, Poland, Romania, and Morocco. Cities such as Milan, Barcelona, Lisbon, Warsaw, and Marrakech see heavy demand. Seasonal flights expand the network to include Greek islands, Croatian coastal cities, and Bulgarian resorts during summer months. Flight frequency peaks on Fridays and Sundays, aligning with European short-break travel patterns. Booking flights during midweek departures often yields lower fares and quieter terminal experiences.

Getting to and from Beauvais–Tillé Airport

Multiple ground transportation options serve the airport, with shuttle buses forming the backbone of connections to Paris. Those planning to explore the countryside of Hauts-de-France or travel onward to Normandy will find car rental particularly advantageous, as public transit beyond the Paris corridor is limited.

Car Rental at Beauvais–Tillé Airport

Car rental counters are stationed in the Terminal 2 arrivals hall, operated by major international companies including Avis, Europcar, Hertz, Sixt, and Enterprise. Rental vehicles are parked immediately outside Terminal 2 in a dedicated collection area, making the pickup process efficient. Popular vehicle categories include compact economy cars for fuel-efficient highway driving, midsize sedans for comfort on longer journeys, and SUVs for families carrying luggage. Manual transmission remains the default in France, so travelers requiring automatic transmission should reserve well in advance and expect a premium of approximately 30-50%.

Advance booking through car rental comparison platforms secures significantly lower rates than walk-up rentals at the counter. During summer months and holiday periods, vehicle availability tightens considerably. Renting a car from Beauvais–Tillé Airport opens access to the picturesque Oise countryside, Château de Chantilly, the medieval city of Senlis, and the Somme battlefields, all within easy driving distance. The A16 motorway provides swift connections north to the Opal Coast and south toward Paris.

Beauvais–Tillé Airport Taxi Services

Official airport taxis queue at the designated rank outside Terminal 1 arrivals. Recognizable by the illuminated taxi sign on the roof, these vehicles operate on metered fares. A trip to Beauvais city center costs approximately $18 and takes 10 minutes. Journeys to Paris run about $150 and take 75 to 90 minutes depending on traffic. Most taxi drivers accept cash and major credit cards, though confirming card payment capability at the start of the ride prevents complications. Uber and Bolt provide app-based alternatives with pickup at the designated ride-share zone outside arrivals.

Private Car Services at Beauvais–Tillé Airport

Chauffeur-driven car services offer a premium alternative to standard taxis, with fixed rates, meet-and-greet service at the arrivals hall, and assistance with luggage. Companies such as Blacklane and local operators provide advance booking with guaranteed vehicle categories, including luxury sedans and spacious vans for groups. These services prove particularly valuable for business travelers requiring punctual transfers and families with young children needing pre-installed car seats. Fares to central Paris typically start at $160, offering predictable pricing regardless of traffic conditions.

Bus Services at Beauvais–Tillé Airport

The official Aerobus shuttle forms the backbone of public transit to Paris, with coaches timed to flight schedules. Buses depart from directly outside the terminal building and terminate at Paris Porte Maillot, where connections to Metro Line 1, RER C, and several bus routes are available. Tickets cost approximately $18 for a single journey when purchased online, with round-trip discounts available. The local Navette Aéroport bus connects to Beauvais SNCF station for $5, linking onward to regional TER trains. Bus stop locations are clearly marked at the arrivals level exit.

Hotel Shuttles

Several hotels in the Beauvais-Tillé area offer complimentary shuttle service to the airport. The Ibis Budget Beauvais Aéroport runs a free shuttle that operates on demand during daytime hours and on a scheduled basis during early morning and late evening. The Hostellerie Saint Vincent provides shuttle service upon request for guests. The Kyriad Beauvais Sud and Campanile Beauvais also offer airport transfers, though advance arrangement with the reception desk is required. Shuttles typically pick up at the designated hotel shuttle stop outside Terminal 1 arrivals.

Parking at Beauvais–Tillé Airport

Parking facilities include four official lots ranging from premium short-term to budget economy options. P1, the short-term lot directly facing the terminal, charges approximately $2 per hour with a daily maximum of $15. This lot suits pick-ups, drop-offs, and stays of up to three days. P2 and P3, the medium-term lots within a five-minute walk, cost around $11 per day and provide well-lit, secure parking monitored by CCTV.

P4, the economy lot, offers the lowest rates at approximately $8 per day. A complimentary shuttle bus connects P4 to the terminal every 15 minutes from 04:00 until midnight. Outside these hours, the lot remains accessible and the walk to the terminal takes about 10 minutes. All official lots accept payment by credit card, debit card, and cash at automated payment machines. Electric vehicle charging stations are installed in P1 and P2, offering Type 2 and CCS connectors compatible with most European electric vehicles. Charging is available at market rates and can be initiated via RFID card or smartphone app.

Places to explore near Beauvais–Tillé Airport

Beauvais itself rewards exploration with its stunning Gothic cathedral, Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Beauvais, which features the highest vaulted ceiling of any Gothic church in the world. The city center sits just 10 minutes from the airport by car or taxi and offers medieval streets lined with half-timbered houses, the Galerie Nationale de la Tapisserie museum, and traditional French bakeries and brasseries. The MUDO-Musée de l'Oise, housed in the former bishop's palace, displays a notable collection of 19th-century French art.

Château de Chantilly, located 40 kilometers southeast and reachable in roughly 35 minutes by car, rivals Versailles in elegance with its art collection, formal gardens, and the famous Chantilly cream. The medieval town of Senlis, 45 kilometers away, offers remarkably preserved Roman walls, a Gothic cathedral, and cobblestone streets that transport visitors back centuries. The Somme battlefields and memorial sites near Amiens are accessible within a 60-minute drive north, providing poignant historical exploration. For day trips, the coastal city of Dieppe and the Normandy coastline lie approximately 90 minutes away, while the Champagne region around Reims can be reached in under two hours by car.

Local Weather and Best Time to Visit Beauvais

Beauvais experiences a temperate oceanic climate with four distinct seasons. Spring, from March to May, brings gradual warming with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 16°C (41°F to 61°F) and occasional rain showers. The countryside bursts into bloom, making this an excellent time for driving tours of Picardy's villages and gardens.

Summer, spanning June through August, delivers the warmest and most pleasant weather with temperatures averaging 13°C to 24°C (55°F to 75°F). Peak tourist season brings larger crowds at attractions and higher prices, yet long daylight hours allow extended exploration. The Beauvais Jazz Festival and various outdoor events animate the region during these months. Autumn, September through November, features cooling temperatures between 6°C and 18°C (43°F to 64°F) and stunning foliage in the forests surrounding Chantilly and Compiègne. Harvest season brings wine and food festivals to the wider region.

Winter, December through February, remains cold with temperatures between 1°C and 7°C (34°F to 45°F). Snowfall occurs occasionally but rarely disrupts airport operations. Christmas markets in Beauvais and Amiens add charm, and the low tourist volumes mean quieter attractions and lower accommodation prices. The best time to visit balances pleasant weather with manageable crowds, making May, June, and September ideal months for traveling through Beauvais.

Essential Travel Tips

Arrive at Beauvais–Tillé Airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure to allow ample time for check-in, security screening, and boarding. During peak summer weekends and holiday periods, extending this buffer to two and a half hours reduces stress.

Check flight status through the official airport website or your airline's app before departing for the airport. Ryanair and Wizz Air send real-time notifications to passengers who have provided contact information during booking. Pack for the region's variable weather by including layers and a compact umbrella regardless of season. Comfortable walking shoes prove essential for exploring cobblestone streets in Beauvais and nearby medieval towns.

France uses the euro exclusively. While credit and debit cards with chip-and-PIN technology are widely accepted, carrying approximately $50-75 in cash ensures smooth transactions at local markets, small bakeries, and rural establishments. ATMs at the airport provide a convenient source of euros upon arrival.

French is the primary language throughout the region, and while airport staff and hotel reception desks generally speak English, learning basic French greetings and pleasantries enriches the travel experience. A friendly Bonjour upon entering shops and Merci, au revoir upon leaving goes a long way.

International visitors from outside the EU require a valid passport for entry into France. Some nationalities require a Schengen visa arranged before travel. For car rental, a valid driver's license from your home country is required. Non-EU license holders should also carry an International Driving Permit obtained before arrival. Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old with a minimum of one year's driving experience.

Several fuel stations operate along the D901 and near the A16 motorway junction close to the airport. The nearest station, TotalEnergies Beauvais, sits on Rue de Paris approximately five minutes from the rental car return area and offers both diesel and unleaded fuel. Refueling before returning your rental car avoids the premium refueling charges applied by rental companies.

About the City

Beauvais carries a history stretching back to Roman times, when it was known as Caesaromagus. The city flourished during the medieval period as a center of textile production and ecclesiastical power, with its bishops ranking among the great lords of France. The 13th-century cathedral stands as the defining architectural achievement, its choir reaching an awe-inspiring height of 48.5 meters that remains unmatched by any Gothic church in the world. The city suffered significant damage during World War II bombing campaigns, yet substantial medieval fabric survived in the old town around Place Jeanne Hachette.

Modern Beauvais is home to approximately 56,000 residents and functions as the administrative capital of the Oise department. The city balances its historical heritage with contemporary industry, including tractor manufacturing and food processing. For visitors, the compact city center rewards unhurried exploration. Local cuisine features Picardy specialties such as ficelle picarde, a savory crêpe filled with ham and mushrooms under a creamy cheese sauce, and flamiche aux poireaux, a leek tart that appears on nearly every restaurant menu. The Saturday morning market on Place Jeanne Hachette fills the square with stalls selling local cheeses, fresh produce, and artisanal products. Beauvais serves as an excellent base for travelers seeking an authentic French small-city experience while maintaining easy access to Paris and the wider Hauts-de-France region.

Start Your Journey at Beauvais–Tillé Airport

Beauvais–Tillé Airport opens the door to northern France with budget-friendly flights and efficient connections. The compact terminals, straightforward parking, and practical car rental facilities make it an uncomplicated starting point for exploring the Gothic treasures of Beauvais, the châteaux of Picardy, or the boulevards of Paris. Renting a car directly from the airport gives you the freedom to discover hidden villages, stop at roadside boulangeries, and create an itinerary unconstrained by bus schedules. Book your rental car in advance through our comparison tool to lock in the best rates and secure the vehicle that matches your travel plans, then step off the plane and onto the open road with everything ready.