Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) has been named Europe's most joyless airport in a reader poll, with many travellers criticising its confusing layout and poor experience. One respondent described it as 'weird', while another noted that only New York's JFK delivers a worse experience globally.
Despite being the busiest airport in continental Europe, CDG has its defenders. Some point to its high-speed train station as a bonus, allowing connections to eastern and southern France via TGV. However, the RER B line to central Paris is considered sub-optimal, though a dedicated CDG Express is expected by 2027.
Other airports receiving criticism include Munich, Frankfurt, and Geneva. Munich was described as 'pretty crap' with poor signposting and no high-speed rail link. Geneva was singled out for giving British skiers a 'third-class experience' during peak seasons.
Smaller airports also featured, with Dalaman in Turkey criticised for overpriced duty-free, and Bordeaux's low-cost terminal likened to an 'internment camp'. Manchester Airport received calls for a complete rebuild, though its Terminal 3 is undergoing a facelift.
One reader summed up the issue: most major European airports lack a coherent long-term plan, with expansions tacked on haphazardly. Despite the stress of security checks and drop-off fees, travellers continue to use them, accepting the ordeal for the rewards of travel.
