A process for the preparation of N-debenzoylpaclitaxel (I) through esterification of 7-protected baccatin III with a carboxylic acid reactive derivative of general formula (II), and elimination of the ester-protecting groups in acid conditions and in a single step. In formula (II) R1 is aryl or heteroaryl. The compound of formula (I) can be conveniently used for the preparation of paclitaxel and analogues ##STR00001##