Bonjour! This isn’t just your regular trip to Paris, folks. Sure, the Eiffel Tower’s still standing tall and the croissants are as buttery as ever, but this time, there’s a twist – the Summer Olympics are in town!
Think of it as Paris with a sporty makeover: More than just munching macarons and strolling by the Seine, you'll be (hopefully!) high-fiving athletes and maybe even trying a new sport yourself. So, grab your most comfortable sneakers (because let’s face it, you’ll be doing a lot of running around!), and let’s dive into a summer where Paris isn’t just about the ‘ooh-la-las’ but also the ‘wow, did you see that?!’
Ready to have a ball in the city that’s putting its game face on?
When do the Olympics begin?
Sports fans and Paris lovers, mark your calendars! The 2024 Summer Olympics are kicking off on Friday, July 26, and the fun doesn’t stop until Sunday, August 11. But wait, there's more!
Right after, from August 28 to September 8, the Paralympic Games take the spotlight. Imagine this: 32 sports, 329 events – it's going to be epic!
Paris is going all out for these Olympics. Athletes won't just be showing up; they’ll be cruising down the Seine on those postcard-perfect riverboats.
And the events? They're not just in stadiums. You’ll get to see divers flipping into the Seine right off Ile de la Cité, and horses and riders competing in the jaw-dropping Versailles gardens. Paris is turning into a giant stage, and trust me, you'll want front-row seats to this show.
Get the scoop on all the hotspots for the Paris Olympics and Paralympics! We've got your ultimate guide to every venue where the action will unfold.
Great! How do I get my ticket?
Scoring Olympic tickets is just like trying to score a Taylor Swift concert ticket - it’s not particularly easy! But, close to 10 million tickets will be on sale, and roughly 3.4 million for the Paralympics.
You’ll be able to buy tickets when they go on sale, on May 11, 2023, and they are available online so that it’s more streamlined. You can buy your tickets at the Paris 2024 Olympics website. All major credit cards and debit cards are accepted for payment.
Paris Olympics - Games and dates to know
Looking for the dates to your favorite Olympic games? This section has got you covered. Starting from the location, to the games, the dates, and the fastest way to get there, you can find all the essential information in our 'Places where Paris Olympics and Paralympics will be held' guide.
What are the new sports being introduced in the Paris 2024 Olympics?
Yes, without a doubt, there’s some new stuff that's got to make this more interesting than it already is! Here’s what you can expect to see -
Imagine the pulsating energy of hip-hop fused with the athleticism of gymnastics and the artistry of dance. That's breaking, a dynamic urban dance style where B-boys and B-girls battle it out on the floor with gravity-defying spins, freezes, and power moves. Prepare to be dazzled by their footwork, agility, and sheer coolness!
Sport climbing is a test of strength, mental focus, and strategic problem-solving, as climbers navigate intricate routes, scaling seemingly impossible heights with grace and precision. Hold your breath as they tackle overhangs, cracks, and dynamic moves, defying gravity with every grip.
Get ready for a whirlwind of gravity-defying flips, grinds, and slides as skateboarding takes center stage. This urban sport isn't just about tricks; it's about style, flow, and pushing the boundaries of what's possible on four wheels. Watch as the world's best skaters shred bowls, rails, and ramps, transforming concrete playgrounds into their own skateparks.
While Paris itself may not be known for its waves, the spirit of the Olympics transcends borders. To experience and enjoy this, you’ll be on the sun-kissed shores of Tahiti, 10,000 miles away, where surfers will battle the turquoise swells, showcasing their balance, agility, and mastery of the ocean. It’s going to be mental, you’ll see them battle the waves with their boards and ride the power of nature with elegance and skill.
Where can I stay?
Selecting the right neighborhood for your stay in Paris can deeply enhance your experience. Each district has its own unique character and charm:
It's like stepping into a time machine and coming out in a hipster cafe. The Marais is all about cool history meets modern vibes. Check out the funky boutiques and maybe even catch a street performer or two.
Insider tip: Grab a bite at the Marché des Enfants Rouges – it’s the oldest market in Paris and a total hidden gem!
Fancy a bit of glam? This place is luxe central, right by the Champs-Élysées. But hey, it’s not all about shopping. Take a walk in Parc Monceau, where the locals hang out away from the tourist buzz.
On a budget but still want to soak up that Paris charm? The Latin Quarter is your go-to. It's artsy, a bit boho, and has loads of affordable spots to eat and chill.
Insider tip: Don’t miss the Arènes de Lutèce – it’s an ancient Roman amphitheater right in the middle of Paris!
Think cobblestone streets, artsy vibes, and the stunning Sacré-Cœur. It's a little quieter here, perfect for those romantic strolls. And guess what? There's an actual vineyard in the middle of the city – Clos Montmartre. Definitely check it out!
This is classic Paris at its best. It's got a rich literary past, cool cafes, and some great little shops. Want to feel like a true Parisian? Grab a coffee at Café de Flore or Les Deux Magots and just watch the world go by.
Enhance your Parisian experience by staying in a neighborhood that best suits you! Here’s a comprehensive list of the best neighborhoods in Paris.
How to get around the city?
Ready to navigate the bustling streets of Paris during the Olympics? Here are some super simple and fun ways to get around the city, ensuring you catch every exciting moment of the games!
- Metro Magic: The metro is your best friend – quick, easy, and gets you everywhere. Grab a map and start exploring! For the Olympics and Paralympics, a Paris 2024 pass will be released that will allow visitors to travel through the whole Ile de France region.
Cost: 16€ a day and up to 70 € a week. - Bus Adventures: Catch a bus for a scenic ride. It's a chill way to see the city and get to your next event.
- Biking Fun: Rent a bike for a breezy ride through Parisian streets. Check out the Vélib’ stations around the city. By summer 2024, Paris will have integrated over 30 miles (55 km) of cycle paths throughout the city.
- Scooters: Scoot around on an electric scooter. It’s fast, fun, and lets you weave through traffic.
- Riverboat Cruising: Take a break and cruise on the Seine. It’s a relaxed way to travel and see the sights.
Tickets to the best Seine River Cruises. - Happy Feet: Walking is the best way to soak up the Paris vibe. Plus, you’ll find cool spots along the way!
- Taxis: Need to get somewhere fast? Wave down a taxi. It's straightforward and convenient.
- Olympic Shuttles: Look out for special shuttles for the Olympics. They're super handy for getting to the games.
- RER Trains: If you're heading out of the city center, the RER trains are a great option.
- Night Bus: Out late? The Noctilien night bus has got you covered.
- Segways: For a bit of fun, hop on a Segway. It’s a cool way to zip around and see the sights.
- Hop-on Hop-off Bus: Great for sightseeing, these buses let you visit all the big attractions at your own pace.
Tickets to Hop-on Hop-off Tours in Paris .
Fun things to do in Paris
- Picnic under the Eiffel Tower: Grab some cheese, a fresh baguette, and some wine, and have a picnic on the Champ de Mars. Nothing screams 'Paris' more than chilling with the Eiffel Tower in the background!
- Treasure hunt at flea markets: Jump straight into the famous Parisian flea markets like Les Puces de Saint-Ouen. Find quirky souvenirs, vintage clothes, or just some really cool old stuff.
- Ride a vintage carousel: Feel like a kid again on one of Paris’s charming old carousels. Try the one in front of the Hôtel de Ville or at Montmartre.
- Explore the Catacombs: Get a little spooky and explore the underground tunnels lined with skulls and bones. It's eerie, fascinating, and so uniquely Paris.
- Take a cooking class: If you have some time between the games, you can get to learn how to make macarons or perfect your croissant-making skills. It’s a fun way to take a piece of Paris home with you.
- Cruise on the Seine: Hop on a river cruise for some stunning views of the city. Do it at night for extra sparkly vibes from the city lights.
- Street art tour in Belleville: Check out some cool graffiti and street art in the Belleville neighborhood. It’s colorful, creative, and totally Instagram-worthy.
- Jazz night in the Latin Quarter: Spend an evening listening to live jazz in a cozy Parisian bar. It’s a toe-tapping, soul-lifting kind of night.
- Watch a movie in an Art Deco cinema: Catch a film at Studio 28 or Le Grand Rex to experience the glamor of old-school movie theaters.
- Stroll through Jardin du Luxembourg: Take a walk around these gorgeous gardens, watch the locals play bocce, or just lounge by the fountain.
- Try an escape Room with a French twist: If this is your jam, then test your puzzle-solving skills with an escape room experience – but in French! Don’t worry, they usually help out English speakers too.
- Bike around the city: Rent a bike and pedal through the streets of Paris. It’s a fun and active way to see the city from a different perspective.
- Pastry and chocolate tour: It’s difficult to say no to this one! Indulge your sweet tooth with a tour of the city’s best bakeries and chocolate shops. Paris and pastries, a match made in heaven!
- Sunset at Sacré-Cœur: Climb up to Montmartre and watch the sunset from the steps of the Sacré-Cœur. The view is incredible and the vibe is just so Paris.
- Find the secret vineyard in Montmartre: Yes, there’s a vineyard in Paris! It’s a little secret spot called Clos Montmartre – super cool to check out.
Get away for the weekend!
- Disneyland Paris adventure: Just a short train ride away, dive into the magic of Disneyland. Perfect for a day of fun, thrills, and childhood nostalgia.
- Champagne tasting in Reims: Take a day trip to Reims, the heart of the Champagne region. Tour the vineyards, learn about champagne production, and, of course, taste some bubbly!
- Explore the Palace of Versailles: Here’s your chance to witness the opulence of French royalty. The gardens are a must-see, and the Hall of Mirrors is just breathtaking.
- Day out in Giverny: Visit Monet's home and gardens in Giverny. It’s like stepping into one of his paintings - so serene and beautiful.
- Adventure in Fontainebleau Forest: For the outdoorsy types, head to Fontainebleau. Hiking, rock climbing, or just a peaceful picnic - it's a great nature escape.
- Loire Valley Castles tour: Be a prince or princess for a day while exploring the stunning chateaux of the Loire Valley. The architecture and history are simply enchanting.
- Normandy beaches and WWII sites: A bit of history and a beautiful coastline. Visit the D-Day beaches and the Normandy American Cemetery for a poignant experience.
- Ride hot air balloons in Loire Valley: Float above the breathtaking landscapes and castles of the Loire Valley in a hot air balloon. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime kind of view.
- Lille day trip: Check out the vibrant city of Lille, known for its art, culture, and fantastic food. It's a quick train ride away and offers a different taste of French life.
- Wine tasting in Bordeaux: If you’re up for a bit longer trip, head to Bordeaux. The wine tours and tastings here are world-class and totally worth the journey.
- Kayaking on the Seine: For a different perspective of Paris and its surroundings, why not kayak on the Seine? It’s fun, active, and you get some pretty cool views.
- Explore medieval Provins: Step back in time in the UNESCO-listed town of Provins. Its medieval fairs, ramparts, and towers make for an intriguing day trip.
- Scenic bike tour in Burgundy: Cycle through the beautiful Burgundy region, known for its vineyards and picturesque countryside.
- Climb the dunes of Pilat: Experience the tallest sand dune in Europe near Bordeaux. The views from the top are incredible, especially at sunset.
- Visit the fairy-tale town of Colmar: A bit farther away, but Colmar is like a fairy-tale town come to life with its colorful buildings and charming canals.
Paris summer travel tips
- Pack smart for the weather: Paris in summer is like a warm croissant - mostly warm and sunny, but sometimes a bit flaky! Bring light clothes for the day, something cozy for cooler evenings, and don’t forget a stylish yet practical raincoat or umbrella.
- Stay hydrated, stay happy: With all the excitement, it’s easy to forget to drink water. Keep a reusable water bottle handy. Paris has loads of fountains with drinkable water – eco-friendly and cool!
- Get the Paris Pass: Get to enjoy the city with the Paris Pass and explore over 60+ attractions in the city. Also, you get skip-the-line access and priority pass advantages over everything else! What’s not to love?
Get your Paris Pass here. - Embrace the art of picnicking: Join the locals in one of Paris’s beautiful parks for a picnic. Grab some cheese, a baguette, and some fruit from a local market, and you’re all set for a chill time.
- Plan your Olympic events in advance: With so much going on, it's easy to miss out. Book your tickets early and plan your days to avoid the last-minute rush.
- Explore beyond the tourist spots: Sure, see the Eiffel Tower and Louvre, but also wander off the beaten path. Discover small cafes, hidden gardens, and local neighborhoods for a real taste of Paris.
- Stay sun-safe: Sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen are your best friends. Parisian chic meets sun protection!
- Keep your belongings safe: Tourist spots can attract pickpockets. Keep your valuables close, use a money belt or a cross-body bag, and stay alert.
- Say yes to flat shoes: You’ll be walking a lot, and Parisian streets are charming but can be cobblestone-heavy. Comfortable shoes are a must for happy feet.
- Keep an eye on local events: Summer in Paris is packed with cool events – outdoor concerts, festivals, and more. Check local listings to add some extra fun to your trip. Look out for "Les Concerts de Poche", a series of impromptu, intimate concerts held in unusual locations around the city.
- Experience the Fête de la Musique: If you’re in Paris on June 21, don’t miss this city-wide music festival. Streets, cafes, and bars come alive with music of all genres.
There's more to do in Paris!
