The 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris is set to be an exciting event for travellers from around the world. As the host city gears up to welcome athletes and fans from around the world, it’s important to plan ahead to make the most of your trip. These Paris Olympics travel tips cover everything you need to know, from getting tickets and finding places to stay, to transportation and top attractions to visit when you’re not catching Olympic events. Read on for tips to help you make your Paris Olympics adventure stress-free and memorable.
How to Get to Paris
Paris is easily accessible by train, plane, bus, and car. Here are some of the best options for getting there:
Train
One of the fastest and most convenient ways to reach Paris is by train. Eurostar runs frequent high-speed train services from London St Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord that take just over 2 hours. Tickets can be booked in advance online. Other train options from elsewhere in Europe include TGV trains from Brussels, Amsterdam, Cologne and other major cities.
Plane
Many airlines offer direct flights to Paris’s Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports from cities across Europe and worldwide. Flights take 1-3 hours from most European capitals. Book well in advance for the best rates.
Bus
Budget operators like FlixBus run overnight buses between Paris and European destinations like Amsterdam, Brussels, Milan and Barcelona. Trips take 8+ hours but buses are an affordable option.
Car
Driving to Paris is easy via autoroutes from London, Brussels, Frankfurt and other cities. Just be aware of traffic getting into the city. Underground parking is available but expensive.
Finding Accommodation
With millions of visitors expected, finding somewhere to stay during the 2024 Olympics won’t be easy. Book accommodation as far in advance as possible. Hotels fill up fast, especially rooms near key venues. Here are some options to consider:
Hotels
You’ll have wanted to reserve hotel rooms up to a year in advance so may be out of luck this close to the games. Still, take the time to look near the city centre, major attractions like the Eiffel Tower and key venues such as Stade de France. Check sites like Booking.com for deals. Expect to pay a premium.
Apartment Rentals
Renting an apartment through Airbnb, Vrbo, or local services can save money. Search in arrondissements near venues and the city centre. There may be a few last minute rentals left.
Hostels
Hostels offer budget dorm beds and private rooms. Top choices include St. Christopher’s Paris, Generator Paris and Les Piaules. Give hostels a call to see if they’ve had any cancellations.
Home Swaps
Swap homes with a local through sites like LoveHomeSwap. This is a great way to live like a local and save money.
Camping
Camping in Paris proper is not allowed. But campsites like Camping Indigo Paris do offer cheap tent spaces just outside the city with shuttle buses. This could be an option if you don’t mind roughing it.
Getting Tickets
Scoring tickets to Olympic events will require planning. Here’s what you need to know:
Know the Schedule
Review the Paris 2024 schedule online to see which sport and event tickets you want. They will be in high demand.
Sign Up Early
Create an account on the Paris 2024 ticketing site to get access to ticket sales. Sales are first come, first served.
Act Fast
When tickets go on sale, log in right away. Many popular events will sell out in minutes. Set a calendar reminder for sale dates.
Avoid Resale Sites
Only buy from official Paris 2024 channels. Third party resellers often overcharge or sell fakes.
Set a Budget
Ticket prices start around €24 but most go for €50-€600 especially for finals. Set a budget before booking.
Apply for Draws
High-demand tickets like the Opening Ceremony require a lottery application months in advance.
Getting Around the City
With so many events spread across Paris, moving between Olympic venues will require planning. Here are the best transportation options:
Metro
Paris’ Metro system is extensive, efficient and cheap. Plan routes on apps like CityMapper. Expect peak crowding.
Bus
The Paris bus system is also a good option. Special Olympic shuttle buses will run between venues.
Walking
Walking between centrally located venues is doable. It’s a great way to experience the Olympic atmosphere.
Bike Share
Cycling is a fun way to get around. Use services like Velib’ to pick up and drop bikes at stations around the city.
Taxi/Uber
Taxis and Uber can save time, but expect high rates and surge pricing during peak Olympic demand.
Car
Driving is not recommended – traffic and parking will be nightmares during the Games. Metro, walking, and bikes are better options.
Top Sights Beyond the Games
Don’t spend your whole Paris trip at Olympic events. Here are some top attractions to visit when you want a break:
Eiffel Tower
No first visit to Paris is complete without seeing the iconic Eiffel Tower. Go up top for stellar views. Avoid long lines by reserving a timed ticket.
Louvre Museum
The world’s largest art museum needs several visits to fully appreciate. Don’t miss masterpieces like the Mona Lisa. Get tickets ahead online.
Arc de Triomphe
Napoleon’s triumphal arch stands at the top of the Champs-Elysées. There’s a small museum inside and panoramic views from the top.
Notre Dame Cathedral
Notre Dame awes with its stained glass windows and flying buttresses. It’s open after the devastating 2019 fire – visit this iconic church.
Day Trips
Escape the crowds with day trips to Versailles, Giverny and other sights outside Paris easily accessible by train.
Neighbourhoods
Wander charming areas like Montmartre, the Latin Quarter, Le Marais and the Left Bank to experience true Parisian culture.
Museums
Beyond the Louvre, top Paris museums include the Musée d’Orsay, Rodin Museum and many smaller gems.
Parks
Relax in iconic green spaces like Luxembourg Gardens, Tuileries Garden, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont and many more.
Final Paris Olympics Travel Tips
Follow these last Paris Olympics travel tips to make your trip perfect:
- Book flights, hotels, tickets and more early – up to a year in advance
- Brush up on your French phrases – you’ll have a better experience
- Get a Metro pass to save on transportation
- Pack light and comfortable walking shoes – you’ll walk a lot!
- Download handy apps like CityMapper and Google Translate
- Try delicious French food – crepes, cheese, pastries and more
- Stay flexible – plans may change with crowds and delays
- Most importantly, embrace the Olympic spirit and have fun! Paris in summer 2024 is going to be unforgettable.
Enjoy your Paris Olympics adventure! Let the games and exploration begin.
