Paris Olympics 2024: Spirit of the Games & Local Attractions

Paris is getting ready to host the 2024 Summer Olympics.

This global event will bring together sports, culture, and tourists from across the world.

Paris already hosted the Olympics in 1900 and 1924. The 1900 Olympics welcomed women for the first time.

In 1924, Paris brought in the Olympic motto, “Faster, Higher, Stronger.”

In 2024, Paris will mix its past with new ways for a memorable Olympics.

The city is excited to host athletes and fans at its iconic Olympic venues.

For the the first time ever the opening ceremony will take place outside of a stadium.

The parade of athletes will take place on the Seine, with participants set up on floating barges.

The city’s historic sites and famous spots are ready to welcome visitors, offering an unforgettable Olympic experience.

Let’s explore the top Paris attractions and enjoy the Olympic games.

Learn more about:

• History of Archery in the Olympic Games
• The Thrill of Olympic Archery: 2024 Insight
• Paris 2024 Top Olympic Archery Contenders

Arrondissements (Districts) of Paris

Paris is divided into 20 districts, called arrondissements, which spiral out from the center like a snail’s shell. 

Each arrondissements has its own unique character.

Left Bank (South of the Seine)

• 5th: Latin Quarter and the Pantheon.
• 6th: Chic cafes in Saint-Germain-des-Prés and the Luxembourg Gardens.
• 7th: The Eiffel Tower and several major museums; Esplanade des Invalides (archery venue)
• 13th: Asian quarter and modern National Library.
• 14th: Montparnasse Tower and a lively artistic community.
• 15th: The largest district, mainly residential with some newer business developments.

Right Bank (North of the Seine)

• 1st: The historical heart of Paris, home to the Louvre Museum and the Tuileries Gardens.
• 2nd: The stock exchange and covered passages full of shops.
• 3rd: Picasso Museum and part of the historic Marais district.
• 4th: Notre-Dame Cathedral and the lively Hôtel de Ville area.
• 8th: The Champs-Élysées, shopping, and the Arc de Triomphe.
• 9th: Home to the grand opera house Palais Garnier and bustling shopping areas.
• 10th: A diverse area with the Canal Saint-Martin and major train stations.
• 11th: Known for vibrant nightlife and the Bastille district.
• 12th: Features the Opera Bastille and the large Vincennes Zoo.
• 16th: A posh area with museums, diplomatic embassies, and the Bois de Boulogne park.
• 17th: A mix of old and new Paris with charming squares and newer office buildings.
• 18th: The artistic hill Montmartre and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
• 19th: Features parks like the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont and cultural spaces.
• 20th: The Père Lachaise Cemetery and a more bohemian vibe.

Each district of Paris offers its own slice of the city’s history and culture, making it a fascinating place to explore.

Get into the Paris Olympics Spirit

Go to a Live Olympic Event

Experience the Olympics by going to a competition.

Secure tickets to see various sports like gymnastics, swimming, archery and track events.

Some venues and events are not as busy, and it’s a great way to participate and enjoy the Olympics.

Experience the thrill of live competition!

Tickets for the Paris Olympics: https://tickets.paris2024.org/en/

Visit the Olympic Village

Explore the Olympic Village where athletes reside during the games.

Note that some areas might be open to the public for tours.

The Olympic Village is located 5 miles (8 km) North of Paris in three different French towns:

• Saint-Ouen
• Saint-Denis
• L’Ile-Saint-Denis

Paris Olympics Cultural Exhibitions

Special cultural exhibitions are key highlights. They showcase Paris’ deep history through art and live shows.

Beyond just fun, they help visitors understand the city’s culture better.

If you want something truly Paris-exclusive, head to the fan zones.

Event	Location	Date	Tickets
Interactive Fan Zone	Champs-Élysées	July 20-Aug 11, 2024	Available at Venue
Cultural Exhibition	Louvre Museum	July 20-Sept 1, 2024	Online & Onsite
Pop-up Culinary Experience	Eiffel Tower	July 25-Aug 5, 2024	Online Only

Paris Olympics Free Fan Zones Outdoor Screenings

Paris City Hall is setting up fan zones in many parts of the capital.

These spots all over the city let fans interact with sports in cool ways. Think VR sports and meeting your favorite athletes.

Don’t miss the chance to visit the pop-up venues. These short-lived places will offer tastings, shows, and fun nights.

You can get tickets online or in special spots around Paris.

Free Viewing Zones:

• 1st arrondissement – Parc Rives de Seine and Quartier Jeunes
• 2nd arrondissement – Fabrique de la Solidarité
• 4th arrondissement – Académie du Climat
• 5th arrondissement – Arènes de Lutèce
• 6th arrondissement – Place Saint-Sulpice
• 8th arrondissement – Parc Monceau
• 9th arrondissement – Mairie
• 10th arrondissement – Canal St-Martin and the Grange aux Belles district
• 12th arrondissement – Allée Vivaldi
• 13th arrondissement – Parc de Choisy
• 14th arrondissement – Centre sportif Elisabeth
• 16th arrondissement – Parc Sainte-Périne
• 17th arrondissement – Parc Clichy Batignolles Martin Luther-King
• 18th arrondissement – Jardins d’Éole and the Square Léon Serpollet
• 19th arrondissement – Place Stalingrad, the Bassin de la Villette
• 20th arrondissement – Complexe sportif Louis Lumière

Champions Park – Celebrate with the Athletes

Champions Park will be located in Trocadéro Gardens, at the Eiffel Tower.

Visitors to the park will have the chance to meet athletes and experience Olympics moments.

Champions Park will be open to the public from:

• Monday July 29 to Saturday August 10
• Friday August 2 to Sunday August 4 – CLOSED

Popular Paris Tourist Attractions, Be Warned It’ll Be Busy!

Paris is filled with world-famous attractions that draw millions of visitors each year.

Central Paris Popular Attractions (Arrondissement 1-7)

1. Seine River Cruises: Cruising the Seine, particularly at night when many of the monuments are lit up, offers a unique view of the city. It’s a relaxing way to see Paris’s iconic landmarks. (popular starting points are often in the 1st or 7th arrondissement)
2. Louvre Museum: The Louvre is the world’s largest art museum and a historic monument in Paris. Seeing masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo is unforgettable. (1st arrondissement)
3. Le Marais: This historic district is filled with pre-revolutionary buildings, vibrant streets, boutiques, galleries, and Jewish history. (Spans parts of the 3rd and 4th arrondissements)
4. Centre Pompidou: This cultural complex houses the National Museum of Modern Art and is noted for its exterior escalators and enormous coloured tubing. (4th arrondissement)
5. Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris: This famous medieval Gothic cathedral, known for its size, antiquity, and architectural interest. (4th arrondissement; currently under restoration)
6. Sainte-Chapelle: Known for its stunning stained glass windows, this chapel is one of the highest achievements of the Rayonnant period of Gothic architecture. (4th arrondissement)
7. Panthéon and nightlife in the Latin Quarter: The Panthéon was originally built as a church but now functions as a mausoleum. You can also find lively bars, jazz clubs, and cafes. (5th arrondissement)
8. Luxembourg Gardens: Created in 1612 by Marie de’ Medici, the gardens are beloved for their lawns, tree-lined promenades, and the picturesque Medici Fountain. (6th arrondissement)
9. Eiffel Tower: The symbol of Paris, the Eiffel Tower is a must-visit.  To skip the long lines, buy tickets online early. Going in the morning or night means fewer people. During the Olympics, watch for events or light shows at the tower. (7th arrondissement)
10. Musée d’Orsay: Located in a beaux-arts railway station, this museum houses French art dating from 1848 to 1914. (7th arrondissement)

Popular Paris Attractions (Arrondissement 8-20)

1. Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe: The Champs-Élysées shopping is special. It’s lined with fancy shops and cozy cafes. A walk here lets you look for gifts and enjoy Parisian food. There are often parades and events, especially during the Olympics. Look for special Olympic stores for unique items. The Champs-Élysées is one of the most famous streets in the world, leading up to the Arc de Triomphe, which honours those who fought and died for France. (8th arrondissement)
2. Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur: Discover the charm of Montmartre, known for its artists, street performances, and the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica, which offers one of the best views of Paris from its steps. The area is known for its artistic history. (18th arrondissement)
3. La Villette: Visit La Villette complex which hosts various cultural venues, including the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, one of the biggest science museums in Europe. (19th arrondissement)
4. Paris Plages: During the summer, the banks of the River Seine are transformed into sandy beaches. It’s a perfect spot to relax and soak in the Parisian summer vibe. (19th arrondissement)
5. Père Lachaise Cemetery: The largest cemetery in Paris and the site of many famous graves, including those of Jim Morrison, Oscar Wilde, and Édith Piaf. (20th arrondissement)

Read more about Paris attractions:

• Olympics 2024: Explore Paris Attractions
• Paris Hidden Gems: Charming Streets, Parks and More

Attractions Around the Archery Venue

Are you lucky enjoy to be attending any of the archery competition?

The Esplanade des Invalides in Paris is a fantastic area with a rich historical backdrop.

It’s located in the heart of the 7th arrondissement.

1. Visit Les Invalides: Home to several museums and monuments all dedicated to the military history of France. Includes the Musée de l’Armée, the Musée des Plans-Reliefs, and the Musée de l’Ordre de la Libération. Don’t miss Napoleon’s tomb.
2. Local Restaurants: The area around the Esplanade des Invalides has numerous restaurants. It’s a great place to enjoy a meal while soaking in the local atmosphere.
3. The Seine: Stroll along the banks of the Seine near the Esplanade des Invalides offers picturesque views. Take a river cruise to see many of Paris’s most famous landmarks.
4. Rodin Museum: The Museum is set in the beautiful Hôtel Biron and showcases an extensive collection by the French sculptor Auguste Rodin, including “The Thinker” and “The Gates of Hell.”
5. American Church in Paris: This is the first American church established outside the United States and is worth a visit for its architectural and cultural significance.
6. Rue Cler: This is a famous market street known for its vibrant atmosphere, fresh produce, and variety of shops. It’s a perfect spot for food lovers.
7. École Militaire: At the end of Champ de Mars, the École Militaire is a historic site where Napoleon Bonaparte once studied. The exterior architecture is impressive.
8. Champ de Mars: This large public greenspace stretches from the Eiffel Tower to the École Militaire. It’s perfect for picnics, leisurely walks, or relaxing with a book.
9. Musée du quai Branly: Located near the Eiffel Tower, this museum features indigenous art, cultures, and civilizations from Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas.

Summary of Attractions Near Esplanade des Invalides

Attraction	Distance from Esplanade des Invalides
Les Invalides	Within 0.1 km (On-site)
Dine at Local Restaurants	Within 0.1 km (Surrounding area)
Stroll along the Seine	Within 0.1 km (Adjacent)
Rodin Museum	Within 0.5 km
Seine River Cruise	Within 0.5 km
American Church in Paris	Within 0.5 km
Shop at Rue Cler	Within 0.5 km
École Militaire	Within 1 km
Champ de Mars	Within 1 km
Musée du quai Branly	Within 1 km

Transportation – Getting Around for Paris Olympics

Transportation in and around Paris is diverse, efficient, and well-structured. 

Here’s an overview of the various transportation options:

1. Métro: Paris’s subway system, the Métro, is one of the most extensive and convenient ways to get around the city. It consists of 16 lines that are well-connected and serve all major attractions and neighborhoods. Métro stations are close to each other, often only a few minutes’ walk apart.
2. RER (Regional Express Network): The RER is a regional train system with five lines (A, B, C, D, and E) that connect central Paris to outlying suburbs, including major destinations such as Disneyland Paris and Charles de Gaulle Airport. The RER also connects with major train stations for regional and national services.
3. Buses and trams: The Paris bus network complements the Métro, providing access to areas that are less well-served by the subway. There are also several tram lines in the outer suburbs of Paris.
4. Vélib’ (Bike Sharing): Vélib’ is a public bike-sharing system in Paris. Bikes can be rented from and returned to any station across the city.
5. Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Taxis are readily available, and services like Uber operate widely in Paris.
6. Walking: Paris is also famously walkable, particularly in central areas where attractions are close together. Many visitors enjoy exploring the city on foot to take in the historic streets.
7. Tourist Buses and River Boats: Hop-on-hop-off tourist buses and river boats (bateaux mouches) on the Seine are popular ways to see the major attractions.
8. SNCF Trains: For trips outside Paris, the SNCF trains offer regional and national services connecting Paris to other cities and towns across France and Europe. 

This robust network makes it easy to explore Paris and the region.

Food and Dining: Must-Try Parisian Delicacies

When you’re in Paris during the Olympics, you’ll find a heaven of food. Start with a classic: croissants.

Du Pain et des Idées has some of the greatest you’ll taste. Then move on to dishes like coq au vin and escargot at places like Le Comptoir du Relais.

Don’t miss Paris’s cheese and wine. Fromagerie Laurent Dubois has amazing cheeses. Pair them with wines from La Cave des Papilles.

Visit Michelin-starred restaurants too. Le Jules Verne, at the top of the Eiffel Tower, is a perfect choice.

Paris also has lively markets like Marché d’Aligre where you can try street food and local treats. Or pop into a bakery for a fresh baguette and croissants.

For casual bites, places like Chez L’Ami Jean are welcoming.

• Classic Pastries: Visit Du Pain et des Idées for their famed croissants.
• Traditional Dishes: Enjoy coq au vin at Le Comptoir du Relais.
• Cheese and Wine: Sample cheeses at Fromagerie Laurent Dubois paired with wines from La Cave des Papilles.
• Fine Dining: Reserve a table at Le Jules Verne for a Michelin-star experience.
• Street Food: Explore Marché d’Aligre for local market specialties.
• Casual Dining: Try Chez L’Ami Jean for Basque cuisine.

Safety Tips for Travelers in Paris

The 2024 Olympics are expected to bring many visitors to Paris. The city’s beauty is known around the world.

But, safety is key during big events. Start by checking Paris travel advisories often.

These will tell you about the latest situations that could impact your trip.

Always watch your things to avoid pickpocketing.

Keep your passport, credit cards, and cash safe. Use money belts or hidden pouches.

In busy places like the Olympics or tourist spots, be alert. Don’t show off expensive stuff that might get you noticed.

Learn how to get help in France. Call 112 for emergencies.

Know where the hospitals, police, and your embassy are.

Make a list of important numbers, like the embassy or consular services.

These steps will make your Paris visit safe and fun.

Conclusion

As you plan your trip to Paris, remember that this city offers more than just its famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre. Each district has its unique charm and secrets waiting to be discovered. From the historic streets of the Marais to the lively cafes of Montparnasse, there’s something for everyone.

Don’t miss the chance to see Paris during the exciting times of the Olympics. The city will be buzzing with energy and sports events. It’s a perfect time to experience both the classic and contemporary sides of Paris. Along with watching world-class athletes compete, you’ll enjoy cultural festivals and special events that celebrate the Olympic spirit.

Whether you’re exploring the art-filled museums, relaxing in beautiful gardens, or enjoying the delicious French cuisine, Paris promises an unforgettable adventure. So pack your bags and get ready for the trip of a lifetime in the magnificent City of Light!