Paris, the city of love, lights, and an insatiable appetite for all things artistic is about to host the 2024 Summer Olympics. Imagine the worldâs best athletes racing through the heart of this iconic city, surrounded by historic landmarks and lively streets. Youâre in for a treat, because this Olympics will blend sports, culture, and history in a way only Paris can offer.
Whether youâre a seasoned globetrotter or making your maiden voyage to Paris, navigating the city during the Olympics will require a bit of strategy. But wait! Are you here only for the Olympics? Good on you. Donât worry. This guide is your ultimate playbook for making the most of your visit without spending too many Euros. Ready? Set? GO!
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Why visit Paris during the Olympics?
- Letâs be honest. There are a lot of firsts. The first time an opening ceremony is going to be held outside a stadium or arena. And the other first is that was held on a river! (hello Seine, weâre talking about you!) There might also be swimming in the river, if things work out (fingers crossed), which is truly a big first.
- There will be plenty to see and do, starting with the grand opening ceremony along the Seine on July 26. If you missed that, then you missed a LGBTQIA+ version of The Last Supper, Gojira becoming the first heavy metal band to play at the Olympics. But if you watched, you saw Rafa Nadal, Zidane and Serena Williams all carrying the torch. Did you catch the lady dresses like a croissant? Okay, sorry, back to being in Paris during the games. Beach volleyball will take place near the Eiffel Tower, equestrian events will be held at the Palace of Versailles, and during the Paralympics from August 28, you can catch wheelchair fencing and para taekwondo at the Grand Palais.
- The cityâs stage is set and weâre all here to be a part of the action. Who knows? There could be another big first - maybe fewer lines at all the top attractions?
Landmarks that are open during Paris 2024
Despite the high security and the influx of visitors, many of Paris's iconic landmarks will remain open during the Games. Here are some must-visit sites:
Other attractions you can visit in Paris
Using the Go City Pass
If you're in Paris for the Olympics, the Go City pass is a great choice for a long stay. It gives you access to over 80 attractions, saving you 46% compared to buying individual tickets. With this pass, you can visit iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Palace of Versailles. It also includes the Paris Museum Pass, granting access to many city museums. The pass makes exploring Paris hassle-free, covering major attractions and tours.
- Validity: Choose between 2, 3, 4, or 6 consecutive days.
- Access to Attractions: Includes Eiffel Tower Guided Climb, Louvre Museum, and Palace of Versailles.
- Outdoor Activities: Enjoy French Wine Tasting at Les Caves du Louvre, Parisian Breakfast at Café Louise, and PanoraMagique at DisneyŸ Village.
- Discounts at Restaurants: Offers like cheese tasting at Ă Chateau and Croque Monsieur & Champagne Cocktail by the Seine.
- Included Tours: 1-day hop-on-hop-off Big Bus tour and Seine River Cruise.
How to get around Paris during the Olympics
Navigating Paris during the Olympic Games will require a bit more strategy than usual, given the expected influx of visitors and the numerous events taking place. Hereâs a comprehensive look at how you can get around:
đ Public Transport: The Paris metro, buses, and trams will be operating with increased frequency to accommodate the surge in passengers. The RĂ©gie Autonome des Transports Parisiens (RATP) will play a pivotal role in ensuring smooth travel across the city. The metro system, with its 16 lines, will be your best bet for quick and efficient travel. However, some stations near event venues may be temporarily closed for security reasons. Itâs advisable to download the Ile-de-france MobilitĂ©s app, available on Android and Apple, that provides real-time updates on timings, station closures and delays.
đ¶ââïžWalking: Many of Parisâs attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking can be a pleasant way to explore the city, especially in areas like the Marais, Montmartre, and along the Seine. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated, especially during the summer heat.
đ Taxis and Rideshares: Taxis and rideshare services like Uber will be available, but they may face restrictions in certain areas, particularly near Olympic venues. If you need to use these services, itâs a good idea to book in advance and be aware of the restricted zones (more info on this below).
đ Rental Cars: Renting a car is generally not recommended due to the traffic congestion expected during the Games. However, if you choose to rent one, make sure to book well in advance and familiarize yourself with the restricted areas and available parking spots.
đČ Bikes and Scooters: Paris is a bike-friendly city, and during the Olympics, cycling might be one of the best ways to get around. The city offers numerous bike-sharing services like VĂ©lib', Lime, Dott and Tier, which allow you to rent bikes at various points throughout the city. Electric scooters are also a popular choice, providing a quick and eco-friendly way to navigate the streets.
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Understanding the Grey/Red/Black/Blue perimeters and Game Pass
Game Pass (Pass Jeux)
When you need a Games Pass
If you're going around Paris as a local or tourist on foot, bike, cargo bike, or scooter, you'll need a pass to enter the grey perimeter surrounding the Opening Ceremony area from July 18 to July 26 until 1pm. After 1pm on July 26, only spectators with tickets or access cards, and those with an exemption and a Games Pass, AKA Pass Jeux, can enter this area.
For motorized vehicles, including 2-wheelers, cars, taxis, ride-hailing services, commercial vehicles, and HGV trucks, you'll need both a pass and an exemption to access the grey perimeter from July 18 to July 26 until 1pm.
Access to the red perimeter around Olympic and Paralympic venues and the para-cycling event is restricted and requires an exemption.
When you donât need a Games Pass
For those on foot, bike, cargo bike, or scooter, you do not need a Game Pass to:
- Access the red perimeters around the Opening Ceremony, Olympic and Paralympic venues, and road events.
- Enter the blue perimeters around Olympic and Paralympic venues.
- Move freely outside these perimeters.
For motorized vehicles (including 2-wheelers, cars, taxis, ride-hailing services, commercial vehicles, and HGV trucks), no Pass Jeux is required to:
- Circulate outside the perimeters without restrictions.
- Access the blue perimeters around Olympic and Paralympic venues, provided you can show proof of a legitimate reason for entering the blue zone.
Public transport in Paris - Closures and accessibility
During the games, blue and red security perimeters will regulate motorized traffic. Access to red zones will be limited to ticket holders with IDs, who must pass through designated checkpoints. If you fall into this category and plan to take a cab to the venue, you can pre-register online to make the process smoother on the day. Most non-motorized traffic, such as bikes, skateboards, and scooters, can move freely in all zones. However, cargo bikes will be subject to checks when entering red perimeters.
đ Metro
The metro system will operate with extended hours and increased frequency. You'll need tickets to access the platforms, which you can buy from staffed kiosks or ticket machines. The MĂ©tro trains operate until approximately 1am.
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Metro stations closed for the Paris 2024 Olympics:
Line 1
- Champs-ĂlysĂ©es - ClĂ©menceau: Closed from July 20 to August 11 and from August 22 to September 8 (No connections)
- Concorde, Tuileries: Closed from June 17 to September 1 (No connections)
Line 4
- Cité: Closed from July 18 to 26
Line 5
- Quai de la Rapée: Closed from July 18 to 26
Line 6
- Trocadéro, Passy: Closed from July 18 to 26
Line 7
- ChĂątelet, Pont Marie, Pont Neuf: Closed from July 18 to 26
- Sully-Morland: Closed on July 26
Line 8
- Concorde: Closed from June 17 to September 1
Line 9
- Alma-Marceau, Trocadéro: Closed from July 18 to 26
- IĂ©na: Closed on July 24 and 26
Line 12
- Concorde: Closed from May 17 to September 21 (No connections)
Line 13
- Champs-ĂlysĂ©es - ClĂ©menceau: Closed from July 20 to August 11, and from August 22 to September 8 (No connections)
đ RER Trains
The RER trains will continue to serve both the city and the suburbs, providing crucial links to major destinations like Disneyland Paris. Some RER stations will experience closures. Taking the train is the fastest and most efficient way to reach the Palace of Versailles, as well as the Stade de France for the games.
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RER closures:
RER C
- Musée d'Orsay, Champ-de-Mars - Tour Eiffel, Pont de l'Alma: Closed from July 18 to 26
- Invalides: Closed on July 26
đ Buses and Trams
The bus and tram services will be enhanced to cope with the additional demand. Special Olympic routes will be established to facilitate easy access to the event venues. You can buy tickets from MĂ©tro stations, tabacs and newsstands, and also directly from the bus driver.
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Tram station closures:
T2
- Porte d'Issy, Porte de Versailles: Closed from July 25 to August 11, and from August 29 to September 7
T3a
- Porte de Versailles: Closed from July 25 to August 11, and from August 29 to September 7
T3b
- Colette Besson: Closed from July 27 to August 10, and from August 29 to September 8
đŽ Cycle
Paris's impressive bicycle network is expanding even further for the 2024 Olympics, with bike paths extending to a total of 415 kilometers throughout the region and 20,000 parking spaces available. Cycling is one of the safest and most convenient ways to get around central Paris and the surrounding suburbs. There are plenty of bike rental options in the city, but VĂ©lib' MĂ©tropole is the most popular. You can get a daily, weekly, or even longer subscription, allowing you to pick up and drop off bikes at hundreds of stations across the city. Best of all, there are no restrictions for bikes within the Olympic security zones.
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đȘȘ Travel Pass
If you're in Paris for the 2024 Summer Olympics, you won't be able to use the Paris Visite travel card. It will not be valid between July 20 and September 8 during the Olympic and Paralympic Games. However, a Paris 2024 travel card will be made available that allows you an unlimited number of travels across the Ăle-de-France region, on all transport modes. It provides access to all the competition venues and fan zones, Orly and Roissy-Charles de Gaulle airports, and tourist attractions across the region. The pass is priced at 16⏠for one day and if you buy it for multiple days, it works out cheaper.
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Closures in Paris for Olympics 2024
Roads that are open and closed during the Games
During the Olympic Games, Paris will implement several road closures and traffic restrictions to ensure the smooth operation of events and the safety of all participants. Hereâs a brief look:
- Major Roads: Certain major roads will be closed or have restricted access, particularly those near the event venues. For example, the roads around the Champ de Mars and the Grand Palais will have significant restrictions.
- Local Traffic: Local traffic in residential areas near event zones will be carefully managed with checkpoints and security perimeters. Residents will need to show proof of residence to access these areas.
- Alternative Routes: The city will provide alternative routes and detours to help manage the flow of traffic. These routes will be clearly marked, and real-time updates will be available on traffic management apps and websites.
- Public Transport Adjustments: Public transport routes that typically run through closed roads will be adjusted. Buses may be rerouted, and additional shuttle services will be provided to ensure connectivity.
- Boat Access on the Seine: Most cruises on the Seine will be shut from July 18 to July 26
Major road closures around venues
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đ§ Place de la Concorde đ§
The Place de la Concorde is undergoing major construction for the BMX freestyle, breaking, skateboarding, and 3Ă3 basketball events. Currently, all traffic, including pedestrians and cyclists, is banned along the square's north-south axis. Line 12 of the Paris Metro will not stop at Concorde station. To reach the square, get off at Madeleine station and walk. Metro lines 1 and 8 will serve the site until June 17. The square will be fully closed on June 1 and partially reopened on September 7. Note that the Pont de la Concorde bridge will remain open to traffic.
đ§ Avenue GalliĂ©ni - Pont Alexandre III bridge - Av. Winston Churchill - Av. de Marigny đ§
The entire stretch from the main entrance of HÎtel des Invalides at Avenue Galliéni to the Pont Alexandre III bridge will remain closed. Beyond the bridge, road closures extend to Av. Winston Churchill and Av. de Marigny, continued along the same line.
You can still access the Army Museum (located at HĂŽtel des Invalides) as a visitor if you get on to the Rue de Grenelle stretch via either side. Remember that roads leading up to Army Museum and HĂŽtel des Invalides fall under the Blue Perimeter, meaning you must present a free form supporting document (legitimate interest in using the zone) if youâre using a motorized vehicle, and you need no pass if youâre walking or on a cycle/scooter.
Zoom in to see the blocked roads around Place de la Concorde, and Avenue Galliéni - Pont Alexandre III bridge - Av. Winston Churchill - Av. de Marigny.
đ§ Roads around the Eiffel Tower Garden đ§
Multiple road closures will be in effect surrounding the Eiffel Tower Gardens. Inner roads leading up to the Eiffel Tower will also be closed. Expect restricted access to the area, with potential detours and alternative routes provided for both vehicles and pedestrians. But you can still visit the Eiffel Tower and even go up the tower during the Olympics (except for July 14, July 26 and August 10). The roads around the Eiffel Tower like Quai Jacques Chirac, Pont d'IĂ©na, Av. de la Bourdonnais, and Av. de Suffren are all within the Red Perimeter, meaning you can walk or take your cycle/scooter down these roads to visit the tower.
Closures along the Seine for Paris Olympics 2024
âŽïž Port de la ConfĂ©rence for Bateaux Mouches Seine River Cruises
Access to the Port de la ConfĂ©rence for Bateaux Mouches Seine River Cruises will be modified for a few weeks. From July 1 to 18 and July 28 to August 4, parking on the quay will be unavailable for both cars and buses. Access to the boarding pontoon will be pedestrian-only via the central staircase, with strollers and PRMs able to use the ramp on the Pont de lâAlma side. Due to preparations for the 2024 Olympic Games, all Seine river cruises will be temporarily halted, and the site will be completely closed to the public from July 18 to 26.
More info here.
â” Lower quays closures:
- June 17: Installation begins. Port du Gros Caillou and Niki-de-Saint-Phalle archipelago gardens closed. Reopens every weekend from Saturday 7pm to Monday 5am until July 14. Square Barye is closed until August 1. Temporary staircase access to establishments.
- June 28: Parc Rives de Seine closed from Louis-Philippe bridge to Tuileries Tunnel on weekdays from 5am to 5pm, open on weekends. Bicycles prohibited.
- July 1: Conference Port (right bank) closed 24/7 until August 4th. Access to Bùteaux Mouches is open, except from July 20 to 27. Port des Champs-Elysées (right bank) is closed Monday to Saturday from 5am to 5pm until July 14th. Quai des Tuileries (right bank) closed 24/7 until July 31 in sections: Louvre ramp to Carrousel bridge, and Royal bridge to Concorde bridge. Promenade Marceline Loridan-Ivans (left bank) is closed 24/7 until July 31. Port Henri IV is closed to parking until July 30.
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â” Upper quays closures:
- June 24: Assembly starts. La Tournelle and Montebello (left bank) ports are closed on weekdays from 5am to 5pm, and open on weekends. Bicycles prohibited.
- June 27: Partial closure with occasional bypasses for cyclists and pedestrians.
- July 2: Closed to bicycles between Pont Royal and Pont Alexandre III. Cycle path remains open in the East-West direction on Quai Valery Giscard-dâEstaing and Quai Anatole France. Bypass via Rue de Lille in the West-East direction.
- July 4: Sidewalk on Seine side Quai François-Mitterrand (Pont Royal to Pont du Carrousel) closed.
- July 5: Sidewalk on Seine side (Pont du Carrousel to Rue de lâAmiral de Coligny) closed.
- July 29: Partial reopening to traffic.
- August 4: Cleared of installations.
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đ Bridge closures:
Pont d'Austerlitz:
- Partially impacted and open to traffic with occasional pedestrian and cyclist bypasses from July 8 to 23.
- Completely closed from July 24 to 26.
Tournelle Bridge:
- Closed from July 15 to 18, and again from July 25 to 26.
- Partially impacted and open to traffic with occasional pedestrian and cyclist bypasses from July 19 to 23.
Saint-Louis Bridge:
- Closed on July 21, 22, and 26.
- Partially impacted and open to traffic with occasional pedestrian and cyclist bypasses from July 17 to 20 and from July 23 to 25.
Pont-au-Change:
- Closed from July 8 to 11, and on July 25 and 26.
- Partially impacted and open to traffic with occasional pedestrian and cyclist bypasses from July 12 to 23.
- Partial closure on July 24.
Pont-Neuf:
- Closed on July 22 and from July 24 to 26.
- Partially impacted and open to traffic with occasional pedestrian and cyclist bypasses on July 23.
Pont des Arts:
- Closed on July 22 and from July 24 to 26.
Carrousel Bridge:
- Closed from July 8 to 12 and on July 25 and 26.
- Partially impacted and open to traffic with occasional pedestrian and cyclist bypasses from July 13 to 23.
- Partial closure on July 24.
Pont Royal:
- Closed from July 16 to 18.
- Partially impacted and open to traffic with occasional pedestrian and cyclist bypasses on July 25 and 26.
Concorde Bridge:
- Closed from July 24 to 26.
- Partially impacted and open to traffic with occasional pedestrian and cyclist bypasses from July 18 to 23.
Alma Bridge:
- Closed from July 24 to 26.
- Partially impacted and open to traffic with occasional pedestrian and cyclist bypasses from July 15 to 23.
Debilly Footbridge:
- Completely closed 24 hours a day from July 8 to 26.
Alexandre-III Bridge:
- Closed to cars, but sidewalks accessible to pedestrians from May 17 to July 25 and August 12 to 28, then from September 8 to 25.
- Completely closed during competition hours, but open to pedestrians outside these hours from July 26 to August 11 and from August 28 to September 8.
Pont d'IĂ©na:
- Closed 24 hours a day from July 23 to 26 and during competition times from July 26 to August 11.
Place de Varsovie:
- Closed 24 hours a day from July 23 to 26 and during competition times from July 26 to August 11.
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đž Promenades and sidewalks closures:
- June 25: Ădouard-Glissant promenade closed between Pont Royal and Pont de la Concorde on weekdays from 5am to 5pm, open on weekends. The cycle path and sidewalk on Quai Jacques-Chirac, Quai d'Orsay (left bank), and Quai Henri IV (right bank) will be closed.
đ„ General public access:
- After July 18: Upper and lower quays are closed to the public, but access for local residents and to buildings is maintained. Assembly continues, impacting only Games Pass holders.
- August 12th to August 25: The entire area will be cleared of installations, except the Alexandre-III bridge used for events on the Seine.
Insider tips for visitors to Paris during the Olympics
đĄïž Safety and Convenience
Keep ID and Proof of Residence Handy: Always carry your ID and proof of your temporary residence (hotel, Airbnb, etc.) as you may need them to pass through restricted areas to get home.
â€ïž Free Fan Zones across Paris
Paris City Hall has set up several âfan zonesâ throughout the city. These zones are free to attend and many will feature live screenings of the events. Here are some key locations where you can join other fans to watch the Olympics:
đš Accommodation
- Choose a hotel near the metro or bus lines that go directly to your event venues. Aim for a location with minimal transfers for easier travel.
- Allow extra time for travel as public transport will be busy. You might need to let a full train or bus pass before boarding.
đœïž Dining in Paris
Low budget options:
- Freshly made French crĂȘpes are an affordable and delicious lunch option. Look for creperies throughout the city offering both sweet and savory fillings.
- CrĂȘperie Genia at 7 rue de la Harpe is a top spot for budget-friendly eats, serving crispy crĂȘpes and paninis for just a few euros. Another great option is Bouillon Pigalle, where you can eat classic french dishes at an affordable price.
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Top dining experiences:
From cozy bistros tucked away in hidden alleys to lavish Michelin-starred palaces, Paris boasts a diverse range of dining experiences to satisfy every palate. Here are some of the finest restaurants in Paris.
Sports bars in Paris:
If you're visiting Paris for the 2024 Olympics, you'll want to know the best sports bars in Paris to watch matches and events when you can't be there in person. Let's face it, sometimes we all prefer the chaos of a sports bar over an organized screening experience!
Paris 2024 venues
The Olympic Games will be spread across several key zones in Paris, each with its own set of attractions and activities. These zones will include iconic locations like the Champ de Mars near the Eiffel Tower, the Grand Palais, and the banks of the Seine. Each zone will offer a unique experience, from watching live sports to enjoying cultural events.
Donât like sports? Thereâs still so much you can do!
Paris is expecting 15 million visitors during the Olympics and if you happen to be in the city, looking for some solitude and quiet time, itâs time to replan your itinerary.
Hereâs a guide on where and what to see, away from Paris.
Day trips from Paris
With valuable inputs from Dev Ramkumar and Jyothsna S.