Paris Olympics 2024: Key Tips for Last-Minute Travellers

The Paris 2024 Summer Olympics are set to be an extraordinary celebration of sports, culture, and global unity.

From July 26 to August 11, the City of Light will host athletes and spectators from around the world, showcasing its historic charm alongside cutting-edge athletic competitions.

This marks the third time Paris will host the Summer Games, and it promises to be a spectacular event filled with unforgettable moments and a vibrant atmosphere.

As you prepare for this incredible event, here are some last-minute tips to ensure your trip is smooth, enjoyable, and memorable.

Navigating Crowds and Costs

Paris will be buzzing with excitement, but it also means crowded streets and higher-than-usual prices.

While flights to Paris for key dates may be sold out, consider flying into nearby European cities and taking a train or bus to Paris. The Chunnel train from London is also a convenient option.

Choosing Accommodation Wisely

Staying near Olympic venues might be challenging, as many central hotels are likely booked and expensive. Instead, look for hotels in neighbourhoods outside the city centre with easy access to the metro. This can save you money and help you avoid the congestion of central Paris.

Opt for hotels that offer a full breakfast to fuel your day, or plan your main meal at lunch to stretch your budget further. Check out links to offers on accommodation below.

Getting Around Paris

Be prepared for some metro stations, like Concorde, Tuileries, and Champs-Elysées-Clemenceau, to be closed, and expect changes in public transport schedules. Despite this, public transport remains the best way to get around. Allow extra time for any delays and keep an eye on updates from the French Ministry of Transportation, which offers maps and alerts on road restrictions and transit changes.

Walking is a great alternative, wear comfortable shoes, and enjoy the sights on foot. If you prefer biking, take advantage of the special 60+ km biking route connecting Olympic venues. Paris has added 3,000 new Velib bikes and 1,300 parking spaces near event sites.

There are numerous apps designed to make exploring France, particularly Paris, easy for tourists.

Here are some apps you can try:

Google Translate: This app shall translate all French signage and boards to English.
CityMapper: This mapping service app provides detailed information about the city’s Metro, trams and buses.
Bonjour RATP: This is the official public transport app for Paris. You can buy tickets, check routes, and more.
Dott: Access over 8,000 e-bikes through this rental app.
Whatizis: An offline app offering guided tours of monuments and tourist attractions.
Airvat: Use this app to get a tax refund for all your shopping in Paris. (Tourists get a 20 percent tax refund on shopping in France.)

Staying Safe and Connected

Always carry ID and proof of your temporary residence address, as you may need them for access to restricted areas and special events. Keep a copy of your passport and stay vigilant against pickpockets.

Tickets to attend the sports event are advised to be purchased at the designated places.

Brushing up on basic French phrases can be incredibly helpful and make you feel more secure when navigating the city. While many Parisians speak English, some may not be fluent. Therefore, it's helpful to learn a few French phrases to better navigate the city during the Summer Olympics.

Some common French phrases to know:

Bonjour: Hello
Au revoir: Goodbye
S’il vous plaît (formal)/s’il te plaît (informal): Please
Merci: Thank you.
De rien: You’re welcome.
Oui: Yes
Non: No
Parlez-vous anglais?: Do you speak English?
Je ne parle pas français: I don’t speak French.
Je suis désolé: I am sorry.
Je suis perdu: I am lost.

Making the Most of Your Visit

While most tourists will flock to Olympic events, take the opportunity to explore quieter sites outside the Olympic zones. Paris boasts exceptional parks, museums, and cafes that offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle.

Be mindful of how you access your money. Always have some euros on hand and transact in euros even when prompted otherwise. Avoid airport and hotel currency exchanges, which often charge higher fees.

Travel Insurance: Your Safety Net

Travelling during the peak season brings uncertainties like delays, cancellations, and lost luggage.

Travel insurance can provide peace of mind, covering financial, medical, and travel-related risks. This is especially crucial given the summer heat and the potential for petty crime.

Brits Travelling To France After Brexit

British nationals can visit countries in the Schengen area, including France, for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa.

This rule applies if you are traveling for:

Tourism
Visiting family or friends
Attending business meetings, cultural, or sports events
Short-term studies or training

Ensure that your entire stay in the Schengen area does not exceed the 90-day limit within a 180-day period. Previous visits to any Schengen country within the past 180 days count toward this 90-day limit.

For longer stays of more than 90 days, British travellers must meet the French government’s entry requirements. Check out our Do You Need a Visa tool or the France Visas website to determine which type of visa you may need.

The Paris Summer Olympics promise an unforgettable experience filled with excitement and cultural richness.

With a bit of preparation and these last-minute tips, you'll be well on your way to enjoying every moment. Safe travels, or as the French say, bon voyage!

Do you need to renew your passport? Talk to us in the comment section below. Or if you need more advice on the above, contact us for further travel & immigration advice.

Check out the deals we have found below and tell us your travel plans.

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And because of the pandemic, don’t forget to get your travel insurance, which will cover you for flight disruptions and pandemic related matters.

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