The City of Love has long been an international daydream destination, drawing in millions of visitors a year. The fact that they’ll host the 2024 Summer Games is simply setting the stage for a total eclipse of travel dreams: Paris — with all of its history, culture and gastronomy — and the exhilarating spectacle of the Summer Games combine to create an experience like no other. Our team was recently in Paris in preparation for the event and enjoyed a glimpse of what visitors can expect next year. For those fortunate travelers attending the 2024 Summer Games, this guide is packed with tips, insights, and ideas. Discover over 30 fantastic things to do in Paris during the summer to make your trip absolutely incroyable!
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Must-See Summer Games Events
First things first: You’re here for the Summer Games. Any Summer Games is a once-in-a-lifetime experience — Paris’s third time hosting is certain to deliver unparalleled thrills. Every event will deliver the thrill of competition and the triumph of the human spirit, but here are some standout events to consider.
Opening Ceremony
Every opening ceremony is a spectacle — a unique show showcasing just what makes the host nation special in addition to welcoming the athletes. Some elements are constant — the parade of nations, the lighting of the Games’ Flame — while others vary depending on the host. For Paris, you can expect a show that highlights quintessential French elegance and modern innovation.
“The scene of the Opening Ceremonies is already beyond epic with the Paris skyline perfectly framed from the steps of the Trocadero by the broad plazas and expansive views all set at the foot of the Eiffel Tower.”
Liesa Guenther, wife of Roadtrips’ President Dave Guenther, after a recent trip to Paris
Marathon
Easily one of the most iconic events of the Summer Games, the marathon sees athletes compete in a race stretching a grueling 26.2 miles. In this case, the racecourse will undoubtedly snake its way through the famed Parisian cityscape, offering up several instances where you can enjoy the event with a unique backdrop of a famous landmark.
Boxing at Roland-Garros
Roland-Garros in itself is one of the most iconic tennis venues in the world; so the chance to watch boxing events in it is a thoroughly unique opportunity. Sub out the famed red clay courts for the rope-lined stage of boxing during its medal rounds and you have what the announcers might dub “a show.”
Swimming in the Seine
Paris has committed itself to the causes of sustainability and innovation, Paris has vowed to host the open-water swimming events in the Seine River. Getting the water safe enough for the athletes is a Herculean task in itself, with some $1.5 billion already invested towards the goal. The payoff is priceless: Watching the athletes glide through the flowing heart of the city will be a magnificent sight — and ideally the beginning of the Seine being swimmable for recreational use!
Breaking
Debuting as an official sport in Paris, breaking (or breakdancing as it’s more commonly known) will be an event you don’t want to miss. Athletes will have to match their moves to the ever-changing beat of DJ’s tracks to secure the judge’s votes. Witnessing this lively slice of Summer Games history in person will at the minimum make for a lively show!
Unique Events at the 2024 Summer Games
We simply have to tell you what the 2024 Summer Games are doing differently from previous years — here are two highlights to keep an eye on.
Opening Ceremonies
While all ceremonies are one for the history books, the Paris opening ceremony will make history. To allow the show to be more accessible to a greater audience, the entire opening ceremony will be mobile, traveling along the Seine River through the city. Each nation’s delegation will have their own boat for the 3.7-mile journey from Austerlitz Bridge to Trocadéro, where the remainder of the ceremony will take place. This river-float parade will not only pass by some of the most renowned Parisian sights and landmarks but will also allow thousands to watch without an admission fee.
Marathon
If you’ve ever dreamed of running in the Summer Games, now might be your best chance: The 2024 Games will offer a general-public marathon, where 20,024 runners will get to race along the same course as the elite athletes. For 26.2 miles, you can cruise right by iconic sites like the Palais Garnier Opera House, the Louvre, Musée National de Céramiquie de Sevres, Château de Versailles and the Eiffel Tower. How’s that for a priceless experience?
Summer Games Venues
The venues of the Summer Games aren’t just locations on a map or places to watch sports; they’re cathedrals to the Summer Games themselves, hallowed ground where we reflect and celebrate the indomitable human spirit. Beyond the competitions they house, each presents its own reflection of the city’s architectural prowess — no different than Notre Dame or Basilique du Sacré-Cœur. Three venues worthy of your attention? The Stade de France, with its storied history and elliptical shape, will host the track and field events as well as the rugby sevens event. The Aquatics Centre, born from Paris’s commitment to sustainability and the needs of the Seine-Saint-Denis community, will host synchronized swimming, diving, and water polo. And the Grand Palais — with its stunning Beaux-Arts architecture and fabled glass dome — will be hosting fencing and taekwondo events.
Arts, History & Culture in Paris
While the Summer Games are an event worth traveling for, the history and culture of Paris pack an allure worth seeing on their own. No trip to Paris is complete without visiting at least one of these cultural icons:
Liesa with a view of the Eiffel Tower. Eiffel Tower
Easily Paris’s most recognizable landmark, the Eiffel Tower is an absolute “must-see” for anyone visiting Paris. Constructed in 1887 as an attraction for the 1889 World Fair, the Eiffel Tower still attracts roughly 7 million annual visitors today. There are two different views of the landmark worth seeing, the first being from the ground: Every evening, from dusk till 11:45 p.m., the Eiffel Tower lights up in a dazzling show of twinkling lights; literally radiating a romantic charm into the Parisian night. The other view is to be expected — the one from the top. Breathtaking vistas unfurl in every direction that you look, giving a literal meaning to the term “head in the clouds.”
“From our base at the truly stunning Shangri-La Paris it was easy to head out on foot with seemingly every turn revealing something new to marvel and enjoy.”
Liesa Guenther, wife of Roadtrips’ President Dave Guenther, after a recent trip to Paris
Louvre Museum
There’s a reason the Louvre is one of the most famous museums in the world (and it’s not solely because of the iconic glass pyramid in front). No, this is the home to a mind-boggling number of masterpieces — Géricault’s “The Raft of Medusa,” Veronese’s “The Wedding at Cana,” the armless “Venus de Milo” and, of course, da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa” are but a sample of what awaits your visit here. In truth, there’s simply more art than you could hope to admire in one afternoon visit; a second trip is likely required.
Palace of Versailles
Originally the former royal residence of King Louis XIV, Versailles has since come to represent the extremely ostentatious and decadent lifestyle of the French monarchy at the time. The French Revolution is given sharp context — this is unimaginable wealth manifest. The garden grounds may as well be an immaculately manicured Eden, intricate gold trim and extravagant paintings adorn many of the ceilings and the dazzling Hall of Mirrors unfolds as an infinity-room of gold and crystal.
Grand Palais
Currently undergoing a multi-year renovation, the Grand Palais will reopen in 2024 (hopefully in time for Summer Games). Should this historic exhibition hall and museum complex still be closed to the public, fear not: You can visit the Grand-Palais Éphémère, a temporary exhibition space hosting fashion, sports and cultural events that otherwise would’ve called the Grand Palais home.
Place de la Concorde
As the largest square in Paris, the Place de la Concorde is home to stunning views of the Eiffel Tower and has served as hallowed ground for much of French history. The centerpiece of the square is the Luxor Obelisk: a diplomatic gift from the Khedive of Egypt in 1829, this column was already 3,000 years old by then. Flanking the obelisk are two fountains (designed by Jacques Ignace Hittorff) modeled in the style of Rome’s.
Notre Dame
One of the few Parisian icons that carries the same gravitas as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame is a time-honored architectural marvel. This medieval cathedral is currently undergoing restoration from a devastating fire in 2019; while touring the inside is unlikely, you should be able to admire much of its charming Gothic architecture from the outside.
Seine River
Central to much of French life, culture and identity, the Seine River flows idyllic through the city (and right past scores of Paris’s most iconic sights). Lovers leave locks on its bridges, cozy cafes and independent book vendors line its banks. Whether you prefer to stroll the length of the Seine, charter a cruise through the water or camp out at a café and people watch, an aura of peace and contentment seems to wash over you.
La Bauhinia at the Shangri-La Paris Food Recommendations
The culinary scene of Paris is world-renowned for good reason. From traditional French cuisine to innovative fusion dishes, the city is a gastronomic paradise with no shortage of delicacies to savor.
Bakeries
Paris’s bakeries are world-renowned for a reason — fresh baguettes, flaky croissants and mouthwateringly rich macarons are just the marquee names to a roster of delectable goods. In terms of where to sample baked goods, the city is rich with possibility — but a few of the best choices are Du Pain et des Idées, Boulangerie Poilâne and Pierre Hermé.
Le Marais neighborhood
Thanks to a slew of charming cafes and restaurants, this historic district is a prime destination for those looking to pair traditional French dishes (think: coq au vin or boeuf bourguignon) with charmingly picturesque ambiance.
Dinner cruise
The Seine River isn’t just the flowing heart of the city — it can also serve as an enchanting dinner venue. Enjoy a gourmet meal (thanks to the offerings of Bateaux Parisiens and Le Calife) while cruising along the enchanting banks of Seine, pairing courses with the iconic sights of Paris.
Restaurants
There’s no shortage of multi-Michelin-starred restaurants serving exquisite French cuisine in Paris: Le Meurice Alain Ducasse, L’Ambroisie and Pierre Gagnaire are just a few of the established bastions of French gastronomic tradition.
What would a trip to Paris be without a multitude of good food and places to choose from. We’ve detailed some of our favorites on the following pages for some inspiration.
Holybelly Holybelly
This is one of the most popular breakfast places in all of Paris, and just a 5-minute walk for our guests staying at the Renaissance Paris Republique Hotel. With a no reservations policy, you may need to plan carefully but it’s worth it! Their coffee is excellent, and their food is hearty and satisfying. Holybelly promises “Good food, good coffee, and good service in consistent fashion.” They have two locations that are both recommended.
La Buvette
At this intimate wine bar in the 11th Arrondissement, you can choose to sip at the classy 1930’s bar or cozy up at a corner table. Camille Fourmont has changed a tiny cheese shop into a hip wine bar that serves up some simple but flavorful tapas and has a fantastic selection on artisan wines. Note that it closes early, a good choice for a pre-dinner drink.
Le Jules Verne
Awarded a Michelin star, Le Jules Verne offers up incredible cuisine complemented by some of the best views in the city. Located 400 feet up the Eiffel Tower, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more magical place to dine. Enjoy an impressive five- or six-course meal paired with wine by the resident sommelier. Be sure to book your table well in advance.
Substance
This Michelin-starred boutique is just a five-minute walk from the Shangri-La Hotel. On our last visit we opted for chef Matthias Marc’s 8-course tasting menu and it was probably more than we should have attempted. A highlight was the gnocchi served in a layered sauce of silky chicken ‘gravy’ and red wine gastrique. Ooh la la!
Shang Palace
Located at Shangri-La hotel, one of our iconic host hotels, a memorable meal awaits you at Shang Palace – the only Michelin-starred Chinese restaurant in Paris. Inspired by the flavors of Southeast China, Chef Samuel Lee heads a talented team that includes culinary “masters” in Wok, BBQ, Chopper, and Dim Sum.
Mamma Primi
The Mamma Primi group has a selection of lively, casually elegant restaurants that feature classic Italian cuisine with a light touch. The Pink Mamma is almost impossible to get into, but we were able to score a reservation at its smaller vibey sibling. Everything was delicious but we’d go back just for the Pizza Fritti. Savory fried pizza dough with fresh cherry tomatoes, shaved parmesan, and basil leaves. Simple but perfect.
L’Écrin
Our Hôtel de Crillon guests have this wonderful gem right on the property. Head Sommelier Xavier Thuizat and chef Boris Campanella work in collaboration to craft a perfectly matched sensory experience. Michelin star awarded.
Jardin d’Hiver
Also located in Hôtel de Crillon, Jardin d’Hiver is a cozy spot for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. In addition, they have a lovely afternoon tea Wednesday through Sunday. Be sure to try out one of the mouthwatering desserts by head pastry chef Matthieu Carlin.
Epicure
In a city known for its dining, Epicure is up at the top of the list. Located at Le Bristol Paris, with 3 Michelin stars, this exquisite restaurant, headed by Eric Frechon, is an experience you’re sure to remember for a long time afterward. Everything is immaculate. For those who enjoy dining al fresco, there’s a dreamy garden courtyard.
Coya
We’re big fans of Coya’s locations in London and in Doha and are excited about its outpost in Paris. Coya delivers excellent Peruvian cuisine in a very trendy and buzzy atmosphere. We’re particularly fond of the ceviches, tiraditos and anticuchos.
Guy Savoy
At the entrance of the restaurant, in bright red neon letters you can read chef Guy Savoy’s quote (in French of course) “Cooking is the art of instantly transforming historical products into pleasure”. This is exactly what you’ll experience at this exceptional restaurant, holder of two Michelin stars. It’s one of the most elegant, aesthetic atmospheres in all of Paris and was recently named “Best Restaurant in the World” by La Liste for the sixth consecutive year.
Benoit
In the heart of Paris, the Benoit has been providing a traditional, Parisian dining experience for over 100 years. Under the current direction of chef Alain Ducasse, the warm, comfortable atmosphere of this traditional Bistro will charm you and your taste buds. You’re sure to enjoy their classic snails with garlic butter and herbs and their generously portioned desserts.
Eiffel Tower at Night Things to Do in Paris at Night
The City of Love’s other nickname is “The City of Light” — due to its 50,000 streetlights scattered across the city. This context truly illuminates Paris’s other well-known cultural scene: its vibrant nightlife. From world-class operas to stylish nightclubs, Paris offers a smorgasbord of possibilities for a night out.
Paris Opera at the Palais Garnier
The Palais Garnier is an architectural masterpiece, easily one of the most famous opera houses in the world. To witness a night of opera within its opulent interior is an evening of pure enchantment.
Cabaret
The famed Moulin Rouge is more than a movie — the original venue still hosts performances in Paris! Experience a traditional French cabaret show, where dancers perform the cancan while adorned in extravagant costumes heavily featuring feathers and rhinestones.
Nightclubs
The City of Light hosts plenty of lively options for nightlife: clubs like L’Arc Paris, Matignon, and Raspoutine are all known for their stylishly luxurious interiors, top-notch DJs and glamorous clientele.
The Galeries Lafayette Haussmann Paris Shopping Guide
It’s not hyperbole to say Paris is a fashion capital of the world. As such, the city offers shopping experiences few other locales could hope to match — running the gamut from luxury boutiques to charming flea markets. Here are a few prominent spots to check out for a good dose of retail therapy.
Rue Saint-Honoré
An essential pilgrimage for any fashion lover, Rue Saint-Honoré hosts the who’s-who of luxury boutiques, with major fashion houses like Dior, Givenchy and Hermés calling the street home.
Sèvres–Babylone & Saint-Germain-des-Prés
A slightly less well-known shopping hub, this stretch of shops between the Saint-Germain-des-Prés Metro station and the Bon Marché department store is chock-full of small luxury shops offering the latest and greatest in new trends.
Triangle d’Or & L’Avenue des Champs Élysées
While the Champs Élysées may be renowned for its flagship Louis Vuitton store, but this beautiful area is home to so much more, especially when you factor in the other two sides of “the Triangle of Gold,” Avenue Montaigne and Avenue Georges V. The former is lined with the big names (Dior, Chloé, Céline, Prada and Valentino) while the latter boasts an immaculate Hermés store sporting its original carved wooden storefront.
Boulevard Haussmann
As one of the first cities to adopt department stores, Paris’s legacy lives on along the wide Boulevard Haussmann, where elegant department stores still stand side by side. You’ll find a wide range of products here — everything from fashion to hardware — as well as a few gems of architectural design, like the stained-glass dome of Galeries Lafayette.
Paris Family Activities
It’s never too early to start introducing your kids to culture … what better way than to show them the Summer Games in Paris? Luckily enough, the city is remarkably family-friendly, meaning there’s no shortage of attractions to check out in the downtime of your trip.
Parc Zoologique de Paris
The premier choice for families looking to instill a bit of wilderness into their Parisian holiday, this modern zoo is home to everything from lions and giraffes to penguins and kangaroos. You can easily spend an afternoon exploring each of the zoo’s five represented ecosystems.
National Museum of Natural History
Few institutions can make learning fun the way the National Museum of Natural History does. With exhibits on paleontology, geology and botany, there are plenty of enticing options when it comes to educational rabbit holes for your kids to get lost in. The Galley of Evolution is certain to be a highlight, as the thousands of animal specimens on display are enthralling.
Parc de la Villette
The perfect melding of green spaces and culture, the Parc de la Villette is a multi-disciplinary arts and culture venue, housing the likes of a science museum (Cité des Sciences et de I’Industrie), a music museum (Cité de la Musique) and plenty of playgrounds and gardens for your little ones to explore. Come for the culture, stay for the giant dragon slide!
Musée de la Magie
“Magic” is such an ethereal concept; this semblance of the unexplainable that seems to infuse our world with a pinch of wonder. The Musée de la Magie is dedicated to the craft of that experience. Showcasing optical illusions, interactive games and a permanent magic show, kids and adults alike will delight in the wonder housed here.
Château de Vincennes
This medieval castle carries a fascinating history, having served as a royal sanctuary, prison and military headquarters in its time. Today, it’s simply a great place to learn about medieval history and architecture, with its keep, chapel and moat operating as functioning relics of a bygone era.
Liesa at Disney World Paris Disneyland Paris
The Musée de la Magie isn’t the only destination providing your family magic: Disneyland Paris hosts scores of classic attractions like Sleeping Beauty Castle and Space Mountain, as well as exciting new additions like the Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure. Their new Premier Access service ensures you’ll spend more of your visit enjoying the rides and less time standing in line.
“The French version of the park is celebrated as the most beautiful of all the Disney parks and it didn’t disappoint. I totally recommend a day with Mickey, Minnie and Friends in the French countryside.”
Liesa Guenther, wife of Roadtrips’ President Dave Guenther, after a recent trip to Paris
When it’s all said and done, the things to do while visiting Paris for the 2024 Summer Games are nearly endless. Contact our team to start planning your trip for this thrilling sports experience.
Summer Games Ticketing Notice
Roadtrips is in no way affiliated or associated with the IOC or the Paris 2024 Organising Committee. Tickets to the 2024 Summer Olympics are limited to the Authorized Ticket Reseller in your country of residence. Roadtrips is not an Authorized Ticket Reseller for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and therefore we do not include tickets in our base travel packages.
The official website for the Paris 2024 Summer Olympic Games is www.paris2024.org. Details on ticket categories, event sessions and how to purchase tickets the 2024 Summer Games can be found on the Paris 2024 website.
Roadtrips is dedicated to providing high-touch service throughout your experience and we will customize your itinerary to match your chosen 2024 Summer Games events, whether or not you have already purchased your tickets. With over 30 years of experience providing travel packages to the world’s biggest sporting events, you can trust we have the knowledge and expertise to provide a personalized, comprehensive travel package to the 2024 Summer Games in Paris.
Justin Gibson is a marketing copywriter for Travel Leaders Group. As a passionate traveler and once-collegiate athlete, he’ll be the first to say Roadtrips’ offerings hold a special place in his heart as the intersection of two great loves. Justin grew up in the sprawl of Dallas, Texas, suburbia — it was here that the thrill of driving far off into the distance to see something new really took root. He was schooled at Southern Methodist University and competed as a swimmer for the duration of his studies. He’s since transplanted to the D.C. area to write professionally, and yet the urge to wander off and explore remains.