Where to Stay for the 2024 Paris Olympics and Paralympics: Insider Tips from a Paris Real Estate Agent
Every 4 years, we are so lucky to see the most talented and brilliant athletes from around the world take center stage at the Olympics with the Paralympics soon after. This year, Paris is the host city for the event, and the events will take place in many of the already standing venues found around the city, and for some sports, around the country and the world.
For sports fans everywhere, Paris is the place to be this summer! If you are planning on visiting Paris, there are a few spots that will be more convenient than others depending on which venues you will be visiting and how much you’d like to visit Paris as well. As an international real estate agent, I’ve come to know this city and the housing options in each neighborhood very well. These are my insider tips on where to stay for the Paris Olympics and Paralympics.
Paris Olympics Basics: A Guide to the Sports and the Venues
To start, you must know the important dates and locations so you can plan your trip around them. The Olympic events will run from the last week of July to the first week of August, with the Opening Ceremonies to be held on July 26th and the Closing Ceremonies on August 11th. Some games, like soccer and rugby, may start as early as the 24th, so come early if you want to catch those games. If you’re coming for the 2024 Paralympics, they run from August 28th to September 8th.
2024 Paris Olympics Venues
The locations of the games will span across the country (including Tahiti, part of French Polynesia). There will be 13 sporting venues within Paris, 12 in the regions surrounding the city, and 9 in the other parts of the country and beyond.
Olympics Venues within Paris (organized by arrondissement):
Hôtel de Ville in the 4th arrondissement - marathon starting point
Champ de Mars Arena in the 7th arrondissement - judo, wrestling
Eiffel Tower Stadium in the 7th arrondissement - beach volleyball
Invalides in the 7th arrondissement - archery, marathon path, cycling road
Pont Alexandre III connecting the 7th and 8th arrondissements - cycling road, marathon swimming, triathlon
Grand Palais in the 8th arrondissement - fencing, taekwondo
La Concorde in the 8th arrondissement - 3x3 basketball, breaking, cycling BMX freestyle, skateboarding
Bercy Arena in the 12th arrondissement - artistic gymnastics, basketball, trampoline
South Paris Arena in the 15th arrondissement - handball, table tennis, volleyball, weightlifting
Parc des Princes in the 16th arrondissement - football (aka soccer)
Stade Roland-Garros in the 16th arrondissement - boxing, tennis
Trocadéro in the 16th arrondissement - athletics (track and field), cycling road
Porte de La Chapelle Arena in the 18th arrondissement - badminton, rhythmic gymnastics
Olympics Venues in the Île-de-France Area Surrounding Paris (organized by city):
Aquatics Centre in Saint-Denis - artistic swimming, diving, water polo
Stade de France in Saint-Denis - athletics (track and field), rugby sevens
Château de Versailles in Versailles - equestrian, modern pentathlon
Elancourt Hill in Elancourt - cycling mountain bike
Golf National in Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines - golf
Le Bourget Sport Climbing Venue in Le Bourget - sport climbing
North Paris Arena in Villepinte - boxing, modern pentathlon
Paris La Defense Arena in Nanterre - swimming, water polo
Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines BMX Stadium in Montigny-le-Bretonneux - cycling BMX racing
Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines Velodrome in Montigny-le-Bretonneux - cycling track
Vaires-sur-Marne Nautical Stadium in Vaires-sur-Marne - canoe slalom, canoe sprint, rowing
Yves-du-Manoir Stadium in Colombes - hockey
Olympics Venues throughout France and beyond (organized by city):
Bordeaux Stadium in Bordeaux - football (aka soccer)
Chateauroux Shooting Centre in Châteauroux - shooting
Geoffroy-Guichard Stadium in Saint-Etienne - football (aka soccer)
La Beaujoire Stadium in Nantes - football (aka soccer)
Lyon Stadium in Décines - football (aka soccer)
Marseille Marina in Marseille - sailing
Marseille Stadium in Marseille - football (aka soccer)
Nice Stadium in Nice - football (aka soccer)
Pierre Mauroy Stadium in Villeneuve-d’Ascq - basketball, handball
Teahupo’o on the French Polynesian island of Tahiti - surfing
Where to Stay for the 2024 Paris Olympics and Paralympics
When planning your trip to the 2024 Paris Olympics or Paralympics, choosing the right place to stay is crucial to making the most of your experience. Your choice should depend on the events you plan to attend and the type of experience you want to have in Paris.
La Concorde, Trocadéro, Eiffel Tower, Montmartre, and Boulogne are the top areas that you might want to take into consideration, and here is why: During the games, you will need a QR code to leave designated areas and enter others. The idea behind this is to limit traffic and keep neighborhoods safe.
Additionally, travel by metro will be impacted with ticket prices raised from the usual €2.10 to €4.20 one-way. And, metro stations like Concorde, Tuileries, and Champs-Elysées-Clemenceau will be closed in the lead-up to the Olympics.
So, choosing where to stay involves thinking ahead to plan your transportation according to any access limitations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay.
Understanding what there is to do in each area and why it can be a wonderful way to relax during a busy Olympic Games season in Paris can be a game changer. Read on for my recommendations for these areas and for different Olympic experiences.
My Top Picks for the Perfect Blend of Olympics and Paris
La Concorde
Staying here puts you in the heart of the city's most glamorous district. La Concorde will be hosting basketball, skateboarding, and BMX competitions. Near La Concorde, you have the Louvre, Jardin des Tuileries, Champs-Élysées, shopping along Rue de Rivoli, Place Vendôme, the Royal Palace, and Bibliothèque Nationale (free admission and absolutely jaw-dropping). There are plenty of brasseries and shopping, as well as beautiful sunset walks along the Seine.
Trocadéro
This upscale neighborhood is known for its beautiful parks and is an excellent choice for visitors who want to be close to several iconic landmarks and enjoy a stunning view of the Eiffel Tower. Trocadéro will be hosting athletics (track and field) and road cycling events, making it a prime location for sports enthusiasts. Beyond the Olympics, Trocadéro offers cultural attractions like the Palais de Chaillot, which houses the Musée de l'Homme and the Cité de l'Architecture et du Patrimoine. The Trocadéro Gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll, and the numerous cafés and restaurants nearby provide an authentic Parisian dining experience. Staying in this area also means you're just a short walk away from the Seine, where you can enjoy boat tours or simply relax by the riverbanks.
Eiffel Tower
This area offers iconic Parisian sights and a vibrant atmosphere. The beautiful grassy area in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower is known as Champ de Mars, and it is the host of beach volleyball, judo, and wrestling! Aside from the well-known tower itself, the area also hosts walks along the Seine, as well as a very informative trip to Hôtel des Invalides. Hôtel des Invalides is a military center and still offers care for veterans to this day!
Montmartre
For a truly picturesque and authentic Parisian experience during the 2024 Paris Olympics and Paralympics, consider staying in one of my personal favorite neighborhoods: Montmartre! This historic district, known for its artistic heritage and bohemian charm, offers a unique atmosphere with its winding cobblestone streets, charming cafes, and stunning views of the city from the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Montmartre is conveniently located near the Porte de La Chapelle Arena in the 18th arrondissement, where badminton and rhythmic gymnastics events will be held. In addition to its proximity to Olympic venues, Montmartre boasts a vibrant nightlife, bustling markets, and numerous art studios and galleries, making it an ideal spot for those looking to immerse themselves in the cultural heart of Paris. Whether you're exploring the vibrant Place du Tertre, enjoying a coffee at a local bistro, or taking a leisurely walk through the quaint streets, Montmartre provides a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement during your Olympic stay.
Boulogne
Boulogne is one of my favorite hidden areas of Paris. Located within the 16th arrondissement, it looks like a clean and quiet Paris with quick access to Bois de Boulogne, a beautiful park perfect for mid-morning runs, a mid-day picnic, or a casual boat ride on the Lac Inférieur. Within the park, you will also find the Louis Vuitton Foundation Art Museum. The famous tennis stadium Roland Garros just recently finished hosting its tennis tournament, and for the Olympics will be hosting tennis and boxing!
Additional Accommodations for the Paris Olympics
For visitors who want to experience the culture, cuisine, and charm of Paris in between events, staying in a more central location or a neighborhood known for its vibrant lifestyle is a fantastic option. You may want to consider:
Marais District (4th Arrondissement) - A historic and trendy area with boutique shops, cafes, and museums. It’s also close to Hôtel de Ville, the starting point for the marathon.
Latin Quarter (5th Arrondissement) - Famous for its lively atmosphere, student cafes, and bookshops. It's a great spot to soak in the local vibe while being a short metro ride away from many venues.
Saint-Germain-des-Prés (6th Arrondissement) - Known for its artistic heritage and chic cafes, it offers a quintessential Parisian experience.
Explore the Surrounding Île-de-France Region
For those attending events in the Île-de-France area or looking to escape the hustle and bustle of central Paris, staying in one of the nearby cities can be a wonderful option. These areas offer a mix of historic sites, beautiful landscapes, and convenient access to Olympic venues:
Versailles - Home to the equestrian and modern pentathlon events. Enjoy the grandeur of the Palace of Versailles and its stunning gardens.
Saint-Denis - Close to the Stade de France for athletics and rugby sevens. It’s a vibrant area with a rich cultural history.
La Défense - Paris La Défense Arena will be hosting swimming and water polo. It’s Paris’ modern business district with striking skyscrapers, excellent shopping opportunities at the Westfield Les 4 Temps mall, a variety of dining options, and is well-connected to central Paris while allowing you to stay out of the city.
Experience Paris Like a Local: Book a Home or Apartment Rental with Me
No matter what your plans are for the 2024 Paris Olympics and Paralympics, finding the perfect place to stay can enhance your experience and ensure a memorable trip. As an international real estate agent with extensive knowledge of Paris and its neighborhoods, I am here to help you find the ideal short-term, mid-term, or long-term rental. Whether you want to be in the heart of the action, enjoy the tranquility of a hidden gem, or explore the surrounding regions, I can provide expert guidance and personalized service to meet your needs. Contact me today to secure your accommodation and make the most of your Olympic experience in the beautiful city of Paris! It promises to be an unforgettable experience!