Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about How to navigate Paris during the Olympics by Parisian contributor, Hannah Rees.
As Paris is getting ready for the Olympic Games happening this summer, you may be getting yourself prepared as well if you’re planning a trip to the City of Lights to experience the event in July and August.
But bear in mind that the city will be busy with people and many restrictions will be in place for both practical purposes as well as safety ones and with all of this, you may be wondering how to navigate the city during the games.
No need to worry, from booking accommodations in advance to making the most of public transportation, here’s your comprehensive guide for How to navigate Paris during the Olympics.
How to navigate Paris during the Olympics.
1. Book accommodation early and in quieter areas.*
Paris is expecting a massive influx of visitors this summer, which means that finding accommodation during the games is going to be difficult (and expensive!). With that in mind, you should start looking and booking as early as possible to avoid last-minute stress and raised prices.
And beware of scammers who might take advantage of the Olympics and the fact that last-minute visitors will be desperate for somewhere to stay to rip you off.
In terms of the best areas to stay, central districts such as Le Marais, Saint-Germain-des-Prés or the Latin Quarter are ideal as they are close to the action and offer convenient access to the Olympic venues as well as some of Paris’s most iconic attractions. However, these areas are among the most expensive in Paris, even without the Games, so they may not suit your budget at all.
The 10th, 11th, 12th, 15th and 17th arrondissements are excellent alternatives. All these districts are a little less popular with tourists (but not with Parisians, who love these neighborhoods).
The 10th arrondissement is located around République, one of the best places in Paris to hop on the metro and easily reach Paris’ main attractions. And one of the best things about this arrondissement is that there is the picturesque Canal Saint-Martin running through it, and on its banks are a myriad of charming restaurants and cafés.
The 11th arrondissement is right next to it and is one of the trendiest districts in Paris, with many artistic cafés (including a cat café) and studios. It is home to the Place de la Bastille, around which there are many restaurants and bars for the evening.
The 12th arrondissement is home to Parc de Bercy with the impressive François Mitterrand library, as well as Gare de Lyon, perfect to leave for a weekend getaway. It’s not as picturesque as the 10th and 11th arrondissements, but it’s better if you like green spaces and plan to visit places in the south of France during your trip.
The 15th arrondissement is a great choice for families travelling to Paris as it’s a little safer and has more of a village feel than the other districts. It is the largest arrondissement in Paris and you can stay in La Motte-Picquet (very close to the Eiffel Tower) and Pasteur, which is a little further away but still close enough to walk to.
The 17th arrondissement has recently become a favourite with Parisians, particularly the Batignolles district. It’s very easy to get anywhere you want to go in Paris from here, and there are also plenty of attractions within walking distance, such as Parc Monceau and Montmartre.
In the 19th arrondissement, you have the magnificent Parc des Buttes-Chaumont. It’s a little further away but offers some peace and tranquillity in the busy city, making it a popular destination for families and anyone who loves green spaces.
Click on the link below to find a hotel within your budget in your chosen arrondissement.
2. Get around by métro and by foot.
Now, unless you’re staying right next to the Olympic venues or you’re an avid walker, you’ll probably need to hop on a metro at some point. The Paris metro system is simple once you get the hang of it, but it’s not as logical as the New York metro or the London tube.
There are 16 metro lines in Paris and each line has a number, as well as a different colour to help you identify it. But to get to the Olympic venues, you may also need to take the RER.
To save money in the long run, you can buy a Navigo pass, which gives you unlimited access to the metro, buses, trams and RER trains in designated zones (make sure you choose the right zones to avoid a penalty).
Now, although public transport in Paris is pretty efficient, you can also get around the city on foot, as it’s the best way to immerse yourself in the city’s charm and discover hidden gems along the way. Just be careful and keep an eye on your belongings (and that goes for the metro too!) to minimise the risk of theft or pickpocketing.
One thing to bear in mind is that the French government recently announced that a QR code will be required to visit certain areas of the capital in order to streamline access to public transport and cultural sites. You need to apply for this QR code in May (from the 10th) to make sure that you’ll be able to visit the areas around the Olympic venues and in central Paris. You can apply on the official site here.
3. Enjoy the Olympic spirit as well as Paris itself, but book in advance.
Whether you’re a sports enthusiast or simply a fan of the Olympic spirit, chances are that if you’re heading to Paris this summer, it’s to take part in the excitement surrounding the Games. So why not head to the fan zones or watch the action in a lively local bistro to meet up with other sports fans from around the globe.
And while the Olympics are undoubtedly taking centre stage this summer, Paris has plenty of attractions and experiences to offer beyond the sporting events. From world-class museums and art galleries to charming cafés and gourmet restaurants, there’s no shortage of ways to immerse yourself in the City of Light, but with the crowds expected this summer, you need to make sure you book your tickets in advance, whether it’s for museums like the Louvre or the Musée d’Orsay but also to climb the Eiffel Tower or eat at that lovely restaurant you’ve been seeing all over instagram.
There really is so much to see in the capital and for more tips on experiencing Paris beyond the Olympics, check out our full guide about ten hidden gems and tranquil retreats in Paris.
4. Take a day trip or plan a weekend break.
If you need a break from the chaos of the Olympics, consider a day trip or weekend getaway to explore the charming towns and historic sites that surround Paris.
There are countless destinations waiting to be discovered just a short distance from the city, from the beautiful Palace of Versailles to the idyllic gardens of Giverny. For more inspiration on day trips and weekend breaks from Paris, check out our list of the top 10 travel destinations close to Paris here.
Final words on How to navigate Paris during the Olympics.
In conclusion, by planning ahead, making the best use of public transport and embracing the Olympic spirit, you can enjoy an unforgettable experience in the City of Light.
I hope you enjoyed this feature about How to navigate Paris during the Olympics.
I will be back soon with more style, lifestyle and travel inspiration and don’t forget to subscribe to the blog below to make sure you never miss a post,
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*If you need help with finding accommodation in Paris during the Olympics or at any other time, just comment on this post or drop me an email
Article By Hannah Rees
Hannah Rees is a writer based in Paris. She currently divides her time between completing her second novel, writing songs on her guitar and working as a fashion designer for private clients. She has a strong fashion background, having studied fashion design in Paris, and counts Prada, Lemaire, House of Marlow, Saint Laurent and Stella McCartney among her influences. She loves discovering the world and dreams of going to Iceland.
These are such great tips! It would be so fun to see the Olympics one day, but I can’t imagine the crowds, especially in an already large city! Thanks for sharing!
Hi Laura, I’m looking forward to the Olympics, but I am a little nervous about the big crowds too! xo
Planning is the key, eh?? It’s such a great economy booster for the city, but it can be crazy with all of the people.
XOOX
Jodie
Planning is definitely the key! I’m going in a couple of weeks so I hope I have done my planning well x
This was so informative and helpful. I can not imagine being in Paris during the Olympics probably like being in NY during the Olympics LOL. But even when the Olympics are not happening all of these neighborhoods sound so great to visit. Thanks for all the info here!
Allie of
http://www.allienyc.com
Thanks Allie. I am really not looking forward to being in Paris during the Olympics. Luckily it’s only for a couple of days and the rest of the time, I will be escaping to the country or the beach! xo
Excellent tips.
Thanks Hena. I’m so glad you think so x
Your tips for navigating Paris during the Olympics are so helpful! Booking accommodation early is crucial, and your district suggestions are great for budget travelers. Looking forward to more travel inspiration from your blog!
Thanks so much Doris. I’m really glad you found these tips helpful! xo
Thank you for the tips! I miss Paris a lot, I hope to be able to return soon.
Xoxo
https://myheartaintabrain.blogspot.com/
I’m glad you like the tips, Ana, and I hope you get to return to Paris soon xoxo
What a fabulous time to be in Paris! The metro is the best and so easy to use. I like the idea of getting away for the weekend.
https://www.kathrineeldridge1@gmail.com
Thanks Kathrine. I love weekend getaways. One of my favourites from Paris is Chantilly, which is just half an hour away by train.
Excellent Article Hannah and Julia!! I will share it 🙂
Wish I was going ! We had the winter Olympics in 2010 in my hometown Vancouver 🇨🇦I was there for it- so amazing!
Thanks so much Val! It’s a pity you won’t be in Paris this summer x
Hello!
I think the best tip is to plan everything well in advance! Paris during the Olympics is going to be a riot of people from all over the world!
Hugs!
xoxo
marisasclosetblog.com
Thanks Marisa. Yes, advance planning is certainly the key to navigating Paris during the Olympics.
This is such a helpful post for those planning to go to Paris during the Olympics, that would be so neat to see!!
Make Life Marvelous
Thanks Ashley! I’m glad you think the post is helpful! I will be in Paris during the Olympics, so I will be following my own tips! xo
Great tips
Thank you Christine x