Traveling for the Olympics Games
29/11/2023Between getting the precious tickets to attend the competitions, booking accommodation and the essential administrative formalities, the challenges are numerous but surmountable to fully enjoy the event. The magic of the Games will undoubtedly operate for all those who will have at heart to live the adventure until the end.
1. How to prepare for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games ?
2. How to complete the paperwork before de Olympic Games in France ?
3. How to organize your transport on site ?
4. Enjoy the Olympic Games
1. Preparing for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games
Book your accommodation
In order to guarantee a comfortable stay during the Paris 2024 summer Olympic Games, it is wise to anticipate the reservation of your accommodation. The many tourists expected may quickly saturate the hotel capacity of the capital. Booking several months in advance will allow you to benefit from a wide choice of hotels or apartments at advantageous rates. Online booking platforms offer a range of options to suit all budgets. Some packages even include tickets to attend the events.
Buy tickets for the events
Tickets for the Paris 2024 Olympic and paralympic games are already available on the official website. It is prudent to book them as soon as possible to have access to the best seats. More than half of the 3 million tickets have already been sold. Different formulas exist: single tickets, packages over several days, packages including transport and accommodation. Prices range from 24 to 950 euros depending on the event. Some events such as the opening ceremony are in high demand. Booking in advance will maximize the chances of getting tickets to attend your favourite competitions.
2. How to complete the paperwork before de Olympic Games in France ?
Check the validity of your identity documents
When travelling abroad, it is important to ensure that your identity documents are valid and meet the requirements of the country of destination. As part of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, the French authorities will be particularly vigilant on the validity of passports and visas. It should be carefully checked that the expiry date of the passport is at least 6 months after the expected date of return. For nationals of certain countries, a visa will be required.
Apply for a visa if necessary
Around 70,000 visa applications are expected in the run-up to the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. In order to manage this important flow, France will set up an "Olympic consulate" dedicated to the processing of these files. Visa applications must be made online via the official website ANEF (Digital Administration of Foreigners in France). It is strongly advised to anticipate the administrative procedures as soon as possible before the trip, the procedures can be long. The ANEF site will provide all the necessary information on the supporting documents to be provided depending on the case. Once the visa is issued, care must be taken not to exceed the length of stay allowed.
3. How to organize your transport on site ?
Book your trips to the Olympic sites
To get to the Olympic sites, it is essential to book your trips in advance by public transport. The metro, RER and bus lines serving the sites will be very busy during the Games. The specific tickets and transport packages set up for the event will be mandatory to access the stations near the sites. Booking will guarantee your place and avoid endless queues. Tickets transports are kind of expensive in Paris, and the city plan to increase the prices by 2 ! The special pass for the Olympic Games is the best deal you will have during your journey, don't hesitate to take it.But the prix will be still 70 euros / week.
Our advice would be to upload the RATP app, and by your tickets or weekly pass before the Olympic Games. you will have your ticket in advance at a normal price, and you will be able to valide them with your phone in the station !
Use public transport in Ile-de-France
Public transport in Ile-de-France will be a great way to get around during the Games. The Ile-de-France network is highly developed, with 14 metro lines, 5 RER lines, 2 trams and more than 350 bus lines. Significant reinforcements are planned, with more than 5,000 additional trains, metros and RER trains daily. However, it will have to deal with a very large attendance, up to 1.5 million visitors per day. Patience and courtesy will be required in crowded transportation.
4. Enjoy the Olympic Games
Attend reserved events
Live the excitement of the Olympic Games, it’s possible! Many seats are available for sale to attend sports competitions. Tickets allow access to competition venues such as the Stade de France, the Parc des Princes or the Grand Palais to encourage athletes. It is best to book in advance to get the best seats.
Discover the atmosphere of the Games and the festivities
Beyond the competitions, it is exciting to be carried away by the unique atmosphere of the Games. Strolling around the Olympic sites, admiring the ephemeral installations, participating in the animations or attending the opening ceremony: so many unforgettable experiences. Fan zones are planned to experience the event in a festive atmosphere.
What to visit in Paris ?
- Eiffel Tower: An iconic symbol of Paris, the Eiffel Tower offers stunning panoramic views of the city. You can take an elevator or climb the stairs to the top for an unforgettable experience.
- Louvre Museum: Home to thousands of works of art, including the famous Mona Lisa, the Louvre is the world's largest art museum. Allow plenty of time to explore its vast collections.
- Notre-Dame Cathedral: Despite the tragic fire in 2019, Notre-Dame remains a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture. You can still admire its exterior and the restoration efforts.
- Sainte-Chapelle: Known for its stunning stained glass windows, Sainte-Chapelle is a Gothic gem located on the Île de la Cité.
- Musée d'Orsay: Housed in a former railway station, this museum showcases an extensive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces.
- Montmartre: Explore the artistic and bohemian neighborhood of Montmartre, known for its charming streets, the Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur, and the Place du Tertre.
- Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe: Walk down the famous avenue, lined with shops and theaters, and visit the Arc de Triomphe, a symbol of French national pride.
- Seine River Cruise: Take a relaxing cruise along the Seine River to admire Paris's landmarks, especially enchanting when lit up at night.
- Versailles Palace: A short trip from Paris, the Palace of Versailles is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its opulent architecture, beautiful gardens, and the Hall of Mirrors.
- Musée Rodin: Explore the works of the renowned sculptor Auguste Rodin, including his masterpiece "The Thinker," in this museum and its picturesque garden.
- Père Lachaise Cemetery: Visit the final resting place of many famous individuals, including Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrison, and Edith Piaf.
- Museum of Modern Art (Centre Pompidou): Known for its distinctive architecture, the Centre Pompidou houses a vast collection of modern and contemporary art.
- Latin Quarter: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Latin Quarter, known for its historic streets, bookshops, and the Sorbonne University.
How to deal with medical emergencies in France ?
If you need an emergency treatment or just a medical visit in France during your journey, you will have to be insured to be sure not to pay bills there. French people have the "carte vitale" that reimburse them most of their fees, but you as a short term tourist, you won't be able to have it, and have to purchase your own medical insurance. The Routard insurance, will give you access to a refund of your expenses or even pay in advance for you the diagnosis. to make the advance payment happen you will have to call the Assistance Department, available 24/7.
This travel insurance will also refund your lost or stolen items. During this big event, which attends lots of tourists from around the world, the Police expets an increasing number of thefts. So be careful, and be insured to be sure to get have a refund of your loss.
Sarah