Planning a summer trip to Paris? Why not plan it around the Summer Games? You’ll get the best of both worlds – witness the biggest sports event in the world held in some of the most scenic vistas across the globe. Yes, the City of Light will be shining brighter than ever to host the 33rd edition of the modern Summer Games and it’s pulling out all the stops to make this one for the books.
From July 26 to August 11, 2024, the French capital will welcome athletes and spectators from around the globe to this prestigious event that promises to blend the city’s rich history with modern innovations and technology. It is sure to create an unforgettable experience for all involved.
So, let’s get ready to plan a memorable trip to Paris in the backdrop of this exciting sporting event. In this post, we’ll learn how to get around the city by using the suggested resources and information. We’ll also learn some handy phrases that you could use to make your time there smoother.
Table Of Contents
Discover Paris Like A Local
Fancy yourself enjoying the beauty of the French capitale comme Emily in Paris? Well, to start planning an enjoyable trip to Paris, you must first vividly visualize your itinerary. Include all the hot and cute spots that are going to make your Instagram/Tik-Tok page a source of envy for everyone else.
Imagine yourself wandering through the charming streets of Le Marais, soaking in its historic architecture and trendy boutiques. You can savor fresh pastries from a local boulangerie (bakery) and relax in the picturesque Luxembourg Gardens. Maybe skip the overrated Champs-Élysées and venture to the vibrant markets of Rue Mouffetard for a taste of local life? Or enjoy a leisurely cruise down the Seine River?
Try using a few basic French phrases to chat with locals and embrace the relaxed pace of café culture. With the Ling app, you’ll master essential vocabulary and cultural tips, making it easy for you to blend seamlessly into the Parisian lifestyle.
Navigational Tips For Tourists: Getting Around Paris
Getting around Paris can be a breeze if you know the right tips and tricks.
Efficient Public Transport System
First off, let’s talk about the city’s efficient public transport system. The Paris Métro is one of the best ways to navigate the city quickly. With 16 lines and 300 stations, it can take you almost anywhere you need to go.
Paris Metro Key lines and attractions:
- Line 1 (La Défense to Château de Vincennes): Covers many central attractions.
- Line 6 (Charles de Gaulle – Étoile to Nation): Offers scenic views of the Eiffel Tower.
Operational Timings:
- Weekdays: 5:30 AM to 1:15 AM
- Fridays and Saturdays: 5:30 AM to 2:15 AM
Tip: Don’t forget to grab a Paris Visite travel pass, which offers unlimited travel on the Métro, buses, and trams for a set number of days. It’s a real time-saver and great for your budget too.
Walking Through Paris
If you prefer to explore on foot, you’re in luck—Paris is a walker’s paradise. Some of the city’s most beautiful neighborhoods, like the Latin Quarter and Montmartre, are best experienced by strolling through their quaint streets and alleys. Walking allows you to discover hidden gems, such as small art galleries, boutique shops, and cozy cafés that you might miss otherwise. Plus, the views along the Seine River are absolutely stunning, especially at sunset.
Quaint Neighborhoods
- Latin Quarter: Explore the historic streets around Sorbonne University and Panthéon.
- Montmartre: Wander through the artistic streets leading up to Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
- Le Marais: Discover the trendy boutiques and hidden courtyards in this historic district.
- Saint-Germain-des-Prés: Stroll along Boulevard Saint-Germain and visit the famous cafés.
- Canal Saint-Martin: Enjoy a walk along the picturesque canal lined with quirky shops and cafes.
Discover Hidden Gems
- Musée de la Vie Romantique: Visit this small museum dedicated to Romanticism in a charming house.
- Passage des Panoramas: Explore one of the oldest covered passages in Paris with unique shops and restaurants.
- Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature: Discover a museum dedicated to hunting and nature in an elegant mansion.
- Square des Peupliers: Enjoy the tranquility of this hidden square with picturesque houses in the 13th arrondissement.
- Rue Cremieux: Walk along this colorful street filled with pastel-colored houses reminiscent of Notting Hill in London.
Scenic Views
- Pont des Arts: Cross this pedestrian bridge for views of the Seine River and the Louvre Museum.
- Parc des Buttes-Chaumont: Climb to the top of the hill for panoramic views of Paris, including Sacré-Cœur.
- Pont de Bir-Hakeim: Enjoy views of the Eiffel Tower and the Seine River from this iconic bridge.
- Montparnasse Tower: Visit the observation deck for stunning 360-degree views of Paris.
- Square du Vert-Galant: Relax on the tip of Île de la Cité with views of the Pont Neuf and the Seine River.
Historic Bridges
- Pont Neuf: Walk across the oldest bridge in Paris, spanning the Seine River between the Left Bank and Île de la Cité.
- Pont Alexandre III: Admire the ornate design of this bridge connecting the Champs-Élysées and Les Invalides.
- Pont de l’Archevêché: Cross this bridge covered in love locks near Notre-Dame Cathedral.
- Pont au Double: Connects the Île de la Cité to the Left Bank with views of Notre-Dame Cathedral.
- Pont des Invalides: Enjoy views of Les Invalides and the Eiffel Tower from this elegant bridge.
Biking In The City
Biking is another fantastic way to see the city. You can rent bikes from various spots around Paris, and the city has plenty of bike lanes to keep you safe. Vélib’ Métropole, the city’s bike-sharing system, is super convenient and eco-friendly. There are over 1,800 Vélib’ stations throughout the city, making it easy to pick up and drop off bikes.
Accommodation And Dining: Enjoy The Parisian Flavors
Finding the perfect place to stay in Paris is essential for a memorable trip. From luxury hotels and charming boutique stays to budget-friendly hostels and short-term rentals, the city offers a wide range of options. You can also consider staying in nearby towns for more affordable and unique experiences.
Accommodation Options
Luxury Hotels
- Hotel Ritz Paris: Experience opulence near Place Vendôme.
- Le Meurice: Stay in a palace-like hotel with views of the Tuileries Garden.
- Shangri-La Hotel: Enjoy luxury with stunning Eiffel Tower views.
- Four Seasons Hotel George V: Indulge in lavish rooms and world-class service.
- Hôtel de Crillon: Relish in historic elegance on Place de la Concorde.
Boutique Hotels
- Hotel des Grands Boulevards: Enjoy modern chic near major attractions.
- Hôtel Providence: Experience unique décor and intimate atmosphere.
- Le Pigalle: Stay in a trendy, vibrant neighborhood.
- Maison Souquet: Discover a hidden gem with a bohemian flair.
- Hôtel Panache: Appreciate the Art Deco design and central location.
Budget-Friendly Stays
- Generator Paris: A stylish hostel with great amenities.
- St Christopher’s Inn Canal: Affordable and fun with canal views.
- Le Village Montmartre: Cozy rooms near Sacré-Cœur.
- Hotel Marignan: Budget option in the Latin Quarter.
- Hotel du College de France: Affordable and centrally located.
Short-Term Rentals
- Airbnb: Find unique apartments throughout the city.
- Paris Attitude: Rent fully furnished apartments.
- HomeAway: Explore various rental options.
- GuestToGuest: Swap homes with locals for a more authentic experience.
- MagicStay: Great for business travelers seeking serviced apartments.
Nearby Towns
- Versailles: Stay near the famous palace with easy train access to Paris.
- Saint-Germain-en-Laye: Enjoy a charming town with quick transport links.
- Fontainebleau: Perfect for nature lovers, with direct train access to Paris.
- Boulogne-Billancourt: A quieter option with convenient Métro access.
- Clichy: An affordable and well-connected suburb.
Dining Options
Paris offers an array of dining options to suit every taste and budget. Depending in your mood and pocket – in no particular order – you can choose to indulge in classic French bistros or enjoy fine dining at Michelin-starred restaurants. And if you truly want to experience the local flavors, make it a point to savor street food from vibrant markets.
We will help you learn a few key phrases to enhance your dining experience and explore diverse culinary delights across the city.
Classic Bistros
- Le Comptoir du Relais: Classic French dishes in Saint-Germain.
- Chez Janou: Enjoy Provençal cuisine and vibrant atmosphere.
- Bistrot Paul Bert: Renowned for traditional French cooking.
- Les Philosophes: Cozy bistro in Le Marais.
- Café de Flore: Iconic café with rich history.
Fine Dining
- Le Jules Verne: Dine in the Eiffel Tower with panoramic views.
- L’Ambroisie: Experience exquisite cuisine in Place des Vosges.
- Guy Savoy: Savor the art of French gastronomy.
- Epicure: Michelin-starred dining at Le Bristol Hotel.
- Septime: Innovative and modern French cuisine.
Street Food
- L’As du Fallafel: Famous falafel in Le Marais.
- Creperie Genia: Delight in sweet and savory crêpes.
- Le Camion Qui Fume: Gourmet burgers from a food truck.
- Bánh Mì Paris: Tasty Vietnamese sandwiches.
- Pierre Hermé: World-renowned macarons and pastries.
Basic French Phrases To Order Food
| English | French |
|---|---|
| I would like… | Je voudrais… |
| The bill, please. | L’addition, s’il vous plaît. |
| A coffee, please. | Un café, s’il vous plaît. |
| I would like a coffee with milk. | Je voudrais un café au lait |
| What is the house specialty? | Quelle est la spécialité de la maison? |
| Can I see the menu? | Est-ce que je peux voir le menu? |
| How much does it cost? | Combien ça coûte? |
Quick Tips
- Vegetarian: Look for végétarien on menus.
- Gluten-Free: Ask for sans gluten options.
- Vegan: Request végétalien dishes.
- Allergies: Inform the waiter with Je suis allergique à… (I am allergic to…)
- Healthy: Opt for salads and fresh dishes, often labeled as santé or bien-être.
Enjoy The Summer Games On Your Trip
The Summer Games will kick off with a spectacular opening ceremony on July 26, 2024. For the first time in it’s history, this ceremony will take place outside a stadium, with the River Seine serving as the backdrop for this historic event.
- Opening Ceremony – July 6, 2024
- Closing Ceremony – August 11, 2024
The Games will feature a wide array of sporting events, from traditional staples to exciting new additions. Fans can look forward to watching world-class athletes compete in swimming, basketball, volleyball, and artistic swimming, among many other disciplines.
Key Venues For Summer Games
During the Summer Games, many areas of Paris will host special exhibitions and events. Make sure to check out the Trocadéro Gardens, which will have live screenings of the events. The Grand Palais will also be hosting various exhibitions related to the Games. These places are easily accessible via the Métro or a pleasant walk.
- Trocadéro Gardens: Watch live screenings of the events with views of the Eiffel Tower.
- Grand Palais: Attend exhibitions related to the Summer Games and their history.
- Place de la Concorde: Visit the iconic square for Games-themed displays and events.
- Jardin des Tuileries: Explore the gardens and participate in sports-inspired activities during the Games.
- Champs-Élysées: Experience the festive atmosphere with Summer Games decorations and events along this famous avenue.
Meet The Phryges: Revolutionary Mascots
No Summer Games would be complete without a lovable mascot, and the Paris version has introduced not one, but two charming characters to capture the spirit of the games. Say bonjour to the Phryges (pronounced “free-jes”) – a pair of bright red triangular figures with big eyes, a friendly smile, and a distinctive Phrygian cap.
But these mascots aren’t just cute faces. They are symbolic of the iconic Phrygian cap – a symbol of liberty in French history often seen in art depicting Marianne, the personification of the French Republic. This nod to France’s revolutionary past adds a uniquely Parisian flavor to the sports festivities.
The New Euro Coin
In celebration of the Summer Games, Monnaie de Paris has minted a special “2 Euro” coin. This commemorative piece features an elegant design that captures the essence of Paris. The coin’s face showcases the iconic Eiffel Tower, reimagined as a triumphant athlete crossing a finish line.
This limited edition currency not only serves as legal tender but also as a cherished keepsake for numismatists and sports enthusiasts alike. With millions of these coins entering circulation, locals and visitors alike have the chance to hold a piece of history in their hands.
Ticket Information And Purchasing Guide
The official website for the Summer Games will be the primary source for ticket sales. Sign up for their newsletter to stay informed about ticket release dates and purchasing procedures.
You can check out hospitality packages on the official website to look for options according to your requirements.
Tip: Consider staying in nearby towns with good transport links to Paris to potentially save on costs.
Paris has an extensive public transport system that we talked about earlier which will be the best way to navigate the city during the Games. Consider purchasing a transport pass for the duration of your stay.
Master The Summer Games Vocabulary
Sport-Specific Terminology: Learn As You Watch
The Summer Games offer a unique opportunity to expand your sports vocabulary in French. As you watch the events, listen for these key terms to enhance your understanding and impress your fellow spectators.
Essential French Phrases For Navigating The Summer Games
While many Parisians speak English, knowing a few key French phrases can enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture. Let’s start with the basics.
- Bonjour (hello) and Merci (thank you) will go a long way in most interactions.
- When asking for directions, Où est… (Where is…) followed by your destination is invaluable. For example, Où est le stade olympique? (Where is the Olympic stadium?)
- If you need help, Pouvez-vous m’aider? (Can you help me?) is a polite way to ask.
- When purchasing tickets or souvenirs, Je voudrais… (I would like…) is useful.
- Don’t forget Combien ça coûte? (How much does it cost?) to avoid any surprises at the checkout.
- For sports fans, Qui a gagné? (Who won?) and Quel est le score? (What’s the score?) will keep you in the loop.
- If you’re cheering for a specific country, Allez [country name]! is the way to show your support.
- Excusez-moi (Excuse me) and Pardon are essential for navigating crowded venues.
With these phrases in your linguistic toolkit, you’ll be ready to enjoy the Games with confidence and courtesy.
Cultural Etiquette: Communicate Like A Local
To truly blend in during the Summer Games, it’s not just about what you say, but how you say it. French culture values politeness and formality, so keep these etiquette tips in mind to communicate like a local.
- Always start interactions with a greeting. A simple Bonjour (or Bonsoir in the evening) before asking a question or making a request is considered essential. This applies everywhere, from shops to information desks at the events venues.
- When addressing someone you don’t know, use the formal vous instead of the informal tu. If you’re unsure how to conjugate verbs, simply adding s’il vous plaît (please) after your request can soften any grammatical missteps.
- The French appreciate attempts to speak their language, even if it’s not perfect. A polite Excusez-moi, je ne parle pas bien français (Excuse me, I don’t speak French well) can often lead to a more patient and helpful response.
- In restaurants, it’s polite to keep your hands visible on the table, not in your lap. If you’re invited to a French home, bring a small gift like chocolates or flowers.
- Remember, the French take mealtimes seriously. Don’t rush your food, and avoid eating while walking – take time to sit and enjoy your meal, even if it’s just a quick sandwich between events.
Ling’s Exclusive Summer Games Culture Notes Feature
The Ling app is one of the only few language learning apps that offer Culture Notes features. Why? Because learning without cultural context will take you way longer. Learning vocabulary and phrases with cultural context is always recommended because you understand the meaning behind the words used, their intended meanings and the way sentence structure changes according to the mood of the situation.
That’s why Ling has come up with this amazing feature which actually offers you cultural background of a language, offers insights on specific cultural practices and the phrases used in those scenarios. For Summer Games in Paris, the Ling app is offering lessons that teach you terms and phrases related to these Games and how to use them in the related-context.
This amazing event will be your learning guide throughout your Paris trip as you make the most of your French travels while cheering on your team!
So, head to your App Store or Google Play Store and download the Ling app now!
