Paris, a city synonymous with style, elegance and history, is hosting the Olympic and Paralympic Games 2024, providing a unique opportunity to explore its charm while basking in the vibrant energy of this sporting event. The French capital has a storied history with the Olympics, having hosted them twice before in 1900 and in 1924; 2024 also marks the centennial commemorations of the last competition to take place in the city.
Known for its iconic sights, exquisite cuisine, and dynamic arts scene, the City of Light offers a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication. Whether you are an avid sports fan, a culture enthusiast, or a dedicated gourmand, visiting Paris this summer promises to be an unforgettable experience. Here’s how to enjoy the city in style during this exciting time.
What to do
Kick start your Parisian adventure by taking in some of the capital’s many landmarks. There are breath-taking views from, and of, the Eiffel Tower, helping you create a map of action to tackle the city. There are beautiful strolls from the Champs-Élysées to the Arc de Triomphe, or along the Seine, which provide an opportunity to marvel at the grandeur of Notre-Dame Cathedral. Alternatively, do as the locals do, and take in the atmosphere by walking around one of the 20 arrondissements, sipping coffee, lunching in neighbourhood brasseries and watching the world go by.
Of course, art and fashion enthusiasts are spoilt for choice with the museums, galleries, haute couture shopping and vintage markets in the city. Places like Musée d’Orsay, which houses an impressive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist works, Musée de l’Orangerie – home of Monet’s Water Lilies, or 59 Rivoli – where visitors can view artists in residence producing works in real time – provide a relaxing escape from the bustle of the city streets. While the Centre Pompidou is a modern contrast with its vast collection of contemporary art. All of these attractions offer a glimpse into Paris’s rich cultural tapestry and serve as a perfect prelude to the Olympic-themed exhibitions dotting the city, which explore the historical and social context of the Games.
To celebrate the fusion of sport and culture, while promoting Olympic values and French heritage, Paris 2024 has come up with a three-year Cultural Olympiad to be held in museums, theatres and new venues created for the occasion in Paris and Île-de-France. Alongside this is a programme of events during the weeks of the Games, to further explore their history and lore, and these seven exhibitions are certainly worth a visit.
Olympism at the Louvre
The Louvre, home to masterpieces like the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, and Liberty Leading the People, is also hosting a special exhibition ‘Olympism’, delving into the artistic and cultural significance of the Olympics. Highlights include the first Olympic Cup, known as ‘Bréal’s Cup’, designed by French academic Michel Bréal (1832-1915) and created by a French silversmith for the winner of the first marathon in 1896 – a race invented for the modern Games. The exhibition also looks at the role of Swiss artist Émile Gilliéron (1850-1924), the official artist of the 1896 Olympic Games, the 1906 Mesolympics and a key figure in the creation of new Olympic iconography.
SPOT 24 – The Olympic Sport and Urban Cultures Exhibition
Begin your journey at this collaboration between the Olympic Museum in Lausanne and Paris je t’aime (Paris tourist office) which pays homage to six new Olympic disciplines: skateboarding, sport climbing, BMX freestyle, surfing, 3×3 basketball and breaking. Enjoy exploring the dialogue between these new sports and their place in Paris’s urban culture through interactive displays and cutting-edge technology.
MATCH at Musée du Luxembourg
Explore the intersection of sports, art and design at this interactive exhibition, which also looks at how the sporting world inspires designers in various industries, including the automotive, fashion and equestrian sectors.
“En Jeu!’ Artists And Sport” (1870-1930) at Musée Marmottan Monet
This is a visual history of sport between these 60 years, presented via more than a hundred significant artworks from European, American, and Japanese collections. Featuring artists like Monet, Degas, and Rodin, the exhibition highlights how sport and athletes became icons of modernity. It explores disciplines like horse-riding, wrestling, and boxing through different artistic movements, from Impressionism to Cubism.
The Olympic Games, a Mirror of Society – Cultural Olympiad at the Mémorial de la Shoah
Visit the Mémorial de la Shoah for ‘The Olympic Games, a Mirror of Society’, a poignant exhibition that examines politics, values and discrimination during the Games. Using images, film and archival testimonials, the immersive exhibition touches on the 1936 Berlin Games, held during the Nazi era, and the internment of athletes in the Drancy camp during the Second World War. Themes include the Games’ role in promoting peace, but also this historical political misuse.
The Body in Motion – Petit Palais
Discover how athleticism has been portrayed in various artistic mediums over centuries, highlighting the aesthetic and emotional power of sports at ‘The Body in Motion’. From ancient sculptures to contemporary art, the exhibit brings together 50 pieces from the Petit Palais collection and offers a visual feast that captures the grace, strength, and movement of athletes.
Olympism: A History of the World at the Palais de la Porte Dorée
Conclude your cultural tour at the Palais de la Porte Dorée with ‘Olympism: A History of the World’ which traces the global history of the Olympics, showcasing its evolution and its profound influence on international relations and cultural exchange. The display brings together 130 years’ worth of material, from the birth of the modern Olympics to examining portraits of some of the great Olympic champions.
Where to Stay
Hyatt Madeleine Paris
Situated in the prestigious 8th arrondissement, the Hyatt Paris Madeleine combines classic Parisian style with modern luxury. Upon entering, the serene lounge, adorned with tasteful décor and plush furnishings, creates an inviting atmosphere perfect for relaxation or casual meetings. The attentive staff provide exceptional service, catering to every guest’s needs with professionalism and warmth.
Guests can enjoy ample space in the suites, allowing for a restful and unencumbered stay. Rooms are tastefully appointed with high-quality linens, and cutting-edge technology. A standout feature is the stunning view of the Eiffel Tower, visible from many of its rooms and public spaces, providing a quintessential Parisian experience.
Marble bathrooms are also a highlight, exuding sophistication and extending the spa-like experience beyond the hotel’s wellness facilities, with their premium fixtures and luxurious toiletries. The Hyatt Madeleine Paris’s central location makes it easy to access both Olympic venues and cultural attractions such as the Champs-Élysées, Place de la Concorde, and the Louvre.
Hyatt Hôtel du Louvre
Hôtel du Louvre, a grand establishment which is part of Hyatt’s Unbound Collection, lies adjacent to the eponymous museum, in the city’s historic heart. With its opulent interiors and exceptional service, this establishment offers timeless luxury. The impressive suites – such as the 690 sq ft Pissarro Suite, where the painter Pissarro lived and painted 11 masterpieces – are a beacon of elegance. Thoughtfully designed, there is plenty of room for parties of any size, from the spacious communal areas and walk-in wardrobes to beautiful bathrooms with top-of-the-line technology and Dyson hardware. Juliette balconies provide guests with views of the iconic Louvre as well as the Comédie Française and the Opera Avenue.
Staff are warm and courteous; going above and beyond the usual five-star service to make guests feel like distinguished visitors at a home away from home. Set under a magnificent glass ceiling, the verdant bar, L’Officine du Louvre offers a cosy atmosphere for enjoying unique cocktails and seasonal dishes. The Brasserie du Louvre features a vintage-inspired French interior, with charming red accents to enjoy chef Paul Bocuse’s famous recipes. The hotel’s prime location allows you to walk to the Louvre, the Seine, and other major sites with ease, serving the quintessential Parisian experience.
Hotel Madame Rêve
For a stay steeped in Parisian elegance, book a room at Hotel Madame Rêve. Located in a beautifully restored 19th-century building in the heart of the city, this hotel offers contemporary rooms with stunning views of the Parisian skyline.
The beautifully appointed suites are decorated with toffee and sunshine colours, leather and huge skylights which add an old-world warmth. The restaurant and terrace, with its panoramic vistas, is perfect for relaxing or enjoying a cocktail. The wellness facilities here are also decorated with tributes to sporting moments, making this a great Olympic-themed choice. With three gourmet dining options and its sweeping rooftop views, this is an ideal base for exploring Paris.
The Parister Hotel
For a perfect sanctuary after a day of Olympic excitement, the Parister Hotel offers a chic retreat in the bustling 9th arrondissement. Adorned with Parisian sophistication in mind, the jewel-toned accents, walnut furnishings and statement wallpaper all add to the tranquil ambience at this boutique hotel. Guests can enjoy a plethora of natural light streaming through its 45 rooms and suites, as well as access to serene leafy terraces and scenic views.
Sound-insulated rooms feature air conditioning, top-quality sound systems and queen-size bedding, with feather pillows upon request. As well as lush toiletries, bathrooms feature rain showers, heated anti-fog mirrors and a selection of luxurious amenities. The wellness facilities are the epitome of relaxation; a heated indoor pool – featuring a nearly 20-metre-long swimming corridor – is exclusively available to hotel guests, with a 45-minute reservation. Access to a fitness room and hammam is also possible. Alongside this though, the hotel’s proximity to the main Parisian sights ensures you’re never far from the action.
Food and drink
Boasting a wealth of dining options that cater to every palate, Paris is one of those global culinary capitals that needs no introduction. From charming bistros to Michelin-starred establishments, the city’s gastronomic landscape is unparalleled. Iconic restaurants such as Le Jules Verne in the Eiffel Tower, Alain Ducasse au Plaza Athénée, and L’Ambroisie in Place des Vosges offer exceptional dining experiences that reflect the rich culinary heritage of France.
Alternatively, in keeping with the Olympics theme, visitors could also choose to sample dishes from other cities which have hosted the Games. Whatever the cuisine, Paris is sure to have a restaurant to match. Experience a taste of Athens, Tokyo and Mexico all over the city, or channel Beijing at one of Paris’s two Chinatowns.
For a specific nod to the Games, try Le Long Bar at Raffles Paris, which features a special Olympic cocktail menu, allowing guests to toast to the Games with creative, themed drinks. Mixologist Gaël Allier has drawn inspiration from the historic host cities of the past Summer Olympics, to design a collection of colourful, joyful cocktails. The signature sips, crafted from seasonal ingredients, are available all summer long.
Cocktails include MEXICO 1968, with tasting notes of kumquat and cucumber; the LONDON 2012, a gin-based cocktail with grapefruit and bergamot; and, of course, the PARIS 2024, a tribute to the French 75, featuring blanc de blanc Champagne paired with pear and apple gin. Enjoy them alongside sophisticated al fresco dining on the leafy Raffles Terrace. The venue’s elegant setting is perfect for enjoying Paris’s beautiful summer evenings.
In a nutshell
Whether you are captivated by the historic charm of Paris or the thrill of the Olympic Games, the city offers a wealth of experiences that promise to make your stay truly memorable. From world-class exhibitions and luxurious accommodations to exquisite dining options, Paris is set to provide a truly special backdrop to the thrill of the Olympics.
Factbox
Hyatt Hôtel du Louvre: Rooms start from £420.
Hyatt Paris Madeleine: Rooms start from £320.
Madame Rêve: Rooms start from £470 with spa access.
Parister Hotel: Rooms start from £215 with spa access.
SPOT 24 – The Olympic Sport and Urban Cultures Exhibition (April 3rd to December 31st) Tickets here
Olympism at the Louvre (April 24th to September 16th) Tickets here
MATCH at Musée du Luxembourg (March 13th to August 11th) Tickets here
The Body in Motion – Petit Palais (May 15th to November 17th) Tickets here
‘En Jeu!’ Artists And Sport (1870-1930) at Musée Marmottan Monet (4th April to 1st September) Tickets here
The Olympic Games, a Mirror of Society – Cultural Olympiad at the Mémorial de la Shoah (March 29th to November 17th) Tickets here
Olympism: A History of the World at the Palais de la Porte Dorée (April 26th to September 8th) Tickets here
