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Tuesday, February 4, 2025

Paris Bound: How to Navigate the City of Lights During the Olympics

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Planning a trip to Paris during the 2024 Summer Olympics? You’re in for a whirlwind of excitement, but also a potential headache of crowds and inconveniences. While many Parisians typically escape the city during August, the Olympics will bring 11 million visitors to the City of Lights, creating a unique blend of sporting spectacle and tourist frenzy. To make the most of your experience, here are some essential tips for surviving the Olympics rush and enjoying your Paris adventure.

Key Takeaways:

  • Parisian exodus: Expect fewer locals: The usual August exodus of Parisians may be less pronounced due to the Olympics, but many businesses and restaurants will still operate on a modified schedule.
  • Transportation challenges: Be prepared for heavy crowds and potential transportation strikes during the Games. The no-fly zone on July 26th, the opening ceremony day, will disrupt air travel.
  • Language is key: Brush up on basic French phrases to enhance your interaction with locals, especially when ordering food.
  • Explore the city’s green spaces: Beat the summer heat and escape the crowds by visiting parks like the Square du Vert-Galant, Bois de Vincennes, or the grounds outside the Château de Saint-Germain-en-Laye.

Where are the Parisians?

While August often sees a mass departure of Parisians to their summer residences, the Olympic Games will bring a shift in the city’s rhythms. While some businesses will stick to the traditional summer break, many will remain open, eager to capitalize on the surge of visitors. However, keep in mind that a shortened break might occur between the Olympics’ closing ceremony (August 11th) and the start of the Paralympic Games (August 28th), leading to temporary closures for some establishments.

Getting in — and getting around

Paris’s renowned public transportation system is typically reliable, but potential transportation strikes loom in the background. Negotiations are ongoing to prevent strikes during the Games, but be prepared for potential disruptions.

July 26th, the opening ceremony, poses a unique challenge: a no-fly zone over Paris will restrict air travel for approximately six hours, impacting arrival and departures.

To avoid crowded metro lines, consider exploring Paris on two wheels. Rent a Vélib bike, one of the city’s 20,000 public bicycles, found at many street corners. With some roads designated for cyclists during the Games, it’s a safer and more enjoyable way to navigate the city.

For a truly Parisian experience, try a moto taxi to zip through traffic. But beware of peak hours and be sure to factor in some additional time for your journeys due to traffic delays.

Speak a bit of the language

You’ll find Parisians more approachable if you greet them with a "bonjour" and attempt to order in French. Simple phrases like "s’il vous plait" (please) and "merci" (thank you) are invaluable for showcasing your politeness and effort.

Remember that Parisians typically respond to greetings before engaging in any conversation. Don’t be surprised if shop staff seem to ignore you if you haven’t greeted them first. A simple "bonjour" will break the ice.

One crucial cultural note: avoid calling a waiter "garçon" (boy). This term, once common, is now considered extremely rude.

Eating out

Dining in Paris can be expensive, especially at its 121 Michelin-starred restaurants. To stay within budget, opt for lunch instead of dinner. Most Parisian restaurants offer a three-course prix fixe lunch menu.

Planches, platters of meat and cheese with bread, provide a quick and affordable meal. If your sweet tooth craves a treat, order a café gourmand, a coffee accompanied by a selection of petite desserts, often priced the same as a single dessert.

When ordering water, avoid simply asking for "eau." This will likely result in a pricey bottle of water. Request a "carafe d’eau" instead, which means chilled tap water, readily available and perfectly drinkable. Bring a refillable water bottle and take advantage of the city’s free drinking fountains.

Cool down without air conditioning

Parisian summers can be hot, and air conditioning is less common than in many other cities. Many older buildings and smaller hotels lack this modern comfort.

For a cool respite, visit museums, which are often climate-controlled. Step into the Square du Vert-Galant for a shaded spot under a willow tree. Or, head to the Place Saint-Michel fountain in the Latin Quarter for a refreshing splash.

Escape from the city

For a brief respite from the Parisian bustle, venture out on an easily accessible excursion:

Saint-Germain-en-Laye: Take the RER A line from Charles de Gaulle-Etoile station to Saint-Germain-en-Laye station. Explore the grounds of the Château de Saint-Germain-en-Laye, where Louis XIV was born, and enjoy the breathtaking views over Paris.

Bois de Vincennes: The Metro Line 1 will bring you to the impressive Château de Vincennes. From there, step into the Bois de Vincennes, a sprawling forest boasting lakes, walking trails, and picnic areas.

No matter your chosen itinerary, remember that Paris is a city that rewards exploration and embraces spontaneity. Embrace the unexpected, enjoy the journey, and savor the magic of Paris, just as you planned.

Article Reference

Sarah Thompson
Sarah Thompson
Sarah Thompson is a seasoned journalist with over a decade of experience in breaking news and current affairs.

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