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Visiting Paris: A Practical Travel Guide to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games

  • Paris 2024 Olympic Games
Visiting Paris: A Practical Travel Guide to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games
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How Does Public Transport Work in Paris?

In the City of Light, the best way to get around is by metro. On average, there are only 500 metres between each metro terminal. So wherever you are, you’re likely to find yourself near one of them.

Visiting Paris: A Practical Travel Guide to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games - Plan-Metro paris

Between July 20 and September 8, 2024, transport fares are higher due to the Olympic Games. Bus and metro fares have risen from 2.15 to 4 euros each, while RER fares have increased from 3.2 to 6 euros. To get to the airports of Paris-Charles de Gaulle (by RER B) or Paris-Orly (by line 14), the fare has risen from 10 to 16 euros.

Transportation from Paris-Charles de Gaulle (CDG) airport

A bus ticket between Paris and Paris-Charles de Gaulle airport costs 16 euros ($24.04 CAD).

Subway

The metro network is made up of 16 lines and more than 300 stations, the entrances are easy to find as they are marked with a large yellow M. The service starts around 6 a.m. each day and ends around 12:45 a.m. from Sunday to Thursday, and 1:45 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

Unlike Montreal, where you can wait ten minutes for the metro, the Paris metro can run every 2 minutes.

The bus remains an alternative, but the metro is often a wiser choice, guaranteeing that you avoid the notorious Parisian traffic jams.

How Much Does it Cost?

For the duration of the Olympic Games, metro tickets are priced at 4 euros each (approx. CA$6) and can be purchased at automatic machines located in the stations.

If you plan to use public transport several times a day, we strongly recommend that you buy a Paris Visite pass, which gives you unlimited travel for 1, 2, 3 or 5 days in Paris and the Ile-de-France region.

Two zone options are available. Paris Visite, covering zones 1 to 3, offers unlimited travel in Paris and the inner suburbs (Stade de France, La Défense, Château de Vincennes, etc.). Paris Visite zones 1 to 5 offer unlimited travel in Paris, the inner suburbs, Versailles, Disneyland® and to Orly and Roissy-Charles de Gaulle airports.

RER

To explore the surrounding area, the RER is better than the metro. This is the « Réseau Express Régional », a public rail network in the Ile-de-France region, linking the center of Paris with its suburbs. It serves popular destinations such as Paris Charles de Gaulle airport (CDG) (RER B), Disneyland Paris (RER A) or Versailles (RER C).

RER service starts daily, including on public holidays, at around 6 a.m. and continues until around 12:45 a.m.

How Much Does it Cost?

RER fares are aligned with metro fares for journeys within Paris. You can take the RER with your metro ticket if you’re staying inside Paris.

For travel beyond the city on the outskirts of Paris, however, an additional ticket is required. At this point, the rate increases to 6 euros per unit ($9 CAD).

To buy RER tickets, we recommend using the SNCF Connect app. Very intuitive, it allows you to view timetables according to the destination selected, and buy tickets for the slots that suit you best. You won’t need to print them out; the QR code will be displayed directly in the app.

Please note, however, that on some routes, tickets must be stamped. This means you’ll need to scan your QR code on the station platforms before boarding the train.

Visiting Paris: A Practical Travel Guide to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games - Plan-RER-paris

Vélib’

Paris’s Vélib’ is like Montreal’s Bixi. And just like in Montreal, there are classic bikes and electric bikes.

There’s a Vélib’ station every 300 meters on average; there are over 1,400 in Paris and the Île-de-France region. Whatever your neighborhood, it’s easy to find a Vélib’ terminal close to your home or workplace.

A standard day pass costs 5 euros (just over 7 CAD) for 24 hours. It allows free use of conventional bicycles for the first half-hour. Beyond this period, the rate is 1 euro per additional half-hour.

No free time is granted for electric bikes. The fee is two euros for every thirty minutes.

To subscribe, go to the Vélib’ website.

Visiting Paris: A Practical Travel Guide to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games - paris transport

Which Credit Card Should I Use in Paris?

Visa, Mastercard and American Express credit cards are accepted in Paris. However, the Olympic Games have Visa as an official partner. So, Visa credit cards are the only ones accepted by the Official Store and at Paris 2024 Olympic Games venues.

To avoid paying the unpleasant 2.5% conversion fee on all foreign currency transactions, the only VISA credit card in Canada that doesn’t charge it is the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card.

Annual fee
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Our valuation
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Milesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$350Total$350Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.

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With this welcome offer for the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card +* CardMC, you’ll earn 25,000 welcome bonus Scene+ points after charging $2,000 in purchases to your account within the first three months.

Plus, every year, earn an annual bonus of at least 10,000 Scene+ points when you charge at least $40,000 in purchases to your account. In total, the offer represents up to 35,000 Scene+ points and a value of up to $1,250 in the first year, including rewards, savings on foreign transaction fees and airport lounge access.

With the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card, you earn 3 points per $1 spent at Sobeys, IGA, Safeway, Foodland and participating Co-ops, and 2 points per $1 spent at other grocery stores, restaurants, eligible entertainment and eligible daily transit. You earn 1 point per $1 on all your other everyday purchases.

These points can be redeemed against any travel purchase at a rate of 1,000 points = $10 (flights, hotels, all-inclusives and even Airbnb), or as cash back with Scene+ at the same rate.

The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card also offers:

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  • 6 complimentary airport VIP lounge passes
  • Excellent insurance for your travels and purchases
  • Visa Infinite* Concierge Services

We have named this credit card the Best Credit Card with No Foreign Transaction Fees in 2024, 2025, and 2026.

Annual fee

Primary card$150
Additional card$50

Annual income required

Individual$60,000
Household$100,000

Conversion fees

0%

Earning rate

  • 2xGroceries
  • 2xRestaurants
  • 2xTransit
  • 2xEntertainment
  • 1xAll spending

Value

1st Year Value$650
2nd Year Value$397

Card benefits

Concierge service24/7
Airport lounge access$240

Travel insurance

Travel medical (under 55)Up to $1,000,000 / 25 days
Travel medical (55-64)Up to $1,000,000 / 25 days
Travel medical (65+)Up to $1,000,000 / 3 days
Trip CancellationUp to $1,500
Trip InterruptionUp to $2,500
Delayed BaggageUp to $1,000
Lost BaggageUp to $1,000
Flight DelayUp to $500
Hotel BurglaryUp to $1,000
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000

Purchase protection

Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Auto Rental CollisionUp to $65,000 / 48 days

What are the Best Neighborhoods and Must-Sees in Paris?

Paris is a sprawling city, so you won’t have time to see everything in one visit. But to fully immerse yourself in the unique Parisian atmosphere, be sure to visit these neighborhoods, or even stay in them.

Visiting Paris: A Practical Travel Guide to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games - Paris-France

3rd and 4th Arrondissement – Le Marais

Nestled in the heart of Paris, the Marais is a historic gem where medieval architecture blends with a contemporary art scene. Stroll its cobbled streets to discover designer boutiques, avant-garde art galleries and quaint cafés. The start of the Paris Marathon during the 2024 Olympic Games will be held at the Hôtel de Ville de Paris, located in this neighbourhood.

Don’t miss the Place des Vosges, one of the city’s most beautiful squares. Fortunately, Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral should be reopened in time for the Olympic Games.

5th arrondissement – The Latin Quarter

Vibrant and lively, the Latin Quarter is the intellectual heart of Paris, home to the famous Sorbonne and numerous independent bookshops. Immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of student life as you stroll along boulevards lined with lively cafés and trendy boutiques.

Don’t forget to visit the Jardin du Luxembourg for a peaceful getaway in the heart of the city.

6th Arrondissement – Saint-Germain-des-Prés

The bohemian soul of Paris resides in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, an emblematic district that has been a favorite of intellectuals and artists for decades. Soak up the refined atmosphere as you stroll along its lively lanes, explore its fabulous bookshops and stop off at legendary cafés such as Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots.

7th Arrondissement – Palais-Bourbon

In the Trocadéro – Tour Eiffel – Champ-de-Mars area, there will be an area with free access for all, called the Parc des Champions. Every afternoon from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. (except August 2 to 4), the previous day’s medallists will parade on a stage in front of spectators to celebrate their victory and perform a « Walk of Fame »-style parade.

Make the most of being in this area to marvel at the Eiffel Tower, the Musée d’Orsay and the Pont de l’Alma. The Esplanade des Invalides in this neighbourhood will be the site of archery, athletics, cycling and the finish line of the famous marathon.

Visiting Paris: A Practical Travel Guide to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games - walk of fame paris

10th Arrondissement – The Canal Saint-Martin District

This emerging district offers a relaxed, trendy atmosphere, far from the tourist hustle and bustle. Stroll along the banks of the Canal Saint-Martin, lined with trendy cafés and vintage boutiques. It’s the ideal place to enjoy a picnic by the water or to stroll around on a sunny day.

18th Arrondissement – Montmartre

Perched on a hill, the Montmartre district charms visitors with its bohemian ambience and panoramic views over the city. Explore the steep alleyways that inspired artists such as Picasso and Van Gogh, visit the Sacré-Coeur Basilica and be enchanted by the magic of the Moulin Rouge.

19th Arrondissement – Buttes-Chaumont

In the Parc de la Villette, twenty temporary pavilions designed by architecture students will be erected for the Olympic Games. Each of these ships will be assigned to a country.

A host of entertainment, sports trials and events will be organized to celebrate the athletes and watch the Games on giant screens.

Reservations and registration are required before visiting the Parc de la Villette. Access is « free », but there is a registration fee to get in.

What to See Around Paris ?

Paris isn’t the only city worth visiting! When you’ve had enough of the hustle and bustle of the city, head for the provinces, where you’ll find a host of charming little villages steeped in history.

Versailles

Just a short distance from Paris, the majestic Château de Versailles rises in all its splendor. Explore the decadent royal apartments, stroll through the vast formal gardens, dotted with fountains and groves, and immerse yourself in the history of the French monarchy at the heart of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Fontainebleau

Nestled in the heart of the Fontainebleau forest, this historic town is home to the magnificent Château de Fontainebleau, another iconic royal residence. Admire its remarkable architecture, richly decorated rooms and peaceful gardens, where French history resonates around every corner.

Giverny

Immortalized by Impressionist artist Claude Monet, Giverny is a haven of peace where nature and art meet in harmony. Stroll through the enchanting gardens of Monet’s home, where the famous water lilies and Japanese bridges still inspire visitors from all over the world.

Chantilly

Surrounded by vast green expanses, the town of Chantilly is home to an architectural and cultural treasure: the Château de Chantilly. Discover its exceptional art collections, stroll through its formal gardens and watch dazzling equestrian shows in the magnificent setting of the Grandes Écuries.

What are the Local Customs to Respect?

Although French culture is somewhat similar to Quebec culture, there are some notable differences, particularly when it comes to tipping and shopping hours.

Visiting Paris: A Practical Travel Guide to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games - Boutique-Louvre-Paris 2024

Tipping

In France, the tipping culture is very different from that in Canada. As a general rule, the French are not in the habit of leaving a tip, unless they are particularly satisfied with the service, in which case they may leave an additional 5-10% of the bill.

Be sure to look at your bill before paying, as some restaurants include service charges on the bill. In this case, it’s not expected to add an extra amount.

Closing of Shops

Whereas in Canada, everything is open all the time, the situation is very different in France. Outside tourist areas, restaurants may be closed in the afternoon. So be sure to check restaurant schedules before planning your day. It’s not unusual for service to be interrupted between lunch and dinner, generally between 3 pm and 6 pm, or even 7 pm. Because in France, dinner is served much later than in Quebec. The French normally eat around 8 pm.

And don’t forget that most shops are closed on Sundays. Grocery stores are generally open in the morning, but normally close around 1 p.m.

Visit Paris during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games

Paris offers an unforgettable cultural and historical immersion, enriched by the excitement of the 2024 Olympic Games. With its emblematic monuments, picturesque districts and renowned gastronomy, Paris reveals its timeless charm and passion for sport. Let yourself be carried away by the magic of Paris!

Annual fee
$150
Our valuation
$350

Milesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$350Total$350Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.

Welcome offer
Up to 35,000 points

Ends Nov 1, 2026

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on Scotiabank's website

With this welcome offer for the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card +* CardMC, you’ll earn 25,000 welcome bonus Scene+ points after charging $2,000 in purchases to your account within the first three months.

Plus, every year, earn an annual bonus of at least 10,000 Scene+ points when you charge at least $40,000 in purchases to your account. In total, the offer represents up to 35,000 Scene+ points and a value of up to $1,250 in the first year, including rewards, savings on foreign transaction fees and airport lounge access.

With the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card, you earn 3 points per $1 spent at Sobeys, IGA, Safeway, Foodland and participating Co-ops, and 2 points per $1 spent at other grocery stores, restaurants, eligible entertainment and eligible daily transit. You earn 1 point per $1 on all your other everyday purchases.

These points can be redeemed against any travel purchase at a rate of 1,000 points = $10 (flights, hotels, all-inclusives and even Airbnb), or as cash back with Scene+ at the same rate.

The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card also offers:

  • No fees for foreign currency transactions
  • 6 complimentary airport VIP lounge passes
  • Excellent insurance for your travels and purchases
  • Visa Infinite* Concierge Services

We have named this credit card the Best Credit Card with No Foreign Transaction Fees in 2024, 2025, and 2026.

Annual fee

Primary card$150
Additional card$50

Annual income required

Individual$60,000
Household$100,000

Conversion fees

0%

Earning rate

  • 2xGroceries
  • 2xRestaurants
  • 2xTransit
  • 2xEntertainment
  • 1xAll spending

Value

1st Year Value$650
2nd Year Value$397

Card benefits

Concierge service24/7
Airport lounge access$240

Travel insurance

Travel medical (under 55)Up to $1,000,000 / 25 days
Travel medical (55-64)Up to $1,000,000 / 25 days
Travel medical (65+)Up to $1,000,000 / 3 days
Trip CancellationUp to $1,500
Trip InterruptionUp to $2,500
Delayed BaggageUp to $1,000
Lost BaggageUp to $1,000
Flight DelayUp to $500
Hotel BurglaryUp to $1,000
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000

Purchase protection

Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Auto Rental CollisionUp to $65,000 / 48 days

Our featured card

Annual fee
$150
Our valuation
$350

Milesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$350Total$350Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.

Welcome offer
Up to 35,000 points

Ends Nov 1, 2026

Apply Now

on Scotiabank's website

With this welcome offer for the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card +* CardMC, you’ll earn 25,000 welcome bonus Scene+ points after charging $2,000 in purchases to your account within the first three months.

Plus, every year, earn an annual bonus of at least 10,000 Scene+ points when you charge at least $40,000 in purchases to your account. In total, the offer represents up to 35,000 Scene+ points and a value of up to $1,250 in the first year, including rewards, savings on foreign transaction fees and airport lounge access.

With the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card, you earn 3 points per $1 spent at Sobeys, IGA, Safeway, Foodland and participating Co-ops, and 2 points per $1 spent at other grocery stores, restaurants, eligible entertainment and eligible daily transit. You earn 1 point per $1 on all your other everyday purchases.

These points can be redeemed against any travel purchase at a rate of 1,000 points = $10 (flights, hotels, all-inclusives and even Airbnb), or as cash back with Scene+ at the same rate.

The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card also offers:

  • No fees for foreign currency transactions
  • 6 complimentary airport VIP lounge passes
  • Excellent insurance for your travels and purchases
  • Visa Infinite* Concierge Services

We have named this credit card the Best Credit Card with No Foreign Transaction Fees in 2024, 2025, and 2026.

Annual fee

Primary card$150
Additional card$50

Annual income required

Individual$60,000
Household$100,000

Conversion fees

0%

Earning rate

  • 2xGroceries
  • 2xRestaurants
  • 2xTransit
  • 2xEntertainment
  • 1xAll spending

Value

1st Year Value$650
2nd Year Value$397

Card benefits

Concierge service24/7
Airport lounge access$240

Travel insurance

Travel medical (under 55)Up to $1,000,000 / 25 days
Travel medical (55-64)Up to $1,000,000 / 25 days
Travel medical (65+)Up to $1,000,000 / 3 days
Trip CancellationUp to $1,500
Trip InterruptionUp to $2,500
Delayed BaggageUp to $1,000
Lost BaggageUp to $1,000
Flight DelayUp to $500
Hotel BurglaryUp to $1,000
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000

Purchase protection

Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Auto Rental CollisionUp to $65,000 / 48 days

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