How to Enjoy the Paris Olympics Without Breaking the Bank

Wondering how to enjoy the Paris Olympics for free?

As anticipation of the Paris Olympics grows, so does the cost of enjoying them in Paris. According to the Financial Times, rates in the capital have surged by up to 30% ahead of this internationally renowned spectacle.

Such an increase might be discouraging, but don’t let it dissuade you from experiencing this global event in the heart of France.

Prices for accommodation, food and drinks, transportation, and excursions have all seen a substantial increase.

However, with some smart planning and insider tips, you can still make the most of your visit to Paris during the Olympics without breaking the bank.

No 1 Explore Accommodation Alternatives

Exploring accommodation alternatives for the Paris Olympics doesn’t have to be a wallet-emptying experience. Ditch the overpriced hotels and consider more budget-friendly options.

• Short-term Rental Apartments: Platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo often feature listings that can be significantly cheaper than hotels. Look for properties in the 19th and 20th arrondissements where prices are typically lower.
• Hostels: For solo travellers or those who don’t mind sharing space, hostels offer a cost-effective solution. St. Christopher’s Inn Canal or The Loft Boutique Hostel in Paris are popular choices among budget-conscious visitors.
• Camping: Believe it or not, Paris has several camping sites such as Camping de Paris, which is just 15 minutes from the city centre. It offers a unique and inexpensive way to stay during the games.
• Homestays: Platforms like Couchsurfing or HomeExchange allow you to stay with locals or exchange homes, which can dramatically reduce your lodging expenses.

No 2 Take Advantage of Free Events

The Paris Olympics 2024 offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the festivities without spending a euro. Here’s how you can immerse yourself in the Olympic spirit for free:

1. Marathon and Road Cycling: The streets of Paris will come alive with the excitement of the marathon and road cycling events. These competitions have routes that wind through iconic locations in the city, allowing spectators to watch the athletes in action at no cost. The marathon, for instance, takes a scenic route from Paris City Hall to the Esplanade des Invalides, making it easy for you to catch the action along this stretch.
2. Opening Ceremony on the Seine: In a historic first, the opening ceremony will be held on the Seine River, allowing the public to view the parade of athletes from the riverbanks and bridges. This spectacular setup ensures that anyone can join in the celebration and witness the grandeur of the Olympics.
3. Fan Zones Across Paris: Paris will be dotted with 25 free fan zones, such as the Champions Park at Trocadéro and Club France in Parc de la Villette. These zones will broadcast the games on giant screens and host a variety of entertainment activities, making them perfect spots to enjoy the Olympics in a festive atmosphere.

These free events mean you don’t have to bust the budget to take part, in fact, you won’t have to spend a cent. 

Whether it’s cheering on the marathon runners or watching the opening ceremony, there are plenty of ways to soak in the Olympic spirit freely and joyfully.

No 3 The Paris 2024 Transport Pass

For those attending the Paris 2024 Olympics and looking for convenient transportation options, the Paris 2024 Pass is a practical choice. This special pass, priced at €16 per day or €70 for a week, offers unlimited travel across all zones of the public transportation network, including trips to both Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports. 

This pass is particularly useful given that some Olympic events will take place in the suburbs, requiring travel across the city.

The public transportation system will be under significant demand during the Olympics, with fare increases expected due to the enhanced services. For instance, a single Metro ticket’s price will rise from €2.10 to €4. 

To navigate efficiently and affordably during the Games, purchasing the Paris 2024 Pass can offer considerable savings and convenience compared to regular ticket prices, especially for those needing multiple trips per day or travelling to various event locations across the Paris region.

No 4 Eat Like a Local in Paris During the Olympics

Experiencing Paris during the Olympics doesn’t mean you have to splurge on dining. Here are some affordable dining options and markets where you can eat like a local, avoiding the tourist traps:

Bistros and Brasseries:

• Le Bouillon Chartier (7 Rue du Faubourg Montmartre, 9th arrondissement): An institution since 1896, offering hearty French meals at very reasonable prices.
• Chez Gladines (Multiple locations, including 30 Rue des cinq Diamants, 13th arrondissement): Known for its Basque-style dishes and vibrant atmosphere, with generous portions that won’t break the bank.

Street Food and Markets

• Marché d’Aligre (Place d’Aligre, 12th arrondissement): One of the less touristy markets where locals shop for fresh produce, cheeses, and meats. It’s also surrounded by small eateries serving up affordable meals.
• Rue des Rosiers in the Marais (4th arrondissement): Famous for its falafel shops like L’As du Fallafel, offering delicious and budget-friendly street food.

Specific Dishes and Food Experiences

• Crêpes: Try a crêpe from a street vendor or a small crêperie; they’re inexpensive and can be filled with anything from ham and cheese to sweet Nutella.
• Croque-monsieur: This classic French grilled cheese and ham sandwich is a staple at most cafes and a filling, affordable meal option.
• Onion Soup: Perfect for cooler evenings, traditional French onion soup can be found at many cafes and bistros for a comforting and economical choice.

Picnic Like a Parisian:

Picnicking by the Seine or in one of Paris’ parks: Purchase supplies from local markets like Marché Bastille (Boulevard Richard Lenoir) or from any local boulangerie (bakery) and charcuterie (deli). Items like fresh baguettes, cheese, and charcuterie are perfect for a budget-friendly meal with a view.

No 5 Find the FREE Tourist Hotspots and Attractions

Paris offers an array of free or low-cost attractions that allow visitors to enjoy the city’s rich culture and history without spending a fortune. Here’s a list of some of the best free sights and experiences, including specific days when entry fees are waived:

Museums and Cultural Sites

• Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris: Admission to the permanent collections is free.
• Maison de Victor Hugo: Explore the home where the famed French writer lived, at no cost.
• First Sundays: Many museums in Paris offer free entry on the first Sunday of each month, including the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay (from October to March).

Historical Sites

• Basilica of Saint-Denis: Free to enter and the first Gothic church, which houses the tombs of many French kings and queens.
• Sacré-Cœur Basilica: No charge to enter and you can also enjoy a panoramic view of Paris from the steps outside.

Parks and Gardens:

• Parc des Buttes-Chaumont: One of the largest and most beautiful parks in Paris, perfect for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.
• Jardin du Luxembourg: These famed gardens are free to the public and host a range of statues, fountains, and beautiful floral arrangements.

Iconic Streets and Neighborhoods

• Montmartre: Wander through this historic district for free and enjoy street artists and quaint cafes.
• Banks of the Seine: Stroll along the river for picturesque views of many of Paris’s major sights.
• The Latin Quarter: Home to Shakespeare and Company Bookshop and the setting for a lot of scenes from Emily in Paris and Midnight in Paris.

Modern Attractions

• La Défense’s Art Trail: Discover modern sculptures and impressive buildings in Paris’s business district.
• Canal St-Martin: Ideal for a relaxing walk or a picnic, this lesser-known area offers a different vibe from central Paris.

Whether you’re into art, history, or just soaking in the ambience of different neighbourhoods, Paris has plenty of options that won’t cost you a cent.