Paris 2024 Olympics travel checklist for visitors: everything you need to know

The Paris 2024 Olympics are the sporting event of the year, and if you're planning to attend, this Paris 2024 Olympics travel checklist for visitors will help you organise every detail. From ticket purchases to packing and security, this list covers all the essentials so you can enjoy the games without surprises. Paris in July and August will be packed with tourists, so early planning is key.

As a European visitor, you’ll have advantages in transport and access, but also challenges like high demand for accommodation or mobility restrictions in Olympic zones. This checklist is designed to ensure you don’t miss anything: paperwork, documents, logistics, and practical tips tailored to the season and location.

What this checklist includes

Tickets and accreditations, accommodation options, transport within Paris, essential packing, and security measures. Each task is a concrete action, ordered by priority and with real deadlines (e.g., buying tickets or booking trains months in advance).

• Check the validity of your ID or passport (must be valid for at least 6 months)
• Purchase event tickets on the official Paris 2024 website before they sell out
• Register your tickets in the official Paris 2024 app for updates and maps
• Book flexible-cancellation accommodation (hotel, Airbnb, or hostel) near Olympic zones or with good transport links
• Buy train or flight tickets in advance (use Ouigo, Renfe-SNCF, or budget airlines to save money)
• Get the Paris 2024 Travel Pass (tourist transport pass) or top up a Navigo card if staying longer than 3 days
• Download essential apps: RATP (public transport), Citymapper, offline Google Maps, and the official Paris 2024 app
• Pack an emergency kit with face masks, hand sanitiser, and basic medicines (paracetamol, plasters, etc.)
• Bring comfortable, lightweight clothing (July-August in Paris is hot, with possible rain)
• Include sturdy shoes for walking long distances and a small backpack for daily use
• Pack a type E plug adapter (French standard) and a power bank for your phone
• Bring a reusable water bottle (public fountains and refill points are available in the city)
• Print physical copies of tickets, accommodation bookings, and transport tickets in case your phone fails
• Save digital copies of important documents (passport, travel insurance, cards) on your phone and cloud
• Take out travel insurance covering cancellations, theft, and medical assistance in France
• Check luggage restrictions on public transport (avoid large suitcases on the metro or bus)
• Plan alternative routes to avoid traffic-restricted zones during events
• Carry cash in euros (around 100-200 EUR) in case cards aren’t accepted at small stalls or in emergencies
• Learn basic French phrases for communication (e.g., 'Where is the metro station?', 'How much does it cost?')
• Activate international roaming or buy a French SIM card (Orange, SFR, or Free Mobile) for mobile data