The modern Olympics began on April 6, 1896, in Athens, reviving a tradition from ancient Greece that had been banned by Roman Emperor Theodosius I 1,500 years prior. The revival was spearheaded by Baron Pierre de Coubertin, who convened various international sports organizations at the Sorbonne University in Paris on June 23, 1894. The first modern Olympic Games saw participation from 13 countries.
Paris 2024 Olympic Games
The Paris 2024 Olympic Games will take place from July 26 to August 11, followed by the Paralympic Games from August 28 to September 8. Here’s what you need to know if you plan to attend.
Olympic Venues
Most events will be held in Paris, including:
– Fencing and Taekwondo: Grand Palais
– Beach Volleyball and Blind Football: Stade Eiffel
– Swimming, Triathlon, and On-Road Cycling: Pont Alexandre III
Other key venues include:
– Football: Various cities like Bordeaux, Nantes, Lyon, Saint-Etienne, Nice, and Marseille
– Handball: Pierre de Mauroy stadium in Lille
– Sailing: Marina of Marseille
– Surfing: Teahupo’o wave in Tahiti
Tickets
Nearly 10 million tickets for the Olympics and 3.4 million for the Paralympics are available for purchase. Tickets can be bought at [paris24tickets.com](https://www.paris24tickets.com) and managed via the ‘Paris 2024 Tickets’ app. Only tickets purchased through official channels are valid.
Resale of Tickets
The official resale platform allows for tickets to be resold up to 12 hours before the event starts. Unauthorised resale outside official channels is illegal.
Getting Around
Expect several metro stations and roads to be closed. Pedestrians, cyclists, and users of skateboards and scooters can access blue and red perimeters. Vélib’ self-service bicycles will be available, and cargo bikes can enter the red perimeter after inspection. Spectators with tickets or accreditation need to present ID at specific entry points.
Accommodation
Book accommodation early, with options including Airbnb and hotel brands like ibis, Novotel, and Sofitel. For more choices, visit Paris je t’aime for hotels, youth hostels, and bed and breakfasts.
Free Events
– Triathlon: Swimming, cycling, and running events are free to watch, except for specific ticketed stands.
– Marathon: Open to spectators, covering a route between Paris and Versailles.
– Marathon Swimming: Six loops of 1.67 km in the Seine.
– Road Cycling: Accessible free of charge along the route.
Fan Zones
Paris City Hall will set up 25 fan zones with giant screens, activities, and refreshment stands. Champions Park at Trocadéro will be open daily for fans to meet medal winners.
Opening & Closing Ceremonies
The Olympic Games Opening Ceremony on July 26 will take place along the river Seine, from the Austerlitz Bridge to the Trocadéro, rather than in a stadium. Entry is ticketed or by invitation only.
New Disciplines
– Breaking (Breakdancing): Making its Olympic debut with events on August 9 and 10.
– Sport Climbing, Skateboarding, and Surfing: Also debuting at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Prepare for an exciting experience at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, with numerous events and activities to enjoy.