Walk in Paris on the traces of the Olympic and Paralympic Games

• Walk along the Seine

The Seine was the stage for an unforgettable Olympic opening ceremony, applauded around the world. The parade of national boats and artistic performances on the water, on the bridges, and along the banks showcased the beauty of the French capital. What better way to relive those magical moments and soak in the Parisian atmosphere than by taking a stroll along the river? Start on Île Saint-Louis for an idyllic walk along the water. Take a tour of the island and treat yourself to a moment of indulgence at the famous Berthillon ice cream shop. Then wander toward Île de la Cité and the newly renovated Notre-Dame. You can also embark on a Seine cruise, during which you will discover Parisian monuments from a different angle, while dreaming of the grand spectacle of the Games.

Lunch: At Saint Régis on Île Saint-Louis, for delicious bistro dishes. 6 Rue Jean du Bellay, 75004 Paris.

• La Conciergerie

Your walk to Notre-Dame de Paris will lead you a few steps from La Conciergerie. And if you’ve chosen to cruise on the Seine, the Bateaux Mouches will offer a stop near this iconic monument. Once there, you’ll likely relive the electrifying performance of the French metal band Gojira at the Olympic opening ceremony. From the balconies of La Conciergerie, the band made a lasting impression, reminding everyone of the building's central role in French history. This iconic moment even won a Grammy Award at the February 2, 2025 ceremony. Let yourself be enchanted once again by this medieval monument, which was once a prison for Marie-Antoinette, and dive into the turmoil of the French Revolution, live this time.

• Montmartre

Your steps will then lead you to Montmartre, a beloved district of Parisians. The streets of this bohemian enclave hosted the cycling events of Paris 2024, and you’ll no doubt recall the powerful images of cyclists climbing the steep hills of the district. Climb your way to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica for a panoramic view of Paris and stroll through the charming cobbled streets of the 18th arrondissement. You can also visit the famous vineyards of Montmartre, have a caricature drawn at Place du Tertre, or enjoy a drink in the hidden gardens of Hôtel Particulier (23 Av. Junot, 75018 Paris).

Where to Sleep: Settle into the new Maison Barrière Vendôme. Stay for three nights at this 5-star hotel located between Place Vendôme and the Tuileries Garden. Each room is a tribute to a historical female figure.

Take a moment to capture the view. From the Arc de Triomphe, where you begin your second day, to the Louvre Pyramid, you have before you a historic axis connecting the Louvre Museum to La Défense.

• The Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe, a well-known symbol of the French capital, was a key point for the cycling events and the marathon during the Paris 2024 Games. What an unforgettable image to see the Arc framing the runners in all its glory. Climb to the top of the Arc for a spectacular view of the “most beautiful avenue in the world” and the city. You can almost hear the cheers of the spectators echoing endlessly, while the giant tricolor flag flies over Paris.

• The Place de la Concorde

Never before had urban events like skateboarding and breaking looked so stylish. The Luxor Obelisk and the majestic fountains transformed into a 35,000-seat arena gave them an unforgettable backdrop! In fact, photographers didn’t miss the chance to capture probably the most beautiful shots of the Olympic edition during the BMX events. We’ll always remember that photo of athlete Anthony Jeanjean upside down at the tip of the monument, perpendicular to the Obelisk.

The Place de la Concorde is equally beautiful without an arena. Its iron fountains, gilded in the most symbolic areas, the Fountain of the Seas and the Fountain of the Rivers, are among the monuments that one must see in their lifetime.

Lunch: At Chez Nonos by Paul Pairet. A chef’s menu in the heart of Crillon, very accessible for lunch.

• The Tuileries Garden

It offered true dream-like moments for Parisians and tourists, and the Olympic cauldron, symbol of the Games, will make its grand return to the Tuileries every summer until the Los Angeles 2028 Games. From June 23 to September 14, 2025, rediscover this majestic helium balloon, and dive back into the magical ambiance of the Games. Take the opportunity to stroll through this divine French garden, with flowerbeds, statues, and fountains. It’s an ideal spot for relaxation, with a stunning view of the royal axis connecting the Louvre to the Arc de Triomphe. Don’t forget to bring a good book to relax on the iconic green steel chairs of the Tuileries.

• The Louvre Pyramid

How moving it was to see images of marathon runners crossing the sun in front of the glass reflections of the Louvre Pyramid. The visionary Ieoh Ming Pei’s monument adds something even more spectacular to the majestic Louvre. It’s a bright portal opening to the world’s largest museum, which you should definitely visit.

• The Grand Palais

The Grand Palais hosted the fencing and taekwondo events, highlighting its architecture and the spectacular, newly renovated nave. A visit is a must to rediscover the original decor, with the statuary, facades, and interior ornaments now shining again, reminding us of the grandeur of this monument. One of the most striking aspects of this renovation is the reopening of historical perspectives. The views between the Nave and the Palais de la Découverte, as well as between the Champs-Élysées and the Seine, have been restored, offering visitors an unprecedented visual and spatial experience.

More information about the Grand Palais reopening

Lunch: At Substance, chef Matthias Marc’s restaurant that pays tribute to the colors of his native Jura region, now a must-visit in the 16th arrondissement of Paris.

• The Trocadéro

The Trocadéro was a key location for spectators, hosting the Park of Champions that daily celebrated Olympic medalists. We will always remember the little international flags proudly waved by supporters under the watchful eye of the Eiffel Tower. Enjoy this incredible view of the Iron Lady from the Trocadéro Gardens. It’s the perfect spot to take quintessentially Parisian photos.

• The Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower, proudly adorned with the Olympic rings, was the highlight of the celebrations, with fireworks and projections throughout the Games. We’ll forever remember Céline Dion’s performance at the opening ceremony, singing Hymne à l’amour from the second floor, in front of an audience moved to tears. Her custom Dior dress in white georgette silk, embroidered with pearls, will illuminate our memories for a long time. Head to the top of the Eiffel Tower for a breathtaking view of Paris. In the evening, admire its twinkling lights. The Olympic rings have been removed, but the spirit of the Games is still very much present.

The Sun King would surely have been proud of Versailles' major role during the Paris 2024 Games, hosting events worthy of the palace, such as shooting, fencing, and equestrian sports. Finish your Olympic and Paralympic Games itinerary with a day visit to the palace and its gardens. Imagine the riders performing in this sumptuous setting, and dive into the history of French monarchy. The Hall of Mirrors, Trianon, basins, and fountains – Versailles reveals its most magnificent treasures one by one.

Read: 24 hours at Versailles with Marie-Antoinette

Lunch: Picnic in the gardens or enjoy a lunch at Pierre Hermé café in the sublime Hôtel les Lumières.