The 7 most visited monuments in Paris during the Olympic Games
During the Olympic Games, Paris’ iconic monuments attract even bigger crowds. From the majestic Eiffel Tower to the Château de Versailles, each site offers a unique experience.
The Eiffel Tower: the Parisian icon
The Paris 2024 Olympic Games have attracted crowds from all over the world. The Eiffel Tower, an unrivalled symbol of Paris, continues to captivate visitors with its majestic presence. Every year, this icon attracts millions of people. And during the Olympic Games, its legendary charm was further enhanced by the excitement of the event. Visitors flocked to admire the spectacular view of Paris from its floors. Particularly during the illuminated evenings, when the tower sparkled with a thousand lights.
Tour Eiffel – Av. Gustave Eiffel, 75007 Paris
The Louvre: the palace of masterpieces
The Louvre, a palace of artistic wonders, also remained a must-see during the Olympic Games. Home to masterpieces such as the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo… The museum saw a significant increase in tourist numbers. Visitors took the opportunity to explore its vast collections, combining sport and culture in a prestigious setting. The Louvre has become a place where France’s artistic heritage blends with the celebration of sporting achievements.
Musée du Louvre – 75001 Paris
Notre-Dame de Paris: the historic beacon
Despite ongoing restoration work following the devastating fire of 2019, Notre-Dame de Paris continued to attract the fascinated gaze of tourists. The renovation work has given rise to guided tours that allow visitors to discover the history and architecture of this iconic cathedral. The ongoing restoration has not diminished Notre-Dame’s importance, and its presence remains an essential pillar of Parisian heritage, even in times of great excitement.
Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral – 6 Parvis Notre-Dame – Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris
The Arc de Triomphe: a monument to victory
The Arc de Triomphe, located at the top of the Champs-Élysées, also gained in importance during the Olympic Games. A historic monument par excellence, it offered a remarkable vantage point over the Olympic celebrations. Spectators and tourists flocked to admire this imposing structure, which commemorates French military victories. The Arc was a popular gathering place, allowing visitors to feel the spirit of victory and France’s military history.
Arc de Triomphe – Pl. Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris
The Musée d’Orsay: Impressionist works
The Musée d’Orsay, famous for its vast collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art, was another major cultural meeting point during the Olympics. Housed in a former railway station, the museum featured works by masters such as Monet and Van Gogh. This attracts art lovers in search of an enriching visual experience. With its rich collections and unique architecture, the Musée d’Orsay provided an artistic touch to the excitement of the Games.
Musée d’Orsay – Esplanade Valéry Giscard d’Estaing, 75007 Paris
Sacré-Cœur: for a panoramic view of Paris
The Sacré-Coeur, perched on Montmartre hill, offered visitors a spectacular panoramic view of Paris during the Olympic Games. This iconic basilica was a place of contemplation and celebration for spectators who wanted to take a moment to admire the city from an elevated angle. The Sacré-Coeur, often less frequented than other monuments, saw an increased number of visitors during this special period.
Basilique du Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre – 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018 Paris
The Centre Pompidou: modernity and innovation
The Centre Pompidou, with its avant-garde architecture and modern art collection, has attracted lovers of contemporary art and architecture. This iconic museum, known for its colorful exterior pipes and innovative exhibitions, offered a modern alternative to the classical traditions of other monuments. In collaboration with Nike, the cultural establishment displays a giant canvas on its façade, illustrating the athletes supported by the American sports equipment manufacturer.
Center Pompidou – Place Georges-Pompidou, 75004 Paris
The Château de Versailles: royal splendor on the periphery
Just a few kilometers from Paris, the Château de Versailles was also very popular during the Olympic Games. This majestic palace, with its French gardens and royal history, continued to attract visitors in search of luxury and historical splendor. Visitors were able to explore the royal apartments and extensive gardens, enjoying an educational yet spectacular excursion on the outskirts of the capital, in keeping with the ambiance of the Olympic Games.
Château de Versailles – Place d’Armes, 78000 Versailles