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Paris Olympics: budget hacks for an epic summer

The clock is ticking towards the grand opening of the Paris games! From July 26th to August 11th, 2024, the City of Lights will become the heart of the sporting world, welcoming 10,000 athletes and an estimated 15 million visitors.

Maybe you’ve dreamt of witnessing this historic event firsthand, but ticket prices might have you feeling a little discouraged. Don’t worry, because this guide is here to show you that experiencing the city doesn’t require a hefty budget or coveted event tickets.

Here’s how to embrace the festive atmosphere of Paris on a budget.

Facing Reality: Ticket Prices

Let’s be honest, attending official events can be a challenge. Ticket prices started at a seemingly reasonable € 90 for the opening ceremony, but as of April, the cheapest available option is a whopping € 500, with most tickets hovering around a staggering €2,700! 

But don’t despair! There’s still a chance to snag tickets on the official Paris 2024 website. We found a few options, but they come with expensive hospitality packages that include VIP treatment and access to lounges. The most affordable option? Waterpolo at €125. If your heart is set on specific sports like Tennis, be prepared to shell out at least €195, while Football (soccer) starts at € 235, and Gymnastics and Beach Volleyball begin at €525 — that is if you’re lucky enough to find a ticket.

The good news? The website promises regular ticket releases, so keep checking back for a lucky break.

How much does it cost to get to Paris for the Olympics?

One of the great advantages of Paris is that it is so well connected to the rest of the world. Travelers can fly into one of the city’s three international airports, take trains, buses, drive or carpool to Paris. It all depends on the budget and on where you are coming from, of course.

If the train is your preferred choice, book your tickets as soon as possible, as they’re already selling out.
For budget-conscious travelers, buses offer the ultimate win-win situation: affordability and comfort.

With growing investments in green travel, companies are making bus journeys to Paris from various European cities an attractive and eco-friendly option.

Here at Busbud, we connect you with the best deals, making your Olympic dream a reality. As of April, here’s a taste of what you can expect (keep in mind prices may fluctuate closer to the event):

London to Paris – from €55
Brussels to Paris – from €14
Barcelona to Paris – from €40
Amsterdam to Paris – from €23

Remember, these are just starting points, and booking in advance is crucial!

Where to stay in Paris

Accommodation options in Paris are as diverse as the city itself, but it’s likely that this will be the most expensive item on your travel budget. Here’s a breakdown to suit every budget:

  • Hotels: The most expensive option, but perfect for those who crave luxury and convenience.
  • Airbnb & Rental Apartments: Ideal for groups, offering more space and sometimes kitchen facilities, allowing you to save on dining out.
  • Hostels: A social and budget-friendly option, perfect for meeting fellow travelers.
  • Couchsurfing: The ultimate budget hack, allowing you to crash on a local’s couch for free (arrangements made in advance are crucial).

Don’t forget to explore staying in the Parisian outskirts. While it might add some travel time, you’ll be surprised by the charming neighborhoods and significant savings!

How to enjoy the Olympics on a budget (and without a ticket to a competition)

During the Games, the entire city transforms into a vibrant celebration of sports. With millions of visitors from all over the world, Paris will be buzzing with excitement. Luckily, you don’t need a ticket to experience the Olympic spirit – being there will be enough!

Here are some free ways to enjoy the Games:

1 – See the winners at the Champions Park in Trocadero

Located near the Eiffel Tower, Champions Park is a free zone open from July 29th to August 10th. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy the Olympic vibe, as folks from all over can come together to cheer on their favorite athletes. Here are some highlights:

  • Meet the Winners: For the first time ever, Olympic champions will be greeting fans daily from 4:30 PM to 11:30 PM.
  • Victory Parades: Celebrate the champions with special parades showcasing yesterday’s winners.
  • Live Broadcasts: Watch the biggest Olympic finals on giant screens.
  • Cultural & Artistic Events: Enjoy performances, exhibits, and more, making Champions Park a festive gathering place.
The Champions Park will be set up right next to the Eiffel Tower

2 – Head to the Fan Zones

About 25 sites will be spread out throughout Paris. These free spaces will be set up for people to watch the games, which will be broadcast on giant screens. At the Paris 2024 fan zones, you can expect a mix of sports demos and tryouts, showing how sports are part of everyday life and bringing athletes closer to the public.

Plus, there’ll be entertainment, food, and chill spots where you can relax, all showcasing French culture and local talents. And don’t miss out on the cultural events like concerts and interactive experiences—they’ll make the atmosphere even more lively and inclusive, bringing everyone together to celebrate Paris 2024.

3 – Feel the energy of the games at Parc de la Villete

Another place you should check out while in Paris is the Parc de la Villete, which will be transformed into a global village, a hub for sports enthusiasts. Several committees will have their own spaces around the park, in areas designed to celebrate the sports and world culture. Expect a vibrant atmosphere filled with celebratory events, exhibitions showcasing the rich history of the Olympics, and interactive activities. 

  • Club France: This dedicated space will allow fans to celebrate French athletes and unite them with fans.
  • International Presence: Olympic and Paralympic committees from around the world will be present, creating a global village atmosphere.
  • Open-Air Sports Facility: Witness exciting displays of various sports.

4 – Free Events: Catch a Glimpse of Olympic Action

The beauty of some Olympic sports lies in their open-air nature, taking place on city streets or on water, allowing you to witness parts of the action for free with some planning. It’s just a matter of being at the right place, at the right time. 

You can cheer on marathon runners as they race past iconic landmarks like the Hôtel de Ville and the Seine River. The triathlon competition also follows a course through some of the city’s most recognizable areas, including the Alexandre-III bridge, the Grand Palais, and the Champs-Élysées.

If cycling is your thing, the Champs-Élysées is the place to witness athletes speeding down the famous avenue. Rowing and open-water swimming competitions might also be partially accessible from specific locations.

5 – Enjoy the city

While attending ticketed events is a highlight of the Olympics, don’t overlook exploring the city during this transformative period. The entire city will be filled with energy, offering unique opportunities to celebrate with both locals and visitors.

Take a stroll down the bustling streets, adorned with Olympic banners, and experience the electric atmosphere. You might find unexpected Olympic celebrations or spontaneous street performances that add to the festive spirit.

Embrace the city’s vibrant energy and let the Olympic spirit guide your exploration. Paris, adorned in its Olympic best, promises to be a unique backdrop for creating lasting memories beyond the official events.

You can still make it to Pars! Book your tickets on Busbud

With Busbud’s budget-friendly travel options, the Paris 2024 Olympics are within reach. Start planning your adventure today! Visit Busbud to compare prices, book your tickets, and get ready to experience the magic of Paris during this historic event.

Start planning your trip today!

 

Luisa Wink

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