What else can you do in Paris, France besides watching the Olympics?
While Paris will be buzzing with the excitement of the Olympics and Paralympics this summer, there are plenty of other activities and sights for those looking to escape the sports frenzy or simply explore more of the city. Here are some of the best exhibitions, hikes, food festivals, and unique experiences you can enjoy in Paris this summer.
Visit Paris Plages From July to September, Paris transforms its riverbanks into sandy beaches. Relax on a sun lounger under a palm tree in a cityscape transformed into a tropical paradise. The variety of activities, from beach volleyball to street performances, showcases Parisians' love for life and leisure, making Paris Plages a perfect retreat from the Olympic buzz.
Apéro Evenings at The Hood Located in the 11th arrondissement, The Hood is not just a restaurant but a cultural oasis known for its Asian cuisine. During the summer, their apéro evenings become a ritual of community and cuisine. From Singaporean satay to vegan fried tofu with homemade mustard mayo, each dish tells a story of distant lands. Don't miss the sake tasting sessions, where the flavors of the Far East meet French soil in a unique cultural blend.
Sports-Themed Exhibitions For those interested in Olympic history, book tickets for the Louvre's "Olympism" exhibit (April 24 to September 16, 2024), detailing the establishment of the modern Olympics in the 19th century. The Luxembourg Museum's "MATCH: Design and Sport—A Story of the Future" (March 11 to August 11, 2024) displays historic and iconic designs that have contributed to the sports world, from the first sports bra, Jogbra, to the Speedo LZR Racer swimsuit developed by NASA scientists.
Gatherings by the Seine The summer terraces along the Seine are central to Parisian social life. The OFF Paris Seine hotel and Chouchou Hotel's summer camps offer vibrant spots with their pop-up bars and diverse terraces. Enjoy an apéritif under the olive trees with dishes of pork, duck, or crab pâté, complemented by signature cocktails, music, and live performances.
Open-Air Cinema Experience While the annual open-air cinema at La Villette has been canceled to accommodate Olympic events, Hotel Paradiso offers an alternative with its rooftop summer cinema. Weather permitting, every Sunday from June to September at 9:30 PM, enjoy a French or international film—sometimes in English. Booking is essential as tickets sell out quickly. Try to get a drink before the movie starts and watch the sunset.
Beyond these activities, Paris in summer offers countless other opportunities. From historic markets to hidden gardens, from ancient bookshops to modern art galleries, every corner of Paris tells a story. Whether you're hunting for treasures at the antique markets in the Marais or relaxing in the shade of Luxembourg Gardens, immerse yourself in the Parisian way of life.
Parisian cuisine is also an essential part of any summer exploration. From street-side bakeries to five-star restaurants, every flavor reflects the city's deep culinary traditions and innovative spirit. Summer is the perfect time to try new tastes, whether sampling fresh seafood and cheese at outdoor markets or enjoying an exquisite dinner in a secluded courtyard.
Paris in summer is poetic, colorful, and endless. Every visit, whether immersed in Olympic fervor or strolling through historic streets, deeply connects you to the unique charm of the city. Paris in summer is like a carefully painted canvas, vibrant with life and rich with emotion, inviting visitors from around the world to share in its beauty and warmth. Remember to schedule your france visa appointment and schengen visa appointment through trusted schengen visa agents for a smooth travel experience.
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