It’s almost time for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris to kick off.
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As usual, the Olympic Games have brought with them a bevy of interesting headlines.
This time around, there’s added concern about political protests in France’s capital and, more importantly for Olympians, the cleanliness of the Seine. (Back when Paris won the bid, a fully swimmable Seine was a huge part of France’s proposal.)
Such stories tend to swirl in the weeks before the opening ceremony.
But if you’re actually attending the 2024 Summer Olympic Games, then you’re probably more focused on the logistics of attending. Though it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, figuring out the finer details of spectating the Olympics live can be a stressful experience.
As with big headlines, that’s also nothing new.
As early as the very first Olympic Games (as in, all the way back in 776 BC), attendees were often in a mad scramble to get the most out of their experience. They battled hefty crowds, fought for a glimpse of the action, and celebrated (or wept) with the masses.
Today, many of the same challenges remain.
These can be especially stressful for spectators who are attending to watch a loved one perform. Not only are they nervous about finding their seats and getting there on time, but they’re also anxious on behalf of their beloved athlete.
In other words, the Olympic Games are a hectic but riveting experience.
If you’re heading to Paris this year (or Italy in 2026), then read through this guide on how to have a seamless trip. It’ll help you get the most out of your Olympic Games experience while dodging a few headaches.
Plan a year out—at minimum
Getting tickets for the Olympic Games is hard enough. But with an estimated 15 million people heading to Paris this year (you read that correctly—15 million), you’re not just looking to nab a ticket.
You also need to book a hostel, hotel, or private rental immediately. If you’re traveling in or out of the host city via train, also book those transportation tickets immediately. The same for car rentals.
This is the world’s most-attended sports event. You’re going to be competing with travelers from around the world for basic amenities. Get ahead while you can.
Don’t forget about smaller events
Host nations regularly put on a wide and diverse range of free events for locals and spectators. The idea is to bring together this global community of athletes and sports-lovers.
This year, Paris has opened the doors (figuratively) for visitors to do things like cheer on marathon runners, watch the Olympic torch relay, and visit celebration venues around the city for free. If you’re attending the Olympics, make sure to indulge in these smaller events.
Additionally, you might want to put some time aside to explore the city. While not all Olympic host cities have the prestige of Paris, don’t assume that you’ll have access to the standard reel of museums and tours. They might shut down or have different operating hours to account for the crowds.
Remember—other Olympic spectators will also be looking to check out the Eiffel Tower, hit the catacombs, and more.
Book a room based on location
When you’re booking lodging, focus on location—nothing else.
Olympics insiders recommend staying close to the venue that you’ll be attending most often. But not too close—then, you’ll be swamped with other attendees.
Look to stay around a twenty or thirty-minute walk from the venue. That way, you won’t be hamstrung by slow transportation… and you also won’t be surrounded by other spectators constantly.
Bring some hometown swag
You’re going to be surrounded by millions of passionate sports fans. Many are chatty and amiable, interested in making friends. If that’s your vibe, too, then plan ahead.
I suggest bringing a few items that represent the USA—or even your hometown. Many visitors make friends with other attendees and exchange souvenirs from their countries.
These don’t need to be formal items. American Olympic spectators in the past have reported trading things like Budweiser hats, Statue of Liberty postcards, and similarly informal items.
Olympic pins are also a big deal and a classic option for long-time attendees.
Keep digital & physical copies of maps
Maps are a big deal at the Olympic Games—and you need to seriously pay attention to them.
Many cities block off roads, avenues, and certain forms of transportation in order to better manage crowds and host specific events. In other words, just because you have Google Maps, it doesn’t mean it’s reflecting last-minute changes from the host nation.
Recurring Olympic spectators recommend printing and waterproofing maps. When you receive your tickets, you should also receive official maps from the Olympic Committee. These are your north star.
Save them on your phone, of course—but keep them handy physically, too. You never know when your smartphone will run out of battery. (And your battery pack, too.)
Prep for security lines & slow transport
With 15 million in attendance, I don’t need to expound on how many lines and crowds attendees face. Just be prepared for two extra-numbing factors: security lines and bus transportation.
The Olympic Committee charters buses to help ferry around athletes and spectators. They’re effective… but they’re slow. That’s why I recommend lodging in an area that minimizes the amount of bus trips you’re taking.
The same for security lines. These events are locked down just as much as an international airport. Expect delays.
