These six Olympic sites in Paris that give viewers breathtaking panoramic views of historic landscape.
PHOTO WENDY HUNGAcross the Olympics’ 35 venues in Paris, six particular sites offer stunning views of iconic landmarks. From Château de Versailles to the Eiffel Tower, spectators can cheer on their favorite athletes against a historic backdrop. Instead of constructing new stadiums to house competitions, Paris assembled eco-friendly temporary arenas. Here are six of the prettiest Olympic sites in Paris that have been transformed into venues for the 2024 Games.
Château de Versailles
Photo by Paris 2024 and Fei_global InstagramChâteau de Versailles was originally constructed to be a hunting lodge and home to King Louis XIV in 1682. By 1883, it had turned into a public national museum. It was the first French site to be awarded UNESCO World Heritage status in 1979 for its influence on architecture, unique historical testimony, and representation of an important era in art history. Equestrian, five modern pentathlon, and para-equestrian events are held here, giving viewers breathtaking views of the extravagant palace and gardens.
Eiffel Tower
PHOTO WENDY HUNGLe Champ-de-Mars is a vast green space wrapped around the Eiffel Tower – a local favorite for picnics and celebrations, but it now hosts beach volleyball and blind football games. Spectators can admire the stunning Eiffel Tower and L’école Militaire’s impressive façade while witnessing the competitions. This esteemed landmark was built by Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 Exposition Universelle, which was to celebrate the French Revolution’s 100th anniversary.
Grand Palais
Photo by Grand Palais InstagramA short walk from Invalides is the Grand Palais, an iconic Parisian site with a longstanding history as a prestigious showcase for various sporting and artistic events. In 1900, it was built for the Paris Universal Exhibition with over 6,000 tons of steel and is recognized for its eye-catching nave and glass roof. After much-needed restoration, it hosts fencing, wheelchair, taekwondo, and para taekwondo competitions.
Invalides
Photo by Paris 2024 and museearmee_invalides InstagramNestled in Paris’ 7th arrondissement is the L’esplanade des Invalides, an extensive green space near Invalides. Constructed during the reign of Louis XIV in 1687, it served as a military hospital and retirement home for war veterans. Today, this world-renowned building includes a French military museum and Napoleon Bonaparte’s tomb. The Esplanade hosts archery, para archery, road cycling, and both the Olympic and Paralympic marathons from July 27 to September 8.
Place de la Concorde
Photo by Paris 2024 and ucibmxfreestyle InstagramTo allow urban and high-energy sports to be performed in their natural environment, Place de la Concorde was transformed into a temporary open arena. Here, viewers watch skateboarding, breaking, sports climbing, BMX freestyle, and 3×3 basketball events. As one of the most important public squares in Paris, this site housed everything from protests for the French Revolution to celebrations for the end of WWI. This plaza was created in honor of King Louis XV by Jacques-Ange Gabriel, his favorite architect.
Pont Alexandre III
Photo by Paris 2024 InstagramPont Alexandre III is embellished with two opulent golden statues on each end, linking the Hôtel des Invalides and Grand Palais. Its sublime landscape and unobstructed Eiffel Tower view will be the grand finale for individual cycling, swimming marathon, triathlon, and Para triathlon competitions. One half is reserved seating for ticket holders, while the other half remains open for pedestrians and cyclists.
