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Luxury River Cruising

Life-enriching, relaxing and unique – an APT river cruise is the ultimate holiday experience. Discover unforgettable destinations as you travel in comfort and style. From Europe   to Egypt  and Southeast Asia's Mekong  to India's  Lower Ganges, APT has a diverse range of river cruises, and you’ll wake up most mornings in a new location, ready to explore fresh and exciting sights.

Your Floating Hotel

All Taken Care Of

Luxury Service

Destinations.

Cruise along the Rhine, Main and Danube river  on APT's ultra luxurious, new-generation river ships in 2025, APT Solara and APT Ostara. Or wind through the scenery of the Douro Valley on the brand-new MS Estrela. There's no finer way to discover the charming landscapes of Europe than aboard one of our luxury river cruises.

Vietnam & Cambodia

Explore APT's range of all-inclusive luxury Asia  river cruises throughout Vietnam and Cambodia . Experience the beauty of Asia as you visit must-see sights and hidden wonders along the Mekong River.

South America Amazon

Cruise through the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve and visit the local communities dotted along the river bank. Accompanied by naturalists, uncover the incredible flora and fauna of the Peruvian Amazon rainforest.

Murray River

Traverse Australia's majestic Murray River aboard our brand-new luxury paddlesteamer the PS Australian Star, launched in 2025. Throughout your journey, experience a thoughtfully designed itinerary blending adventure and relaxation as you discover culinary and cultural delights along the Murray River.

Custom-designed to cruise the Lower Ganges, the Ganges Voyager  is the most luxurious ship of its kind. Its boutique size ensures you’ll receive the finest in personalised service, you’ll get to know your fellow guests, and you’ll enjoy a genuinely relaxed atmosphere on board.

Featured River Cruises

Magnificent Europe

Amsterdam → Budapest

Vietnam and Cambodia Discovery

Hanoi → Siem Reap

Best of Vietnam and Cambodia

Ho Chi Minh City Return

Kolkata and Lower Ganges Cruise

Kolkata Return

Egypt Discovery

Cairo Return

Explore More

Land Journeys

4WD Adventures

Aboard a privately chartered aircraft, take to the skies to experience bird's-eye views of iconic natural wonders, and have more time to explore on the ground.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in France set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact France’s Embassy in the UK .

Countries may restrict travel or bring in rules at short notice. Check with your travel company or airline for changes.

Visit TravelHealthPro (from the UK’s National Travel Health Network and Centre) for general COVID-19 advice for travellers .

Public spaces

You’re strongly recommended to wear a face mask in health settings. In some areas, people aged 6 and above may need to wear a face mask.

Passport validity requirements

If you are planning to travel to an EU country (except Ireland), or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City, follow the Schengen area passport requirements .

Your passport must be:

• issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country (check the ‘date of issue’)
• valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)

Check your passport meets these requirements before you travel. If your passport was issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added to its expiry date.

Contact the French Embassy in the UK if you think that your passport does not meet both these requirements. Renew your passport if you need to .

Passport stamping

At French border control, you may need to:

• show proof of where you intend to stay, for example, a hotel booking or proof of address if visiting your own property
• show proof of insurance for your trip – check FCDO’s travel insurance guidance
• show a return or onward ticket
• prove that you have enough money for your whole stay

Check your passport is stamped if you enter or exit the Schengen area through France as a visitor. Border guards will use passport stamps to check you’re complying with the 90-day visa-free limit for short stays in the Schengen area. If relevant entry or exit stamps are not in your passport, border guards will presume that you have overstayed your visa-free limit.

You can show evidence of when and where you entered or exited the Schengen area, and ask the border guards to add this date and location in your passport. Examples of acceptable evidence include boarding passes and tickets.

If you live in France, read our Living in France guide for passport stamping information.

Proof of accommodation and funds

You may need to show proof of where you intend to stay. Read about documents you may need for short stays on the French government website . This will differ depending on where you are staying.

Staying with family, friends or a third party

You may be asked to provide an ‘attestation d’accueil’ (welcome invitation) from your host. The French resident hosting you must get the ‘attestation d’accueil’ from their local mayor’s office, and send the original ‘attestation’ before you enter France. Be prepared to show proof that you have at least €32.50 euros a day for the duration of your stay.

Second homes in France

You will need to be able to prove ownership or tenancy of your property, such as a tax or utility bill.

Staying in a hotel or other commercial accommodation

You may be asked for confirmation of your reservation when entering France. Be prepared to show proof that you have at least €65 euros a day for the duration of your stay.

Other circumstances

If you do not have an ‘attestation d’accueil’ (welcome invitation) or any pre-booked accommodation, you may be asked to prove you have at least €120 euros a day for the duration of your stay.

For more information on these requirements, visit the French government’s website on travel conditions for British citizens.

Visa requirements

You can travel to countries in the Schengen area, which France is part of, for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. This applies if you travel:

• as a tourist
• to visit family or friends
• to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
• for short-term studies or training

If you are travelling to France and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries within the previous 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.

To stay longer (to work or study, for business travel or for other reasons), you will need to meet the French government’s entry requirements. Check which type of visa you may need on the France Visas website .

If you are travelling to France for work , read the guidance on visas and permits.

If you stay in France with a residence permit or long-stay visa, this does not count towards your 90-day visa-free limit.

British citizens who cannot return to the UK before their visa, permit or visa-free limit expires should contact their local prefecture in France .

Vaccination requirements (other than COVID-19)

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and vaccination certificates you may need on TravelHealthPro.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of France. Check the French Directorate General of Customs and Excise website . Declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking food and drink into the EU

You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries. There are some exceptions for medical reasons, for example certain amounts of powdered infant milk, infant food, or pet food required for medical reasons. Check the rules about taking food and drink into the EU on the European Commission website.

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By Destination

By Mode of Travel

River cruise, land journey, rail journey, small ship cruise, ocean cruise, remote journey, luxury yacht cruise, why choose apt.

• Inspiration

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• Port Details

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Canada, alaska & usa, egypt & jordan, new zealand, south america & antarctica, special deals, voyage magazine, tour personaliser, travel agent.

2024 Europe Cruising

Our 2024 collection brings you numerous multi-destination adventures in Europe and Croatia, with a brand-new ship  MS Estrela  setting sail along the Douro river together with a new sightseeing experience  and  itinerary . The  MS Estrela , which means star in Portuguese, is a welcome addition to our state-of-the-art river ships and Croatia yacht cruises fleet.

Choose from our award-winning portfolio of cruises and tours to some of the world’s most exciting countries. Will you sail through the heart of Europe and uncover the rich culture of the continent’s most fascinating cities? Or explore Vietnam & Cambodia from the comfort of a brand-new ship on the Mekong? Wherever you decide to travel with APT, you are assured an outstanding holiday for less.

So Much Included

Our great value prices cover everything for the perfect holiday, including return flights from the UK, sylish accommodation, enriching sightseeing, a range of dining experiences and complimentary drinks as detailed in your itinerary, plus overseas transfers, port charges and tipping.

Brand New Ships

In 2022, we launched 3 contemporary European river ships as well as a brand new small ship yacht custom-built to explore the gorgeous coastlines of Croatia. Brand new for 2024, the MS Estrela, will besetting sail in Portugal's Douro river.

Enriching Sightseeing

From Amsterdam to Dubrovnik, you will be captivated by the included sightseeing on offer. Get close to iconic wonders and experience a variety of customs and cultures while visiting a range of unique locations.

Delightful Cuisine

Created using the finest local ingredients, all delicious meals on board are included, while complimentary drinks are served throughout your cruise as detailed in each itinerary.

Outstanding Service

Ensuring everything runs smoothly on your journey is a dedicated Cruise Director. They will assist with everything you need, while the knowledge of expert local guides will enhance your journey.

Unwind in Style

After an exciting day of sightseeing, there is no better place to relax than your stateroom or suite. Whatever the location, and whatever the style of ship, you are assured of pure comfort and elegant decor.

Travel Designed to Suit You

APT Travelmarvel

Be one of the first to step aboard our brand new river ship setting sail along the Douro river in 2024. Featuring a new exciting ship design, created and built in Portugal with 60 stunningly appointed cabins decorated in contemporary Portuguese style, cruising on the MS Estrela  will be the newest and most exciting way to explore the Douro Region next year.

Concerto River Ships

Leading the way in luxury and comfort, Concerto River Ships take you along the Rhine, main and Danube rivers in style with APT Luxury. They present a wealth of services and facilities, including our exclusive Twin Balcony Suites.

Travelmarvel Contemporary River Ships

Launched in 2022, these stylish APT Travelmarvel vessels have been custom designed specifically for Europe's waterways, featuring modern decor as well as a host of spacious public areas.

MV Lady Eleganza

Explore the delights of Croatia and Montenegro aboard the luxurious MV Lady Eleganza yacht, with just 34 guests on board.

MV Princess Eleganza

Join APT Travelmarvel aboard the Princess Eleganza for a coastal cruise with just 36 guests to discover historical wonders and places of supreme natural beauty.

Be Inspired

Go slow to see the real Europe

Europe is a destination to savour, to discover slowly, to experience in full. The best way to immerse yourself in all of its treasures is the steady pace of a luxury river cruise, writes Ashleigh Bailey. 

A Stress-Free Cruising Experience through Europe

David and Susan Rowden joined APT Travelmarvel for their first river cruise and consider themselves "converts" having found there is no better or easier way to discover Europe's hidden gems than on a guided tour.

Guide to Portuguese Gastronomy

Next year, Travelmarvel offers a delicious new way to explore the countryside and wine regions of northern Portugal. Our tastemakers have voted these the top ten gastronomy icons not to be missed on your 2024 Douro cruise.

4 Jewels of the Adriatic Coast

5 Cities To Visit This Year

The Douro Sweet Spot

For more than 2,000 years, grapes have been harvested and wine has been produced in Portugal's Douro Valley. Vineyard boundaries were laid here in 1756, making this the oldest demarcated wine region in the world.

Featured Brochures

France Travel Planner for Every Vacation

Prepare and plan for your vacation in France and you'll find it's much more enjoyable

Since there are a few steps involved, you might consider bookmarking this page so you can return for reference. Here are some basics before you even book your reservations:

• Top Myths About France and French People - There are plenty of stereotypes about the French: they stink, women don't shave their underarms, they are rude, they hate Americans. Don't be fooled by this myths and urban legends. The truth is far more interesting.
• Avoiding the Rude French - Not only are most French people I've encountered civil, they were outright friendly, helpful and kind. They even went out of their way to help me! How could this be? Find out the secrets.
• France: Before You Go - Before you go to France, find out all the basics about customs requirements , the culture, weather, currency and more.

Where to Go in France

HOCQUEL Alain - Coll. CDT Vaucluse

France isn't just Paris. France is the biggest country in western Europe with a breathtaking variety of landscapes. There are other wonderful cities, diverse and fascinating regions, beautiful beaches, breathtaking mountains and even border territories ideal for day trips to other European cities. Find out where to go in France.

Top 10 Reasons to visit France

• Paris Travel Guide - Paris, the City of Light, is filled with thousands of hotels, attractions, shops and restaurants. Get help focusing on where to stay, where to eat, where to go and more basics before you go to Paris.
• Top Beaches in France - France might be small, but it borders two major bodies of water: the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterannean Sea. These miles of beachfront property are filled with delightful small villages and larger, bustling cities.
• France's Border Regions - Situated in the epicenter of Europe, France's border regions tempt with often-overlooked delights. By exploring the country's edges, you can find influences of Germany, Italy, Belgium, Spain and Switzerland--or even quickly cross over to visit these countries as well.
• Skiing in France - Perhaps you want to go skiing? France has some of the best skiing in Europe, from the Alps to the Pyrenees. Check out the main mountain ranges of France.
• River vacations - The rivers of France cross the country, giving the departments their names. 
• Canals of France - Take a leisurely canal trip to get away from the main roads and cities and enjoy a holiday that will recharge your batteries.

Next: When to Go to France

When to Go to France

France is wonderful any time of year, whether you hit the Christmas markets in winter, see the blossoming of spring, enjoy the beaches and festivals in summer or do some leaf-peeping in autumn. Find out when to go to France.

• Weather in France: Month by Month - Get an idea of what to expect from the weather in France with this month by month guide.
• France in the fall - Glorious colours, warm days, the grape harvest and crisp evenings around a roaring fire; France in autumn is a magical time. 
• France in Winter - With its Christmas markets , its ski resorts and its Mediterranean beaches, France offers something for everyone in winter. 

Next: Getting Around France

Getting Around France

There are many wonderful ways to get around France, whether you want the romance of train-hopping or the flexibility of having your own brand-new car to tour the country. Here is a guide to getting around France.

• Renault Eurodrive Buyback Car Rental Program - You can save money, drive a brand-new car, rent even if you're under age 25, and get free, included, no-deductible car rental insurance with the Renault Buyback Lease program.
• French Roads and Driving Advice - France is a lovely country to drive through. You can take the motorways if you're in a hurry, or get off and motor through small country roads, past little villages, stately rivers and rolling landscapes.
• Guide to Travel in France by Train - France is Europe's largest country, so it makes sense to take the train where you can. Check out this guide to train travel in France.
• Speed Between Paris and London in 2 hrs, 15 mins  - The trip from London to Paris, and to Lille and Brussels on Eurostar is a great way to travel. 
• Take the TGV - French TGV (Trains de grande vitesse or express trains) are the wonder of Europe. They get you to your destination very fast and you go through the heart of France's countryside. The new direct service from London St Pancras to Marseille goes via Lyon and Avignon and takes 6 hours, 47 minutes, without a change . 

Next: Where to Stay in France

Where to Stay in France

Ossi Laurila

France's hotels, inns, chambres d'hotes, camping and myriad other options can make it tough to decide where to stay. Here is a guide to the lodging and accommodations in France.

• France's Hotel Rating System - Are the mentions "two star" and "three star" hotel on travel web sites reliable? Find out how France classifies its hotels and what that means. 
• Lodging Options in France - France's lodging options go well beyond hotels. There are gites, logis  and chambres d'hotes (bed and breakfast ). You can stay on a farm, rent an RV or sleep on a houseboat. You can save money by camping or splurge euros on a castle stay.
• Top French Chateau Hotels - Live like true royalty during your next visit to France. This country, with its rich history of elegant architecture and majestic castles, features several great castles that are open for overnight guests.
• Good Budget Options - France has a good selection of budget chains which give you exactly what they say. The French system is well organised, so you will not find any nasty surprises. 

Next: French Culture and How to Fit in

Surviving Your Trip to France

Visiting France is wonderful, but it can be challenging. This is a unique country with interesting and sometimes surprising cultural differences. Here are some tips on understanding and embracing French culture and customs .

• France's Bad Side - You should be prepared for what you might regard as the bad, the ugly and the smelly before your visit, especially if you've never been to France. Here are all the details about France's bad side.
• The French Schedule - If you arrive in France, you might be coping with more than jet lag when it comes to timing. You will also discover that dining, shopping and sightseeing must bend to the French schedule. Instead of fighting it, surrender to the French time-table.
• Wearing Sneakers in France - Find out if it is acceptible to wear sneakers in France, or whether you will just stand out as a tourist.
• Tipping in France - Sitting at the terrace of a sidewalk cafe in Paris and sipping on a Perrier while watching passers-by is a pleasure many travelers promise themselves to experience when they are in Paris. But with the check comes the question: to tip or not to tip?
• How to Order Coffee in France - French cafés serve some of the world's best coffee, but each of us has our own preferences and a language barrier could prevent you from ordering the right coffee on the menu. If you can't have caffeine, this could be even more crucial.

Next: France Budget Travel

France Budget Travel

Many people think France is just too expensive, but that doesn't have to be true. Here are some secrets to affording a French vacation, including ways to pinch your pennies (or centimes), the best way to exchange currency and a travel budget calculator.

• How to Get Euros in France - If you visit France, one thing is certain: you will be spending money. Make sure you get the most bang for your euro by following these DOs and DON'Ts for exchanging cash.

Next: Packing Tips

Packing Tips

Now that you're ready to go to France, be sure you learn how to pack for a French vacation. Here are tips on packing for France, packing lightly, what to bring and some recommendations for travel packing items.

• Vacation Packing Checklist - Consult this list before your trip to France so you don't leave home missing those needed items. By all means, not everyone will need everything off this list. If you take everything on this list, you will NOT be packing light.
• Packing Oh So Light - If you are visiting France, especially more than once city or taking the train, a light bag can make the difference between a pleasant or unpleasant experience.

Article edited by Mary Anne Evans

France Guide: Planning Your Trip

Paris Guide: Planning Your Trip

Avoid these First-timers France Travel Mistakes

How to Travel From Florence to Paris by Train, Bus, Plane, and Car

The Best Time to Visit France

Useful French Travel Words and Expressions

How to Avoid Rude Service in Paris and France: 5 Key Tips

How to Travel From Zurich to Paris by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

How to Get the Best Hotel Deals in Europe

Albi: Planning Your Trip

Step-By-Step Budget Tips for a First European Vacation

Traveling by Train in Europe: Where, Why, and How

Charles de Gaulle Airport Guide

Driving in Paris, France

7 Top Vineyards to Visit in France

Your Trip to Switzerland: The Complete Guide

Navigating Paris during the Olympics: how to avoid transport fare increases and more

Jul 8, 2024 • 8 min read

Here's how to navigate the French capital during the Olympic and Paralympic Games Getty Images

With an estimated 15 million visitors expected to descend on the French capital during the Olympic and Paralympic games, Paris’s public transportation system and security forces will be under immense pressure.

In the lead-up to the games, which start after the opening ceremony July 26 and end September 8, a flurry of new metro fare announcements, road and metro closures and security measures have caused confusion even among the locals.

So it goes without saying that visitors can be forgiven for feeling overwhelmed by information overload as well. To help clear up the confusion, here’s a break-down of how to best navigate Paris (during the Olympics, but also after) and how new security rules will impact your travels:

What documents do I need to prepare for my visit to the Paris 2024 Olympics?

Holders of American, Canadian, British and (of course) EU passports can travel to France  visa-free if their stay is less than 90 days. If you’re not from any of these countries, the government has a clever portal called the “ visa wizard ” that will tell you if you need a visa for your visit, and the kinds of travel documents you’ll need to bring.

Where are the Paris 2024 Olympics taking place?

In Paris , the games will be spread out across 15 Olympic and 11 Paralympic sites and extend beyond the Paris perimeter to suburbs like Les Yvelines to Hauts-de-Seine, Seine-et-Marne and Seine-St-Denis.

Certain events such as soccer, handball, basketball and sailing will be held in Bordeaux , Nantes , Lyon , St-Etienne, Nice and Marseille . 

The surfing competition will be held in the overseas territory of Tahiti .

Are metro tickets really double the price during the Olympics?

The rumors are true. The cost of a metro ticket in Paris is set to double during the Olympics. But only for visitors who leave things to the last minute and don’t plan ahead. From July 20 to September 8, the price of a single metro ticket will rise from €2.15 to €4.

But there’s a way to bypass this entirely with just a little advance planning.

By downloading the regional transport authority’s app on your smartphone before July 20, visitors can buy single tickets at the regular fare of €2.15 per ticket in advance. You can also save a bit more if you buy a book of 10 tickets for €17.35 (a reduced fare of  €1.73 per trip). Users can store up to 30 tickets at a time and buy top-up tickets as you go. It’s a handy way to avoid long line-ups at ticket kiosks. Just scan your phone at the metro turnstile and you’re on your way.

For those who prefer an actual metro card, you’ll want to buy a Navigo Easy pass at metro stations or at approved sellers like tobacco shops and newspaper kiosks for €2. Cards are rechargeable, and tickets can be purchased from the app and loaded directly on the card: just hold the Navigo pass to the top of the phone. For the less tech savvy, cards can still be topped up at metro stations as well. 

New Olympic daily pass

Visitors can also purchase a specially created daily Paris 2024 Pass , which starts at €16 for 1 day and gives users unlimited access to all competition venues in  Île-de-France, as well as Orly and Roissy Charles-de-Gaulle airports. Fares are on a sliding scale and get cheaper as you go: for example, a 7-day Paris 2024 pass works out to €10 a day (€70 for 7 days). This pass can also be purchased from the app or at train stations and ticket machines and is valid for use between July 20-Sept. 8.

After September 8, fares will return to normal pricing. Future visitors should also consider downloading the transportation app in order to avoid line-ups at metro stations and save a few euros.

New service to Orly airport

If you’re flying in and out of Paris-Orly airport, a new extension on metro line 14 linking the airport to the city center was recently inaugurated. Flyers arriving at Orly can now take the metro line to popular transfer and stop-off stations like Châtelet and Saint-Lazare, all the way up to the northern suburb of Saint-Ouen. Just remember that fares to the airport are not included in the standard metro rates and are an additional €10.30 per trip.

Station closures to be aware of:

While mapping out your metro itinerary, keep in mind that the following stations will be closed throughout much of the summer until September 21:

Concorde, Tuileries, Champs-Elysées – Clemenceau

A full list of closures and reduced metro service between July 18-25 can be found here . To find the best metro itinerary with up-to-date information on closures and service disruptions, Google Maps is pretty reliable, as are the apps for the Paris metro Bonjour RATP and the regional transport authority Île-de-France Mobilités . 

Users can also use the Bonjour RATP app to rent any one of the 35,000 bikes from Dott, Lime Tier and Vélib. 

Do I need a QR code to get around Paris during the games?

It depends on a lot of factors, including your mode of transport, your dates of travel, and the location of your destination. But sorting out the rules requires wading through a maze of conditions and exceptions.

The Pass Jeux or Games Pass is a digital pass or QR code that allows holders to access sensitive security areas, particularly in the lead-up to the opening ceremony. For the first time in Olympic history, the opening ceremony will be held outdoors on the Seine river, rather than a stadium—a spectacle that carries with it huge security challenges.

In the days leading up to opening ceremony

From July 18-26, if your hotel or restaurant reservation is in the high security grey zone along the Seine, and you will be traveling on foot or by bike, you will need to apply for a QR code to justify your access to the area. Cars, including taxis and ride-shares, are strictly prohibited. 

This doesn’t apply, however, to ticket holders for attractions located in the area. Those who hold confirmed bookings are exempt from having to apply for a QR code and can simply present their ticket at security checkpoints. That includes the Louvre and Orsay museums, the Musée du quai Branly - Jacques Chirac (all of which will be closed July 25-26), the Eiffel Tower (closed July 26) and the Institut du Monde Arabe.

Note that all river cruise excursions will be suspended between July 20-26.

Outside the grey zone and into the broader red perimeter, pedestrians, cyclists and scooters are allowed to move freely without a QR code. If traveling by taxi or ride-share, you don’t need the QR code but you must be able to present proof of a hotel, museum or restaurant reservation to gain access to the area. 

After the opening ceremony

Between July 27-August 11 and then for the Paralympics August 28-September 8, areas around competition sites will become red zones up to 2.5 hours before a sporting event, and for an hour afterwards. Pedestrians and cyclists won’t require a QR code, but those planning to travel in a taxi or ride-share in the area will be required to present a Games Pass. 

Along with the digital pass, make sure you have your photo ID, along with proof of accommodation or reservations on you to present to police.

Ticket holders of Olympic sporting events do not need a QR code to access the sites.

If you’re not sure, check the interactive map to see if your destination falls in one of the security zones.

Digital passes are free and not required for those under 13. 

QR codes can be obtained on the platform Pass Jeux and require applicants to send photo ID and proof of reservations.

The main takeaway: if you want to avoid traffic headaches, the best way to get to your destination, be it a competition venue or restaurant, is to take public transport, walk or bike—modes that also align well with the Paris Olympics’ sustainability goals.

Visiting other French cities for the Olympic games? Here's how to navigate France's rail network

Keep in mind that France’s ban on domestic short-haul flights of under 2.5 hours for trips that can be completed by train came into force in 2022. That means that if your Olympic events are in cities like Nantes, Bordeaux and Lyon, your only option (unless you plan to drive yourself) is the train. Luckily, this also happens to be the easier and less stressful method of transportation.

That said, the different rail operators in France can cause confusion. Here’s a quick primer on the different rail lines and operators:

• The SNCF is the national rail service and operates the country’s high-speed TGV trains. A trip from Paris to Lyon on a high-speed train, for, instance, takes about two hours. This will be your first stop when looking up train tickets to other host cities.
• Inoui designates premium seats and service.
• Ouigo is the low-cost version of the SNCF, but tickets and times are more limited.
• Trains operated by Intercité serve cities without high-speed train routes and connect major cities without the need to transit from Paris. Routes include Nantes–Bordeaux and Toulouse –Marseille. The outfit also operates night-train services connecting Paris with cities like Nice, Lourdes and Toulouse.
• TER (Transport Express Régional) trains connect cities and smaller towns within the country’s 12 regions in metropolitan France.
• Transilien is the equivalent of the TER but for the region of Île-de-France.
• The RER (Réseau Express Régional) is a commuter line that operates within Paris and its suburbs.

The logistics of planning a trip for the Olympics may seem daunting at first, but knowing your options and understanding how all the systems – for match ticketing, accommodations and transportation – work will hopefully make the picture clearer so that you can look forward to being a part of history.

This article was first published Jul 26, 2023 and updated Jul 8, 2024.

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A survival guide to Paris transport closures for the 2024 Olympics

Paris will be in the throes of Olympic fever from July 26 to August 11 for the 2024 Summer Games. Public transport routes will be revised and vehicle access will be restricted just as millions of visitors are expected in the city. Both residents and tourists are urged to review the revised routes and plan ahead.

Issued on: 06/07/2024 - 17:23

Restrictions on access to certain areas will begin more than a week in advance as the French capital prepares for an ambitious opening ceremony that will take place over several kilometres along the River Seine – the first to take place outside of an arena in the history of the Olympic Games.

A massive security operation will be under way to secure the river route and ensure the smooth movement of the thousands of people expected to watch the ceremony from the upper and lower quays when it kicks off at 7:30pm on July 26.

As temporary spectator stands are set up around the city and the Seine undergoes a massive cleanup, several metro and RER stations will be closed from July 18 .

To plan a route with updated information, use the Paris transport system's online planner:

Read more RATP online itinerary planner

• For many areas of the capital, a “Pass Jeux” (Games Pass) containing a QR code will be needed for access. Request one in English by clicking here .
• A dedicated mobile application, Transport Public Paris 2024  (downloadable on Android and iOS ), has been developed to facilitate routes to competition sites and have real-time information on transport conditions.

Read more Metro and tram stations closures during the 2024 Paris Olympic Games

Coloured perimeters to control traffic

Before and during the Games, competition sites will be subject to traffic bans and restrictions. Four colour-coded perimeters will be set up around the sites, with specific rules for each. An interactive map of these perimeters for each day of competition can be viewed here .

• The gray perimeter, for competition sites

Athletes, ticketed spectators and accredited people (notably journalists) are permitted within this perimeter. No vehicles are authorised except Paris 2024 accredited vehicles.

• The black protective perimeter

An area for searches and pat-downs of any person entering the competition site.

• The red perimeter prohibiting motorised traffic

Free movement of cyclists and pedestrians is permitted. Only people with a digital pass (QR code) are authorised to enter by motor vehicle.

• The blue perimeter diverting motorised traffic 

Pedestrians and cyclists are allowed to move freely, but only people with a legitimate reason to go to an address located in the blue zone are authorised to enter by motor vehicle.

For the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games, a Security, Insecurity and Fight against Terrorism (SILT) perimeter close to the river and docks will be in place from July 18 to 26, the day of the opening ceremony and kick-off for the Games.

To access the perimeter, a Games Pass QR code is needed – it must be requested from the online platform in advance. Only local residents, professionals and visitors (with proof of a hotel, museum, ticket or restaurant reservation) will be allowed to enter. Vehicle access will be strictly prohibited except in rare cases.

Read more A detailed list of transport closures by date (in French)

Metro and RER station closures

• Closures from July 18:

Metro line 1: Tuileries, Concorde and Champs-Élysées - Clémenceau stations

Metro line 4: Cité

Metro line 5: Quai de la Rapée

Metro line 6: Trocadéro and Passy

Metro line 7: Châtelet, Pont Marie, Pont Neuf and Sully Morland

Metro line 8: Concorde

Metro line 9: Alma Marceau, Iéna (July 24 only) and Trocadéro

Metro line 10: Javel

Metro line 11: Châtelet

Metro line 12: Concorde

Metro line 13: Champs-Élysées - Clémenceau

On the RER C line, the Musée d'Orsay, Champs de Mars Tour Eiffel and Pont de l'Alma stations will be closed.

• For the opening ceremony on July 26:

In addition to the limited transport service outlined above, several additional closures are planned for the day of the opening ceremony, depending on the time of day.

Metro line 6 will not take passengers between Charles de Gaulle - Étoile and La Motte-Picquet - Grenelle stations

Metro line 7 will not run between Palais Royal - Musée du Louvre and Jussieu

Metro line 9 will not run between Miromesnil and Porte de Saint-Cloud

On line 10, trains do not stop at Michel-Ange-Molitor, Michel-Ange-Auteuil or Javel-André Citroën stations (after 6pm).

Read more Olympic Games Opening Ceremony: security and traffic information

More stations will gradually close after 1pm on July 26:

On metro line 1: Hôtel de Ville and Saint-Paul

Metro line 4: Cité 

Metro line 8: Invalides, Tour Maubourg and École Militaire

Metro line 11: Rambuteau and Hôtel de Ville

Metro line 13: trains will not stop at Champs-Elysées - Clémenceau or Invalides 

The Solférino and Rue du Bac stations (line 12), Varenne and Saint François-Xavier (line 13), as well as Tour Maubourg and École Militaire (line 8) will be kept open for everyday travellers, but will be indicated as unavailable to spectators. Also, in case of crowds, trains may not stop at these stations.

Between 6pm and 9:30pm, line 6 will be completely closed, the terminus of line 5 will be at Bastille, the RER C will be halted inside Paris and the T3a tram will only run between Pont du Garigliano and Porte d'Ivry.

The number of metros will, however, be increased on other lines for the arrival and departure of spectators from the Opening Ceremony. When the ceremony ends, the eastern part of line 6 and the line 5 viaduct will reopen, as will the entire RER C line. The automated lines (1, 4 and 14) will operate all night (but Cité station on line 4 will remain closed).  

Gradual reopening

The gradual reopening of several metro stations will begin from July 27, the day after the opening ceremony, except for the following:

• The Champs-Elysées - Clémenceau station (lines 1 and 13) will be closed from July 20 to August 11 inclusive, and then again from August 22 to September 8.
• Concorde (lines 1, 8 and 12) and Tuileries (line 1) stations will be closed through September 1.

TGV and main train stations

The major Parisian stations remain open for travellers needing to take a TGV or a mainline train, but timetable adjustments will be in place to avoid overcrowding and delays around the Lyon, Bercy and Austerlitz stations, all three of which are located within the protected Olympic perimeter.

Austerlitz station will not be accessible by road, given the red perimeter. Pedestrian access is possible as well as special bus and taxi access.

Road access to Lyon and Bercy stations will be affected by the closure of the Bercy quay on July 26 for the Opening Ceremony. The Bercy bus station will also be closed on July 26 but will be in service for the duration of the Olympic Games (albeit running on restricted timetables).

Metro and bus prices to almost double 

Between July 20 and September 8, the single T+ ticket – which allows access to the metro, bus, tram and RER in Paris and some of its outskirts (zones 1-2) – will cost €4 euros compared to the usual €2.15.

For tickets purchased aboard buses, the usual price (€2.50 euros) will double to €5.

A Paris 2024 pass for unlimited travel will also be available for €16 per day, with rates decreasing depending on the duration. A weeklong pass will cost €70 euros, more than twice the usual price of a weekly Navigo pass (€30.75).

Access to hotels

Hotel guests – like local residents and those needing to access their places of work – will need to present a QR pass to access the secure perimeters by car. When requesting the QR code online, hotel guests will need to provide proof of ID for all those occupying the vehicle along with proof that the hotel is providing off-road parking. Ask your hotel for details. 

Olympic fan zones

Some 26 fan zones, each capable of welcoming 500 people, will be accessible free of charge. They will broadcast Olympic events and other entertainment on giant screens as well as offer catering and will remain open until 11pm. Medal-winning athletes will be celebrated at the zones located at Trocadéro and Parc de la Villette.

Closures for the Paralympic Games (August 28 - September 8)

The Summer 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games accelerated plans to improve disabled access in and around the French capital, although much work remains to be done to improve access in the longer term. The organisers of the Games committed to holding an “inclusive and accessible” competition for the estimated 350,000 disabled people who are expected to visit the French capital in summer 2024 and the estimated 4,000 to 5,000 people with limited mobility who will be using public transport each day.

Read more Anticipated transport closures for the Paralympics (in French)

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