France is buzzing with excitement as it prepares to host the Olympic Games, an event that brings together athletes and spectators from all corners of the globe. But this year, there’s a unique twist for visitors: the opportunity to combine their sports enthusiasm with an exploration of the country’s rich wine culture. Imagine savoring a glass of wine at one of France wineries after cheering on your favorite athletes.
This guide is crafted to assist you in navigating this exceptional experience, blending the thrill of the Olympics with the elegance of France’s wine regions.
Preparing for Your Trip to France
With all eyes turning to France, it’s important to grasp the layout of Olympic events and the locations of key wine regions. The Olympic Games will run from July 24th to August 11th, featuring a packed schedule of events and ceremonies. Here’s the full schedule:
Attending all Olympic events is quite uncommon, so our team at Winalist had an idea! Why not split your time between attending Olympic events and exploring vineyards near Paris? This way, you can fully enjoy your trip and experience both without feeling rushed.
Staying outside of Paris: A good idea?
If the type of accommodation shown above is what you’re looking for, then it’s definitely a good idea!
Finding accommodation in Paris during the Olympics can be quite challenging. Prices have skyrocketed, and the city will be bustling and heavily restricted.
Alternatively, consider staying in a city like Reims in the Champagne region, just 45 minutes from the heart of Paris by train (tickets available here). For €80 (approximately $85 USD), you can purchase a round-trip train ticket from Reims to Paris and still attend Olympic events, all while enjoying the luxury of staying in the heart of the Champagne region. Imagine sipping a glass at a Champagne House in the morning and watching a tennis match in the afternoon.
This handy map shows the main Olympic venues in Paris, along with the train station where you’ll arrive from Reims. As you can see, it’s right in the center of the action!
Reims offers a fantastic alternative to staying in Paris. You’ll find better-value hotels here, plus the added bonus of being right on the doorstep of a world-famous wine region. Explore our guide to uncover the best things to do in Reims, and browse additional hotel options for your stay.
If you’re short on time in France and set your heart on staying in Paris, don’t worry! You can still experience the wonders of French wine by embarking on a Paris wine tour – it’s a great way to make the most of your trip.
Explore French Wine Regions and Gastronomy
Getting around France during the Olympics is a breeze with a variety of transportation options at your disposal. France’s well-developed train network, including the high-speed TGV lines, whisks you conveniently to major French wine regions. For added flexibility, consider renting a car. This grants you the freedom to explore charming vineyards and quaint towns at your own pace.
Explore Champagne
The closest wine region to Paris, Champagne, beckons visitors to explore the bubbly world of its namesake sparkling wine. Reims, with its awe-inspiring cathedral and labyrinthine Champagne cellars, makes a perfect home base for your exploration.
Useful info & links:
- Get to Champagne by high-speed train in 45 minutes from Paris (tickets here). Arrival in Reims.
- Your ultimate guide to visiting Champagne in 2-3 days
- Reims Champagne houses to visit
- Guides to the Best things to do in Epernay & Epernay Champagne houses to visit
Explore Bordeaux
Wine lovers, rejoice! Bordeaux, a mere two-hour train ride from Paris, is a must-visit destination. This region boasts some of the world’s most prestigious vineyards and historic châteaus, offering you a deep dive into the fascinating art of winemaking.
Useful info & links:
- Get to Bordeaux by high-speed train in 2h from Paris (tickets here). Arrival in Reims.
- Your ultimate 3 days itinerary to discover Bordeaux
- Guides to the Best things to do in Bordeaux & Best Bordeaux wine tours
- Guides to the Best things to do in Saint-Emilion & Saint Emilion wineries to visit
Explore Burgundy
Calling all Pinot Noir and Chardonnay fans! Burgundy, a scenic region known for these iconic grapes, awaits just a three-hour train ride or drive southeast of Paris. Ancient estates and rolling vineyards transport you on a timeless journey through the rich history of winemaking.
Useful info & links:
- It’s best to rent a car to explore Burgundy and its villages. Either rent it from Paris or from Dijon (train ticket to dijon here)
- The ultimate itinerary to visit Burgundy and best Burgundy wineries to visit
- Guides to the Best things to do in Beaune & Beaune wineries to visit
Explore Loire Valley
Steeped in history and renowned for its crisp white wines, the Loire Valley offers a picturesque escape into France’s royal past. Just a few hours by train or car from Paris, this region makes a perfect add-on to your French itinerary. Consider arriving in the charming city of Tours. From there, renting a car allows you to explore the wine region at your own pace and visit the many famous Loire Valley Chateaus.
Useful info & links:
- It’s best to rent a car to explore Loire Valley and its villages. Either rent it from Paris or from Tours
- The ultimate itinerary to visit Loire Valley and best Loire Valley wineries to visit
- Guides to the Best things to do in Tours
Explore Rhone Valley
Craving a deeper dive into French wine country? Look no further than the Rhône Valley! Located a little farther south than some other regions, it offers a captivating blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and, of course, bold red wines. This makes it ideal for wine enthusiasts who want to experience the heart and soul of French viticulture.
Useful info & links:
- It’s best to get to Lyon by train (tickets here) then rent a car in Lyon to explore Rhône Valley and its villages.
- The ultimate itinerary to visit Rhone Valley and best Rhone Valley wineries to visit
- Guides to the Best things to do in Lyon
The 2024 Olympics in France offer a once-in-a-lifetime chance to witness peak athleticism and delve into the country’s legendary wine culture. This guide is your ticket to an unforgettable adventure brimming with excitement, flavor, and discovery.
Imagine cheering on the sidelines one minute, and raising a toast in a charming vineyard the next. This unique blend of sports and wine tourism promises memories that will last a lifetime.
France’s wine regions are so much more than just delicious drinks. They’re about the captivating stories whispered by ancient vines, the breathtaking landscapes that stretch for miles, and the warm hospitality you’ll encounter at every turn.
As you plan your Olympic adventure, let this guide be your roadmap to a trip overflowing with passion, joy, and the celebration of human excellence, both in sports and in the art of winemaking.
