Picture this: You’ve scored tickets to the Paris 2024 Olympics. The excitement is palpable, your itinerary is packed with events, and you’re dreaming of croissants and café au lait. But where will you rest your head after long days of cheering on your favorite athletes? Sure, the Olympic Village has its charms, but for those of us who crave a touch of luxury and a true Parisian experience, there’s a world of opulent apartments waiting to be discovered.
As someone who’s been fortunate enough to attend multiple Olympic Games (and who may have a slight addiction to high-thread-count sheets), I’ve learned that where you stay can make or break your Olympic experience. So, let me take you on a journey through some of the most sumptuous apartments Paris has to offer for the discerning Olympic fan.
- Le Marais Masterpiece
Nestled in the heart of the trendy Marais district, this stunning three-bedroom apartment is a stone’s throw from the Picasso Museum. With its exposed wooden beams, herringbone parquet floors, and a kitchen that would make Julia Child swoon, it’s the perfect blend of old-world charm and modern luxury.
I’ll never forget the time I stayed in a similar apartment during Paris Fashion Week. There’s something magical about sipping your morning coffee on a wrought-iron balcony, watching the streets of Paris come to life below. And after a day of Olympic excitement, you can unwind in the clawfoot tub, surrounded by marble and soft candlelight.
- Eiffel Tower Elegance
If you’re going to do Paris, why not do it with a view? This two-bedroom gem offers unobstructed views of the Eiffel Tower. Imagine watching the tower’s nightly light show from your own private terrace, champagne in hand, as you relive the day’s Olympic triumphs.
The apartment’s sleek, modern design is a stark contrast to the historical facade of the building. It’s like stepping into a luxurious time machine every time you enter. Pro tip: Book this one early. Apartments with Eiffel Tower views are snapped up faster than tickets to the 100-meter dash final.
- Saint-Germain-des-Prés Chic
For the literary-minded Olympic fan, this apartment in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés is a dream come true. Once the haunt of Hemingway and Fitzgerald, this area still buzzes with intellectual energy. The apartment itself is a bookworm’s paradise, with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves and a cozy reading nook perfect for perusing the latest Olympic stats.
I once spent a week in a similar apartment, and I swear I could feel the creative juices flowing. There’s something about being surrounded by so much history that makes you want to write your own story – or at least a really good Instagram caption.
- Montmartre Marvel
Perched atop the hill of Montmartre, this charming studio offers breathtaking panoramic views of Paris. It’s compact, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in character and location. You’re just steps away from the iconic Sacré-Cœur and the bustling Place du Tertre.
Fair warning: the climb up to Montmartre can be a bit of a workout. But hey, if the Olympic athletes can push their bodies to the limit, surely we can handle a few stairs, right? Plus, think of all the guilt-free pain au chocolat you can enjoy.
- Champs-Élysées Chalet
Okay, calling it a chalet might be a stretch, but this penthouse apartment just off the Champs-Élysées feels like a cozy mountain retreat in the heart of Paris. With its wood-paneled walls and plush furnishings, it’s the perfect place to decompress after a day of Olympic fervor.
The real star of this apartment is the rooftop terrace. I’ve spent many an evening on similar terraces, watching the sun set over the Parisian rooftops, feeling like I’m in my own private movie. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to host an intimate soirée for your fellow Olympic enthusiasts.
- Latin Quarter Loft
For those who like their luxury with a side of bohemian flair, this loft in the Latin Quarter is just the ticket. The double-height ceilings and massive windows flood the space with light, making it feel like your own private art gallery.
The best part? You’re just a hop, skip, and a jump away from some of the best food in Paris. After watching world-class athletes all day, you can indulge in world-class cuisine without straying far from home. I still dream about the coq au vin I had at a tiny bistro around the corner from a similar loft.
- Canal Saint-Martin Cool
If you’re looking to stay in a neighborhood that’s a bit off the beaten path, consider this sleek apartment near the Canal Saint-Martin. It’s a favorite hangout spot for young Parisians, and you’ll feel like a local in no time.
The apartment itself is a masterclass in minimalist design, with clean lines and a monochromatic color scheme. But don’t let the simple decor fool you – it’s equipped with all the luxuries you could want, including a rainfall shower that’s perfect for washing away the day’s excitement.
- Opéra Oasis
For the music lovers among us, this apartment near the Opéra Garnier is a symphony of luxury. The ornate moldings and crystal chandeliers will make you feel like you’re starring in your own production of “The Phantom of the Opera.”
But the real showstopper is the kitchen. It’s so well-equipped that you might be tempted to skip the local restaurants and whip up your own gourmet meals. I once stayed in a similar apartment and fancied myself a French chef for a week. Let’s just say it’s a good thing there were plenty of excellent restaurants nearby.
- Jardin des Plantes Jewel
If you need a bit of green space to balance out the urban Olympic experience, this apartment overlooking the Jardin des Plantes is perfect. The botanical garden is your backyard, offering a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of the Games.
The apartment itself is a plant lover’s paradise, with an indoor living wall and a balcony perfect for urban gardening. It’s like staying in a high-end treehouse, but with better plumbing and no risk of squirrel invasions.
- Île Saint-Louis Idyll
Last but certainly not least, we have this gem on the Île Saint-Louis. If you really want to feel like Parisian royalty, this is the place for you. The island location gives you a sense of seclusion, even though you’re in the heart of the city.
The apartment is housed in a 17th-century building, and the owners have done an impeccable job of preserving its historical features while adding modern luxuries. The piece de resistance? A private wine cellar stocked with some of France’s finest vintages. Because let’s face it, after a day of watching other people exercise, you deserve a good glass of wine.
Now, I know what you’re thinking. “These all sound amazing, but aren’t they expensive?” Well, yes. Luxury comes at a price, especially during the Olympics. But here’s how I see it: You’re not just paying for a place to sleep. You’re investing in an experience, a slice of Parisian life that goes beyond the typical tourist trap.
Plus, many of these apartments can accommodate multiple people, so if you’re traveling with a group, it can actually work out to be quite reasonable. And let’s be honest, can you really put a price on being able to say, “Oh, my apartment in Paris? It’s just off the Champs-Élysées, darling.”
So, as you plan your Olympic adventure, I encourage you to think beyond the standard hotel room. Treat yourself to a little Parisian luxury. After all, you’re not just going to watch the Olympics – you’re going to experience Paris. And in my book, that deserves a gold medal-worthy home base.
Remember, booking early is key. These luxurious apartments will be snapped up faster than you can say “Paris 2024.” So start your search now, and who knows? Maybe we’ll end up being neighbors. I’ll bring the champagne, you bring the Olympic spirit. À votre santé, and may the best athletes (and apartment hunters) win!