Quick Talk
Use the official Olympic app to stay updated with the latest event schedule, Citymapper for all your transport needs in Paris, Google Translate to communicate effectively with locals, Google Maps for offline navigation, eSIM app to eliminate the need to buy a physical sim, TIER to rent local electric bikes.
The Paris Olympics 2024, is set to kick off on July 26, 2024. Over 5,000 athletes are expected to participate in the biggest sports event. Millions of people will gather to watch the Olympics. If you are traveling to Paris for the Olympics 2024, here are the must-have apps on your smartphone. You can easily access the essential services in Paris through these apps making the visit to Paris more enjoyable and efficient.
Table of Contents
10 Must-Have Apps for the Paris Olympics 2024
Olympic app: Stay updated with event schedules and live Olympic updates
You can use the official Olympic app to stay updated with the latest event schedules. The app offers up-to-date schedules of all Olympic events, along with the time, location, and details about the athletes and team participation. It displays real-time results and live updates on event outcomes. You can set up alerts for your favorite events and manage all your tickets in one place. The app is available for both Android and iPhone for free.
Citymapper: Get real-time updates on public transit schedules and compare different routes
Citymapper is the only app you need for all your transportation needs in Paris. The app provides detailed, multi-modal navigation and transportation information to help you navigate the city. It covers all modes of transportation, including metro, buses, trams, bikes, and walking, with real-time updates on public transit schedules. It offers clear, step-by-step directions for easy navigation.
The best part about the app is that it compares different routes and travel modes with the time and cost to get there. If public transport is too crowded, you can look for alternate routes or book a cab from Uber or Lyft directly from the app. It also offers detailed weather updates and allows you to download maps for offline use. Overall, it’s the only app you need if you are traveling in Paris during the 2024 Olympics.
RATP (Public Transport): Plan routes and Purchase tickets directly from the app
RATP is the official app for Paris public transportation. It offers detailed information about public transport like the metro, buses, trams, and more with real-time updates on schedules, and delays. Similar to Citymapper, you can plan routes and download offline maps and schedules of public transport.
However, RATP supports ticket purchasing, allowing you to book tickets directly from the app which is not available in Citymapper. While RATP has some advantages like authority, in terms of interface and user experience, Citymapper is better. Both apps are highly useful, especially during large events like the Olympics.
Google Maps: Download maps for offline use to avoid data charges
Offline maps can be really handy, especially if you are in remote areas or have a limited data plan. If you are a frequent traveler, you know how expensive roaming charges can be in other countries, and many international data plans have limited data that can run out quickly.
You can download the entire map for Paris map offline and limit data consumption when using maps. There are plenty of offline maps available, I suggest using Google and Apple Maps as they are more readable, free, and the default navigation apps on Android and iPhone. There are also plenty of free offline maps you can choose from. To avoid extra data charges, download the maps for your current location before moving to Paris.
Download Google Maps: Android | iPhone
Google Translate: Communicate in French easily with real-time translation
No matter where you go, having a translator app can be handy if you want to communicate in the local language. One of the best language translator apps out there is Google Translate, which supports hundreds of languages, including French. You can convert any language into French, and it also comes with a live conversation feature that translates conversations in real time with voice output. The app is free to use and available for both Android and iPhone. To use it offline, download the languages you want to translate.
Google Lens: Translate text on signs and menus by pointing your camera
The Google Lens app is very helpful, especially in translating sign boards. It can translate text in real-time by simply pointing your camera at signs, menus, and more. It also provides information about landmarks, buildings, or artworks by scanning them with your smartphone camera. The app is free to use and comes with useful functions like the ability to extract text directly from images, perform actions like dialing phone numbers, and automatically navigate to addresses from signboards and more.
Download: Android | On iOS, you can use the Google app
Nomad eSIM: Activate an eSIM without buying a local SIM card
Another major issue when visiting a new place is dealing with SIM cards. In France, popular SIM options include Orange and local providers. To avoid this hassle buying a local sim, you can use an eSIM as a convenient option. Most smartphones these days support eSIM, and there are plenty of apps that offer eSIM services. You can activate the eSIM using any of the popular eSIM apps and start using it in France.
Download Nomad: Android | iPhone
TheFork app: Book dining tables to prevent wait time during peak hours
Restaurants in Paris are often crowded, especially during peak hours and major events like the Olympics. To avoid waiting times, you can use the popular app, The Fork. The app lets you book a table at a restaurant. The app supports over 55,000 restaurants. You can browse restaurants in Paris and book a table easily. It also includes reviews so you can choose a restaurant based on other diners’ experiences.
Yelp: Find reviews and ratings for restaurants and other businesses
If you are specifically looking for reviews, Yelp is also a helpful app to use while you are in Paris. Yelp reviews are popular and available in most countries, including France. The app is known for its restaurant reviews and is also beneficial if you want to know the ratings and reviews of other types of businesses.
You can find real user reviews of different places on the app. It also displays crowded areas, which is especially useful during major events like the Olympics. You can also order food from restaurants directly through Yelp.
XE Currency: Track real-time exchange rates for multiple currencies
Many travelers exchange their money for local currency during their travel, but exchange rates can vary greatly between places. For instance, exchange rates at airports and travel hubs are often more expensive compared to local banks, currency exchange offices, and ATMs.
For the best rates, I highly recommend avoiding airports and hotels and using online tools and apps like the XE Currency app to find the best deals. The app offers real-time exchange rates for multiple currencies. You can track the current exchange rates, set up drop alerts, and more.
More Apps for Specific Needs
App Name | Description | Download Link (iPhone) | Download Link (Android) |
|---|---|---|---|
ChatGPT | All in one app that provides information about the place translates language, and more. Your travel personal assistant | ||
Splitwise | Split bills with your friends and easily track shared expenses. | ||
BlaBlaCar | A carpooling service that offers affordable rides between cities. | ||
Trainline | Book train tickets and find the best routes for travel across Europe. | ||
EatWith | Connects you with local hosts for unique dining experiences in their homes. | ||
Meetup | Find and join local events and groups to meet new people and socialize | ||
Toilets Paris - Restroom Paris | Quickly find public restrooms nearby, useful when exploring the city. Better than using Maps for finding toilets. | ||
CityMaps2Go | Offline maps with detailed city guides and points of interest.Best alternative to Google Maps. | ||
Getaround | Rent a car directly from locals for short-term use. | ||
AroundMe | Quickly find nearby places like restaurants, hospitals, and ATMs. | ||
OMIO app | Book your train tickets using the app. Also includes flight and bus bookings | ||
TIER | Rent electric scooters and bikes |
Apps You Need for Visiting Paris
Those are the list of useful apps that you must have on your smartphone if you are visiting Paris for the Olympics 2024. Most essential services in Paris. Whether it’s your first time or a frequent visit to Paris. These apps will help you with basic needs in Paris like transport, food, stay, communication, and more. We also include apps that are not as popular but can be beneficial to users looking for specific needs like renting local cars, local events, meeting new people, and more. If you have any suggestions let us know in the comments.
