Paris 2024 Olympic Games: Will you need a QR code to get around?
Confused by the different colored zones announced for the period leading up to and during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games? You’re not alone. Even Parisians are struggling to understand the system. Especially since some zones require a QR code to access.
So, will YOU need a QR code?
Probably not. But let’s take a closer look. Starting July 18th, Paris will be divided into zones of different colors: white, red and gray. White zones have no restrictions. Red zones have restrictions only for motorized vehicles, not for pedestrians. This means that motorized vehicles will need a QR code to access red zones. This probably won’t affect you.
Gray zones, on the other hand, require pedestrians to have a QR code or they won’t be allowed in. If you work or live in a gray zone (hotels/holiday homes count as well), you need to register here to get a code. Note that this only affects you if your accommodation is in a gray zone from July 18-26, and if that’s the case, your hotel will probably notify you.
Find out if your hotel is in a gray zone
If you’re still not sure, you can check your lodging address on this interactive map, where you can see the different zones based on the date and time of day. That’s right, the zones change almost by the hour. But don’t panic, the areas concerned are tiny and more or less along the Seine. And again, this is only between July 18 and 26.
Visitors to the Louvre and other museums and sites in the gray zone don’t need a QR code to enter the museum, as long as they have a valid ticket. After July 26th, the only gray areas will be the competition sites. There will be no need for QR codes, as only those with a ticket to the sporting event will be able to enter.
Escape the chaos with our Olympic Guide
15 million tourists are expected to visit Paris for the games, so if you think the city is crowded during normal times, brace yourself. Tourist traps, sorry, we meant to write cafes, restaurants and other venues in the center and around the competition sites are likely to be packed and overpriced. But where should you go if you don’t want to drown in a sea of other tourists, when on top of that many businesses – despite the ongoing Olympics – close their doors during the summer?
Fear not, we’ve selected 30 amazing non-touristy places for you to experience your best Paris during this exciting, once-in-a-lifetime period. Click here to get Le Olympic Guide.
