The Paris 2024 Olympics is set to be one of the biggest global sporting events this year. Attending the Summer Olympics is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for most people, and with this year’s games set in one of the world’s most iconic cities it’s going to be extra special.

As the City of Light prepares to welcome thousands of global travellers from 26 July to 12 August, now is the time to start planning the ultimate European adventure. American Express’ latest Trendex report¹ reveals Australian travellers are hungrier than ever to travel, with 98 per cent planning to take a vacation this year.

The Olympics is the perfect opportunity for an unforgettable holiday. But with its seemingly endless array of iconic sights and amazing experiences, Paris can be overwhelming for first-time visitors. So, we’ve trawled through American Express’s partner network to help travellers bask in the Olympic spirit, while redeeming invaluable American Express Membership Rewards^® points².

From gourmet dining to luxury accommodation and exclusive shopping, here are five incredible experiences that will make Paris 2024 the trip of a lifetime.

1. Mon Paris: A culinary delight in the heart of the city

Paris has a reputation for culinary excellence, with a diverse food culture and some of the world’s best chefs. Mon Paris! embodies this spirit and is a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts. Located in Paris’s bustling business and theatre district, this gourmet brasserie offers a seasonal menu that showcases refined and diverse cuisine.

The restaurant's location on a private pedestrian street facing the Edward VII statue is a charming draw. Its terrace offers a quiet escape from the city's hustle and bustle, making it perfect for a bit of quiet time in the sun between events. Guests can also watch the chefs in action as they work with the finest ingredients in a prestigious open kitchen, making it a truly Parisian dining experience.

2. Hotel Providence: high-end accommodation with a boutique charm

Hotel Providence is a beautiful boutique hotel that offers a truly immersive Parisian experience. Built in 1854, each of its 18 rooms are individually decorated with designer fabrics and tasteful vintage furniture, making each stay truly special.

The hotel offers a welcoming setting with a modern appeal; think incredible architecture, Pointe de Hongrie wooden floors, and marble mosaics. Its rooftop offers guests a postcard view of the city and its front terrace opens to a quintessentially Parisian scene, complete with cobblestone streets, cafes and beautiful floral arrangements, making it perfect for soaking in the city’s charm. Charge the room to your Amex Card to give your point’s balance a boost.

3. L'usine Sports Club: luxury fitness with a welcoming vibe

Channel the energy of Olympic champions at L’usine Sports Clubs, a series of luxurious fitness havens located in key Parisian hotspots. As a premium gym with a comfortable setting, L’usine prides itself on providing the best equipment and experiences, offering facilities like a cycling room, yoga/pilates studio, weight training facilities, saunas, and dedicated cardio training areas.

Its signature Opéra location is housed in a nineteenth-century oil mill, with a design that melds industrial chic with modern elegance, using a blend of steel, wood, and harmonious lighting. Its two other locations – Saint-Lazare and Beaubourg – are also centrally located and convenient to access, making L’usine a great option for those staying in the city and are feeling particularly inspired by the Olympic games.

4. Des Gâteaux et du Pain: a pastry lover’s dream

Led by renowned pastry chef Clare Damon, Des Gâteaux et du Pain is an exquisite bakery that will satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth. Sporting a trendy black facade and sleek interior, Des Gâteaux et du Pain offers a delectable selection of pastries, bread, cakes and shortbread.

From decadent and beautifully presented chocolate cakes to artisanal brioche infused with mountain butter and organic eggs, every item is a testament to the city's world-renowned pastry craft. It's an unmissable stop for those looking for the city’s best sweet and savoury treats. We suggest you pass by this one more than once, for extra points, of course.

5. Fleux: a premier concept store

Fleux is one of Paris's largest concept stores, with a diverse range and a focus on interior design. Spread across six stores in in Paris’s Le Marais neighbourhood, Fleux is an emporium of style and creativity, offering chic furniture, elegant kitchenware, bespoke lamps, home textiles, children’s toys and much more.

It's a local favourite that serves as the perfect place to grab a holiday memento or a stylish gift for friends and family upon your return, should you be able to tear yourself away! And, if you have purchased a fragile gift and it gets damaged on the trip home, check out if your card includes any purchase protection benefits.