Paris, France, takes the spotlight as a top recommendation from Ceylan Yeginsu of The New York Times for 2024. As the city prepares to host the Olympics, travelers can indulge in the romance and elegance of the “City of Light.” Iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and gourmet cuisine await amidst the excitement of the world’s greatest sporting event.

The Olympics opening ceremony will not be held in a stadium but outdoors, along the River Seine and near the Eiffel Tower. Outdoor swimming and the para-triathlon will be set against the backdrop of the Pont d’Iéna. The Grand Palais, renowned for its vast glass dome, will stage the fencing and taekwondo events. The grand gardens of the Château de Versailles will be the course for the equestrian events. La Concorde will host the Olympic debut of break dancing and other sports like skateboarding and three-on-three basketball.

Extra: The Musée d’Orsay presents “Paris 1874: The Impressionist Moment” (March 26 to July 14,) exploring the Impressionist movement’s depiction of Paris. Additionally, the restored Notre-Dame Cathedral, damaged in a 2019 fire, reopens to visitors on Dec. 8, 2024.