Visit Cities Where The Games Left A Lasting Legacy
Hosting the Olympic Games tends to change a city forever. Stadiums rise, neighborhoods transform, and global attention shines on places that often have far more to offer than a few weeks of competition. Long after the medals are awarded, many of these destinations remain vibrant, culturally rich, and absolutely worth adding to your travel list. Here are 20 Olympic host cities that deserve at least one visit in your lifetime.
1. Athens, Greece
As the birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games and host of the first modern Olympics in 1896, Athens carries serious historical weight. You can explore the Panathenaic Stadium, which hosted events in both 1896 and 2004, and then walk through the Acropolis to see where Western civilization took shape.
2. Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo hosted the Summer Olympics in 1964 and again in 2021, marking two very different eras in Japanese history. The 1964 Games symbolized Japan’s postwar reemergence, while the 2021 edition highlighted its modern innovation. Beyond the Olympic legacy, you’ll find world-class food, cutting-edge design, and serene temples tucked between skyscrapers.
3. Paris, France
Paris has hosted the Summer Olympics multiple times, spanning more than a century. Yet, its appeal goes well beyond sport. From the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre and café culture that encourages you to linger, Paris feels timeless in every sense.
4. London, England
London stands alone as the first city to host the Summer Olympics three times: 1908, 1948, and 2012. The 2012 Games revitalized East London, turning former industrial land into the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Pair that with centuries of history, iconic landmarks, and vibrant markets, and you’ve got a city that rewards repeat visits.
5. Los Angeles, United States
Los Angeles hosted the Summer Olympics in 1932 and 1984 and is set to host again in 2028. The 1984 Games reshaped how host cities approach budgeting. Beyond the Olympic story, LA offers beaches, film history, and neighborhoods that each feel like their own mini city.
6. Rome, Italy
Rome hosted the Summer Olympics in 1960, blending ancient monuments with modern sport. Events were staged near landmarks like the Baths of Caracalla, giving the Games an unforgettable backdrop. Today, you can wander from the Colosseum to Vatican City in a single afternoon and still feel like you’ve only scratched the surface.
7. Barcelona, Spain
The 1992 Summer Olympics transformed Barcelona’s waterfront and global reputation. What was once an industrial coastline became a lively beach destination. Add in Gaudí’s architecture, walkable neighborhoods, and late-night tapas culture, and it’s easy to see why the city remains a favorite.
8. Sydney, Australia
Sydney hosted the Summer Olympics in 2000, delivering one of the most celebrated Games in modern history. The Sydney Olympic Park remains active, but the city’s natural beauty steals the spotlight.
9. Beijing, China
Beijing hosted the Summer Olympics in 2008 and the Winter Olympics in 2022, becoming the first city to host both. The 2008 Games introduced architectural icons like the Bird’s Nest stadium.
10. Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver hosted the Winter Olympics in 2010, showcasing its dramatic mountain and ocean setting. The Games emphasized sustainability and left behind well-used venues. Even without snow, the city’s outdoor culture and nearby Whistler make it a dream for nature lovers.
11. Munich, Germany
Munich hosted the Summer Olympics in 1972 and is remembered for the tragic events where Israeli athletes were murdered. In addition to visiting to gain a sense of history from the 1972 games, you can also visit the Olympic Park, with its sweeping tent-like architecture.
12. Mexico City, Mexico
The 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City were the first held in Latin America. The Games are remembered for athletic achievements and powerful political moments. Today, the city impresses with its museums, historic center, and one of the most exciting food scenes anywhere.
13. Montreal, Canada
Montreal hosted the Summer Olympics in 1976, leaving behind the distinctive Olympic Stadium. While the event faced financial challenges, the city itself thrives with French-Canadian culture and festival energy.
14. Seoul, South Korea
The 1988 Summer Olympics marked a turning point for South Korea on the global stage. Seoul has since grown into a dynamic mix of tradition and modernity.
15. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Rio hosted the Summer Olympics in 2016, bringing the Games back to South America for the first time. The city’s dramatic setting between mountains and ocean made for unforgettable visuals.
16. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam hosted the Summer Olympics in 1928, introducing the now-traditional Olympic flame. The city’s compact layout makes it easy to explore by bike or on foot.
17. Sochi, Russia
Sochi hosted the Winter Olympics in 2014, transforming the Black Sea resort into a winter sports hub. The Games involved massive infrastructure investment and international attention. Today, visitors can experience both seaside relaxation and mountain scenery in one trip.
18. Lake Placid, United States
Lake Placid hosted the Winter Olympics in 1932 and 1980. The 1980 “Miracle on Ice” hockey game remains one of the most iconic moments in sports history.
Virgilio de Carvalho on Unsplash
19. Berlin, Germany
Berlin hosted the Summer Olympics in 1936, an event heavily shaped by Nazi propaganda. While the Games are historically complex, the city has since transformed dramatically.
20. Calgary, Canada
Calgary hosted the Winter Olympics in 1988, boosting its international profile. The Games helped expand winter sports facilities that are still in use. With its proximity to Banff and the Canadian Rockies, Calgary serves as a gateway to some of North America’s most breathtaking landscapes.
