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$15.99 (as of December 22, 2024 21:47 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Do you ever dream of traveling to an Olympic host city? The Olympics aren’t just about extraordinary athletic achievements; they also shine a spotlight on the cities that host them. Exploring these cities can be a thrilling experience, filled with opportunities to soak in sports history, culture, and a vibrant atmosphere. But not all Olympic host cities are created equal. Some have captivated audiences and travelers alike, while others fell short of expectations.
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KÜHL’s Study on the Best and Worst Olympic Host Cities
Methodology
KÜHL, a mountain apparel brand based in Salt Lake City, Utah, conducted a comprehensive study to rank Olympic host cities. The brand evaluated various factors such as available activities, safety indexes, holiday costs, and time spent in traffic.
Why This Matters
If you’re planning a trip to an Olympic city, this study will help you figure out where to go and what to avoid. Why waste your vacation in a city that’s less than stellar?
The Best Olympic Games Host Cities for Travelers
Rome, Italy
- Overall score: 7.12
- Holiday cost: $1,350
- Safety index: 50.7
- Activities: 6,680
- Traffic time: 26 minutes
Hosting the 1960 Olympic Games, Rome is a city that blends ancient history with modern vibrancy. Rome’s enduring charm lies in its scenic ruins like the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. Beyond that, the food alone is worth the trip.
Tokyo, Japan
- Overall score: 6.37
- Holiday cost: $1,118.84
- Safety index: 76
- Activities: 2,129
- Traffic time: 24 minutes
Tokyo hosted the Olympic Games in 1964 and again in 2021. Known for its safety and efficiency, Tokyo merges cutting-edge technology with traditional culture. Don’t miss the bustling Shibuya Crossing or the tranquil Meiji Shrine.
Athens, Greece
- Overall score: 5.89
- Holiday cost: $1,142.91
- Safety index: 44.1
- Activities: 3,475
- Traffic time: 23 minutes
Athens, where it all began in 1896, offers a glimpse into the origins of the modern Olympics. The historic landmarks such as the Parthenon make it a must-see.
Beijing, China
- Overall score: 5.78
- Holiday cost: $1,035.55
- Safety index: 56.4
- Activities: 1,853
- Traffic time: 28 minutes
Beijing, the host of the 2008 Summer Olympics and 2022 Winter Olympics, is a city rich in history and modern development. From the Great Wall to the Bird’s Nest stadium, there’s no shortage of things to see.
Sydney, Australia
- Overall score: 5.69
- Holiday cost: $1,233.60
- Safety index: 62.3
- Activities: 2,080
- Traffic time: 30 minutes
Sydney, famous for its 2000 Olympics, offers a mix of natural beauty and urban sophistication. The iconic Sydney Opera House and Bondi Beach make it a favorite among travelers.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Overall score: 5.61
- Holiday cost: $1,289.60
- Safety index: 74
- Activities: 1,658
- Traffic time: 15 minutes
Hosting the Olympics in 1928, Amsterdam is known for its picturesque canals and vibrant cultural scene. It’s a haven for art lovers, with museums such as the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum.
Munich, Germany
- Overall score: 5.53
- Holiday cost: $1,486.97
- Safety index: 65.1
- Activities: 1,907
- Traffic time: 21 minutes
The site of the 1972 Olympics, Munich is a city of contrast with its historic buildings and modern architecture. Don’t miss the Marienplatz square and the annual Oktoberfest.
Barcelona, Spain
- Overall score: 5.46
- Holiday cost: $1,297.40
- Safety index: 53.9
- Activities: 3,201
- Traffic time: 25 minutes
Barcelona, host of the 1992 Games, is a city of unique architecture and lively beach culture. Gaudí’s Sagrada Familia and Park Güell are iconic landmarks.
Helsinki, Finland
- Overall score: 5.39
- Holiday cost: $1,214.22
- Safety index: 87.4
- Activities: 1,250
- Traffic time: 18 minutes
Hosting the 1952 Olympics, Helsinki is a blend of serene natural beauty and vibrant urban life. The Suomenlinna sea fortress and the modern architecture are notable highlights.
Paris, France
- Overall score: 5.33
- Holiday cost: $1,350.00
- Safety index: 70.3
- Activities: 4,893
- Traffic time: 32 minutes
Set to host the 2024 Olympics, Paris needs no introduction. From the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre, the City of Light is a dream destination for many.
| City | Overall Score | Holiday Cost | Safety Index | Activities | Traffic Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rome | 7.12 | $1,350 | 50.7 | 6,680 | 26 minutes |
| Tokyo | 6.37 | $1,118.84 | 76 | 2,129 | 24 minutes |
| Athens | 5.89 | $1,142.91 | 44.1 | 3,475 | 23 minutes |
| Beijing | 5.78 | $1,035.55 | 56.4 | 1,853 | 28 minutes |
| Sydney | 5.69 | $1,233.60 | 62.3 | 2,080 | 30 minutes |
| Amsterdam | 5.61 | $1,289.60 | 74 | 1,658 | 15 minutes |
| Munich | 5.53 | $1,486.97 | 65.1 | 1,907 | 21 minutes |
| Barcelona | 5.46 | $1,297.40 | 53.9 | 3,201 | 25 minutes |
| Helsinki | 5.39 | $1,214.22 | 87.4 | 1,250 | 18 minutes |
| Paris | 5.33 | $1,350.00 | 70.3 | 4,893 | 32 minutes |
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The Worst Olympic Host Cities for a Trip
Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver, despite its breathtaking scenery and the successful 2010 Winter Olympics, ranks lower due to factors such as high costs and traffic woes.
St. Louis, USA
St. Louis hosted the 1904 Olympics, but the event was marred by organizational issues and low participant turnout. Today, it’s often overlooked as an Olympic city.
Atlanta, USA
The 1996 Atlanta Games were notable but faced criticism over traffic congestion and commercialism. The city’s Olympic legacy hasn’t been as impactful as hoped.
London, United Kingdom
While London is a fabulous city, the 2012 Olympics left behind a mixed legacy. High costs and increased traffic made it less appealing for visitors post-Games.
Milan, Italy
Milan, slated to co-host the 2026 Winter Olympics, is known for its fashion and finance but struggles with traffic and cost issues.
Los Angeles, USA
Hosting the Games in 1932 and 1984 and set to host again in 2028, Los Angeles grapples with significant traffic and high living costs.
Turin, Italy
Turin hosted the 2006 Winter Olympics and, despite its beautiful settings, has struggled with maintaining the facilities’ usefulness and high costs.
Seoul, South Korea
The 1988 Seoul Olympics were a milestone for the city, but high costs and mixed reviews from travelers have affected its appeal.
Montreal, Canada
Montreal’s 1976 Olympics are often remembered for the massive debt it incurred. While the city has a lot to offer, this cloud lingers over its Olympic legacy.
Mexico City, Mexico
Hosting the 1968 Olympics, Mexico City is vibrant and filled with culture but struggles with traffic and safety concerns.
Conclusion: Your Travel Plans
Olympic host cities offer the allure of rich history, culture, and sportsmanship, but they’re not all created equal. Rome, Tokyo, and Athens top the list for their blend of affordability, safety, and activities, making them desirable travel destinations. On the flip side, cities like Vancouver and St. Louis don’t hold the same appeal, despite their unique charms.
Whether you’re reminiscing about past Olympic moments or planning your next trip, this guide will help you decide where to book your tickets and where you might want to skip. The allure of an Olympic city isn’t just in its history but in the vibrant experiences it offers to travelers from around the globe.
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