Paris will bask in the glow of Olympic glory as it hosts the summer games this month, but what about the cities that have hosted it in the past? From iconic stadiums to museums and parks, many of them have transformed their Olympic venues into attractions that continue to draw visitors from around the world. Here are 10 cities that have hosted the Summer Olympics and the Olympic-related attractions you can experience when you visit:

Athens is where the modern Olympics began

Athens, the birthplace of the modern Olympics, hosted the first Games in 1896 and again in 2004. Visitors can explore the Panathenaic Stadium, the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble, which hosted the first modern Olympic Games. The Olympic Athletic Centre of Athens, also known as OAKA, is another must-see, featuring the main stadium, velodrome and aquatic centre. The Olympic Museum in Athens offers a comprehensive history of the Games, showcasing memorabilia and exhibits from various Olympiads.

London is the only city to host the Olympics three times

London, the only city to host the Summer Olympics three times (1908, 1948, and 2012), offers numerous Olympic attractions. The Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, home to the 2012 Games, features the London Stadium, the Aquatics Centre and the ArcelorMittal Orbit, a striking observation tower. Visitors can also explore the historic Wembley Stadium, which hosted events in 1948. The Olympic Museum in London provides an in-depth look at the city’s Olympic history, with exhibits and memorabilia from all three Games.

Tokyo has hosted the Olympics twice

Tokyo, which hosted the Olympics in 1964 and 2021, offers a mix of historic and modern Olympic attractions. The National Stadium, rebuilt for the 2021 Games, is a must-see, along with the Yoyogi National Gymnasium, known for its unique architecture. The Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium, used in both Games, is another significant site. Visitors can also explore the Japan Olympic Museum, which showcases the history of the Olympics in Japan and features interactive exhibits.

Barcelona transformed its waterfront for the Olympics

Barcelona, which hosted the 1992 Olympics, transformed its waterfront and created iconic structures like the Olympic Village and the Montjuïc Communications Tower. The Olympic Stadium, located on Montjuïc hill, offers stunning views of the city. Visitors can also explore the Palau Sant Jordi, an indoor arena used for various events, and the Olympic and Sports Museum Joan Antoni Samaranch, which celebrates the history of the Games and sports in general.

Sydney is known for its green and friendly Olympics

Sydney, host of the 2000 Olympics, is known for its green and friendly Games. The Sydney Olympic Park, home to the main venues, offers a range of attractions, including the ANZ Stadium, the Aquatic Centre and the Bicentennial Park. Visitors can also explore the Olympic Cauldron, now a popular water feature, and the Sydney Olympic Park Archery Centre. The Sydney Olympic Park Visitor Centre provides information on the history of the Games and the park’s transformation.

Beijing’s Olympics left a legacy of architectural marvels

Beijing, which hosted the 2008 Olympics, offers a range of Olympic attractions. The Beijing National Stadium, also known as the Bird’s Nest, is a must-see, along with the Beijing National Aquatics Centre, known as the Water Cube. Visitors can also explore the Olympic Green, a large park that includes the Olympic Forest Park and the National Indoor Stadium. The China Science and Technology Museum, located within the Olympic Green, offers interactive exhibits related to the Games.

Rio de Janeiro hosted the first Olympics in South America

Rio de Janeiro, host of the 2016 Olympics, was the first South American city to host the Games. The Maracanã Stadium, which hosted the opening and closing ceremonies, is a must-see, along with the Olympic Park in Barra da Tijuca. Visitors can also explore the Museum of Tomorrow, which features exhibits on sustainability and innovation, and the Rio de Janeiro Olympic Golf Course. The Olympic Boulevard, a waterfront area with murals and sculptures, celebrates the city’s Olympic legacy.

Montreal hosted the Olympics in 1976

Montreal, host of the 1976 Olympics, offers a range of Olympic-related attractions. The Olympic Stadium, known for its distinctive tower which has been transformed into the Montreal Tower Observatory, is spectacular. The nearby Velodrome, the former venue for cycling events, is now the Montreal Biodome, a unique and family-friendly indoor zoo which displays animals in distinctive biomes. Visitors can also explore the Olympic Village, now a residential complex, and stroll the Olympic Park Esplanade which hosts various events and activities that celebrate the city’s Olympic heritage.

Berlin’s 1936 Olympics were mired in controversy

In 1936, Berlin hosted what would become known as the Nazi Olympics. Surprisingly, a fair amount of original attractions have survived to this day. For example, the Olympiastadion, originally built for the 1936 Games, features impressive architecture and a rich history and is still in use. Visitors can also explore the Olympic Bell Tower, which offers panoramic views of the city, and the Maifeld, a large field used for various events during the Games. Parts of the Berlin Olympic Village have been preserved, including the dormitory building used by famous American athlete Jesse Owens.

Mexico City hosted the Olympics in 1968

Mexico City, host of the 1968 Olympics, offers a range of Olympic attractions. The Estadio Olímpico Universitario, which hosted the opening and closing ceremonies, shouldn’t be missed, along with the Palacio de los Deportes, an indoor arena used for various events. Visitors can also explore the Azteca Stadium, which hosted football matches during the Games and continues to serve that function today. While it’s interesting to tour, it’s a lot more exciting to attend a match there if you can. The Olympic Sports Centre, located in the heart of the city, features various sports facilities and a museum dedicated to the history of the Games in Mexico.

Los Angeles will host the Olympics for the third time in 2028

Los Angeles, set to host the Olympics for the third time in 2028, previously hosted in 1932 and 1984. The Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, used in both previous Games, is the most iconic venue from those games, along with the new SoFi Stadium, which will be a key venue in 2028. Visitors can also explore the LA84 Foundation/John C. Argue Swim Stadium, used in 1932, and the UCLA campus, which hosted events in 1984. The California Science Centre features exhibits on the history of the Olympics in Los Angeles.