The much-anticipated Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games did not deliver the expected surge in tourism, as France saw a notable decline in hotel bookings over the summer.
According to a report from the National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies (Insee), 89 million overnight stays were recorded in hotels between May and August 2024, 2.2 million fewer than in the same period in 2023.
In Île-de-France, home to the French capital and a primary hub for Olympic activities, the report revealed that the Games had “no positive effect.” The region, which was expected to benefit from the influx of tourists for the global event, saw a more significant decline in hotel stays than other parts of France.
Struggles for Hoteliers
The summer months of June, July, and August, traditionally peak tourist seasons, were particularly disappointing for hoteliers. The slight uptick in August was not enough to offset the losses suffered earlier in the summer, with occupancy rates far below expectations.
In addition to the overall decline in overnight stays, business clientele, who usually contribute significantly to hotel revenues in Paris, deserted the city during the summer. Many hotels rely on business travelers, especially during major events like the Olympics, to fill rooms, but this trend did not materialize.
“The decline was sharper than anticipated, particularly given the scale of the Olympics,” the report noted. Tourism operators had hoped for a boost from international visitors coming to witness the Games, but the anticipated wave failed to reach the expected numbers.
Museums Experience Decline
Tourism’s downturn was not limited to hotels. The Louvre and Orsay museums, two of Paris’ most famous cultural landmarks, also saw a significant drop in visitor numbers. Despite the Olympic Games attracting global attention, fewer tourists visited these iconic institutions compared to previous years.
Industry analysts suggest that rising costs of travel, accommodations, and day-to-day expenses in the wake of the cost-of-living crisis may have deterred visitors from staying in Paris and enjoying the city’s cultural offerings.
While foreign tourists typically make up a large portion of visitors to museums and galleries in the French capital, this summer saw them opting for more affordable alternatives.
Campsites Shine Amidst Decline
While hotels struggled, France’s campsites emerged as the season’s winners. Campsites saw an increase in customer numbers, recording nearly 120 million overnight stays between May and August 2024.
Foreign visitors, in particular, favored camping as a more budget-friendly alternative to hotels, reflecting broader concerns about declining purchasing power.
Campsites have become a more attractive option for travelers seeking affordable accommodation, especially amid inflation and rising costs.
The affordability of campsites, coupled with the sense of adventure and closeness to nature, has proven to be a winning combination for both domestic and international tourists.
Shifts in Regional Tourism
Regional tourism trends also showed some changes. Fewer tourists flocked to the French coast this year compared to last year, with the Mediterranean coast being the exception. Thanks to milder-than-usual weather, this region managed to maintain its appeal, while other coastal destinations saw a decline in visitors.
Meanwhile, France’s mountainous regions experienced a slight increase in visitor numbers this year. Tourists looking for cooler temperatures and outdoor activities favored the mountains as an escape from the summer heat, boosting local tourism.
As France reflects on its summer tourism figures, the report raises questions about the true impact of the Paris Olympics on the country’s tourism industry, with the Games failing to provide the expected economic boost.
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