Why Paris Luxury Hotels Didn't Pack Out Before the 2024 Olympics

In the lead-up to the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, expectations were sky-high for Paris’s luxury hotels. But rather than a mad dash for reservations, many plush Parisian pads found themselves with more empty suites than anticipated. Why? Affluent travelers changed course, heading to quieter spots like the French Riviera and London instead. Here’s a quick look at the upsides and downsides—and what it means for future travel to Paris.

A Paris Plot Twist: The Olympic Booking Blues

Picture this: Paris, days away from hosting the 2024 Olympics, but instead of a flurry of five-star check-ins, luxury hotels are left wondering where the guests went. In a turn that surprised many, bookings at these hotels actually dropped by 20% to 50% between late June and mid-July, as shared by hospitality experts (hospitality.today).

Where Did Everyone Go?

Many well-heeled travelers skipped Paris, wary of crowded streets and eye-watering rates.
Instead, they chose serene escapes like the sun-soaked French Riviera or vibrant London, sidestepping Olympic chaos.

Perks for Those Who Stayed

Paris became an unexpected haven for visitors who did stick around—with fewer crowds and breathing space at the city’s famous sights.
Meanwhile, alternative destinations enjoyed a boost in high-end tourism (and likely saw local businesses cashing in).

Not-So-Golden Moments for Parisian Hotels

Hotels anticipating a gold rush hiked prices, only to slash them later when bookings dropped off.
The dip in guest numbers hurt hotel revenues, and staff scrambled to adjust to slower business after prepping for a boom.
Even online booking sites saw fewer Paris reservations, though other hotspots picked up the slack.

What’s Next for Paris?

According to the analysis, hotels expected things to shift once the Olympic torch was lit after July 22nd, with last-minute attendees likely crowding back in. And as the world watches Paris on the global stage, experts think all this attention could set the city up for a tourism comeback in the future.

Sources: Le Monde, Financial Times, Reuters