France Sees Surge in Travel Bookings Ahead of Summer Olympics

Travel enthusiasts are heading to France in record numbers for the upcoming Summer Olympics, scheduled to take place from July 24 to August 13, 2024. According to recent data from Amadeus business intelligence, international air travel to France is up by 56% compared to the same period last year, while domestic air travel has increased by 31%.

This year, all host cities are set to benefit from the influx of visitors. Paris, which is already a top tourist destination, anticipates a 72% increase in travelers during the Olympics compared to last summer. The Paralympics, held from August 28 to September 8, are also expected to attract 16% more visitors, with a significant number coming from the United States, Spain, and Canada.

In the northern city of Lille, where basketball and handball events will take place, the number of visitors is projected to quadruple. Overall bookings to Lille have surged by 203%, with domestic travelers contributing to a 300% increase and international visitors accounting for a 181% rise. Bordeaux and Marseille, hosting football and sailing respectively, are also experiencing notable increases in bookings, both up by 38%.

The surge in travel is predominantly driven by international visitors, who have increased by 56% compared to last year. The top countries of origin for these travelers include the United States, Japan, and Canada. Paris will see the highest number of visitors from these countries, while Marseille, Lille, and Bordeaux will welcome many Americans, British, and Algerian travelers.

Hotel occupancy rates across France are also on the rise. According to Amadeus' Demand360® data from May 31, hotel occupancy for the week of July 28 is up 86% compared to the same week last year, with a similar increase for the first week of August. In Paris, hotel occupancy rates are at 81% for the week of July 28 and 76% for the first week of August. Lille and Marseille are seeing significant increases as well, with occupancy rates more than doubling from the previous year.

Alternative accommodations in Paris are also seeing increased demand. Key Data reports that nights sold for the Olympic dates are up 64% and 74% for the Paralympics compared to last year. However, last-minute travelers might find it challenging to secure accommodations, as over 50% of hotel bookings are made within 14 days of the stay.

With flight bookings and hotel occupancy rates soaring, France’s hospitality sector is gearing up for a bustling summer season, catering to the influx of visitors for the Olympic and Paralympic Games.