Best Hotels In Paris: Understanding How They Are Supporting The City’s Tourism Today

Apr 28, 2025

Last Updated on: Nov 14, 2025

Europe

This time, I was on a 2-day Paris travel and was working on how the best hotels in Paris have been supporting the thriving tourism scene in the city. I did my case study on the hotels near Opera Paris France, to get the entire picture. 

I also had the opportunity to meet the leaders of Citadines Apart’hotel Opéra Paris, which The Ascott Limited operates. They shared their insights and observations with me.

Paris had a footfall of 11.2 million during the Summer Olympics of 2024. The success story with great numbers continued as Paris consolidated the Olympics’ success for the rest of the year. 

This boost in the number of tourists has further facilitated growth in the hospitality sector. The French hospitality sector is expected to grow at a CAGR of 2.34% from 2023 to 2028

However, these two booming industries are also bearing the wrath of overtourism in the city

So, there could not be a better time to delve deeper into how the best hotels in Paris have been supporting tourism so far. Also, we need to talk about how they respond to minimize the impact of overtourism with sustainable practices. 

Best Hotels In Paris: Working And Growing With The Tourism Industry Of The City

Best Hotels In Paris_ Working And Growing With The Tourism Industry Of The City

The best hotels in Paris are beyond tourist accommodations. With luxury in mind and an upscale shift, these hotels are influencing the spending patterns of tourists. 

France was the most-visited country in the world in 2024, with an unbelievable footfall of around 100 million

Now, a large number of these tourists look for accommodations in luxury hotels. With their hotel expenses and overall luxury spending increasing, the city gains revenue. 

This approach aligns with what Nathalie Delattre, the French Minister of Tourism, stated in response to the anticipated tourism boom in France for 2024. 

We need to work to increase the average each visitor spends and get our visitors to stay longer.

The impact of hotels in Paris on tourist spending patterns extends beyond the standalone tourism and hospitality industry. It’s about the overall GDP and economy of the city

But the “luxury experience” here is not to scare you if you are a tourist. It does not mean that you cannot visit Paris within a budget.

It’s true that Paris, as a travel destination, is somewhat expensive, and accommodations are pricier than those in similar setups in other countries. However, the city offers a diverse range of hotel tariffs.

A Shared Market Space Creating Discord Between The Hotel And Tourism Sectors?

A Shared Market Space Creating Discord Between The Hotel And Tourism Sectors

A shared market space! 

This has been one of the biggest challenges for the top hotels in Paris, as they collaborate with the tourism industry to boost the city’s economy. 

Now, services like AirBnb are offering more flexibility in booking and better pricing options. So, of course, there is the “price sensitivity” factor.

Additionally, Airbnb is eager to seize opportunities, as it did during the Summer Olympics in Paris last time.  

Airbnb was the official sponsor of the Paris Olympics, and it played a significant role in the 44% surge in short-term rental bookings in 2024 from the summer of 2023. 

Also, Airbnb was direct when it approached the visitors of the Paris Olympics to avoid the “touristy side of Paris” and book short-term rentals on the “Paris-y side of Paris.”

Moreover, Airbnb, through the “Airbnb500 Travel Grant,” offered discounts to tourists visiting Paris during the 2024 Summer Olympics

Now, with discounted pricing and Parisians willing to give up their accommodation on rent through Airbnb, many hotels in Paris have suffered. 

The rate discounting that’s happened, the occupancy levels, they’re definitely being suppressed and compressed by the short-term rental market, without question.”
Blake Reiter, Director of Research, Lighthouse

Having said that, the best hotels in Paris have been able to keep their presence strong as they cater to the group of tourists seeking a high-end experience. 

Additionally, city officials have introduced restrictions on short-term rentals to prevent Airbnb and similar businesses from causing significant harm to the hospitality industry. 

Moreover, in November 2024, France approved an “Anti-Airbnb Bill” to control the increase in vacation rentals. 

So, the threats of a shared market space have become less for the best hotels in Paris and other parts of France. 

Overtourism In Paris: How The Best Hotels In Paris Respond To It?

Overtourism In Paris_ How The Best Hotels In Paris Respond To It

The best hotels in Paris had a slow start in summer 2024. However, with the Summer Olympics inching closer, occupancy rates in these hotels increased despite challenges from Airbnb and other short-term rental services. 

During the summer Olympics, the hotel occupancy rate in this area reached 84%. Of course, there was revenue growth with a higher occupancy rate, discounts, and non-refundable rooms for tourists. 

Still, the housing industry could not avoid an accommodation crunch, hygiene issues, safety threats, and other impacts of overtourism. 

A sustainable collaboration between the best hotels in Paris and tourists is crucial. It will minimize the environmental impact and enhance the overall quality of life in the city.  

For example, The Ascott Limited’s sustainability program has helped me understand how the best hotels in Paris are doing it right. They are trying to minimize the impact of overtourism on the city’s environment and natural resources.

Showing Commitment To Sustainability

The Ascott Limited is sincere about taking care of the environment. Also, it has earned the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) Committed status. 

Moreover, Ascott Limited aims to achieve GSTC-Accredited Body certification for its global portfolio by 2028. 

The sustainability program, known as “Ascott CARES,” is based on five fundamental pillars, and those are:

  • Respect
  • Alliance
  • Community
  • Environment 
  • Supply Chain

Also, Ms. Beh Siew Kim from Ascott has mentioned that sustainability has always been a key priority for the business.

“The Ascott Limited aiming to have all their properties certified by GSTC-accredited Certification Bodies by 2028 where applicable* is a testament to how serious they are committed as an organization to environmental and social responsibility. 
We applaud Ascott’s leadership and vision in prioritizing sustainability, and I am confident that their efforts will set a benchmark for others in the sector to follow.
Randy Durband, CEO, The Global Sustainable Tourism Council

With Ascott Limited as an example, the best hotels in Paris are also redefining the tourism landscape. They are also trying to fight overtourism by building a sustainable future. 

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Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!

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READ MORE Kotor Montenegro travel itinerary

A Kotor Montenegro Travel Itinerary For 3 Days: How To Travel Kotor Montenegro On A Budget? 

BY  Sibashree Nov 25, 2025

My trip to Kotor, Montenegro, is filled with memories of the cats, who are the guardians of the city, and the smell of dew-drenched leaves as I went for a sunrise hike.  Also, along with being a hidden gem in the sustainable tourism scenario after a successful sustainability assessment by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), it has also emerged as the ultimate budget-friendly location of Montenegro.  In this blog, I will discuss a 3-day travel itinerary for Kotor, Montenegro, including hidden gems and essential tips. Why Visit Kotor, Montenegro? The International Trade Administration has confirmed that the tourism sector in Montenegro contributes 30% to the country’s GDP. In addition, ReportLinker predicts that the number of visitors to Montenegro will reach 3.4 million by 2028.  The same report anticipates that the tourism industry will reach a revenue of $95 million by 2028.  A UNESCO World Heritage Site, With Great Food, Community, Beauty, And Historical Charm Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the crown jewel of tourism in Montenegro. The deep bay waters here resemble the Nordic fjords. On the other hand, the coastal cliffs create the perfect backdrop for the city, exuding a medieval charm.  Now, Kotor and Montenegro as a country are planning to diversify their tourism portfolio, with a greater focus on cultural, ecotourism, and rural tourism.  In addition, the budget-friendly hostels in Kotor are more than cheap accommodations. They are the base for developing a backpackers' community.  Many of these hostels help you join pub crawls, hikes, local events, and more. As a result, Kotor, Montenegro, has become a favorite among backpackers, budget travelers, and solo travelers.  In addition, the rugged beauty of the Dinaric Alps meets the calmness of the Adriatic Sea in Kotor, Montenegro. So, every nook of Kotor is ideal for a photo-op.  Moreover, for me, exploring the maze of medieval lanes and the Venetian architecture was like time travel. Also, St. Tryphon’s Cathedral, dating back to the 12th century, stands as the eternal witness of human history in Kotor.  Furthermore, the family-run taverns here serve the most delicious yet simple food at an affordable price. Try the savory pastries! What Is The Best Time To Visit Kotor Montenegro? July and August are the peak months for visiting Kotor, Montenegro. However, if you want to travel to Kotor, Montenegro, on a budget, you need to plan a trip between November and February.  You will enjoy watersports and skiing in these months, and accommodations are available at a much more affordable price.  How To Get To Kotor & Move Around On A Budget? The Tivat Airport, 7 km away, is the gateway for Kotor to the rest of the world. You can travel this 7 km distance by road.  Other nearby airports to Kotor, Montenegro, are Dubrovnik Airport (Croatia, 44 km) and Podgorica Airport (40 km). In addition, Podgorica and Kotor get regular flights from countries such as Bosnia, Serbia, and Croatia.  Once you reach Kotor, you can explore the city and its surroundings in a boat. Don’t miss Perast on the route, as this village has fewer than 300 people, and it stands out with amazing scenic beauty.  Taxis, shuttles, and car rentals are other options if you want to explore Kotor by road. 3-Day Budget Itinerary For Kotor, Montenegro Here is a brief 3-day budget itinerary for Kotor, Montenegro. I will first share the days and activities, and then discuss why these attractions are special.  DaysActivitiesDay 1 - Exploring Kotor Old Town• Wandering through cobblestone streets.• Visiting St. Tryphon Cathedral.• Climbing the City Walls for panoramic viewsInsider Tip: Visit the City Walls early for a discounted entry. Day 2 - Visiting Perast & Our Lady of the Rocks• Taking a local bus to Perast.• Boat ride to the iconic island church.• Enjoying budget-friendly seafood at a local konoba.Day 3 - Visiting Lovćen National Park & Njeguši Village• Hiking or taking a shared taxi to Lovćen.• Visiting Njeguši for a traditional prosciutto and cheese tasting. 1. Exploring Kotor Old Town And City Walls Here are some interesting and unknown facts about Kotor Old Town and City Walls.  The Old Town's fortification system stretches 4.5 km. So, it is one of the longest fortification systems in Europe. It only follows the Great Wall of China.  You have to climb 1350 steps to reach the San Giovanni Fortress. The entry fee is €8. However, you can also take the secret route via the old trade path outside the northern gate. It’s free.  The Sea Gate Inscription above the main gate is a quote from Tito: “We don’t want others’, we don’t give our own”, commemorating liberation from Nazi occupation in 1944. Furthermore, the Pillar of Shame, hidden in a square, reminds us of a brutal activity in the city in the past. Criminals were tied to this pillar, and everyone used to throw stones and rotten food at them as a mark of punishment.  2. Visiting St. Tryphon Cathedral Built in 1166, the St. Tryphon Cathedral is even older than the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. It is one of the most ancient cathedrals on the Adriatic Coast. The cathedral has a 14th-century ciborium, which depicts the life of St. Tryphon. It is made of a red stone from Đurići. The goldsmiths of Kotor made the golden altarpiece of the cathedral in the 15th century. It has the figures of Christ, Virgin Mary, and 16 saints.  A devastating earthquake struck Kotor in 1667. Then, the bell tower of the cathedral fell, and it could not be rebuilt fully. Thus, the current cathedral structure is shorter by 2 meters than the original one.  In 2009, the St. Tryphon Cathedral got the status of a Papal Basilica. It is a rare honor for churches in the Balkan region. 3. Visiting Perast The 2-km-long main street of Perast was once a cultural hub during the days of the Venetian Republic.  The bell tower of St. Nicholas Church was built at a cost of 50000 Ducats in the 18th century. It was an unbelievable amount in that era.  Perast once stood as a reflection of the wealth in the Venetian Era. It had 16 palaces and 19 churches.  4. Knowing Our Lady Of The Rocks Rocks have piled up for centuries, and those rocks, along with sinking ships, have formed Our Lady of the Rocks, the only artificial island in the Adriatic Region.  The Fašinada festival is a popular ritual here, with its history dating back to 1452. It is a tradition to celebrate the island's foundation. Every 22nd July, the people of the island gather in decorated boats and they throw stones into the sea, as a symbolic exercise.  Furthermore, the Catholic church here has a tapestry made by Jacinta Kunić-Mijović. It was made using human hair, and Jacinta Kunić-Mijović made this tapestry while waiting 25 years for her fiancé to return from the sea.  The church also has the Death of the Virgin. It is a masterpiece by Tripo Kokolja. In total, the church has 68 paintings from Tripo Kokolja. 5. Visiting Lovćen National Park The Njegoš Mausoleum at Jezerski Vrh is one of the main attractions of the Lovćen National Park. Located at an altitude of above 1,660 meters, it is allegedly the highest mausoleum in the world.  200,000 Gilded tiles cover the dome of the mausoleum, and 13-ton granite statues of Montenegrin women guard the entrance of the national park.  Once you climb 461 steps and reach the top of the Mausoleum, you will enjoy panoramic views stretching toward Italy.  6. Exploring Njeguši Village It is the cradle of the royal Petrović-Njegoš dynasty of Montenegro. This family ruled over Montenegro from 1696 to 1918. Furthermore, it has the birthplace of Petar II Petrović Njegoš and many other 19th-century buildings. The birthplace of Petar II Petrović Njegoš is now a museum housing the first edition of his poem, Mountain Wreath, and original furniture. How Much Does A 3-day Trip To Kotor Cost On A Budget? Here is a detailed breakdown of the budget for a 3-day trip to Kotor, Montenegro.  CategoryBudget Cost (EUR)DetailsAccommodation (Hostel)€15–€25 per night, meaning €45–€75 for 3 nightsHostel prices are even lower from November to FebruaryLocal Transportation€6–€12 total• Local buses (€1–2 per ride). • Short taxi/shared rides within the bay (€3–5). • Free walking inside Old Town.Airport Transfers€8–€15 each way, meaning €16-€30• Airport transfer from Tivat is the cheapest.• From Dubrovnik/Podgorica, it will be at least €20-€35. Food (Budget Travelers)€15-€25 per day. So, it will be €45 to €75 in total. Choose Konobas & bakeries: • Pastries (€1–2), • Seafood Meals (€7–10)• Wine/Beer (€2–3)Activities and Entry Fees€20–€35 total• City Walls (€8, discounted early)• St. Tryphon Cathedral (€3)• Perast boat (€5–10) • Lovćen shared taxi/hike (€5–10)Day Trip to Perast & Our Lady of the Rocks€7–€12• Bus to Perast (€1–2), boat (€5–10)Lovćen National Park Day TripFree–€10• Free if hiking; €5–10 for shared taxi. • Mausoleum entry ~€5.Miscellaneous (water, snacks, souvenirs)€10–€20• Refillable water recommendedCollect small souvenirs €3–5.Total Estimated Budget for 3 days €139–€239• This is a cost breakdown for budget travelers. However, the budget for mid-range and luxury travelers will be different.  Day Trips & Hidden Gems Near Kotor Gornji Stoliv: It is a quiet coastal village. 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They are way affordable than the posh restaurants in the Old Square.  Kotor Montenegro Travel Itinerary For 3 Days: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Kotor, Montenegro travel itinerary.  1. Is Kotor, Montenegro, Worth Visiting For 3 Days? Yes, three days are perfect to explore Kotor Old Town, Perast, Lovćen National Park, and enjoy hidden gems without rushing.The budget for your three-day travel in Kotor will be around €139–€239, and Kotor is safe for solo travelers if you follow the basic travel precautions.  2. Can I Visit Kotor On A Day Trip From Dubrovnik? Yes, you can visit Kotor on a day trip from Dubrovnik. However, if you want to at least try its best food and soak in the vibe of the Old Town, you must plan for an overnight stay.  3. Do I Need A Visa To Visit Montenegro? If you are from the USA or a country that is part of the European Union, you will not need a visa to visit Montenegro. If you are from any of these countries, you can enter Montenegro and stay there for 90 days without a visa. You must check the visa requirements of your country.  4. Are There Budget-Friendly Accommodations In Kotor? Yes, the guesthouses in Dobrota and hostels such as the Old Town Hostel Kotor are some of the most budget-friendly accommodations in Kotor, Montenegro. The hostel prices will be around 15-25 Euros per night.  5. What Are The Must-Try Local Foods In Kotor? Kotor is famous for its seafood, and you can have it at local taverns or konobas. Furthermore, if you are in Njeguši, you must try prosciutto, a dry-cured ham with a lot of flavors. Moreover, burek, or the savory pastry, is the highlight of the delicacies of Kotor.  6. Do I Need To Rent A Car In Kotor?  No, you don’t need to rent a car in Kotor, Montenegro if you are a budget traveler. Local buses and shared taxis are easily available, and they are even suitable for day trips to Perast and Lovćen. Otherwise, you can take the boat rides, which are also quite affordable. 

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Here’s Why You Should Holiday In Cumbria, UK!

BY  Barsha Aug 18, 2023

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Best Summer Destinations In Europe Beach: Couples Get Ready!

BY  Sibashree Apr 21, 2025

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Platja de Formentor, Majorca: A Calm Beach With Green Water ‣ Nearest Airport: Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI) A calm “Blue Flag” beach located along the Formentor Peninsula, Platja de Formentor is surely one of the best that Majorca Island has to offer.   The landscape here defines the word drama, and the sight of the Tramuntana mountains amidst dense pine forests will stay in my memory forever. Furthermore, the blue and green colors of the water complement the backdrop.  The beach is not very long, and we took a walk of around 1 km to reach Cap de Formentor, the farthest point of the beach. Also, we took a ride in a rented sailboat. Catamarans are also available for rent. You can even try snorkeling for more adventure.  5. Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia: A Romance With White Sand And Turquoise Sea ‣ Nearest Airport: Kefallinia (EFL) Airport One of the best summer destinations in the world, Myrtos Beach in Kefalonia, Greece, has our hearts for its stunning natural beauty.  The beach, awarded a “Blue Flag,” features stretches of white sand with the most dramatic cliffs in the backdrop.  Furthermore, the turquoise water provides a serene experience for the eyes.  6. Hietaniemi Beach, Helsinki: Best For Summer Swimming And Beach Volleyball ‣ Nearest Airport: Helsinki Airport Hot summer days call for some serious beach fun at Hietaniemi Beach, Central Helsinki, Finland.  With its shallow water and picturesque setting, Hietaniemi Beach is perfect for playing basketball and beach volleyball.  Also, don’t forget to try the coffee and snacks at Badenbaden, the summer terrace. Want to try your luck at golf?  Pay a visit to the miniature golf course nearby.  7. Beach of Durres: The Most-Visited Beach In Albania ‣ Nearest Airport: Tirana Airport The beach of Durres, the most-visited beach in Albania, is also one of the best beaches in Europe.  Durrës, as a city, has a rich historical background, with the stories going back to 627 BC. Additionally, the Roman amphitheater was our biggest draw.  Additionally, the beach stands out due to its proximity to the Adriatic Sea, a prominent feature in the cultural, historical, and economic landscapes of Europe.  Recently, the Adriatic Sea was in the news after a Riesenhai, or basking shark, was seen off the Croatian Peninsula. 8. Fteri Beach, Kefalonia: Romance In A Secluded Beach With Turquoise Waters ‣ Nearest Airport: Kefalonia International Airport Anna Pollatou With rugged hinterlands and candy-colored houses, Fteri Beach in Kefalonia, Greece, is the prettiest beach I have been to in Europe.  One of the best summer destinations in Europe, this beach on a secluded cove has beautiful white cliffs and the bluest water.  Don’t miss snorkeling in the water for the ultimate adventure.  9. Praia da Comporta: The Secret Sweet Spot In Portugal View this post on Instagram A post shared by Luis Mendes (@luismendeslm) ‣ Nearest Airport: Lisboa (LIS) Airport One of the best summer destinations in Europe, Praia da Comporta is a hidden gem in Portugal.  Summer months are busy at Praia da Comporta. However, the 19-km stretch of the shoreline ensures you get enough space for all the beach fun.  We had the most elaborate lunch at the Comporta Café, and we got into the water after hours of swimming.  However, the biggest attraction was the horseback ride during the Sunset. The surroundings looked magical.  10. Mala Beach: Cliffs, Sands, And Clear Water View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ekaterina Erokhin (@katiaerokhin) ‣ Nearest Airport: Nice Côte d'Azur Airport I was almost done penning this blog, and then suddenly it struck me. I have missed Mala Beach, another wonder in the French Riviera.  With pebbles and sand on the shores, this secluded beach is ideal for some intimate moments with your partner.  Further, the views of the majestic Mediterranean Sea and cliffs leave you awestruck.  11. Vitali Beach: Best For The Quiet Romance ‣ Nearest Airport: Athens International Airport Vitali Beach in Andros, Greece, is one of the best summer destinations in Europe if you are planning a coastal getaway.  It is one of the quiet ones, too!  The shores are full of pebbles. So, it is quite a walk before you reach the blue waters. However, the nearby caves and the best Pina Colada available make every effort worthwhile.  12. Cala de Deiá, Mallorca: Falling In Love With The Rugged Charm ‣ Nearest Airport: Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI) Cala de Deià, the rugged and bewitching inlet near Deiá, Spain, has a small beach with crystal clear water. This is a place for couples who love everything quaint and a close-to-nature experience.  After a fun swim in the crystal clear water, you can have your meal at the Can Lluc cafe and enjoy fishing while sitting on the rocky platform above the water.  You can also visit the beautiful hamlet of Lluc Alcari, just 15 km away from Cala de Deiá. 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