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 best summer destinations in Europe

Best Summer Destinations In Europe Beach: Couples Get Ready!

BY  Sibashree Apr 21, 2025

Europe is a significant player in the global beach tourism industry, holding a 38.3% share. Further, the thriving beach tourism scenario in Europe has the solid backing of the European Commission.  The Commission is supporting all European countries with beautiful beaches through action plans, smart strategies, and sustainable growth initiatives.  Therefore, it is no surprise that by 2032, the European beach tourism industry is expected to reach $357 billion. Now, as a traveler, if these stats look mundane to you (I love them as I think traveling is all about touching and improving lives, and you cannot do that without an economic boost!), the glorious stretches of sand and the dramatic landscape give you enough reasons to plan a trip.  In this Tour and Travel Blog, I have curated the most popular summer destinations in Europe, along with the hidden gems.  So, couples, you know where you need to sail for some serious coastal fun! 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READ MORE Winter Sun

Unveiling The Best European Escapes To Bask In Winter Sun

BY  Ankita Mar 7, 2024

Escape the chill and embrace the warmth in our latest blog post, as we uncover the most enchanting European destinations for a sun-soaked winter getaway. From the sun-drenched beaches of the Mediterranean to the hidden gems along the southern coasts, we'll guide you through a curated list of winter sun havens. Discover the cultural delights, scenic landscapes, and outdoor activities that make these destinations perfect for a rejuvenating break. Whether you're a snowbird seeking mild temperatures or an adventurer craving a unique winter experience, our guide will help you plan the ideal European escape to keep those winter blues at bay. Pack your bags and get ready to bask in the European winter sun like never before! As winter casts its frosty veil over much of Europe, the allure of warmer climates becomes irresistible. Fortunately, Europe offers a myriad of destinations where the sun shines bright, and the temperatures remain pleasantly mild during the winter months. 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READ MORE south of france

What Is South Of France? What Will Be The Perfect South Of France Itinerary? 

BY  Sibashree Aug 13, 2025

Key Highlights: What Is The South Of France? Why Is The South Of France So Popular? Where To Go In South Of France? How Does A Perfect South Of France Itinerary For 7 Days Look Like? Where To Stay In The South Of France? Where To Visit In The South Of France On A Budget? What Are The South Of France Cities Near The Beach? What Are The Most Beautiful Places In Southern France For Young Adults? What Is The Best Time To Visit The South Of France? Home to the Cannes Film Festival and the Monaco Grand Prix and blessed with 300 days of Sunshine in a year, the South of France is the ultimate luxury tourism destination.  The region also appeals to global travelers with the best wines, such as Bordeaux, Languedoc, Cahors, and Armagnac brandy. So, it is no wonder that the South of France is a crown jewel in the French luxury tourism landscape, about to reach $53.6 billion by 2030. 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Where To Go In South Of France?  The South of France has many options if you want to experience the ultimate French beauty. However, here are our favorite destinations in the South of France. 1. Nice And Alpes-Maritimes Nice, the capital, and Cannes are two landmark destinations in Alpes-Maritimes.  Furthermore, Nice is a cultural hub with Matisse and Chagall museums and the Promenade des Anglais.  Cannes, with its glitz and glamor and, of course, the much-celebrated film festival, is a global name in cultural tourism.  Also, this region has the town of Grasse, “The Perfume Capital of the World,” and Antibes, housing the Picasso Museum and wonderful beaches.  2. Bouches-du-Rhône And Marseille Marseille, the capital of Bouches-du-Rhône, is a crown jewel in the tourism of the South of France. Some important cultural and historical landmarks here are: Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde MUCEM museum Arles here is a standout place, being home to the Roman amphitheater and its connection with Van Gogh.  Moreover, the Camargue wetlands, with flamingos and wild horses, and the Calanques National Park with limestone cliffs are prominent natural wonders in thai region.  3. Var And Its Capital, Toulon Mediterranean coastline A vibrant nightlife Rich maritime history A beautiful harbor Var and its capital, Toulon, are famous for all these things. Furthermore, you will love the quiet beaches of Îles d’Hyères and areas like Bandol with expansive vineyards and massive production of rosé wines.  4. Avignon And Vaucluse Along with the quintessential Provençal countryside charm, Vaucluse remains an important historical and cultural landmark in the South of France.  Vaucluse, its capital, has a performing arts festival every year in July. On the other hand, Orange has one of the best preserved Roman theaters, and it still hosts many performances. Pont d’Avignon and Palais des Papes are other important landmarks in Vaucluse.  In addition, Valucluse offers you the most peaceful retreat in the Luberon region, filled with beautiful rolling hills, quaint villages like Roussillon, and vineyards.  5. Alpes-de-Haute-Provence And Digne-les-Bains With Digne-les-Bains as the capital, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence is famous for thermal baths and lavender fields. It is also home to Gorges du Verdon, the largest canyon in Europe, and a beautiful hilltop town with a citadel, Sisteron.  Also, don’t forget to visit the Lavender Museum and the Valensole lavender plains in summer.  Moreover, if it is Jean Giono who introduced you to the South of France, you must explore Manosque, the writer’s hometown. 6. Hautes-Alpes And Gap Hautes-Alpes is famous for the beauty of the French Alps. Gap is the capital city, and Haute-Alpes is also home to the Écrins National Park, a popular summer destination for hikers thanks to its dramatic cliffs and glaciers.  Also, Hautes-Alpes has Briançon, one of the highest mountainous cities, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of the Vauban fortifications.  How Does A Perfect South Of France Itinerary For 7 Days Look Like?  Here, we have made a sample 7-day itinerary for you in the South of France. As I am yet to make it to the South of France, I have made this itinerary based on my online research and after consultation with a local travel expert. 7-Day Itinerary for the South of France Activities and Places to VisitDay 1• Exploring Marseille and traveling to Aix-en-Provence• Visiting the fountains and the Cours Mirabeau in Aix-en-ProvenceDay 2• Visiting the Luberon Region and exploring beautiful villages such as Roussillon and GordesDay 3• A trip to the Calanques National Park, boating, and kayaking thereDay 4• Visit Nice and enjoy the vibe at the Promenade des AnglaisDay 5• Monaco day tripDay 6• Explore Antibes and its Picasso MuseumDay 7• Day trip to Cannes Where To Stay In South Of France?  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Le Collectionist (@lecollectionist) I have already mentioned that the South of France, being a luxury tourist destination, has high-end villas such as Le Collectionist villas in Provence.  Furthermore, you will find many short-term and long-term holiday rentals for improved privacy at a more reasonable rate.  Also, Hotel Port Palace in Monte Carlo or Le Negresco in Nice are some luxurious hotels in this region.  Moreover, the Provence region, Côte d'Azur, and Languedoc-Roussillon have some amazing campsites if you want to spend your days in Southern France in the company of nature. What Is The Best Time To Visit The South Of France? April to May and September to October are the best months to visit the South of France. In April and May, you will see the lavender in full bloom, while the summer is yet to set, keeping the temperature within 20-25 degrees Celsius.  On the other hand, September to October is the ideal time to explore the beaches and other coastal getaways of the South of France.  South Of France: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions about the South of France.  1. Where To Visit In The South Of France On A Budget? If you are traveling on a budget, you can explore the following destinations in the South of France. • Antibes• Nice• Avignon• Cannes• Saint Paul de Vence• Monaco• RoussillonFurthermore, while traveling on a budget, you can choose Nice as your base. It has the most affordable holiday rentals. Also, you can easily take train trips from Nice and explore places like Monaco. Also, cook your own meals to avoid spending a fortune at expensive restaurants.  2. What Are The Most Beautiful Places In Southern France For Young Adults? From classic French Riviera destinations to a place with beautiful lemon groves, the South of France has plenty to offer to young adult tourists. Here are our favorites.• Nice with its beaches, vibrant nightlife, and of course, the Promenade des Anglais• Cannes with its boutiques and all the love for films• Saint-Tropez with its happening beach clubs and high-end shopping experience• Menton, with its vibrant buildings, lemon groves, and proximity to the Italian border 3. What Are The South Of France Cities Near Beach? Cannes, Nice, Saint-Tropez, Marseille, and Menton are the most beautiful cities near the beaches in the South of France.  4. What Is The Nicest Part Of The South Of France? Provence is the nicest part of the South of France. Artistic heritage, Roman ruins, beautiful lavender fields, great wines and food, and charming hilltop villages. Furthermore, blessed with the Mediterranean Coast and the Verdon Gorge, it is also a popular destination for watersports. 5. What Is The Safest Part Of the South Of France?  Bordeaux, Toulouse, Monaco, and Aix-en-Provence are some of the safest places to stay in the South of France. These places have low crime rates, and the chances of encountering violent crimes are pretty rare. However, the French Riviera has frequent cases of petty theft.