Paris Olympics 2024: Indian tourists drive Airbnb booking surge

With a display of athleticism, international unity and unforgettable Olympic spirit, the 2024 Summer Olympics and Para Olympics are set to kick off in Paris. Anticipation soars not just for the games, but for the hospitality rush too. Hotels and rentals are already witnessing a surge in bookings, with travellers eager to witness Olympic Games glory.

According to reports from Airbnb, there has been a surge in bookings as the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris are shaping up to be a major draw for Indian travellers. As of March 31, nights booked in the Paris region for the duration of the Games have skyrocketted by over 400 per cent as compared to the same period last year. This Olympic fever has also resulted in a 30 per cent  increase in nights booked by Indian guests specifically, Airbnb reported.

The report said, there are other French destinations, including Nice, Aubervilliers, Colombes, and Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine, who have witnessed a significant rise in interest from Indian travellers seeking to experience the Olympic Games. “The surge in bookings for Paris reflects an exciting trend among Indian travellers, who are increasingly planning trips around iconic sporting events like the Olympics, showcasing their growing appetite for unique, global experiences," said Amanpreet Bajaj, Airbnb’s General Manager for India, Southeast Asia, Hong Kong, and Taiwan.

A recent study estimates that Airbnb stays during the Olympic Games will generate a significant €2,000 (over $2,170 USD) for the average Parisian host. This economic impact is expected to reach nearly €1 billion euros (over $1 billion USD) in total, supporting almost 7,300 full-time equivalent jobs across France. Therefore, to accommodate this influx, Airbnb has seen a great rise in available listings within the Paris region. Active listings have grown by 40 per cent since March 31, ensuring a wider selection of accommodations for Olympic visitors. 

"Interestingly, while Paris remains a top destination, these travellers are also venturing beyond traditional tourist spots to explore cities At Airbnb, we're excited to connect the travellers with unique accommodations that will elevate their 2024 Olympic and summer travel experiences,” claimed Bajaj. With the Olympic Games just round the corner, it will be interesting to see if this booking trend continues and how it impacts the overall tourism landscape in Paris and other popular destinations in France.