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The Eiffel Tower was a venue during the Games – Image Credit Visual China Group by Getty Images
- The Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games attracted 12 million ticket holders and nearly 5 billion global viewers, strengthening France’s image as a prime travel destination.
- France welcomed over 100 million international tourists in 2024, generating 71 billion euros in revenue.
The 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, hosted by Paris, set a new standard for the Olympic Games, focusing on inclusivity, sustainability, and showcasing France’s rich cultural heritage. The event presented a unique opportunity for France to boost its image as a must-visit destination, attracting 12 million attendees and nearly 5 billion viewers worldwide.
Americans represented the second highest proportion of foreign ticket sales, comprising 13.5% of international tourists who visited Paris for the Games. As a result of the Games and other significant events, France welcomed over 100 million international tourists in 2024, generating revenue of 71 billion euros.
France’s Minister of Tourism, Nathalie Delattre, described 2024 as an “exceptional year for France. ” The Paris 2024 Games highlighted France’s capacity to organize secure, accessible, and innovative major events. As a result, France is committed to becoming the world’s leading sustainable, innovative, and inclusive tourist destination by 2030.
Sustainability was a critical aspect of the 2024 Olympics, with 95% of the infrastructure for the Games previously in existence. The events were powered by 100% renewable energy, resulting in a 54% reduction in carbon emissions compared to the London and Rio Games. Furthermore, the Games propelled major sustainability projects such as the Centre Aquatique Olympique, built with recycled materials, and the Grand Paris Express, a transformative infrastructure project.
The positive impact of the Games is expected to continue into 2025, with predictions of continued growth in international tourism arrivals. Air travel is expected to increase by 10% in the first quarter of 2025 compared to 2024, with American arrivals predicted to rise by 15%. The legacy of the Games, combined with France’s diverse cultural and historical attractions, will continue to draw significant numbers of American visitors.
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