Key highlights:
Occupancy rates in the first quarter of 2024 increased on average by more than four points year-on-year, with a strong performance during Nice Carnival, which reached a record high of 230,000 spectators and generated economic benefits of more than €35 million. Forecasts for the second quarter of 2024 are optimistic, with average booking rates for April, May and June exceeding expectations and the previous year’s performance. The start of 2024 reflects not only the enduring appeal of the Nice Côte d’Azur region, but also the effectiveness of the strategies put in place to promote the destination outside of seasonal peak periods.
“We recorded excellent results in the first quarter of 2024, with an average occupancy increase of more than 4 points compared to 2023. Nice-Côte d’Azur is becoming a must-see destination in every season. In addition to its excellent natural resources, such as the mild winter climate, the communication strategy “Winter Nice-Côte d’Azur” is starting to bear fruit and the quality and diversity of the capital’s tourism offer continues to attract visitors. The Nice Carnival, themed “King of Pop Culture”, was exceptional. And the ski resorts are enjoying a great success thanks to unparalleled snowfall. Last year’s forecast data are already above average and the outlook for the summer season is promising. ” Christian Estrosi, Mayor of Nice, President of the Nice-Côte d’Azur Metropolitan Region, Lieutenant President of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur Region and Director of the Nice-Côte d’Azur Tourism Board
Outstanding Winter
The winter months in Nice Côte d’Azur are characterised by a significant increase in tourist activity, a trend that can be attributed both to the region’s diverse attractions and to effective communication campaigns focused on promoting the winter season.
Hotel occupancy rates in January increased 2.5 points compared to 2023, and continued to improve in February (+4.3 points) and March (+4.4 points).
These positive results reflect the communication strategy of “Winter Nice Côte d’Azur” and the quality of the tourism services offered.
Nice Carnival: a major event Focused on the theme “King of Pop Culture”, Nice Carnival has set new standards in terms of participation and economic benefits.
The event attracted 230,000 spectators, a 15% increase compared to 2023. The cultural event not only boosted the destination’s reputation, but also generated economic benefits of over 35 million euros, highlighting its important role in the local tourism ecosystem.
Hopes for the future
The first few months of the year have laid a solid foundation for next season, with forecasts for Q2 2024 being particularly optimistic.
Average booking rates from April to June exceeded expectations and year-ago performance (+4 percentage points vs. 2023), signaling continued enthusiasm for the destination.
Nice’s tourism results for the first quarter of 2024 show that the Côte d’Azur metropolis will consolidate its position as a must-see tourist destination all year round.
The increase in visitor numbers and the significant economic benefits generated attest to the effectiveness of the promotional strategy and the region’s continuing attractiveness for domestic and international visitors.
