Since this Monday, January 13, Paris, the world capital of tourism, is facing an unexpected turn: the closure of its last welcome center, Spot 24, located near the famous Eiffel Tower. Visitors will no longer be able to obtain information in person, a decision that raises many questions about the future of tourist reception in this iconic city. This suspension of visits marks the beginning of a digital era for the welcome service, but it also raises significant issues related to the tourist experience in such a popular place.
Since this Monday, January 13, the Paris Tourist Office has closed its last physical welcome point, thus marking a turning point in the way the city interacts with its visitors. With the transition to digital solutions, many challenges and issues are emerging regarding the tourist experience in Paris, especially for those who preferred human interactions during their visits. This article aims to explain the reasons for this closure and its implications for tourists.
A symbolic closure #
The welcome point Spot 24, located near the Eiffel Tower, was the last place where tourists could obtain information directly from agents. This closure is more than just a logistical change; it symbolizes a profound transformation in the tourism sector. But why this radical choice? The reasons are multiple: a plummeting number of visitors and a growing demand for digital solutions.
Revealing figures #
The data speaks for itself. In just under ten years, the attendance at the information offices of the Tourist Office has drastically declined. In 2015, there were 574,000 visitors, a figure that dropped to about 150,000 in 2022. This decline raises questions: the city that attracts nearly 50 million tourists a year no longer needs so many physical welcome points. Have you ever thought about this phenomenon?
The rise of digital #
Digital technology has become an unavoidable part of our daily lives. With the closure of the offices, the Paris Tourist Office is betting everything on digital, through optimized applications and websites. The goal? To offer visitors a total immersion with interactive maps and practical advice. The current trend shows that many tourists, like Lila, 21 years old, no longer have the reflex to go to a traditional office, relying instead on the information available online.
The alternative of ambassadors #
In light of this reality, the “Paris Je T’aime” Tourist Office announces an alternative model. In two years, a network of ambassadors will be deployed throughout the city, relying on nearly fifty information points. These ambassadors, tasked with transmitting essential information, will be responsible for providing continuous support to tourists while maintaining a human touch. This could really revitalize on-site reception!
The economic impact of the closure #
This reorganization is not without economic consequences. The Tourist Office has experienced a significant reduction in its funding, leading to budget cuts. While the municipal subsidy has already decreased by 300,000 euros, the need to reconsider the economic model of the structure is becoming pressing. A balance must be found to ensure a quality service for visitors while remaining financially viable.
À lire the classic and sports car show in the United Kingdom on June 7th and 8th, 2025
The challenges of the future #
As it moves towards this more modern and digital approach, the Paris Tourist Office must consider the various challenges that lie ahead. Feedback from visitors, like that of Frank, who wants contacts for guidance in the city, highlights the importance of face-to-face support. How can we ensure that this transformation will not compromise the quality of the welcome that Paris so desperately needs?
A global trend #
The closure of the Paris Tourist Office is part of a global phenomenon. Other metropolises, such as London and New York, have already adopted similar strategies, replacing fixed offices with more flexible information points. This trend raises questions: have traditional tourist offices become obsolete? Should all major cities follow this model?
As Paris reinvents its tourism approach, this period of transformation will need to be accompanied by efforts to meet the new expectations of travelers. The challenges are numerous, but they also present opportunities to place digital service at the heart of the visitor experience. A real step towards the future, while keeping a bit of the magic of human contact.
