Christian Estrosi presented this Thursday morning the report on the 2023 summer tourist season. And it is particularly good.
“The year 2023 was more than exceptional,” congratulated the mayor of Nice, Christian Estrosi. The economy of Nice operates on two main sectors: tourism/services and industry. This summer, once again, the tourism of the capital of the French Riviera has demonstrated its vigor. However, “we are not a seaside resort,” insisted Christian Estrosi. The city of Nice has long suffered from its image as a “large tourist village,” a persistent image according to various articles in the international press. But today, the time has come to assert its status as a metropolis.
Furthermore, Nice prides itself on the diversity of its tourist potential. Christian Estrosi thus recalled the breadth of the city’s cultural and recreational activities. This diversification undeniably contributes to the great attractiveness that the capital of the French Riviera enjoys.
The Nice airport, the centerpiece of Nice’s tourism
If the summer of 2023 shows such record numbers, it is due to the return of international clientele. Indeed, more than three million passengers passed through Nice airport between July and August. This total equals that of 2019, a pre-COVID year. For example, connections between Nice and New York, with up to three flights a day, consistently had full flights. Additionally, the 116 destinations offered by the airport seem to attract customers from various backgrounds. However, it is the Scandinavians, British, Italians, Americans, and Canadians who appear to be the most loyal clientele.
Towards high-end tourism
What pleased the mayor of Nice this morning was nothing other than the upscale shift of tourism on the French Riviera. Beneficial for the economy, the upscale shift in Nice’s tourism is a significant point. The return of international clientele with substantial purchasing power rejoices the city’s coffers. Christian Estrosi’s objective is to “become and remain a must-visit destination“. The past and upcoming event calendar illustrates the rise of this type of tourism.
Christian Estrosi also highlighted the evolution in hotel offerings. He recalls the Negresco’s goal to be elevated to “palace” status. He also mentions new hotels, like the Mama Shelter (currently under construction), which will add 3,000 rooms to the current capacity.
Finally, the mayor of Nice explained that the success of the “Matisse of the 1930s” exhibition marks a new starting point in reestablishing relations with Japan. Indeed, the metropolis aims to pivot towards the east to attract the generous Japanese clientele.
And since the summer season is not truly over, a meeting is set for October 5th next. Until then, the Ironman and the Rugby World Cup will delight local tourism players.
