Paris Closes Last Physical Tourist Office

Paris has officially closed its last physical tourist information center, prompting a shift towards enhanced digital services to cater to changing visitor habits. The center, located near the Eiffel Tower, was deemed unpopular, with only 150,000 visitors in 2024 compared to 574,000 in 2015. In response to the growing reliance on digital platforms like TikTok and Instagram for travel advice, the Paris Tourist Office plans to establish 50 information points at various locations around the city and implement a call center for personalized assistance. Critics argue that this strategy overlooks the value of face-to-face interactions and may alienate certain demographics, particularly the elderly. Despite the closure, officials maintain that adapting to digital preferences is essential for maintaining Paris's reputation as a top tourist destination. The city is expected to continue leveraging its online presence to provide immediate information and support to the approximately 37 million tourists it welcomes annually.