Modern Infrastructure to Attract Visitors

Saint-Denis’ tourism sector, which represents 2,500 jobs, is booming and making a significant contribution to the local economy. The city has just received the “Tourist Town” label, a state distinction reserved for cities with attractive infrastructure and offerings for visitors, as announced by Mayor Éricka Bareigts on January 23.

With 13,500 tourist beds, a modern transport network combining bike paths and a cable car, a historic city center, and 182 restaurants, Saint-Denis has all the assets to attract tourists and business travelers. The city now ranks among the top 3 tourist destinations on the island. “In terms of overnight stays, we were 3rd in 2016 and in 2022 we are 2nd, ahead of Saint-Pierre,” the Mayor stated. She added that the Palais Rontaunay project, a 4-star Accor hotel, is progressing well and that the preventative archaeological excavations on the site are complete.

To boost its appeal, Saint-Denis is focusing on its cultural and heritage events. The Fête de la Musique (Music Festival), which attracts 50,000 attendees, and the Electropicales music festival are among the highlights. The Parc National au Brûlé, soon to have a branch of the North Tourist Office in the Case Tuit-Tuit, and the ONF (National Forestry Office) trail, the fourth most popular on the island, offer activities accessible to both local and international visitors.

The city is also investing in the preservation of its built heritage. Municipal buildings have been restored, and projects for private properties, such as the Timol house, are underway. To accommodate visitors, shuttle services were put in place, allowing 800 cruise passengers to visit craft markets and shops, thus stimulating the local economy.