France has been one of the world’s top tourist destinations for decades, receiving millions of visitors a year, and it’s easy to see why. The country offers everything visitors seek, from the stunning natural landscapes of the Loire Valley and the glistening coastlines of the French Riviera to the charming cities of Paris and Nice.
But beyond its attractions, there are many other reasons why France has been at the forefront of tourism. Here’s why tourism is booming in France.
1. People Want to See Paris
People from all walks of life are in awe of the beauty of Paris. From the famous Eiffel Tower to the Louvre Museum and the Notre Dame Cathedral, the city is home to amazing sights and attractions guaranteed to keep visitors coming back. On top of that, Paris exudes a romantic feel, making it a top choice for couples on a honeymoon or romantic break.
Besides the famous landmarks, there’s always something happening in Paris, and that’s one of the reasons visitors keep coming back regardless of the time of the year. Unlike smaller cities like Nice, Paris is always bustling with life, from local street markets to global events like Paris Fashion Week.
The variety of fantastic museums is a good enough reason why people want to see Paris. These museums offer a fascinating look into the city’s extensive history, with many others showcasing some of the world’s most sought-after art pieces.
Another reason many people visit Paris is the incredible food options. Given France’s rich history, the city’s dining scene is diverse. You’ll find plenty of great restaurants serving international cuisines and those specialising in traditional French cuisine.
2. The Stunning Landscapes
Only a few places on Earth can beat France when it comes to its stunning natural landscapes. The country’s scenery is as diverse as it is captivating. Places like the Provence Alps, the Loire Valley, and the French Riviera are some of the best places to visit to soak up the country’s incredible beauty.
Beyond the famous ones, you’ll find many other incredible places in France with majestic beauty. The Verdon Gorge is one. It’s Europe’s deepest canyon, located in the centre of Provence, and is a popular destination for outdoor sports like hiking and kayaking due to its proximity to the French Riviera. There are also stunning villas in the Provence Alps to choose from.
Another hidden gem is the Camargue Salt Flats. The massive river delta features milky pink and pastel hues due to the salts and algae that grow in the lagoons. It’s a truly magical place and one of those places to see in France if you want to discover the country’s stunning landscapes.
The Auvergne Regional Park is another popular attraction for visitors looking to discover France’s spectacular landscapes. It’s a massive volcano complex featuring deep valleys, glass-covered volcanoes, and picturesque villages.
3. It Has a Bit of Everything
France offers everything a visitor would want, and that’s one of the reasons behind the country’s booming tourism industry. There are beaches, lots of sunshine, and beautiful mountains, offering a bit of something for every visitor, regardless of their preferences.
France has a diverse geography, home to scenic rivers, mountain ranges, and stunning plains, making it a top destination for outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and cycling.
Aside from the stunning nature, France has a rich culture and history, including architecture, the arts, and museums. You will find famous landmarks like the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Palace of Versailles, and the Eiffel Tower. It also has some of the world’s best museums, such as the Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay.
Those into fashion and shopping will have good reasons to visit France. Paris is known for its thriving fashionable scene, home to designer boutiques, high-end shops, and iconic department stores.
If you want to splurge and indulge in luxury activities, France is the perfect place. The country is home to world-class hotels with views overlooking the Eiffel Tower. You can also splurge on a romantic dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant or book a private cruise along the Seine River.
4. The Excellent Activities
France offers every possible activity you can think of, and that’s another reason why millions of tourists come here each year. Whatever your interests, you will find them in France.
For example, if you enjoy skiing and other snow activities, Courchevel 1850 has luxury ski chalets where you can enjoy the thrill of the slopes as well as the comfort of high-end accommodations.
Those into mountain climbing should conquer the Alps, which are steeper than the Pyrénées. The French love the outdoors, and many are into cycling and hiking, giving you plenty of scenic trails to explore. Many are well-marked with plenty of food and drink options as a reward after a gruelling day.
Horse riding is another popular activity in France, which you can enjoy almost anywhere. It’s a fun way to explore the scenic vineyards of Provence or marvel at the sparkling waters of the Atlantic. The country has many equestrian centres offering horseback riding excursions in some of France’s most beautiful corners.
5. It Has Excellent Food and Wine
France has plenty to offer for food and wine lovers. Its cuisine is famous worldwide, and visitors can indulge in different flavours thanks to its numerous dining options, from Michelin-starred restaurants to patisseries and cafes. More importantly, France is known for its excellent wine and is home to some of the world’s famous wine regions, such as Burgundy, Champagne, and Bordeaux.
For wine lovers, Burgundy is a must-visit. It has some of the world’s most prestigious wineries, renowned for producing the best selection of French wines like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. A tour of the premier wine producers in Burgundy offers a fantastic chance to discover and sample the country’s finest wines.
Aside from being one of the most picturesque cities in France, Bordeaux is renowned for its outstanding gastronomic scene. A visit to Bordeaux will allow visitors to sample delectable French delicacies paired with the finest red and white wines while soaking in some of the region’s outstanding scenery.
