tourism statistics france

Monday, April 22, 2024 5:57 am (Paris)

Summer 2022 marks the great return of tourists to France

Initial figures are showing sustained tourism activity in France this summer, similar to 2019. This is being fueled by the high price of accommodation and the revival of France's Parisian engine, driven by Americans.

By  Clément Guillou

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The school bags had not yet been filled and the bathing suits were still on the clothesline when Olivia Grégoire, the minister responsible for tourism, rushed to take stock of a "particularly successful" summer on Monday, August 29. It was something of a premature press conference, given that September is a valuable month for French tourism. Extending summer tourist flows is a priority for the sector.

As the minister – whose portfolio also includes small and medium-sized businesses, trade and crafts – conceded from the outset, there was an urgent need to rejoice. "Good news is quite rare in these times." While the figures have yet to be consolidated, summer tourist consumer activity should help push back the specter of recession, with the sector accounting for around 8% of gross domestic product, and much more in the third quarter. (The ministry claimed, based on an opinion poll, that seven out of 10 French people went on vacation this summer.)

As the levels of bookings and the high number of long-weekend visitors in the spring suggested, those French who can afford it have largely indulged in vacations, despite the high prices and the economic and climatic hazards.

In an anxiety-inducing context, these figures give the summer of 2022 the sense of being a last breath, before a cloud-filled autumn and the return-to-work. The sunny weather throughout the country also encouraged day trips and visits to amusement parks, activities that sometimes act as a fallback solution for households unable to travel far from home.

Cell phone data, analyzed by ADN Tourisme, the umbrella organization of tourist offices, shows a decline in the number of French visitors over the last two summers. French holidays abroad have almost returned to their pre-crisis level, and are above the 2019 level. So are European visits, which are clearly on the rise. More precise and consolidated figures – French tourism is notoriously deficient in this area – will be necessary to determine which territories have benefited from these flows. But the dominant impression is of a return to pre-pandemic habits, with coasts and cities proving a strong draw.

Overall decline in cash payments

Some strong trends that appeared during Covid-19 have been confirmed: local and highland tourism, traveling vacations, peer-to-peer rentals, and travel by bike or train. The SNCF [French national railway] sold 10% more long-distance tickets than in 2019 (15% for TER) [regional transport service].

In contrast, initial feedback from tourist offices suggests a lackluster summer for restaurant owners and for certain outdoor activity industries – they suffered from the heat wave, the economic climate and the lack of staff. In the middle of the season and in seaside resorts, there were empty terraces at noon and restaurants closed one or two days a week.

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Leisure Travel

Domestic tourism in France - statistics & facts

French domestic travel behavior, domestic travel destinations in france, key insights.

Detailed statistics

Domestic tourism spending in France 2019-2022

Domestic overnight trips in France 2009-2021

Share of the public that took domestic trip in France 2020

Editor’s Picks Current statistics on this topic

Current statistics on this topic.

Travel, Tourism & Hospitality

Share of domestic leisure trips in France 2020, by travel reason

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• Coastal tourism in France
• Travel and tourism in France
• Impact of the coronavirus on the tourism industry in France
• Domestic tourism in European countries

Recommended statistics

• Basic Statistic Domestic tourism spending in France 2019-2022
• Premium Statistic Domestic overnight trips in France 2009-2021
• Premium Statistic Domestic same-day trips in France 2009-2021
• Premium Statistic Share of the public that took domestic trip in France 2020

Domestic tourism expenditure in France in 2019 and 2022 (in billion euros)

Number of domestic overnight trips in France from 2009 to 2021 (in millions)

Domestic same-day trips in France 2009-2021

Number of domestic same-day trips in France from 2009 to 2021 (in millions)

Share of the population that took a domestic trip in France in 2020

Travel behavior

• Premium Statistic Number of domestic trips in France 2020, by trip type
• Premium Statistic Average number of domestic trips taken in France 2020, by trip type
• Premium Statistic Share of domestic trips in France 2020, by length of stay
• Premium Statistic Domestic trips made in France 2020, by region
• Premium Statistic Domestic tourists' criteria for choosing a travel destination in France 2020

Number of domestic trips in France 2020, by trip type

Number of domestic leisure and business trips in France in 2020 (in millions)

Average number of domestic trips taken in France 2020, by trip type

Average number of domestic trips taken in France in 2020, by trip type

Share of domestic trips in France 2020, by length of stay

Distribution of domestic trips in France in 2020, by length of stay

Domestic trips made in France 2020, by region

Share of domestic trips in France in 2020, by region

Domestic tourists' criteria for choosing a travel destination in France 2020

Reasons for choosing a domestic holiday location in France in 2020

Leisure travel

• Premium Statistic Share of domestic leisure trips in France 2020, by travel reason
• Premium Statistic Nights spent on domestic leisure trips in France 2020, by type of accommodation
• Premium Statistic Leading means of transport for domestic leisure trips in France 2020
• Premium Statistic Domestic leisure trips made in France 2020, by destination type

Distribution of domestic leisure trips in France in 2020, by reason for trip

Nights spent on domestic leisure trips in France 2020, by type of accommodation

Share of nights spent on domestic leisure trips in France in 2020, by type of accommodation

Leading means of transport for domestic leisure trips in France 2020

Most used means of transport for domestic leisure trips in France in 2020

Domestic leisure trips made in France 2020, by destination type

Share of domestic leisure trips spent in France in 2020, by type of destination

Overnight stays

• Premium Statistic Domestic travel nights spent in France 2017-2020
• Premium Statistic Domestic travel nights spent in France 2020, by trip type
• Premium Statistic Domestic traveler nights spent in lodging in France 2020, by lodging type
• Premium Statistic Nights spent by the French population in non- and commercial accommodations 2020
• Premium Statistic Monthly overnight stays in hotels in France 2019-2023, by guest type

Domestic travel nights spent in France 2017-2020

Number of nights spent by domestic travelers in France from 2017 to 2020 (in millions)

Domestic travel nights spent in France 2020, by trip type

Number of nights spent by domestic travelers in France in 2020, by trip type (in millions)

Domestic traveler nights spent in lodging in France 2020, by lodging type

Distribution of nights spent by domestic travelers in accommodation in France in 2020, by accommodation type

Nights spent by the French population in non- and commercial accommodations 2020

Number of overnight stays spent by the French population in non- and commercial accommodations in France from January to September 2020, by month (in million)

Monthly overnight stays in hotels in France 2019-2023, by guest type

Number of monthly overnight stays in hotels in France from January 2019 to December 2023, by type of guest (in 1,000s)

Demographics

• Premium Statistic Domestic tourists in France 2020, by age
• Premium Statistic Share of domestic tourists in France 2020, by net monthly household income
• Premium Statistic Domestic tourists in France 2020, by region of origin
• Premium Statistic Share of domestic tourists in France 2020, by number of children per household
• Premium Statistic Domestic tourists in France 2020, by area of residence

Domestic tourists in France 2020, by age

Distribution of domestic tourists in France in 2020, by age group

Share of domestic tourists in France 2020, by net monthly household income

Distribution of domestic tourists in France in 2020, by net monthly household income

Domestic tourists in France 2020, by region of origin

Distribution of domestic tourists in France in 2020, by region of origin

Share of domestic tourists in France 2020, by number of children per household

Distribution of domestic tourists in France in 2020, by number of children per household

Domestic tourists in France 2020, by area of residence

Distribution of domestic tourists in France in 2020, by area of residence

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Tourism In France Statistics 2023: All You Need To Know

by GoWithGuide travel specialist: Gowithguide travel specialist O.

# travelfrance

# francetourguide

France holds the distinction of being the most popular tourist destination in the world. Its classical European architecture, rich culture, internationally renowned wineries, and even pristine Mediterranean beaches offers something for everyone. The country is also home to a whopping 49 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including famous sites such as Mont-Saint-Michel , as well as many lesser known gems.

If you’re planning a tour to France, you know that such a beloved nation can be difficult to navigate, especially if you’re looking for an experience beyond popular sites like Paris aka The City of Lights. This is why partnering with our France tour guides is a great way to take on The French Republic. Now let’s get to the good stuff, so we can get to the touring. Allons-y!

France’s Tourism Journey: The Constant Contender

When it comes to tourism, France has never been an underdog. Is France the most visited country in the world? Absolutely. In fact, for over 30 years, it’s been the number one tourist destination.  So how big is France’s tourism industry? It employed a solid 1.5 million people in 2019, which makes up 7.5% of the country’s entire workforce. But as all other countries, they did take a significant hit after having the highest tourism record of 2019 (90.9 million). 

By 2020, numbers had drastically dropped to 41.7 million , which is still high when you compare it to other nations. But never one to stay down, France crawled back up to 48.4 million in 2021, and by 2022, as the world opened up, a whopping 79.4 million people had been to see the Republic. So let’s take a closer looks at the stats from 2019 and beyond. 

France’s Top Tourism Statistics 

• No. 1: France is the most popular tourist destination in the world. 
• 90 million: The annual number of tourists who visit France in 2019, according to its Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 
• 9.6%: The percentage of French GDP directly tied to the tourism sector in 2019, making up. In 2022, this number had reached 216.5 Billion Euros , which was a 1.4% decrease from 2019. 
• 12 million: The number of people who flock to Disneyland Paris each year, Europe’s largest theme park. 
• 30 million: Amount of visitors who travel to Paris alone, meaning the City of Lights receives more visitors itself than many countries. In 2022, Paris and the Île-de-France region welcomed over 44 million tourists . 
• 49: The number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites located in France, one of the highest ratios in the world. 
• 25°C: Average summer temperature in France, though exact temperatures can vary from region to region. 

Who Else Loves France?

As the most popular tourist destination in the world, you may be surprised to learn that the exact figures of visitors to France can vary substantially based on how they are counted. This is partly due to the fact that it is part of the European Union, meaning many visitors pass through not just France but various European countries, all holding EU passports. So, which nationality visits France the most? The largest number of visitors come from the United Kingdom and Germany, and other popular countries include the United States, China, and various African countries.

• Germany - 13.7%
• Belgium/Luxembourg - 13%
• Italy - 7.8%
• Switzerland - 7.8%

The fastest growing demographic for international tourists to France is China, with the French government actively promoting tourism for visitors from China and East Asia in general. Prior to Covid-19, the country aimed to attract a whopping 5 million tourists from China alone per year, but currently that figure is around the 2 million mark. 

This begs the question, why does France get so many tourists? The history, culturally relevant monuments, artistic foundations, romantic atmosphere, pleasant weather, world renowned food, and comfort are just the start. 

Connecting With The Country: France’s Most Popular Destinations 

France is a large country with many different regions to explore, so you have many choices when it comes to planning your trip. Here are the most popular ones; 

• Paris 
• Cannes 
• Corsica 
• French Alps 

French Cuisine: The True Definition of Crème de la crème

It goes without saying that a trip to France will be incomplete without properly experiencing the country’s excellent selection of gastronomic delights. After all, France is the home of high quality cuisine as the proud creators of the internationally acclaimed Michelin star, an award which recognizes establishments with exceptional cuisine. Ready to salivate? Bon appétit! 

• French Breads: Welcome to the cornerstone of french baking. The most famous French breads are undoubtedly the baguette and the croissant. Walking the streets of any city or town in France, you will undoubtedly find several traditional bakeries, or boulangeries, where you can purchase warm home-made breads in various styles.
• Say Cheese!: The country is also famous for its large selection of cheeses, from Brie to Camembert, French cheese is truly a delight for the soul, made even better via a pairing with a high quality French wine. Some of the best cheese shops include Androuët, Fromagerie Quatrehomme, and the outdoor market of Marché d'Aligre.

Travel tip: Enjoying cheese in France is par for the course, but when it comes to taking them home to enjoy, be aware that each country has their own export rules regarding products such as cheese, meat, or fresh produce. 

• Steak au Poivre : For the meat lovers out there, we would recommend trying Steak au Poivre (pepper steak) and Steak Frites (steak & fries). When ordering steak, remember that it’s important to tell your waiter how you would like it done. Some useful phrases to remember are; “saignant” (rare), “a point” (medium-rare), and “bien cuit” (well-done).
• Escargot: Delight your taste buds with the exquisite flavor of Escargot, where tender snails are expertly cooked in a delectable blend of butter and garlic.
• Ratatouille: For vegetarians seeking culinary bliss, indulge in the savory goodness of Ratatouille. This dish features a medley of stewed vegetables, artfully crafted to create a symphony of flavors on your palate.
• Crème brûlée: Satisfy your sweet cravings with the divine allure of Crème brûlée. This creamy dessert is a masterpiece that tantalizes your taste buds, offering a perfect balance of velvety richness and a delightful caramelized crust. Ideal for those with a penchant for a sweet conclusion to their culinary journey.

We could go on and on about French dishes, but the best way to experience it is with an in depth look at Parisian cuisine for some more details, or ask your local expert tour guide to introduce you to their favorite dishes.

Hot & Cold: France’s Ever-Changing Climates 

From the rainy coasts of Normandy to the sunny shores of the French Riviera located on the Mediterranean Sea and colloquially referred to as the Côte d'Azur (Azure Coast), the  weather in France   varies quite a lot depending on the region and time of year. 

As a western European country, rainfall can be heavy and winters chilly ( 1°C /33F - 7°C /44F ), but the summers in France are warm and comfortable (around 25°C / 77F ), and the country even experiences heat waves in excess of 40°C / 104F at times! Let’s take a deeper look at France’s major climatic regions & what to expect from each. 

​ Oceanic Climate (Northwest France)

Locations: Paris, Normandy, Brittany .

Weather : Mild to chilly winters and cool summers. Rain is evenly distributed throughout the year.

Temperatures : Winter (December to February) averages around 37-45°F (3-7°C), and summer (June to August) averages around 57-75°F (14-24°C).

Best Time to Visit : Late spring (May to June) and early fall (September to October) for pleasant weather.

Continental Climate (Northeast France)

Locations: Alsace, Lorraine, Champagne.

Weather : Colder winters and warmer summers compared to the northwest. Winters can be snowy.

Temperatures : Winter averages around 29-39°F (-2 to 4°C), and summer averages around 59-77°F (15-25°C).

Best Time to Visit : Late spring (May to June) and early fall (September to October) for milder temperatures.

Mediterranean Climate (Southern France):

Locations: Provence, French Riviera, Corsica.

Weather : Hot, slightly wet summers and mild, dryer winters. Occasional mistral winds in some areas.

Temperatures : Winter averages around 41-50°F (5-10°C), and summer averages around 68-86°F (20-30°C).

Best Time to Visit : Late spring (May to June) and early fall (September to October) for warm weather without the intense heat.

Mountain Climate (French Alps, Pyrenees)

Locations: Chamonix, Grenoble, Pyrenees region.

Weather : Alpine climate with cold winters, heavy snowfall, and cool summers.

Temperatures : Winter averages around 23-32°F (-5 to 0°C), and summer averages around 46-68°F (8-20°C).

Best Time to Visit : Summer (June to August) for hiking and outdoor activities; winter (December to February) for skiing.

Semi-Continental Climate (Central France)

Locations: Burgundy, Loire Valley, Central Plateau.

Weather : Transitional climate with moderately cold winters and warm summers.

Temperatures : Winter averages around 30-39°F (-1 to 4°C), and summer averages around 57-75°F (14-24°C).

France's diverse climates offer a range of activities, from beach relaxation in the Mediterranean to winter sports in the Alps, making it a year-round destination for various interests. Deciding on which season will be best for your tour of France will depend on your personal preferences and the region you’re visiting. Reach out to one of our private tour guides to get in-depth weather information for your planned tour.

Transportation: Getting Around France 

France has a well-developed transportation system, including trains, subways, buses, taxis, and airports. Need to know how to go? Here’s a breakdown of France’s premier transportation methods. 

• High-Speed Trains (TGV - Train à Grande Vitesse) :Looking to explore more than one city? Love speed +comfort when your itinerary features Paris, Lyon, Marseille, and beyond? The TGV is a network of high-speed trains that connect major cities in France with neighboring countries at convenient speeds. Timely, and super comfortable, this is the way to go.  
• Regional Trains (TER - Transport Express Régional): A great option for regional travelers, TER trains cover regional routes, connecting smaller towns and cities within specific regions, of which France has 26. They’re slower, but more affordable. They’re also a strong option for daily commuters. 
• Paris Métro: You can’t get around the City of Love without using the Paris Métro, an extensive subway system covering Paris and its suburbs. It's a fast and convenient way to navigate the capital. Oh, and you can stop at all the major attractions with this system. 
• Buses and Coaches: The perfect in-between, buses and coaches operate within cities and on long-distance routes. They’re ideal for the traveler that wants to take the scenic route. Buses are commonly used for short-distance travel within cities, and long-distance coaches are a great option for budget-conscious travel.
• Cars and Rental Cars: Given the shift to green transport, cars and rentals are less recommended, but the well maintained roads make it an option that most consider. Cars are ideal for exploring rural areas, tranquil countryside, and off-the-beaten-path destinations.
• Bicycles: Major metro areas like Paris are perfect for bike lovers, with the infrastructure to support two-wheeled travel available. Many cities offer bike-sharing programs for short trips, as it’s an eco-friendly and healthy way to explore cities.

Travel tip: Psst! If you aren’t used to using public transport, worry not! Our private guides can meet you at your hotel (or any other preferred meeting point), and chaperone you throughout your customized tour.

Traveling In France: Dos & Don'ts To Remember

Parles-tu Anglais? All About Language In France  

While major cities like Paris don’t need much translation, France is quite huge, and English proficiency varies from region to region. In fact, the nation’s English proficiency index of 531 puts it at the top 5 lowest in Europe (position 30 out of 34) and 43 globally, so you will need some linguistic help depending on where you’ll go. Here are some common phrases to keep in mind; 

• Hello = Bonjour (bohn-zhoor)
• Goodbye = Au revoir (oh-rev-vwha)
• Thank you = Merci (mare-see)
• Please = S'il vous plaît (seel-voo-play)
• Excuse me = Excusez-moi (ex-koo-say mwa)
• Yes = Oui (we)
• No = Non (noh)
• I don’t speak French = Je né parle pas français (zhe ne parl pah frahn-say)
• Do you speak English? = Parlez-vous anglais? (par-lay voo ahn-glay)

Luckily, all of our French tour guides are fluent in English and can help you with translation throughout your tour. They can also provide some unique insights which may not appear on the tourist brochures.

Staying Safe: The France Edition 

Although France is generally a safe country to travel in, larger cities have issues with pickpockets and petty crime. Given the crime index of 55.12 out of 100 , and increase of crime in the past year, you should exercise caution by trying not to stand out too much as a tourist, otherwise you risk yourself being targeted by petty thieves. Keep your valuables either in your hotel room or in a bag that isn’t immediately visible.

Safety while touring at night can be low (35.68) in major cities, so consult with a local tour guide about night based tours to get the best recommendations about safe areas and places to avoid. 

Conclusion 

As the most visited country in the world, France lives up to the hype. The country sports attractions that will appeal to virtually every kind of traveler under the sun, from art lovers to extreme skiers, fashion aficionados, wine connoisseurs, and beach goers.

Ready to experience France for yourself? Plan the perfect custom itinerary alongside our French tour guides and enjoy expert advice, ease of travel planning efforts, personal translation, shopping advice, general safety tips, and help with transportation. Bonne chance!

Popular France Tour Guides

Being a native from Villefranche-sur-Mer, in the heart of the French Riviera, a little fishermen's village located right between Nice and Monaco and facing the world-famous Cap Ferrat, I grew up in the valley outside Nice and started to discover the cities of the Côte d'Azur as a young boy with my parents and family, later on as a teenager with my friends. After studying corporate public relations, I had one of the best opportunity of my life, something that I secretly always wished, to go live in United States, working for the famous Sun Valley ski resort for two years in Idaho as a restaurant and banquet manager. When I came back to Nice, I went back to school to be graduated as a French professional tour guide and lecturer in English and Spanish, then i started to work as a tour guide in different tour companies and quickly decided to face a new challenge by opening a tour guide company that will look more like me, which means showing my region as a local to my clients and make sure they feel as with friends, all along their stay, not just when they are with me for the tour. Providing private professional guided tours today for shore excursions or visitors staying in various hotels in Cannes, Monaco or Nice is obviously the greatest and most enjoyable job that suit me, as natural and sincere I can be, it pushes me on being exceptionally great every day because my guest deserves so much coming from so far to discover our region, i only have one day to stay in their memories for a very long time, showing you the best places around the French Riviera. Since 2007, me and my team of native born and raised professional tour guide are specialized in providing private tours on the French Riviera, which mean that we adjust our tours with your requests and wishes, we have had a lots of unique and very interesting experiences that we will always remember because of sharing unique life moments.                                                                                                                                  

Bonjour de Paris! I'm Jillian, your independent Paris guide, ready to sprinkle some magic on your adventure! Walk with me – your experienced, passionate, dynamic, and undeniably cool local guide. Let's meander through petite cafes and historic wonders, unlocking the secrets to living like a true Parisian! Marvel at hidden gems where the art of the past and present intertwines, making history your playground! Join my small groups or opt for a private/personalized walking tour, because in Paris, the best stories are told step by step. Whether alone or with your favorite people, I'll show you the beauty of Paris. Let's make your time in Paris a whirlwind of joy. Have fun and let the City of Lights enchant you!                                                                                                                                  

Hello! I'm Francis, I would like to show this beautiful city who adopted me. I would like to show you around, so you get to know its history, culture, wine, FOOD, its architecture and others! Join me in this experience, and I will show the best possible!                                                                                                                                  

I have over 17 years of experience in the Touring Industry. If you are looking for a knowledgeable native of Nice who knows the best places to show you, time to admire the beauty of the Riviera with historical information and a genuine love of the area then I am the right tour guide for you. I will be happy to share with you the love and passion that I have for my beautiful region to make your stay unique and to offer you an unforgettable experience!                                                                                                                                  

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Tourism: 2023, a record year for France

Before 2024, a year that may be exceptional, 2023 may be a record year for France in terms of tourism attractiveness! Atout France has published a trend keynote explaining that in late November, revenues of international tourism in France reached about 59 billion euros (+12% compared with 2019). The year 2023 may be a record year, with an overall total of 63 billion euros in international revenues. This trend may be due to several factors: a sharp growth of clients from North America, a confirmed pick-up for European clients, a positive impact of the Rugby World Cup and a gradual comeback from Asian markets.

The keynote was released during the second Destination France summit held on 12 January in the Chantilly palace. French president Macron presided the event, and seized the opportunity to remind “ the strategic nature of tourism industry for France ”, which welcomed millions of international travellers in 2023 .

Tourism, a strategic sector of French economy

President Macron welcomed about 200 business leader and decisionmakers from the biggest international and French groups in tourism industry during the second Destination France summit. As the government website explains, the Summit was held “ in the light of an exceptional year for French tourism and the soft power of our country ”, a year that will be marked by several highlights: the commemoration of the Normandy landing, the reopening of the Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral, the Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games and the Francophonie Summit planned in autumn.

The Summit was indeed the perfect opportunity to present “ the assets of France for investments in terms of tourism and the economic rearmament and attractiveness policy ”. The idea is to maintain “ France in the first place in terms of tourism destination worldwide ” and keep “ the first place in terms of attraction of foreign investments in Europe ”, while having the ambition of “ becoming the first sustainable nation in the world ”. And the government website reminds that tourism industry is a strategic sector of the industry reaching about 2 million jobs in France (across all job denomination) and represents about 7.5% of French GDP .

Growth trend

While waiting for 2024, which may well be an exceptional year , the previous year was just as buoyant. In detail, the account of the balance of payments in tourism industry reached a record 16.5 billion euros in late November . In total, out of the first 11 months of 2023, 58.9 billion euros in international revenue were recorded, i.e. 9% more than in 2022 and 3% compared with 2019 (the year before the health crisis). Such figures show the growth of European clients and the comeback of Asian clients :

• for “neighbour” Europe: +37% for the Belgians, +21% for the Dutch, +20% for the British;
• for the Asian area: +36% for Japan, +20% for China.

Regarding the international air traffic , in spite of a slight decline, North America (Canada and Mexico in particular) and destinations from Asia present a strong growth compared with 2019 and 2022. As such, bookings made in December confirm the “growth trend” mostly for Japan and Canada, but also Spain and Italy.

Key sector in terms of employment

In economic terms and in the accommodation and catering, the tourism industry records an overall +7% increase of the number of business creations compared with 2022 and +4% compared with 2019 .

With a total 38,700 jobs created over one year , the tourism industry “is again the first recruiting industry in France”, says the keynote And more precisely, in the 3rd quarter of 2023, the accommodation and catering sector recorded 1.3 million employees in the private sector , a +1.3% increase compared with 2022 and a +12% increase compared with 2019. Some 15,000 jobs were created in the 3rd quarter of 2023, while the average salary increased by 3.5% compared with 2022, i.e. an 8 billion euros total payroll .

Related contents

• The Destination France Summit on the Elysée palace website https://www.elysee.fr/emmanuel-macron/2024/01/11/deuxieme-edition-du-sommet-destination-france
• The Destination France Summit on Atout France website https://www.atout-france.fr/actualites/sommet-destination-france-2eme-edition
• Atout France Trend Keynote about tourism in late 2023 https://www.atout-france.fr/sites/default/files/imce/note_conjoncture_dec2023.pdf

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65+ france travel & tourism statistics (2023).

France is the number one country in the world for tourism.

Did you know that the country had 218 million international arrivals in 2019?

Or that Disneyland Paris, not the Eiffel Tower , is the most visited tourist attraction in France?

With the City of Lights as its capital, the charming countryside, and beautiful language, it’s undoubtedly also one of the best romantic destinations out there.

In 2022, France was also the most sought after destination for Gen Z and millennial travellers .

If you wanted to understand more about things like France tourism income and why tourists visit France, you’re in the right place.

Below are the most interesting and important statistics about travel and tourism in France.

Let’s jump right in.

Sources : Attached with each stat is the source article or data. For a full list of all the sources used, head to the bottom of the post.

Travellerspoint

What country is #1 in tourism?

With 90 million international tourists in 2019 alone, France is the leading country in terms of tourism, way ahead of Spain (81.8 million), the US (76.9 million) , and China (60.7 million).

How many tourists visit France per year?

218 million international tourist arrivals were recorded in France in 2019, but this number fell to just 117 million arrivals in 2020.

On the other hand, it's interesting that merely 2.97% of French baby boomers travel overseas .

How many people visit the Eiffel Tower in a year?

In 2017, a total of 6.2 million people visited the Eiffel Tower. Despite being the country’s most iconic landmark, it’s surprisingly not the most visited tourist attraction in France.

What percentage of France's economy is tourism?

The travel and tourism industry contributed 211 billion euros to French GDP in 2019.

International tourism spending alone made up 7.92% of the country’s total export.

France Tourism Key Statistics

• In 2020, there were 117 million international tourist arrivals in France, a huge decrease from the 218 million recorded in 2019.
• In 2020, an overwhelming majority of international tourists in France (40 million people) were from Europe.
• 53.3 million outbound trips made from France in 2018.
• The number of domestic overnight visitors in France was 186 million in 2019.
• The travel and tourism industry contributed 211 billion euros to French GDP.
• Travel and tourism in France is predicted to directly contribute around 104.3 billion euros to the country’s GDP in 2028.
• In 2019, the total contribution of travel and tourism to employment in France was 2.69 million jobs.
• France welcomes approximately 11 million international business tourist arrivals every year.
• Hotels are the most common type of vacation rental in France, with more than 17 thousand establishments in 2022.

Inbound tourism in France

1. in 2020, there were 117 million international tourist arrivals in france, a huge decrease from the 218 million recorded in 2019., 2. in terms of overnight visits in france, there were 91 million inbound arrivals in 2019., 3. france is the world’s leading tourist destination..

France has been the most visited country in the world for 30 years. In 2018, its 89.4 million international tourists surpassed Spain (81.8 million), the US (76.9 million), and China (60.7 million).

4. Meanwhile, out of the 90 million inbound arrivals in 2018, a majority arrived by land transport.

This includes road transport like car rentals and buses, as well as trains, and this figure could be explained as France is a popular destination for European travelers .

5. Air and water transportation ranked second and third for international arrivals in France in 2018, with 28 million and 6 million arrivals respectively.

6. in 2020, an overwhelming majority of international tourists in france (40 million people) were from europe., 7. in comparison, only 1.7 million tourists from the americas visited france..

8. Indeed, the leading inbound travel market for France is the UK, with 13 million visiting France in 2018 alone.

There were 13 million UK residents visiting France in 2018 , making the UK the leading inbound travel market for France.

9. The average international tourist in France stays for nearly a week during their visit.

French outbound tourism statistics.

How many trips do French people take every year?

10. In 2018, there were 53.3 million outbound trips made from France.

11. that was an incredible increase from the 28.4 million outbound trips taken from france in 2017..

12. The continent to which French residents travel the most is Europe, with 19 million leisure trips made in 2017 to countries within Europe.

In 2019 particularly, 357,000 French tourist arrivals were recorded in Venice.

13. In 2021, 95.6% of outbound tourists from France traveled to Europe, representing approximately 14 million trips.

[Business Wire]

This shows that French residents preferred short-haul destinations due to the existing Covid-19 travel restrictions.

14. In 2018, 16.22 million international trips were made from France by air, compared to 9.68 million trips by land.

15. leisure day trips are popular among french residents, who made 3 million same-day trips for leisure purposes to belgium and 283 thousand trips to the uk., 16. a 2015 survey showed that tourists from france spent more than 25.1 billion euros for their travel abroad per year..

This includes backpackers. France is the third largest source of backpackers in Australia (7.76%) .

17. The average expenditure per outbound French tourist in 2021 was $2,025.5, making them the ninth most valuable outbound source market.

18. a 2021 survey revealed that 56% of french tourists go on a sun and beach holiday, which is in line with the worldwide average of 57%., domestic tourism in france.

How often do French residents travel domestically?

19. The total number of domestic trips in France fluctuated between 2008 and 2019, hitting record-high in 2017 with 277 million domestic trips.

20. in 2020, this number fell by around 50% to just 138 million domestic trips in france..

Covid-19 had drastically decreased the number of domestic trips taken in France.

21. The number of domestic overnight visitors in France was 186 million in 2019.

22. in comparison, day trips are less popular with 85 million same-day trips made in france in 2017 by domestic travelers., 23. the number of same-day trips dropped in 2020, reaching only 60 million excursionists, the lowest level since 2006. , 24. in 2020, leisure-related domestic trips in france experienced the biggest decline, falling from almost 167 million in 2019 to below 140 million in 2020., 25. the average duration of a domestic trip made by french residents is 5.22 days..

This average duration was calculated from 2020 data.

26. For domestic French trips, the most popular transportation type is land, typically by road or rail.

27. the second and third most popular transportations are by air and water, recording 2.5 million and below 500 thousand, respectively, domestic trips in 2020., economic impact of tourism in france.

What percentage of French economy is tourism?

28. In 2019, the travel and tourism industry contributed 211 billion euros to French GDP.

29. this fell significantly in 2020 to 108 billion euros of gdp contribution, which is a 49% decline..

This dramatic drop could be explained by the Covid-19 pandemic, which affected not only France but also tourism in Europe and rest of the world. 

30. The direct contribution of travel and tourism to French GDP has remained relatively stable between 2012 and 2018, hitting 85.1 billion euros in 2018.

direct travel contribution to French GDP

31. Travel and tourism in France is predicted to directly contribute around 104.3 billion euros to the country’s GDP in 2028.

32. in 2019, international tourism receipts in france amounted to $70.8 billion..

[Macro Trends]

International tourism receipts refer to expenditures made by international inbound visitors. This includes international transport and other prepayment for goods and services purchased in France.

33. Unfortunately, international tourist spending fell by 49.19% to just $36 billion in 2020.

34. In 2018 and 2019 each, international tourism spending made up 7.92% of the country’s total export.

Unfortunately, in 2020, the percentage dropped to 4.73% of France’s export. This is once again the result of the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic.

35. The average international tourist in France spent $325 in 2019.

[World Data]

This is a significant drop from the $812 average in 2018. It can be explained by the slight decline in international tourism receipts despite the major increase in number of tourists.

36. In the meantime, French tourists spent an increasing amount in their country since 2012, reching over 115 billion euros in 2019. 

37. of course, this number also declined in 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic, hitting only 58 billion euros. , employment in french tourism.

How many people are employed in travel and tourism in France?

38. In 2019, the total contribution of travel and tourism to employment in France was 2.69 million jobs.

39. however, in 2020, the total number of employment contribution in the french travel and tourism industry declined to 2.5 million..

40. In terms of direct contribution, France recorded about 1.19 million travel and tourism jobs in 2017.

41. travel and tourism is forecasted to directly contribute to employment by generating approximately 1.47 million jobs in france in 2028., 42. disneyland paris employs over 16,000 people from 124 different countries, speaking 20 languages in 500 different roles..

[Disneyland Paris]

According to Disneyland Paris statistics, the company employs more than 16,000 employees (or Cast Members) for their 500 job classifications. They come from 124 nationalities and speak 20 languages.

Business travel in France

Are there many business travelers in France?

43. France welcomes approximately 11 million international business tourist arrivals every year.

There are around 11 million business visitors in France each year.

44. Among the G20 member countries, the expenditure of business tourists in France is the fifth highest at $23 billion.

45. in 2021, business travel spending made up 16% of the total tourism spending in comparison to leisure travel spending at 84%..

46. France recorded the least number of business overnight stays in April 2020, with only 800 thousand recorded.

During the pandemic, more people worked from home and therefore fewer of them traveled for business purposes.

47. In 2019, 750 trade shows and fairs were held in France.

48. meanwhile, there were 2,800 congresses in france in 2019., 49. out of all visitors in france in 2019, 52 million of them participated in corporate and institutional events., french tourism top attractions.

What is the most visited thing in France?

50. Wine tourism in France has grown by over 30% from 2009 to 2016.

[VisitFrenchWine]

Wine tourism includes visits to wine cellars, wine-making experiences, staying in vineyards or chateaux, wine academy conferences or courses, as well as hikes through vineyards.

51. In 2016, the country welcomed 10 million wine tourists.

52. the largest groups of wine tourists in france (almost 50% of the international visitors) are from belgium and the uk., 53. 50 million tourists visited paris in 2019, making in the most visited country in the world..

[Paris Digest]

Paris received 50 million tourists in 2019 . It’s ahead of London and New York City in terms of the world’s most visited city.

54. The main reasons for visiting Paris is to sightsee and go shopping.

55. the most visited site in france is disneyland, which welcomed nearly 14.9 million visitors in 2017 alone., 56. the second most visited tourist attraction in france is the louvre museum with just over 8 million visitors., 57. it is followed closely by versailles palace (7.7 million) and the eiffel tower (6.2 million)..

Travel accomodation in France

How many hotels are there in France?

58. In 2018, 442.76 million nights were spent in French travel accommodations, an increase from 2017.

59. In Paris alone, there are 56 five-star hotels, making it the city with the fourth highest number of five-star hotels in the world.

As the capital city and hub of the country’s travel and tourism, Paris has 56 five-star hotels .

60. Despite the popularity of France as a travel destination, the number of travel accommodation establishments in the country has been relatively stable between 2009 until 2020, remaining in the 28 to 30 thousand range.

61. tourist hotels are the most common type of travel accommodation in france, with more than 17 thousand establishments in 2022..

Hotels remain the most 

62. With 8,139 establishments, campsites are the next most popular type of travel accommodation in France.

31% of RV owners in 2021 were first-time owners, and the increasing number of RV users means that campsites will grow even more in popularity.

This high number also supports the statistics that France has contributed to why Europe is the dominating force in the global glamping market, with 35.11% of the market share .

63. They are followed by holiday residences, holiday village and family homes, and youth hostels and holding centres.

Holiday villages and family homes are the fourth most common type of travel accommodation in paris, revealing that family trips are also prevalent in French tourism .

64. Monthly arrivals in hotels in France tend to peak during the summer months, specifically in August.

65. french hotels received barely ten million arrivals in august 2020, which is lower than the usual 13 million., 66. from 2011 to 2016, the number of nights spent in hotels in metropolitan france was relatively stable, and then rose significantly until reaching almost 215 million nights in 2019. , 67. unlike the rising trend of travel accommodation in france overall, french residents were actually spending fewer nights in accommodation establishments between 2012 and 2018. , 68. france is the country with the second highest number of active airbnb listings (610,765)..

[AllTheRooms]

There are 610,765 Airbnb listings in France , making it the country with the second most active listings after the United States.

69. With 27,677 establishments, France is the country with second highest number of travel sustainable accommodations on Booking.com.

[Booking.com]

France has the second most number of travel sustainable properties, with 27,677 such listings on Booking.com .

For the last three decades, France remains the most popular tourist destination in the world. Its capital, Paris, is also one of the most visited cities.

Travel and tourism have always been a huge part of the country’s economy, as shown by its table contribution to French GDP.

If you’re planning to visit and book your travels to France, we hope these statistics are insightful!

Did we miss any crucial infos?

Tell us what you think in the comment section!

Meanwhile, check out more statistics here:

• Digital Nomad Statistics
• Female Travel Statistics
• Online Travel Booking Statistics
• Pet Travel Statistics
• WorldPopulationReview
• Business Wire
• Macro Trends
• Disneyland Paris
• VisitFrenchWine
• Paris Digest
• AllTheRooms
• Booking.com

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Destination France: The recovery and transformation plan for tourism

“Consolidate France’s position as the number one tourist destination in the world.” This is the goal set by the President of the French Republic at the first Destination France Summit on 4 November 2021.

France has been the world’s leading tourist destination for more than 30 years. In 2019, 90 million international tourists visited France to discover our rich natural and architectural heritage and to enjoy our world-renowned hospitality and way of life. In France, tourism accounts for 8% of GDP. This is thanks to the millions of people, passionate about their jobs and their country, who uphold its excellent reputation day after day.

During a trip to Amboise in the department of Indre-et-Loire, French Prime Minister Jean Castex – accompanied by the Minister of State for Tourism, French Nationals Abroad and Francophonie, Jean-Baptiste Lemoyne – presented the goals set out in the Destination France plan.

Announced on 2 June 2021 by the President of the French Republic, this plan aims to set a trajectory of 10 years for the tourism sector to bounce back after being hit particularly hard by the public health crisis. The plan will consolidate France’s stable position as the world’s number one tourist destination.

“Today, we want this position to mean greater benefits for all stakeholders throughout our territories. Increasing the length of stays, making it easier to get around, becoming the world’s leading sustainable tourism destination and focusing on quality will be the essence of French tourism for the coming decade.” Jean-Baptiste Lemoyne

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France Tourism Statistics 2023

• / France Tourism Statistics

Including Tourism in Paris, Inbound & Outbound Tourist Statistics, Spend, Jobs and more!

Tourism in France suffered the 3 rd highest tourism loss worldwide behind Spain and the U.S after the 2020 pandemic. The first 7 months of the pandemic saw a 66% drop in tourist arrivals to France and €103 billion euro drop in the contribution to the French GDP between 2019 – 2020. Paris saw the biggest hit with a €23.1 billion drop in tourism revenue.

France tourist numbers are recovering in 2023 with tourism growing by 12.3% in the first quarter. The biggest increase came from luxury hotels, with occupancy rising by 31.4% compared with lower-cost accommodation rising by just 2.7%. France has many key attractions which make it such an appealing destination for tourists including Disneyland with more than 15 million visitors each year and Notre Dame, attracting 13 million visitors. Read on to find out more about the French travel and tourism industry.

TOP FRANCE TOURISM STATISTICS:

France suffered the 3rd highest tourism losses worldwide after the 2020 pandemic, just behind Spain and the U.S.  

The tourism sector was down by 41% causing a shortfall of 61 billion euros [nearly $74.6 billion].  

Contribution to the French GDP dropped by €103 billion euros in 2020 compared with 2019.

More than 700,000 direct jobs were affected by the pandemic.

In the first seven months of 2020, there was a 66% drop in arrivals and tourism revenue fell by 50%.

The biggest tourism revenue drops were noted in Ile de France region, including Paris  €23.1 billion drop.

France is recovering nicely with France tourism growing by 12.3% In Q1 2023.

Tourism revenues in France increased to 5489 million euros in April from 3945 million euros in March of 2023.

15 million people travel to EuroDisney on the outskirts of Paris.

The Louvre Museum attracts 8 million visitors per year.

Versailles Palace  attracts 7.7 million visitors a year.

The Eiffel Tower receives 6.2 million visitors per year.

The most searched attraction in Google is Disneyland Paris with over 1 million searches a month.

France’s travel and tourism market size is expected to reach $19.69 billion in 2023.

French language is the world's second most learned language , being spoken by 274 million speakers.

Quick Links: Navigate Our Statistic Topics

How did covid-19 impact tourism to france, how many tourists visit france each year, what are the most popular tourist destinations for french people, what are the most popular tourist attractions in france, how much money does domestic tourism bring to france, how much money does tourism bring to france, how many jobs does tourism create in france, where do people stay when travelling to france, impact of covid-19 on french tourism.

Inbound tourists amounted to $32.8 billion U.S. dollars in 2020, nearly 50% less than the previous year.

Revenue to the Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes region dropped by €7.2 billion.

Revenue to the Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur dropped by €6.7 billion.

Revenue to Occitanie dropped by €4.5 billion.

Revenue to Nouvelle Aquitaine €4.1 billion.

Revenue to Corsica €800 million .

More than 700,000 direct jobs were affected by the pandemic. 

Outbound French travellers dropped by around 70% between 2019 and 2020. 

Business travel was the most affected dropping by 80%.

Overnight stays by British tourists rose 102.5% , compared to an increase of 41.7% for Germans , 9.7% for Dutch , and 62.3% for Americans . 

Hotel stays increased by almost 7 million in Q1 2023 to 42.6 million , up from 35.7 million in Q1 2022 .

Upscale luxury hotels saw occupancy rise 31.4% while lower-cost accommodations actually saw bookings dip by 2.7% . 

Tourism revenues in France increased to 5489 EUR million in April from 3945 EUR million in March of 2023.

Of those who visited France in 2021, the most popular destination type was a city, with 28.3%.

21% visited the seaside.

19.4% visited the countryside.

Sources: Statista , AA , McKinnesy , Forbes

FRENCH TOURISM STATISTICS: INBOUND TOURIST ARRIVALS

There were 207.3 million international arrivals in France in 2017 (both day visitors and overnight).

89.3 million overnight arrivals in France in 2018 – a 3% jump from 2017.

The global number of tourists to France has more than doubled in the past 15 years.

France is now targeting 100 million foreign tourists for 2020.

The biggest increase came from Asian visitors , up 7.4% from the previous year, though Europeans still make up the bulk of foreign tourists to France, representing 79% of the total.

The majority of visitors to France come from London & The UK, with 12.7 million UK tourists arriving in France in 2017.

Paris brings in over 30 million tourists a year.

Between 15-20 million visitors come to France, to pass through to Italy and Spain.

The most popular age of tourists visiting France is 25-44 with 66.89 million in 2017.

The least popular age of tourists is 15-24 years old with 27.07 million in 2017.

68.3 million tourist arrivals came from Europe , 8.7 million arrivals came from the US, 5.9 million from Asia , 1.1 million from Oceania and 2.8 million from Africa.

In the first quarter of 2019, the number of stays in hotels and hostels declined by 2.5% , potentially a result of the yellow vest protests going on around the country.

In 2017, 70 million out of 90 million visitors were from other European countries.

In 2013, France had 1.7 million Chinese visitors , up 23.4% from the previous year and almost 10 times more than the UK during the same period.

France is popular with international students , attracting 325,000 international students a year (+12% growth over 5 years) and keeps its place of being the fourth major host country.

France inbound tourism statistics suggest that tourists entering France is on the increase. The global number of visitors has more than doubled in the past 15 years, resulting in France now aiming for 100 million foreign tourists in 2020. There is no doubt that visitors from other European countries make up a large proportion of the tourists in France with 70 million out of the 90 million visitors being from European countries. The United Kingdom is ranked as the leading international market with 12.7 million UK tourists arriving in France in 2017. The biggest increase in the number of tourists came from the Asian market, with a 7.4% rise from the previous year in 2018.

2019 got off to a rocky start due to yellow vest protests, however, the French government said there had only been increases in tourists’ revenues in January & February 2019.

Sources:  Statista , The Telegraph , Entreprises, France24 , WTTC , The Local, ParisDigest ,   CampusFrance

FRENCH OUTBOUND TOURISM STATISTICS

The most popular destination for French people in 2015 was New York City at 28.4% followed by Sydney at 27.3%.

53.32 million overnight trips were taken abroad from France in 2018, up from 28.51 million in 2017.

France is the 5th largest outbound market for expenditure.

In 2016, outbound tourism expenditure was 40,427 million US dollars, up annually by 5.06%.

Approximately 175 million domestic trips were taken for leisure purposes in France in 2015, this increased to 255.5 million in 2016.

There were 18.8 million trips to Europe from France in 2015.

The leading destination in Europe for outbound day trips was Belgium in 2017.

The average length of trips taken is 10.2 days , higher than Britain at 7.9 days.

French tourism statistics for outbound tourism show a significant increase in outbound overnight trips from France in 2018, up 25 million from the previous year. The most popular destinations for French people in 2015 were New York City and Sydney, both with over a quarter of France’s population making it their city of choice. The fact that all generations prefer to travel internationally does not seem to be reflected in their travel choices with 175 million domestic trips taking place in 2015, compared to the 18.8 million trips to Europe in 2015. This may be due to domestic travel being cheaper and more convenient, and France’s wide range of appeals, from the countryside to coasts and cuisine, calling for different locations to be explored for French locals. Longer international trips have declined slightly; French travellers are taking fewer trips but investing more on each trip they take.

Sources :  Statista , The Telegraph , Entreprises, Mintel , Knoema

TOP TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN FRANCE STATISTICS

Disneyland has around 15 million visitors a year.

France has 39 sites on Unesco's World Heritage list.

Louvre attracts 9.7 million visitors a year, more than any other museum in the world.

France had 10 million wine tourists in 2016 with a total spend of 5.2 billion euros.

Wine tourism has seen a 30% growth from 2009.

The Eiffel Tower is the symbol of Paris and has had 5.9 million visitors in 2017.

The Notre-Dame de Paris attracts around 13.6 million tourists a year.

30 million people come to experience the ‘City of Lights’ every year.

There is no doubt that the top tourist attractions in France are big drivers for bringing tourists in to the country. Paris is renowned for its amazing architecture, museums and romantic atmosphere which may be what pulls in 30 million visitors a year. For families, Disneyland is a huge appeal with lots of entertainment and facilities to keep younger children busy. Wine tourism is on the rise with a 30% growth in visitors between 2009 and 2016. French wine gives many people incentive to visit the region, and in 2016, there was a total spend of 5.2 billion euros into the French wine tourism industry in 2016. 

Sources :  The Local, VisitFrenchWine, ParisDigest

DOMESTIC TOURISM IN FRANCE STATISTICS

Domestic tourism expenditure in France is expected to be 131.4 billion euros in 2028.

The domestic tourism expenditure in France in 2018 was nearly 115 billion euros.

In 2015, French tourists spent 7.2 billion euros on package holidays within France.

Out of the 60% French people who go away on holiday, 87% stay in their own country.

There is no surprise that there are high levels of domestic tourism in France, with the wide range of attractions and places to visit, the different coastal towns, countryside, and cities to explore, France itself can feel like many different countries in one. The French tend to spend their summer holidays in the Mediterranean or on the Atlantic.

Package holidays are also popular with domestic tourists spending 7.2 billion a year on this type of trip in 2015. With the great weather, numerous holiday parks in beautiful locations in the south of France, plus lots of facilities for children, it’s a popular market for families over the summer.

Sources :  Statista , The Telegraph , Entreprises, Statista

TOURISM IN FRANCE: EXPENDITURE STATISTICS

In 2016, travel and tourism contributed a total of 198.3 billion euros to GDP in France.  

International tourist expenditure in 2017 was 44.3 billion euros.

Tourist spending reached a record with a 5% increase from the previous year to 56.2 billion euros in 2019.

The total contribution of travel and tourism represents 9.7% of GDP in 2013.

Business travel spending makes up 19.5% of overall tourism and travel income in 2018.

In 2028, the annual contribution of travel and tourism to GDP is expected to reach 248.1 billion euros.

International visitors in Paris spending dropped from 19.5 billion USD in 2013 to 14.06 USD in 2018.

As France is so popular with tourists, it contributes to the French economy significantly, representing 9.7% of the GDP in 2013 and around 198.3 billion euros in 2016. This figure is predicted to increase with the annual contribution of travel and tourism expected to reach 248.1 billion euros in 2028. Wine tourism alone brought in 5.2 billion euros in 2016 and has seen growth in previous years so it is expected to keep growing and contribute more to France’s economy.  

Sources :  Statista , The Telegraph , Entreprises, France24 , WTTC

TOURISM IN FRANCE EMPLOYMENT STATISTICS

Tourism employment created 2.8 billion jobs , both directly and indirectly in 2016.

1.2 billion jobs were made directly from tourism in 2017.

1.1 billion jobs made indirectly from tourism in 2017.

507,000 jobs were made as a result of tourism in 2017.

In 2016, Disneyland Paris employed nearly 15,200 people.

With such high tourist numbers, jobs in the French travel industry are in abundance, with Disneyland alone employing almost 15,200 people in 2016. When you think of the number of attractions in France combined, there is a huge need for employees in every type of position you can think of that work to cater for the demands and requirements of tourists. This creates a great source of employment for students and seasonal workers looking to earn income.

Sources :  Statista

FRANCE BUSINESS TRAVEL STATISTICS

How many people travel to france on business each year.

Business tourism picked up markedly, with Paris hosting 212 international conferences last year, pushing it to the top of the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) rankings. It was a sharp jump from the 190 conventions held in 2017.

40.12 billion USD was spent on business travel in France in 2017.

The average length of a business trip in France decreased from 3.4 nights in 2011 to 3.1 nights in 2016.

Like the rest of tourism in France, business travel is on the rise with over 200 international conferences being held last year, inviting visitors from across the globe to experience French culture. Reasons for France being such an attractive location may be suitable business hours, easy accessibility via plane, Eurostar or car, due to its location in the heart of the European Union, as well as a desirable working environment. In addition, France is one of the most highly-developed countries in the world and is highly regarded as a country of culture, which may appeal to international business workers as a chance to experience the highlights of French heritage and way of life. Paris is also home to numerous headquarters, where employees from around the world may need to visit on business.

Sources :  Statista , France24

FRANCE TOURISM ACCOMMODATION STATISTICS

Statistics office Insee predicted another big year for tourism. In April 2019 it had calculated 438.2 million nights were spent in hotels, campsites and youth hostels in 2018, an increase of 9 million from the previous year.

Airbnb has 65,000 listed apartments in Paris alone.

Second homes represent 70% of the tourist accommodation capacity of France.

The average number of nights spent in French hotels has remained at 1.8 from 2014-2017.

The average number of nights spent in campsites has increased from 3.7 in 2016 to 3.8 in 2017.

In 2014, the number of hotels in France was 17,336 and by 2017 had risen to 18,391.

The hotel statistics in France reflect the high number of visitors the region attracts. In 2018, there were over 438 million nights spent in French hotels, campsites and youth hostels, an increase of 9 million from the previous year. The rise in the average number of nights spent in campsites and the high number of Airbnb listings suggest that there is an increased number of visitors looking for a different accommodation experience. Although there also been an increase in the number of hotels, these accommodation alternatives act as a new option for the rising number of visitors.

Sources :  Statista , France24 , AtoutFrance

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France Tourism Statistics

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• radicalstorage.com
• Français ( French )

France Tourism Statistics and Analysis 

• Post author By Giacomo Piva
• Post date April 17, 2024

It’s no secret that France is a popular tourist destination for travelers around the world. We’ve taken a look into the latest reports and studies to combine the top France tourism statistics for 2024.

Key statistics about tourism in France:

• Since 2010, France has received an average of 77.8 million international visitors each year,  with 79.4 million in 2022.
• 2019 saw the highest number of international tourists in France, with 90.9 million people visiting the country.
• France is the most visited country in the world according to the U.N. with the USA coming in second.
• The most popular destination type for visitors to France was a city , with 29.3% of tourists choosing a city location for their trip.
• Disneyland Paris is the most visited attraction in France with 14.8 million yearly visitors.
• France’s travel and tourism market size is expected to reach $20.03 billion in 2024 , this is less than its European neighbors Spain ( $26.21 billion ) and Germany ($67.57 billion) .
• Hotels make up the largest proportion of France’s travel and tourism market , with a projected market volume of $10.69 billion in 2024 .
• In 2020, 134.6 million domestic tourists visited destinations in France, with 92.4% visiting for a leisure trip .
• Tourism accounts for 8% of France’s total GDP .

How many tourists visit France each year?

According to statistics from the U.N., France is the most visited country in the world with a peak of 90.9 visitors in 2019. This is followed by the USA with 79.3 million visitors in the same year. Between 2010 and 2022, France received an average of 77.8 million international overnight tourists per year.

Unsurprisingly, 2020 saw the lowest visitor numbers at 41.7 million due to travel restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2022, tourism in France recovered with 79.4 million overnight visitors, a 64% increase compared to 2021’s 48.4 million overnight visitors.

Change in tourism to France over time

The number of international tourists visiting France maintained a steady increase between 2010 (77.6 million visitors) and 2019 (90.9 million visitors), with a slight drop in 2016 (82.7 million visitors).

Visitor numbers dropped by 54.1% in 2020 due to the pandemic. Since this drop in tourism in 2020, international visitor numbers to France recovered by 16.1% in 2021, when 48.4 million tourists visited the country. You can see in the graph what trend forecasting shows international arrivals would’ve looked like for France without the impact of the pandemic, with approximately 93.5 million in 2022. 

France tourism market size

In 2024, France’s travel and tourism market is expected to reach $20.03 billion. Revenue in this sector is predicted to have a CAGR of 0.86% between 2024 and 2028, with revenue reaching $20.73 billion in 2028.

Hotels take the largest segment of this market with a predicted volume of $10.69 billion in 2024, with hotels in France expecting to see 26.08 million users by 2028. Tourism is worth 8% of France’s GDP. [ 2 ]

Within France’s travel and tourism market, online sales are predicted to generate  77% of total revenue by 2028. [ 2 ]

France has spent 1.96 billion Euros on rejuvenating tourism in the country after COVID-19 which plans to create 2 million jobs in the industry. [ 3 ]

Most visited tourist attractions in France

France is home to a wide variety of cultural and recreational sites which attract millions of visitors each year. The most visited place by far in France is Disneyland Paris with 14.8 million visitors per year. This is followed by the Louvre Museum with 8 million visitors and Versailles Palace with 7.7 million visitors. The Eiffel Tower receives 6.2 million visitors per year.

The most popular destinations for tourists in France

Using online search volumes for people searching from France, we have put together a list of the most popular tourist destinations for people living in France. The figures below are based on the average number of online searches per month for each attraction or destination.

Topping the list as the most popular attraction is Disneyland Paris, with an average monthly search volume of 450,000. The second most popular spot is Avignon with 144,000 monthly searches. Avignon is a city in France’s Provence region, once the seat of Catholic popes.

Other popular tourist attractions based on search volume include the tidal island Mont Saint Michel, the medieval citadel Carcassonne, and the port city of Le Havre in Normandy.

Trips by destination type

For those who visit France, there is a choice of destination types to choose from depending on the kind of trip you’d like to have. Of those who visited France in 2021, the most popular destination type was a city, with 28.3% choosing a city location. The next most popular was the seaside (21.1%), followed by the countryside (19.4%). 

How long do people visit France for?

The number of nights an international visitor stays in France varies depending on a number of factors including where visitors are traveling from. The analysis below looks at international arrivals from the EU, the Americas, Asia, Africa, and Oceania. 

People who travel from the EU are unsurprisingly the most likely to stay for only one night – also from the near London – with 17.2% of EU visitors staying in France for a night, however, the highest proportion of EU visitors (24.2%) stay for 4-6 days. Travelers from Africa are most likely to stay for longer periods with 57.1% staying in France for 7 days or more.

Domestic tourism statistics in France

Domestic tourism in France has followed a similar pattern to international tourism. Since 2012, domestic tourism expenditure has increased, peaking at €115.5 billion (EUR) in 2019, with a loss in 2020 to €58 billion. Since the pandemic, estimated figures show that domestic tourism expenditure in France recovered to €91.79 billion in 2021, with a slight drop to €89.2 billion in 2022.

Of the 134.6 million domestic trips taken to destinations in France in 2020, 92.4% took leisure trips compared to 7.6% who took business trips. [ 8 ]

Tourist accommodation in France

The number of tourist accommodation options in France has remained fairly consistent since 2010. In 2021, there were 2.64 accommodation establishments, 101.2 rooms available, and 202.5 beds per 10,000 people in France.

Paris tourism statistics

As the capital city of France,  Paris is also the most visited city in the world, with Paris and the Île-de-France region hosting 44 million tourists in 2022. [ 10 ] It offers a huge choice of attractions, cultural sites including street art and historic monument, and events for visitors to enjoy.

Where do visitors to Paris come from?

The countries that the most visitors to Paris come from are:

• Belgium (11%)
• United Kingdom (10%)
• United States (9%)
• Netherlands (8%)
• Germany (8%)

Accommodation tourists use in Paris

The majority of visitors to Paris (53%) stay at hotels when visiting for an overnight trip. 34% stay at non-market accommodations which includes Airbnb and other rentals, while the remaining 13% stay at other market accommodations such as apartments or hostels.

Average costs in Paris

On average, one person will spend €101 per day while staying in Paris . [ 11 ] The table below shows the average costs for food, drinks, and transport in Paris. 

Did you know that Paris was ranked as the #1 destination for street food in 2022?

Most popular Parisian attractions by online mentions

There are several popular tourist attractions in Paris which see huge visitor numbers every year. The analysis below shows the popularity of tourist attractions in France based on mentions of each attraction in Twitter and Instagram posts.

The most popular attraction in Paris was the Eiffel Tower with 24.8% of the social media mentions, followed by the Louvre Museum with 11% of the mentions across all tourist attractions in Paris.

[1] UN: Global and regional tourism performance https://www.unwto.org/tourism-data/global-and-regional-tourism-performance  

[2] Statista: Travel and Tourism France https://www.statista.com/outlook/mmo/travel-tourism/france  

[3] French Government: Plan de reconquête et  de transformation du tourisme https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/IMG/pdf/destinationfrance_cle0f5dc4.pdf  

[4] Statista: Most Visited Tourism Attractions in France https://www.statista.com/statistics/1117144/most-visited-tourist-attractions-france/  

[5] Eurostat: Trips by Destination Type https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/databrowser/view/TOUR_DEM_TTHD/default/table?lang=en&category=tour.tour_dem.tour_dem_tt.tour_dem_tttc  

[6] Memento de Tourisme: La Frequentation des Hebergements https://www.entreprises.gouv.fr/files/files/etudes-et-statistiques/chiffres-cles/memento-tourisme/memento-tourisme-2018-chapitre4.pdf

[7] Statista: Domestic Tourism Expenditure in France https://www.statista.com/statistics/644766/domestic-tourism-expenditure-france/  

[8] Statista: Number of Domestic Trips by Type in France https://www.statista.com/statistics/1276815/domestic-trips-by-type-france/  

[9] Macro Trends: France Population 1950- 2024 https://www.macrotrends.net/countries/FRA/france/population  

[10] Brussels Times: Paris remains most visited city in the world https://www.brusselstimes.com/417329/paris-remains-most-visited-city-in-the-world-with-44-million-tourists-in-2022  

[11] Visit Paris Region: Key Features of the Paris Region Destination https://pro.visitparisregion.com/en/tourism-statistics/annual-key-facts/key-figures-of-the-destination  

[12] Numbeo: Cost of Living in France http://numbeo.com/  

[13] Paris Digest: Tourism in Paris https://www.parisdigest.com/paris/tourism-in-paris-2019.pdf  

By Giacomo Piva

Giacomo Piva, CMO and Co-founder at Radical Storage Giacomo Piva has worked in the travel industry since 2008 across multiple niches including tourist transportation, luxury travel, and ecotourism. He now focuses on growing the global luggage network, Radical Storage , which is currently available in over 500 cities, in the likes of London, Paris, New York, and Rio de Janeiro. Giacomo has a bachelor's degree in Communication Science and an in-depth experience across travel marketing, especially in improving a brand’s digital presence within the industry.