France In Europe To Become Most Visited Country In The World By 2025
In a recent update, France is all set to become the most visited country in the world by 2025. The country, which is home to the most famous and most visited attraction in the world, Eiffel Tower, will become the most visited nation according to projections by GlobalData.
The data and analytics firm anticipates that France will attract 93.7 million international visitors by this time, surpassing Spain, which overtook France in 2021.
As per GlobalData’s recent report, Western Europe (2022), highlights that France was the world’s top travel destination before the COVID-19 pandemic, drawing 88.1 million visitors in 2019. Although Spain claimed the top spot in 2021, France is on track to regain its lead, having welcomed 66.6 million international visitors in 2022. The number of visitors to France is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.1% from 2022 to 2025.
Hannah Free, Travel & Tourism Analyst at GlobalData, notes that France, alongside Italy and Spain, plays a major role in the growth of Western European tourism. The country attracts visitors from across Europe, including the UK, Germany, and Belgium, as well as from farther afield, such as China and the United States. In fact, France is one of the top Western European destinations for American travellers.
In 2021, Spain drew 26.3 million visitors, overtaking France to become the leading destination in Western Europe. By 2025, Spain is projected to welcome 89.5 million international tourists, with a CAGR of 12.2% between 2022 and 2025.
Tourism to both France and Spain is expected to remain robust, driven by their rich offerings in festivals, culture, and gastronomy. Each country boasts unique cultures, cuisines, and landscapes, with diverse coastlines and varying terrains adding to their appeal. Both nations are relatively large, providing a range of experiences for travellers.
A significant advantage for France is its transportation network, which facilitates easy travel between major cities. High-speed trains connect many of France’s key destinations, making it convenient for visitors to explore the country.
About tourism in France
France remains a premier travel destination, renowned for its diverse attractions and rich cultural heritage. Visitors flock to Paris for iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum, while the picturesque countryside offers charming towns, vineyards, and lavender fields.
The French Riviera beckons with its glamorous beaches and Mediterranean allure, and the Alps provide stunning landscapes and skiing opportunities. France’s culinary delights, from gourmet dining to artisanal pastries, further enhance its appeal. Whether exploring historical sites, enjoying world-class art, or indulging in local cuisine, France consistently captivates travelers with its elegance and variety.