France Draws 102 Million Visitors as Pressure Grows on Hotspots
France received 102 million international visitors in 2025, keeping its place as the most visited country in the world. The total sets a new national high, above the 100 million arrivals reported in 2024 during the Paris Olympic Games. Data from the Economy Ministry show that these trips resulted in 743 million overnight stays in hotels and other paid accommodation.
Two-thirds of foreign visitors came from Europe, representing 76 per cent of arrivals. Overnight stays rose by 7.5 per cent compared with 2024. Tourism revenue reached €77.5 billion, up 9 per cent year on year and 37 per cent higher than in 2019. Officials repeated their aim of reaching €100 billion in annual tourism income by 2030.
France continues to lead global arrival numbers, although Spain followed closely with 96.8 million foreign tourists and higher total tourism revenue of €105 billion. While France has long avoided the scale of overtourism protests seen in parts of Spain, pressure is building in certain areas. Residents in Montmartre have criticised the transformation of the district, citing heavy footfall and short-term rentals.
The Basilica of Sacré-Cœur now attracts up to 11 million visitors a year, more than the Eiffel Tower. In 2023, the tourism minister said national measures were needed to control numbers at busy sites such as Mont Saint-Michel. This may result in timed tickets, caps on group numbers and greater focus on encouraging visits to places beyond Paris.
The new data show how many people continue to visit France, but they also suggest that trips may require more preparation. Major attractions are increasingly booked in advance, especially during the busiest months. Visiting neighbourhoods and regions away from the main crowds can make for a calmer stay and help protect historic monuments and natural landscapes from excessive pressure.
