After claiming the crown as one of the world’s most visited countries in 2023, it looks like nothing can stand in France’s way to repeat that feat this year.
This romantic and iconic nation holds particular favor with American travelers, as shown in a recent study by luxury tour operator Scott Dunn.
It revealed that 34% of Americans are planning to travel to France in 2024 and that there has been a significant surge in interest and bookings for the country already.
So, where are the most popular places to head in the world’s trendiest country for 2024?
I’m sure you can guess one of them, but here’s the full top 5 to get you in the mood for some ‘Je ne sais quoi’…
5. The French Riviera
This is the place to go for those who love the finer things in life.
The Côte d’Azur is a scenic stretch of beautiful coastline that’s the home of French cinema with gorgeous towns such as Cannes and St. Tropez among its jewels.
It’s one of the most cultural destinations you can visit in France, with many longstanding festivals and traditions throughout the year.
One such example can be found in Menton from February 17 to March 3, where a celebration of citrus fruits takes place in the shape of the Fete du Citron. This year will be its 90th anniversary.
4. Nice
If you want to get specific about great destinations in the French Riviera, look no further than the capital of the region, Nice.
Close to the border with Italy, this Mediterranean gem is a stunning place to enjoy a day of sun, sightseeing, and evening soirees.
The Cours Saleya market is not to be missed, while the Colline du Chateau affords exceptional views over the old town and the port – it’s a great sunset spot.
3. The Alps
One of Europe’s premier skiing destinations, the French Alps attracts winter sports fans in their droves each year.
But it’s also a fantastic place to visit in the summer, with exceptional hiking, fishing, and cute mountain towns that just make you want to stay forever.
If you visit in early July, you will get to see some of the toughest men on the planet battle their way through the mountains as part of the world-famous Tour de France cycling race.
2. Normandy
This coastal region of northern France is a cultural icon.
From the famous Mont-Saint-Michel to the beautiful brickwork of its rural villages, which are famous for cider production – this region is like its own mini culture within a culture.
It’s also the birthplace of impressionism, and 2024 will be the 150th anniversary of the art style.
A special Normandy Impressionist Festival will be running all summer long to celebrate the work and influence of the likes of Edouard Manet and more.
2024 will also be a great year to visit Normandy if you’re a history buff.
It’s the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Normandy in the Second World War and a host of events will be taking place between 1-16 June to commemorate it.
1. Paris
It had to be, didn’t it? It should surprise no one that 77% of those surveyed in this report said that Paris was in their French travel plans, and why not?
The ‘City of Light’ has more than enough to offer to fill a week or two for even the most experienced traveler – world-class museums, an unrivaled café culture, incredible architecture – it’s hard to know where to start.
Despite all this, many travelers still have a love-hate relationship with Paris, and this year might not help, as prices are expected to soar during the Olympics, which is hosted in the city from July 26 to August 11.
And If None Of Those Take Your Fancy?
This survey also threw up a few popular destinations that just missed out on the top 5 but are well worth considering if you’re planning on taking a trip to France.
They include the cultural seaside metropolis of Marseille, the historic wine region capital of Bordeaux, and the region where the world’s favorite bubbles come from: Champagne.
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