France sees surge in domestic summer holidays as European tourism rebounds

A recent study by the Observatoire E. Leclerc of New Consumption, conducted by OpinionWay, shows that 73 % of French travellers plan to spend their next summer vacation in France. The poll found that 84 % consider a stay in France as attractive as travelling abroad, while 85 % rate the country among the most beautiful places for holidays. Budget, simplicity and a desire for varied landscapes drive the choice – 44 % cite discovering regions, 42 % value heritage and gastronomy, and 26 % want better budget control. Brittany leads as the most coveted destination, followed by the Alps and Provence.

At the European level, the European Tourism Commission reported a 5.0 % increase in international arrivals and a 4.8 % rise in hotel nights in the second quarter of 2026 compared with 2025. Growth was strongest in Northern Europe (+10 % arrivals) and in Greece (+38 %) and Italy (+21 %). Travelers now prioritise affordability, safety and proximity, with 48 % of industry professionals naming price as the main concern. There is also a shift toward off‑season bookings, especially for September, and a growing interest in sustainable travel, though only 41 % say they would change habits for environmental reasons.