No longer just a question of beauty or history, France’s most attractive cities in 2024 tell a story of dynamic repositioning — between sustainability, technology, and identity.
Paris leads the way—but there’s more to the story
Paris has once again secured the top spot in Euromonitor International’s prestigious Top 100 City Destinations Index 2024. What’s different this time is its dual dominance: not only has it been crowned the most attractive city in France, but also globally—beating out major hubs like Dubai, Tokyo, and Madrid. The ranking evaluates six performance pillars: economic vitality, infrastructure, tourism policy, sustainability, health and safety, and cultural appeal.
This year, over 17 million visitors traveled to Paris, according to the French Government’s Directorate General for Enterprise (DGE). But while the capital thrives, smaller cities are quietly moving up the ranks, challenging Paris’ monopoly over French allure.
“Paris is the face of France, but cities like Lyon or Annecy show its soul,” says Claire Bertrand, an urban planner based in Marseille. “More and more people seek charm, calm, and character outside the capital. It’s part urban fatigue, part curiosity.”
Top-ranked French cities in 2024
Based on a combination of local tourism boards, independent publications, and the Euromonitor report, here’s the most comprehensive look at how French cities stack up this year.
Officially ranked by Euromonitor International
- Paris: Ranked #1 globally and in France. Easily accessible, rich in infrastructure, and host of the 2024 Summer Olympics.
- Lyon: Consistently favored for its UNESCO heritage zones, gastronomy, and cultural events like the Fête des Lumières.
- Nice: Combines Mediterranean lifestyle with heritage and a growing tech scene.
- Bordeaux: Lauded for its green initiatives, tram network, and location in one of the world’s top wine regions.
Other prominent destinations based on recurring mentions
| City | Key Highlights | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Strasbourg | Seat of European institutions, picturesque old town, strong Christmas tourism | francevoyager.com |
| Marseille | Cultural fusion, Mediterranean coast, rebirth of Le Panier neighborhood | longtermrentalsinfrance.com |
| Annecy | Alpine lake, proximity to Geneva, medieval canals | itravelforthestars.com |
| Toulouse | Aerospace hub, student life, southern warmth | ourworldforyou.com |
| Colmar | Alsatian charm, wine route, colorful timber houses | parissecret.com |
What’s shifting in France’s urban appeal?
France is undergoing a tourist decentralization. Major cities continue to draw traditional attention, but the emergence of so-called ‘second-tier’ cities allows visitors to connect with regional authenticity and avoid high-density tourism. The French Ministry of Ecological Transition has encouraged this trend by supporting sustainable travel infrastructure in smaller towns.
According to Travel and Tour World, global urban tourism grew by 38% over the last 12 months, driven by appetite for lively experiences rather than checklist landmarks. That shift favors French destinations which can balance culture, space, and innovation.
The debate: monocentric prestige vs. polycentric potential
That Paris dominates is no surprise. But should it? Local leaders in Toulouse and Strasbourg are pushing for more visibility and autonomy in tourism strategy, arguing that regional capitals face limitations in national policy and marketing reach.
“If France wants a resilient tourism future, it needs to bet on many horses,” Bertrand adds. “Relying on Paris is no longer viable given ecological pressures and social demands.”
What criteria are used to rank the most attractive cities in France?
The Euromonitor Index evaluates 55 indicators across six categories: economic performance, infrastructure, tourism policy, sustainability, health and safety, and cultural appeal. These serve as a baseline to determine city readiness, livability, and destination strength.
How does Paris maintain its position as the most attractive city year after year?
Beyond historical assets, Paris invests heavily in infrastructure, major international events (like the Olympics), and policy innovation such as urban greening and pedestrianization. The city also consistently ranks high in transport connectivity and museum density.
Which emerging destinations in France are gaining popularity?
Cities like Annecy, Colmar, and La Rochelle are drawing more visitors attracted by charm, slower pace, and accessible nature. These locations benefit from domestic tourism and growing eco-conscious travelers.
What are the key trends in global urban tourism according to the 2024 report?
The report points to rising preferences for cultural immersion, micro-tourism, sustainability, and digital guidance tools. There’s also a shift in demand from east to west, with European cities outperforming many Asian metropolises in 2024.
How do European cities dominate the top rankings in the 2024 index?
European cities tend to excel in safety, walkability, infrastructure, and cultural density. Their public policies also increasingly favor sustainable tourism models, giving them an advantage over cities facing climate, safety, or bureaucratic issues.
