Tourism in France

France, the most popular tourist destination in the world, attracts millions of tourists every year. The country is ranked third in terms of income from tourism. French tourism sector employed 10.9% of the people in the country. In 2012, income from tourism was €77.7 billion, which is around 9.7% of France’s GDP. Now Let's have a look at the best destinations in France that attracts tourists from all over the world.

France hosts 37 sites listed in UNESCO's World Heritage List. Paris, the capital city of France is a popular tourist destination. Other cites of cultural significance include Toulouse, Strasbourg, Bordeaux, Lyon etc. Situated at the heart of Western Europe, France has Europe's second busiest airport - Paris Charles de Gaulle airport. France is rich in culture, food and wine. Thermal spas, ski resorts, beaches, seaside resorts and extremely stunning rural regions are the other attractions that bring tourists to France. Good climate and the perfect system of motorways are key factors that favour the French tourism.

• Chartres Cathedral: Situated in the city of Chartres, the cathedral perfectly preserved the French High Gothic style.
• France has the tallest sand dune in Europe, the Dune of Pyla located in the Arcachon Bay area.
• The Palais des Papes (Pope's Palace) is one of the largest and most popular gothic buildings in the world.
• Chateau de Chambord is considered the masterpiece of the French Renaissance.
• The Palace of Versailles: This symbol of French monarchy remained the official residence of the Kings of France until French revolution.
• The Eiffel Tower: Located in the capital city of France, this stunning iron monument attracts tourists all over the world.
• Prehistoric cave in Grotte de Font de Gaume is another fascinating tourist destination.

Other major tourist attractions in France include Pont du Gard, Carcassonne, D-Day Sites, Nimes Arena, Musee du Louvre, World War One battlefields and Mont Saint-Michel.