France and Spain in the elbow this summer, the match is tight to join the 100 million visitors

The sun hits Europe strong this summer, but the real heat is played in the figures: France and Spain a thrilling duel for the crown of world tourism. Two mastodontes which are close to each other, observe and compete in assets to seduce ever more travelers. From Parisian museums to the golden beaches of Barcelona, passing through the villages that smell of lavender or the inflamed nights of Seville, each destination takes out its arms. The symbolic milestone of 100 million visitors has never been so close … and the suspense is at its height.

France, the eternal star who does not let go

Impossible to speak of tourism without mentioning France. Paris shines more than ever: its living boulevards, its animated terraces and its mythical monuments continue to attract crowds. But this year, other cards spice up the game: the long -awaited reopening of Our Ladythe fallout from the Olympic Games and a campaign that seduces with its breathtaking landscapes. From the cliffs of Étretat to the Bordeaux vineyards, everything seems ready to seduce travelers in search of unique experiences.

And good news, everything is accessible. From Paris, a train to Marseille costs on average only 40 € and spins in three hours to the bright blue of the Mediterranean. Lyon and Strasbourg also take advantage of the effectiveness of the TGV to reach the four corners of the country. Budget level, the charm remains within reach: a Parisian coffee around 3 €, a gourmet lunch in a provincial bistro for 15 €, and a comfortable hotel night from 90 €. In France, luxury lies in this diversity, where we go from a Provencal market to Parisian museums without ever leaving this elegant and warm atmosphere.

Spain, the solar rival which is gaining momentum

While France defends its leading place, Spain advances its pawns with irresistible energy. Barcelona explodes of colors with his signed works Gaudí And its urban beaches which are not upset. Madrid Vibre night and day, between prestigious museums and effervescence rooftops, while Seville intoxicates with its flower patios and flamenco rhythms. And what about Balearic or Canaries? Their turquoise waters and infinite sunsets seem straight out of a dream.

To access it, nothing could be simpler: from Paris, a direct train to Barcelona takes barely 6:30 am, with tickets from 70 €. Lyon, Marseille and even Toulouse easily connect to Spain by rail, while the islands ask for a quick flight at low prices. On site, the cost of living is an asset: € 10 for a tapas feast, € 1.50 for a coffee on a lively Plaza, and a cozy room for around € 80. Spain plays the card of conviviality and generosity, which explains why it could well cross the legendary bar of 103 million visitors this year.

The face-to-face that keeps the world in suspense

This summer 2025, the competition is tightening: France aims around 102 million international visitors, while Spain flirts with the 103.5 million, according to the Tourist Echo. A minimal gap that gives cold sweats to tourism enthusiasts and feeds the suspense. France is focusing on its heritage, its gastronomy and its cultural events. Spain, it, on its sunny beaches and its ability to make each traveler spend, with an average of € 1,300 per stay against € 700 in France.

But behind this duel also hide common issues: Manage the massive influx of tourists Without suffocating emblematic cities. In Paris, Montmartre must breathe in the face of the flood of visitors. In Barcelona, the inhabitants demand limits from seasonal rentals. However, neither the protests nor the debates seem to slow down the global appeal of these two European jewels. This summer, everything is played in a pocket handkerchief, and each day brings one of the two countries of the tourist throne closer closer.