The cultural tourism market - France

As of 2020, cultural tourism has remained a significant pillar of the global tourism industry, with an emphasis on France, where it constitutes a key attraction for international tourists due to the country's abundant cultural heritage, including over 8,000 museums and 1,500 festivals. Cultural sites contribute notably to France's economy, not only through the jobs they provide but also through the boost they offer to related sectors such as accommodation, catering, and leisure. 

Cultural Tourism in France: A Flourishing Market

In the vibrant sphere of tourism, the allure of cultural tourism in France continues to flourish, showcasing an impressive trajectory of growth. The nation, steeped in a rich tapestry of cultural heritage, beckons tourists from across the globe, forming a sizeable chunk of the global tourism economy. With an estimated contribution of between 35% and 45% of France's total tourism revenue, cultural tourism stands as a testament to the country's magnetic appeal.

The country is dotted with an astonishing number between 40,000 and 45,000 classified and registered historical monuments, adding depth and diversity to its cultural canvas. Moreover, the prestige of having 40 UNESCO World Heritage sites highlights the global significance of its cultural sites. The impact of France's cultural and heritage offerings extends beyond just drawing international attention. They are the heartbeat of tourist activity within the nation itself, with between 35% and 45% of the French populace indulging in cultural activities while on domestic travels.

The significance of such engagements is twofold—culturally enriching for the individuals and economically fortifying for the regions. In terms of labor, cultural tourism is a robust job creator, contributing to an estimated between 90,000 and 110,000 direct jobs. The ripple effect can be felt across various sectors, particularly in accommodation, catering, and leisure, thereby reinforcing the integrated nature of tourism and local economies. It is clear that cultural tourism is not just an economic engine but a pivotal element of France's identity as a global destination. The allure of its cultural wealth continues to captivate and stimulate the local economy, enshrining culture as the cornerstone of regional tourism strategies.

France's positioning as a cultural tourism hub benefits the national market profoundly, with every cultural footstep translating into economic gain and employment opportunities, thereby securing culture's role as the transformative force in the French tourism market.

Pillars of "L'Art de Vivre": Key Players in France's Cultural Tourism Market

In the vibrant tapestry of France's cultural tourism market, a select group of entities stands out, each playing a crucial role in preserving and showcasing the nation's rich heritage. These actors not only contribute significantly to the allure that brings countless tourists from around the globe but also underpin the socio-economic fabric of various French regions through their dedicated efforts.

• Museums and Galleries

At the forefront are France's museums, a constellation of over 8,000 institutions that range from the iconic Louvre, housing timeless masterpieces such as the Mona Lisa, to specialized establishments like the Musée d'Orsay, which offers an unrivaled collection of Impressionist art. These repositories of history and art not only preserve the cultural treasures of yesteryear but also stimulate contemporary creation and thought through modern installations and avant-garde exhibitions.

• Festivals

The cultural panorama of France would be incomplete without mentioning its 1,500 festivals, each a celebration of the country's diverse artistic expressions. The Cannes Film Festival rolls out the red carpet for cinematic brilliance, while the Festival d'Avignon turns the spotlight on the performing arts. These grand-scale events are not just entertainment; they're drivers of cultural dialogue and economic prosperity for the hosting communities.

• Historical Monuments and Sites

The custodianship of France's 44,000 classified and registered historical monuments positions these landmarks as bastions of cultural tourism. From the gothic spires of Notre-Dame Cathedral to the prehistoric paintings in the Lascaux Caves, these sites serve as a bridge to the past and an opportunity for hands-on learning about the nation's architectural and archaeological heritage.

• UNESCO World Heritage Sites

With 40 cultural landmarks acknowledged by UNESCO, France's heritage sites are showcases of the country's global significance. The châteaux of the Loire Valley, the fortified city of Carcassonne, and Mont Saint-Michel are just a few examples that demonstrate how natural beauty and human ingenuity can coexist, creating timeless attractions that are preserved for posterity.

• Parks and Gardens:

The green lungs of France contribute to cultural tourism through the scenic and serene parks and gardens dotted across the country. The Gardens of Versailles express the opulence of a bygone era, while the innovative Parc de la Villette in Paris blends modern landscapes with cultural facilities, offering a respite from the urban hustle. 

Inforamtion

• Number of pages : 30 pages
• Format : Digital and PDF versions
• Last update : 14/06/2023

Summary and extracts

List of charts

• Marché mondial du tourisme culturel
• Evolution du nombre de nuitées
• Entrées de visiteurs résidents et non-résidents dans les musées et sites patrimoniaux
• Entrées de visiteurs résidents d'établissements culturels français
• Entrées de visiteurs non-résidents d'établissements culturels français
• Principaux marchés émetteurs de touristes culturels en France
• Sorties préférées des Français
• Critères de choix dans les sorties des Français
• Indices mensuels de fréquentation des lieux patrimoniaux et du nombre de voyages des résidents en France
• Provenance des oenotouristes en France