The year 2024 was a year of mobility, and more than half of the over 1.4 billion international travelers had Europe as a destination. In this context, France ranked first in the world, being the most visited country. But what are the most crowded destinations, in contrast to the authentic areas, still untouched by supraturism.
The busiest destination and the least affected by tourism – Saint Tropez vs moselle collage DS
Although it is a small continent, Europe remains the epicenter of global tourism. But, over this background, many of the most beautiful places have lost their authenticity, and anti-tourism movements are gaining more land. However, there are still unaltered corners where the authentic charm of Europe resists the invasion of tourists. An eloquent example is France, designated last year the most visited country in the world, with over 100 million tourists attracted by its remarkable diversity.
From the emblematic attractions of Paris, such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum, to the picturesque landscapes of Provence and Valea Lorăi, France offers a perfect combination of natural history, culture and beauty.
However, a group of British specialists identified Saint-Tropez as the busiest holiday destination and set the ideal time to visit it. In addition, they brought to light a hidden corner of the country, considered a true unsew: Moselle.
France, leader in global tourism: Saint Tropez vs. Moselle
The year 2024 was another successful year, with a significant increase in the number of tourists, fed and global events such as the Paris Olympics. France thus remains in the top of tourists’ preferences around the world, continuing to attract most visitors.
Although it is in a fierce competition with other renowned destinations, France manages to maintain its world leader status due to a varied and special tourist offer. His regions, from the Azur Coast to Normandy, are full of attractions that continue to impress, and the culinary traditions and world -renowned wines add more value to visits. France constantly revives the interest of tourists, giving them a unique experience that combines luxury, culture, natural landscapes and history.
Saint-Tropez: the busiest destination
On a hot summer day, Saint-Tropez, a village with only 3,586 permanent inhabitants, can reach up to 80,000 tourists. This explains, probably, how a distance of only two kilometers gets to be crossed by car only in two hours, given that, on foot, you would not do even half an hour. The entire coast of Azure is suffocated by visitors in the summer season, but Saint-Tropez manages to establish records that attract attention.
Saint Tropez and Azur Coast the most busy tourist destination in France Photo Guide du Rout
The problem is so obvious that the local authorities also recognize it. Sylvie Siri mayor recently sent a recommendation for tourists around the world captivated by this top destination: “Do not come in summer. Come spring, when Saint-Tropez still retains the charm.”
Of course, “Once” It refers to the 1950s-’60s, when Saint-Tropez was already much more than a fishing village-it had become a bohemian refuge for artists, writers and singers. Later, the international celebrities gave the city another dimension, and the whole world followed.
Today, the celebrities continue to appear, but the chances of meeting them are almost zero – the atmosphere has nothing more of the charm of gold, when Brigitte Bardot filled the beaches. Instead, tourists pile up to find an affordable restaurant or shop.
If you want to enjoy Saint-Tropez, spring remains the best time to discover it. Without the crowds that flood the city of summer, you will notice that Saint-Tropez does not differ much from other Mediterranean villages, apart from its fascinating legend.
Moselle: The least affected destination by tourism
The Moselle region, located on the border of France with Luxembourg and Germany, is a place where different cultures meet. Throughout history, many conflicts have been worn here, and the fortresses at the border are a clear proof. For this reason, many travelers bypass the area – a huge mistake, according to specialists.
Moselle in Lorraine the region of France the least affected by tourism but authentic photo Wilderne
Among the most impressive historical monuments in France are the forts of the Maginot line. The landscape is sprinkled with 142 such fortifications, built for defense. The largest, Hackenberg, occupies 198 hectares, and visitors can explore six kilometers of underground tunnels, including former homes and artillery batteries.
But Moselle does not mean history. The region has a picturesque landscape, with rivers, pastures and charming villages such as Rodemack and Sierck-Les-Bins. If these villages were in Provence, they would be full of tourists. However, being in the moselle, they remain quiet and authentic.
Another remarkable objective is Malbruck Castle, which, in 2025, will host an exhibition dedicated to the Japanese comic (Manga) Vinland Saga series of Makoto Yukimura.
For nature lovers, the Sainte-Croix animal park is an unprepared destination. Here you can stay in wooden cottages, in the middle of a habitat where bisons, bears and wolves live.
And, of course, Metz – one of the most underestimated cities in France. Over the centuries, it has been attacked by Caesar, Attila and Carol the Great, but today it is a vibrant cultural center, with a relaxed atmosphere.
What should you not miss in Metz
Saint-Étienne Cathedral-famous for its spectacular stained glass.
Pompidou-Metz Centers-the Parisian Museum branch, dedicated to contemporary art.
Local gastronomy – Try a Quiche Lorraine – the famous salted tart with bacon and cream, a Potée Lorraine (traditional stew) and a mirabelle plum tart.
The biggest advantage? While the rest of the tourists crowd in Paris or on the Azure Coast, you can enjoy the authenticity and peace of this corner of France.
