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France Emerges as the Leading Luxury Travel Destination in July 2025

As summer heats up, France is basking in the spotlight, boasting remarkable growth in luxury hotel bookings. According to the latest data from Global Travel Collection (GTC), the favorable landscape has resulted in a staggering 64% increase in reservations compared to the previous year. This surge is particularly noteworthy as it marks the first time in recent years that France has eclipsed Italy, a longtime favorite for luxury travelers.

Key Highlights from July 2025

Global Travel Collection, recognized as a premier network of luxury travel advisors, showcases that the increase in bookings comes largely from Europe’s most enchanting destinations—Paris, Nice, and Marseille. These cities are now at the forefront of travelers’ preferences.

1. Paris topped the charts once again, being the most sought-after location with 2,710 nights booked.
2. Nice, with its stunning Mediterranean coastline, secured 1,313 booked nights, while Marseille, known for its vibrant culture and seaside charm, contributed 286 nights.

Notably, luxury hotels, such as Le Bristol Paris and The Maybourne Riviera, have been particularly popular among discerning travelers, drawing attention for their high-end offerings and picturesque settings.

France vs. Italy

While Italy has enjoyed a strong reputation in luxury tourism—historically leading the charts with famous attractions in cities like Rome and Milan—the latest data indicates a shift in preferences. For instance, Rome reported 777 nights, Milan had 725, and Naples accounted for 679 nights. However, this year, travelers seem to be venturing more towards France, highlighting a trend in the rediscovery of French luxury.

Angie Licea, President of Global Travel Collection, remarks on this transition, saying, "For the past two years, Italy has clearly dominated the tourism space. However, the latest booking data from Global Travel Collection advisors reveals a shift — volume has now spread more evenly across Europe, with France reclaiming the top spot for the first time since 2019. This indicates more balanced demand across major European cities."

The United Kingdom and Spain

Following closely behind France, the United Kingdom observed a 13% uptick in luxury bookings year-on-year, with travelers favoring iconic spots in London. Some of the top-rated hotels in the UK include Ham Yard Hotel, Claridge's, and Flemings Mayfair.

Similarly, Spain also made a strong impression, with Barcelona being highlighted as a favored destination in July. Along with top hotels like Four Seasons Hotel Madrid, properties like the Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay and Six Senses Ibiza are getting considerable attention from luxury travelers seeking beachfront relaxation and upscale amenities.

The Reach of Global Travel Collection

In 2024 alone, GTC facilitated a whopping $2.3 billion in luxury travel across 179 countries, a testament to their influential reach. Each trip was not just a getaway but a curated experience, with many trips valued at over $100,000. With an average daily hotel rate of around $1,400, clients are willing to invest in unforgettable experiences, showcasing a robust desire for premium travel options in 2025.

For travelers looking to explore the tailored experiences offered by Global Travel Collection, connecting with an advisor can ensure a meticulously curated journey that reflects individual tastes and preferences. With the upcoming summer months, now is an excellent time to secure plans in top-rated destinations and luxury hotels as France takes center stage in the world of travel.