French town tells visitors to stay away during summer tourism surge

France is expected to attract over 93 million international visitors in 2025, but one French town is telling visitors to stay away during the summer. American tourists play a big part in the tourism search, which is a major reason France expects to keep its title as “the world’s most visited country.”

However, not everyone is open to the accolade. St. Tropez, once a quiet fishing village, has now become a luxury hotspot. The town attracts 80,000 visitors per day between July and August, with a population of under 4,000.

The town attracts stars like George Clooney, Katy Perry and Naomi Campbell. The blend of luxury, privacy and even a vibrant night life are some of the reasons celebrities choose to visit the small town.

Meanwhile, locals are expressing their concerns about the town’s change of character. The mayor of the town has even begun asking visitors to consider coming during the off-season instead.

St. Tropez isn’t the only town feeling the heat of too much tourism. Visitors reportedly threaten some of the country’s fragile natural environments.

The French government has come up with ways to implement a sustainable tourism strategy. Over 80% of French hotels now have green rating systems.

The country has banned domestic flights to destinations reachable by train in less than two and a half hours, and it has even launched a monthly train pass for younger adults that costs €49.

France is just the latest nation struggling with an influx of tourists this summer, as Japan and Spain are working through similar difficulties.