TravTalk India Online Magazine
France is stepping up efforts to attract Indian tourists with streamlined visa processes, enhanced vegetarian options, and the legacy of the 2024 Olympics. Key initiatives include promoting weddings, improving connectivity, and offering unique experiences, aiming to position the country as a top destination for Indian travellers.
Byline: Janice Alyosius
As one of the world’s most sought-after travel destinations, France continues to capture the imagination of international tourists. To further enhance its appeal to Indian travellers, Alexandra Dublanche, Vice President, Ile de France region, shared her insights and strategies during her recent visit to India.
Strengthening Indo-French tourism ties
Dublanche underscored the unique bond between India and France, saying, “I think there is a mutual love: French people appreciate India, and Indian people admire France. However, the proportion of Indian tourists visiting France is still quite small. Among international tourists to the Paris region, Indians make up just 1.3%, which is approximately 300,000 visitors a year. I believe we can do much more.”
Following her visit in January 2024, France has actively worked to enhance the Indian traveller’s experience. Steps include improving visa processing times, expanding vegetarian and vegan food options in restaurants, and positioning France as a premier wedding destination. These efforts are already bearing fruit, with Indian arrivals increasing by 70% in 2023.
The Olympic effect
The Paris 2024 Olympics served as a global showcase for France, with captivating imagery of events held in iconic locations like the Eiffel Tower and Versailles. Dublanche highlighted the Olympics’ legacy, noting infrastructure improvements like the expansion of the Paris metro system, which includes 200 kilometres of new lines and 70 additional stations. These developments are expected to improve accessibility and draw tourists to lesser-explored areas of the Paris region. 
Beyond iconic landmarks
While the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre remain top attractions, Dublanche revealed a growing trend among Indian travellers: the desire for authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences. “Returning tourists are seeking to live like Parisians—exploring hidden gems, interacting with locals, and venturing outside of Paris to explore castles and Impressionist landmarks along the Seine,” she said. France is now promoting tailored packages to cater to both first-time and repeat visitors.
Weddings and MICE: Key growth areas
France is also intensifying efforts in the weddings and MICE sectors. Paris, which attracts 50 million visitors annually, sees 25% of its tourism driven by MICE, though the share of Indian MICE travellers remains small.
Dublanche elaborated, “We aim to combine leisure and business tourism. Visitors attending a business event can extend their stay to explore Paris and its surroundings. We’re also exploring packages and incentives to cater to Indian travellers, who often book last minute.” Partnerships with major players like Accor are being discussed to expand MICE offerings tailored to the Indian market.
Leveraging trends and collaborations
Dublanche noted that Indian tourists are increasingly interested in experiences like Impressionist-themed tours and day trips to lesser-known castles. She also revealed that partnerships are a key focus: “We recently met with OYO to discuss potential collaborations. Since January, we’ve opened a new office in Mumbai, highlighting our commitment to the Indian market.” Leveraging Bollywood is another priority, as destinations featured in films often see a surge in popularity among Indian audiences.
Simplifying travel: Visas and connectivity
Acknowledging the importance of convenience, France has streamlined its visa processes and is now regarded as the most efficient in the Schengen zone. Air France has also added new flights to meet rising demand, particularly for business class. Paris’s connectivity, with Europe’s largest airport and high-speed train links, further solidifies its status as a hub for Indian travellers exploring Europe.
Looking ahead
Reflecting on 2024, Dublanche mentioned the success of hosting Indian tourism professionals in Paris, including a specialised event for wedding planners. In 2025, the much-anticipated reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral is expected to draw global attention. France will continue focusing on promoting lesser-known experiences and improving practical aspects, such as group bookings for popular attractions. Dublanche concluded, “The aim is not just to sell Paris but to showcase the wealth of experiences that already exist but are less known.”
With tailored strategies and a deep commitment to understanding the Indian traveller, France is poised to see significant growth in Indian arrivals, cementing its place as a favoured destination in Europe.
