The tourism sector is one of the main job providers in France. It offers a variety of professions which can be accessed by following specialized training. Certain French cities lend themselves particularly well to tourism studies because of their assets. Find out which ones they are.
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Toggle1. Paris: Cultural and tourist capital
Paris is among the best cities in France where to follow a tourism training. As the world’s leading tourist destination, the French capital is the ideal place to study tourism outside of class. Boasting an exceptional historical and cultural heritage, it will allow you to develop your general knowledge and observe professionals in the sector. For example, you will be able to see the guides at work who lead tourists through the streets of Paris or who show them the city from the Seine.
By pursuing tourism studies in the capital, you will have the opportunity to learn more about renowned institutions in this sector. There are many of them (hotels, restaurants, museums, etc.). In addition, Paris offers multiple internship opportunities for people training in tourism. You will therefore have no trouble find an internship to analyze the facets of this sector.
2. Lyon: Crossroads of gastronomy and tourism
Lyon is another destination of choice to benefit from a tourism training. This city has multiple assets, including its gastronomic reputation. It is particularly famous for bugnes, cervelle de canut, quenelles, brioche sausage and even tripe. These culinary specialties are generally served in bouchons, typical restaurants that offer popular cuisine. It should be noted that Lyon was declared the “world capital of gastronomy” by the French culinary critic Curnonsky. The city is home to institutions such as Maisons Bocuse and the restaurant La Mère Brazier.

Its cultural events also make Lyon an excellent place to study tourism. Throughout the year, the city organizes a variety of them: the Nuits Sonores, the Nuits de Fourvière, the Baroque Music Festival, the Lumière Festival, etc. On the other hand, Lyon stands out for its tourist dynamism. It is in fact the second largest tourist city in France.
3. Nice: Mediterranean charm and seaside tourism
Due to its ideal geographical location, Nice is one of the best cities in France in which it is particularly advantageous to study tourism. Situated on the edge of the Mediterranean, this city on the Côte d’Azur has a mild and pleasant climate, even in winter. In Nice, you can enjoy the sun and the sea while familiarizing yourself with tourism professions. Moreover, the city is famous for its magnificent beaches: Castel beach, Centenaire beach, Voilier beach, Li Rateta beach, Beau Rivage beach, etc.
A hot spot for seaside tourism, Nice is one of the French cities that attract the most vacationers. Every year, it welcomes millions of visitors who go there to discover its beaches, but also the famous Promenade des Anglais as well as its gourmet restaurants and luxury brands. This influx increases career opportunities in the tourism industry in Nice.
4. Bordeaux: Land of wine and wine tourism
If you are interested in tourism training focused on wine, Bordeaux is the city you absolutely must go to. World capital of wine tourism, it is renowned throughout the world for its vineyards. The latter are the cradle of prestigious appellations such as Barsac, Pauillac, Sauternes, Saint-Émilion, etc. Bordeaux is also famous for its wine festivals (Bordeaux Tasting and Bordeaux Fête le Vin) and its wine-themed events (Vinexpo trade fair).
By going to this city to study tourism, you will be able to join establishments that provide specialized training on wine, such as the Master in Wine Economics and Wine Tourism, the Master in Business and Management of Wines and Spirits or even the MBA Luxury and Wines. The interest in studying tourism in Bordeaux does not, however, lie only in the wines. The city also has a rich architectural heritage and a vibrant cultural life.
5. Aix-en-Provence: Provencal art of living and cultural tourism
There are several reasons why Aix-en-Provence is one of the best cities in France to follow tourism training. First of all, this city stands out for the diversity of its cultural heritage. Lovers of art and history will find what they are looking for there since Aix-en-Provence has a large number of historical monuments, galleries, museums, mansions, etc.
Its artistic festivals, which also make this city famous, are another asset of this city. Among the most famous, we find, among others, the international lyrical art festival of Aix-en-Provence and Les Rencontres du 9e Art.
In addition, by studying tourism in Aix-en-Provence, you will benefit from a most pleasant setting. With its typically Provençal atmosphere, the city of Aix is a city where life is good. You will love strolling through its shaded streets and flowery squares. Throughout the year, you can also enjoy performances by street artists and fairs.
6. Tours: Between history and heritage
Tours is a city located in the heart of the Loire Valley. Its rich historical heritage makes it a real treasure for history buffs as well as tourism students. This town offers easy access to the famous Loire castles, such as Château d’Amboise and Château de Chenonceau, which are must-see tourist sites.
In short, Tours offers many internship opportunities in the field of tourism, thanks to the presence of numerous museums, travel agencies and tourist offices. This gives students the opportunity to put their theoretical knowledge into practice and gain valuable experience in this sector.
7. La Rochelle: Maritime and tourist destination

A true jewel of the Atlantic coast, it is also an essential destination for tourism studies. Its exceptional maritime setting makes it a privileged place to immerse yourself in training focused on coastal and sustainable tourism. This city offers a unique blend of maritime traditions and contemporary innovations, making it a stimulating learning environment for students.
In addition, La Rochelle is committed to sustainable development and offers training focused on sustainable and responsible tourism, allowing students to familiarize themselves with current issues in the sector. With its warm atmosphere and its tourist dynamism, La Rochelle is a destination of choice for students looking for an enriching experience in the field of tourism.