Paris, the “City of Light,” attracts millions of tourists every year, drawn by its iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre. While Paris has long been a popular destination, the surge in mass tourism has taken its toll on the city.
Famous sites are often overcrowded, and lines for attractions can stretch for hours. Short-term rentals have driven up housing prices, and locals have expressed frustration with the overwhelming number of visitors. Paris is now trying to manage tourism more effectively by promoting lesser-known neighborhoods and encouraging off-peak travel.
In under two hours, you can explore Siena’s Gothic charm, sip wine in Montepulciano, or relax by the sea in Cinque Terre—all easy escapes from the Renaissance city.