China has extended visa-free entry for French citizens through December this year, driving a rebound in inbound tourism as social media promotion and upgraded infrastructure drive rising demand.
On November 3, 2025, Chinese authorities announced the extension to expand high-level opening up and facilitate exchanges.
Since then, French travel agencies have reported a sharp rise in interest, with group tour demand recovering strongly after years of pandemic-era decline.
"This year, the French outbound travel market to China has seen a significant recovery, with group tour demand growing particularly fast. More and more French companies and organizations are organizing group tours for their employees to China. This not only represents huge market potential but also a core source of quality travelers. Since the COVID-19 outbreak, demand for group tours to China had remained low while independent and individual travel was more popular. Now that group tour market has recovered and been growing, I believe this indicates a bright prospects for tours to China in the French market," said Wang Changqing, head of China Tour, a French travel agency.
Beyond the visa-free policy, online influencers promoting niche destinations, the expansion of China's high-speed rail network, and upgrades in tourism services and infrastructure are also driving the inbound travel. "I think this trend is largely due to the internet, especially influencers. They have been introducing and showcasing China, highlighting lesser-known destinations like Zhangjiajie, Sichuan, Chongqing, Yunnan, and Guizhou, which are places that French travelers are not familiar with. These influencers keep showing the diverse facets and unique landscapes of China, sparking the curiosity of French people who already have a strong interest in the country,"said Wang.
French travelers who have visited China have spoken highly of their experiences, praising the warmth of local people along with the country's diverse natural scenery and rich cultural heritage.
"I think China is now fully equipped to receive French tourists. I really felt this when I sat in small bars and restaurants or chatted with Chinese people of different ages. The Chinese are warm, friendly, and inclusive. They often invite me to try local specialties and have a chat. They also strike up conversations with me, asking why I came to China and what I like about the country. Such sincere and warm exchanges are truly heartwarming," said Chenine Hyacine, head of Regard Voyage, another French travel agency.
Visa‑free policy fuels rebound in French travel to China
