7 French Villages Tourists Love But Are Crowded to the Breaking Point (And How to Beat the Rush)

Even in France’s most beautiful villages, tourism can spoil the experience for other visitors. Here are seven popular spots where crowds, commercialization, and congestion make it hard to enjoy the charm. With a few easy smart tips though, you can still enjoy their magic.

Étretat, Normandy

Tourism in Étretat skyrocketed after featuring in series and films, drawing up to 10,000 visitors per day in peak season. The stunning cliffs are crowded with people which makes it hard to find parking or clear views. The influx has led to higher prices for food and services, and the area around the cliffs is increasingly commercial, spoling the natural beauty.