Repeated heatwaves this summer have not stopped tourists from visiting the south of France and other parts of Europe, even though some experts had predicted a shift toward cooler destinations. According to Didier Arino, director general of the Protourisme consulting firm, the summer season showed contrasting trends, largely driven by international visitors. While some regions were affected by extreme heat, particularly inland areas without access to coasts or lakes, the overall pattern of summer tourism hasn't changed much. Arino noted that despite the heat, many travelers still chose to go on vacation, and in some cases, the heat even accelerated their travel plans, especially for those who were uncomfortable staying at home. International visitors played a crucial role in maintaining tourism levels this summer. Arino described the 2026 summer season in France as "contrasted," with fewer French tourists traveling and shorter stays, which led to a slight decrease in the number of overnight stays. However, this decline was partially offset by an increase in international visitors from Asia, North America, and Europe, as well as by 800,000 French people who had planned to travel abroad but decided to stay home instead. Despite the heat, coastal areas, countryside, and mountain regions saw more visitors, particularly those who made last-minute decisions due to the extreme temperatures. While some destinations in northern Europe, such as mountain regions, the Bay of Somme, Normandy, and the Côte d'Opale, could become more attractive due to their cooler climates and competitive pricing, Arino noted that southern Europe is not likely to lose its appeal. Spain, Greece, and Morocco continue to attract large numbers of tourists despite experiencing repeated heatwaves. The expert also predicted that the trend toward coastal areas will continue, with tourists preferring destinations that offer cooler temperatures, such as coastal resorts, over cities where temperatures can be significantly higher. As a result of the heat, the tourism industry is expected to adapt, with a growing emphasis on air conditioning and cooler accommodations. Tourists may also choose to travel outside of the traditional summer months, such as June or September, to avoid the peak heat. While these changes could slightly shift the timing and distribution of tourist flows, the overall map of summer tourism is not expected to change drastically. Instead, the industry is likely to see a more balanced spread of visitors across different times of the year and locations, rather than a complete transformation.