It might be the city of love, but Paris has just earned itself a less than romantic title: the world’s most stressful destination for travellers in 2025.
That’s right, croissants, couture and cobbled streets aside, the French capital is apparently causing more holiday headaches than any other city on the planet.
According to a recent global study, Paris topped the stress list thanks to a perfect storm of overcrowding, crime concerns, and transport chaos.
With a staggering 450,000 tourists per square kilometre, the city is bursting at the seams, especially in high season. The dreamy Seine side stroll or Eiffel Tower snap? Be prepared to battle your way through the crowds to get there.
It’s not just the foot traffic that’s raising blood pressure. Regular strikes on the metro, sky high prices, and a rise in pickpocketing have left many travellers feeling frazzled. Even seasoned adventurers are finding that the reality of Paris doesn’t always match the postcard.
Vietnam’s buzzing capital Hanoi came in second on the list, thanks to its steamy weather, wild traffic, and growing popularity with international visitors.
Istanbul, New Delhi and Bangkok also made the top five, each offering vibrant experiences that can quickly turn overwhelming without a bit of prep and patience.
But it’s not all doom and baguettes. The same study found some cities are handling the tourist influx with far more finesse.
Melbourne was a stand out, praised for its low tourist density, good public transport and relaxed pace. Dubai and Munich also scored well on the calmometer, proving that not every global hotspot has to come with a side of stress.
For Aussie travellers, this doesn’t mean Paris and similar cities should be crossed off the map. Far from it. These cities still deliver unforgettable experiences, you just might want to plan with a bit of extra savvy. Think shoulder seasons, skip the line tickets, guided walking tours away from the main drag, or even swapping the Champs Élysées for a morning in Montmartre.
Despite the crowds and occasional stressors, moments of magic still exist, whether it’s a quiet morning in a leafy backstreet or a chance encounter over coffee at a local café. Even in the busiest cities, travellers often find those unexpectedly memorable moments that make the journey worthwhile.
