Ontario confirms the strength of its international tourism recovery. The latest data published by Statistics Canada shows a significant increase in long-haul arrivals in 2025. Among European markets, France is now among the most dynamic. According to the trade press and data relayed by Destination Ontario , French arrivals are up 8% and have reached approximately 83% of pre-pandemic levels in 2019.
For tourism professionals, this development confirms an important signal: Ontario is strengthening its attractiveness on the French market and consolidating its role as a major gateway for international travelers to Canada.
Summary
A solid international recovery in 2025
According to Statistics Canada data, Ontario welcomed nearly 2.9 million visitors from international overseas markets in 2025. This represents an increase of approximately 11% compared to the previous year.
The most significant increases were seen in several Asian and European markets. China, Japan, and South Korea, in particular, recorded substantial gains, while European markets also continued their recovery.
The United Kingdom, France and Germany are among the most advanced markets in their tourism recovery towards the Canadian province.
According to Destination Ontario, the province accounts for approximately 42% of long-haul visitor arrivals in Canada. This position confirms Ontario's central role in welcoming international tourists.
The French market is gradually returning to its pre-crisis level
The growth of the French market is one of the elements most closely observed by tourism professionals.
With estimated growth of around 8% in 2025, French visitors now represent almost 83% of the volumes recorded in 2019.
This dynamic is partly explained by several structural factors. Air connectivity between Paris and Toronto remains strong, facilitating direct access to the province for European travelers.
The expectations of French travellers also play an important role. The search for nature experiences, open spaces and immersive itineraries corresponds particularly well to Ontario's tourism offering.
Finally, the combination of large cities and natural destinations constitutes an attractive positioning for the French market.
A particularly attractive mix of urban and natural environments
Toronto and Ottawa play a major role in welcoming international visitors. These two cities concentrate a large part of the tourist infrastructure and international air connections.
Beyond urban centers, Ontario also has many nature destinations that attract international visitors.
Niagara Falls is among the most visited sites in Canada. The Muskoka region, known for its lake scenery, and the Thousand Islands are also popular destinations for international travelers.
For French travel agencies, this diversity makes it possible to build itineraries combining city breaks, cultural discovery and immersion in nature.
A strategic destination for Eastern Canada tours
For tourism professionals, Ontario often represents a natural gateway to Canada.
Many tours include Toronto or Ottawa as first stops before exploring other parts of the country.
The province can also be sold as a standalone destination, particularly for extended urban stays or regional road trips.
Natural parks, lake regions and outdoor experiences also correspond to travelers' new expectations for sustainable tourism and immersive experiences.
Enhanced international visibility for 2026
The year 2026 could mark a new stage in Ontario's tourism strategy.
The province will notably host Rendez-vous Canada, the leading B2B trade show for Canadian tourism. This event brings together hundreds of international buyers and industry professionals each year.
For French tourism stakeholders, this international visibility reinforces the strategic interest of the destination in the years to come.
In short
- Ontario welcomed nearly 2.9 million long-haul visitors in 2025.
- International attendance is expected to increase by approximately 11% compared to 2024.
- The French market increased by approximately 8% and reached 83% of 2019 levels.
- The province accounts for approximately 42% of international arrivals in Canada.
- The mix between big cities and nature destinations is particularly appealing to European travellers.
- The destination's visibility will be enhanced by hosting Rendez-vous Canada.
Sources
Destination Ontario Press Release – March 2026
https://www.destinationontario.com/france
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