Published on
November 14, 2025
Italy & France remain top luxury-tourism destinations; Gen Z travellers plan above-average spend and Air France-KLM upgrades first-class to attract affluent leisure flyers. As the global travel landscape continues to evolve, these two iconic European destinations have maintained their status as the go-to spots for luxury travellers. Italy and France offer a unique blend of rich history, exclusive experiences, and unmatched beauty, making them prime locations for those seeking both opulence and culture. At the same time, Gen Z, a generation renowned for its preference for meaningful experiences over material goods, is emerging as a significant force in the luxury travel market. This new wave of affluent young travellers is not only spending more on travel but also demanding bespoke services and personalized itineraries. Airlines like Air France and KLM are responding to this trend by enhancing their premium services, offering upgraded first-class cabins, exclusive concierge services, and high-end amenities to cater to the desires of these discerning customers. As Gen Z continues to shape the future of luxury tourism, their preferences for comfort, exclusivity, and unique experiences are pushing both the hospitality and aviation industries to evolve rapidly to meet their expectations.
Italy & France Continue to be Number One in Luxury Travel Destinations;
Italy and France keep being number one in the top luxury travel destination in the world and no one goes to these more iconic locations more than Travel Gen Z with spendertainment and exclusive options at their disposal Net Gen Z Travel is the growing customer segment at luxury travel and is becoming the greatest spenders in the Travel luxury sector with a charge and challenge are Air France KLM with millions in investment in first class and luxury travel is going nowhere but up.
The Rise of Gen Z and Luxury Travel
In Italy and France, nearly everywhere in their territory offer the most luxury travel experience. But it is the rise of Gen Z that is driving these countries to changes in the way they offer their luxury travel experiences exceeding their other travelling customers.
Unlike previous generations, this younger generation is less inclined towards stereotypical tourism and instead, are more focused on personalized and bespoke experiences. According to recent research, Gen Z travellers are more inclined to spend significant resources on luxurious and personally significant travel experiences. In fact, a recent survey found that nearly 65% of Gen Z respondents would rather spend their money on a travel-related experience rather than on a material possession.
With their various terrains, cultures, and inviting exclusive amenities, France and Italy are able to cater to and provide this generation. From private yacht excursions along the Amalfi Coast to exclusive Bordeaux wine-tasting experiences, there is a demand for more premium customizable travel services for Gen Z.
Italy & France Remain Top Luxury-Tourism Destinations
Italy and France have a rich and diverse history which makes them a popular choice for tourists. However, their continued popularity to high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) is due to these destinations providing a plethora of extravagant, bespoke offerings for their affluent tourists. In Italy, there is a range of offerings to tourists from historical cities and beach to charming rural countryside and offerings such as Mediterranean five-star hotels and exclusive Tuscan villas. France is still extremely popular and luxurious with Paris, but there are also high-end offerings in the French Riviera, Courchevel, and Provence with their ski resorts, Michelin-star restaurants, and lavish spas.
Modern luxury travel in Italy and France also provides a unique history, art, and culinary experience. While the French countryside and the chic of Paris are the most coveted destinations for the wealthy, the French and Italian coasts and the rolling vineyards create for an equally wealthy travel experience.
In recent years Italy has seen a growth in the exclusive use of luxury villas and private rentals. Companies offering rentals in areas such as Lake Como and the Amalfi Coast are reporting and expected to continue to see growth. Demand within the French Riveria remains the same as Wealthy clients rent private yachts and retreats and attend expensive gala. Cities such as Nice, Cannes, and St. Tropez have seen an increase in traffic for these offerings.
Above Average Spend on Travel by Gen Z
Perhaps the most most observed of these trends is that Gen Z is the most active in the luxury tourism sector and leading the charge in the high end travel space. Despite being a younger generation, Gen Z has a higher tendency to travel as a primary expenditure vs. possessions. Reports indicate Gen Z is expected to spend on average \$5000 annually on travel, mostly International.
The data speak for themselves: Over the next few years, 60 percent of Generation Z travelers expect to increase their travel spending. Typical travel patterns include spending nights at luxury hotels, purchasing exclusive tour packages, and flying first or business class. As a result, hotels and airlines are prioritizing bespoke experiences targeting this generation.
Especially luxury airlines, like Air France, are looking to satisfy this generation’s attributes of: Traveling with Ease and Customization. Air France has recently upgraded their first class with more exclusive in-flight experiences. Air France-KLM is also providing more custom travel services and upgraded first class amenities to attract this generation’s luxury travelers.
Upgrades by Air France and KLM to Attract Luxury Leisure Fliers
Air France-KLM, this holding group of Europe\’s leading company, is concentrating on obtaining the luxury leisure market. Further, Passenger Air France has begun spending money to enhance the company\’s first-class cabins while providing more comfort and privacy to the ultra-rich. Recently completed upgrades with the addition of private suites, concierge amenities and the option to order custom meals, prepared by Michelin chefs, along with first-class cabins.
KLM is also implementing its own set of premium cabin upgrades improvements of its own, aimed at attracting and appealing. The airline has communiated and improving its business class to incorporate more space and provide additional privacy and luxury to target not just corporate.
If you’re looking to book a flight with your choice of classy and sophisticated options, Air France and KLM have personalized services from when you step on the plane. They have customized gourmet meals, and the comfort of the seats are on a level of the best private jet accommodations. With all of the perks of a private first-class jet, it’s no surprise Air France and KLM are leaders in the flight. With the updating first-class luxuries, Air France and KLM are leading lines in the aviation of luxury services.
Why France and Italy are the Luxury travel Mafia for GenZ
France and Italy have held the luxury first-class flight of the the travel mafia for GenZ over the years, and this will become more popular. These are the best countries for luxury services such as, private jets, bespoke services,and exclusive resorts to name a few. Aflluent travelers looking for leisure will enjoy both spots as one offers the private gliding beaches of the Côte d’Azur complimentedby the unmatched glorious Rome with all of it’s historical art treasures.
If you are looking for customized travel, both France and Italy have high-end travel services that create an exclusive experience for any trip. They facilitate private yacht rentals and guided wine tours, making both countries excellent choices for creating unique travel memories. They are also historically renowned for their top-tier hospitality, offering luxury, boutique, and exclusive villas hospitality for high-end clients.
Air Travel for Gen Z and Tips for Luxury Travel
Air France and KLM are ideal and popular choices for those who enjoy premium service onboard. Both airlines offer direct flights to most major cities in Italy and France, which include Rome, Florence, Milan, and Paris. They also have first-class seats for all flights, which allows you to have a fuller experience. For example, flights from New York to Paris are direct and last just a little over 7 hours, which makes the trip across the Atlantic convenient and comfortable.
For Gen Z travellers wanting a luxury flight experience, Air France provides La Première with a private suite, *bedroom comforts*, *dining* and *concierge* service. *World Business Class* on KLM has similarly comfortable, fully reclining seats with a selectiy*on of fine wines*.
Travel Tips for Gen Z Luxury Travellers
Book in Advance: During high travel periods, luxury stays in popular Spot destination such as *Paris* and *Rome* fills up Quickly. Booking in advance ensures access to the best properties and more exclusive experiences.Stay in Boutique Hotels: Opt for boutique hotels or private *villas* as they offer a more unique and personal experience than large backend hotels. *Tuscany* and the Provence in *France* host numerous hidden gems catering to luxury travellers.Explore Private Experiences: *France* and *Italy* host a real pro rich with exclusive activities. For gourmet travel consider a private chef’s table, hot air balloon and guided tour of the vineyards and museums.Select Luxurious Carriers: If stepping on an airplane to an international destination, they suggest picking Air France or KLM since they provide luxury services, so it is more worthwhile to opt with those. They go the extra mile so this makes the flight more to look forward to as an enjoyable time and not just a necessity.Keep the Seasons in Mind: Italy and France are gorgeous in any season, but when it comes to the uppercrust holidaying, the most convenient time is during the shoulder seasons in spring or fall. Riding the climate are more to your liking in comparison to the maelstrom of the tourism summer to avoid.
Italy and France remain top luxury-tourism destinations, with Gen Z travellers increasingly choosing bespoke, high-end experiences. Airlines like Air France and KLM are upgrading their services to meet the demands of this affluent and adventure-seeking generation.
Wrapping Up
Italy and France are, as always, the most sought after luxury destinations. Gen Z, as of recently, have been the most accosting as a provider of premium tourism. If your plans include booking an Air France private jet or dining on a Michelin-star meal in Paris, it is known that these places have bespoke accommodations that younger, wealthy individuals are drawn to. As these two adopt hospitality services on a more modern basis while the major airplane services switch around the first-class cabins, comfort, personalization, and satisfaction have grown more attainable for these jet-setters during this era.
Optimizing for different travel trends will make your experience in Italy or France even more enjoyable. Fly peacefully on a first class flight and stay in luxury accommodation. Curate your own private and personal tour and tailor it to your own tastes. If you sample European cuisine and take in some of France and Italy’s hidden gems, this will be more than a beautiful vacation. You will experience a level of luxury and comfort that is on offer to only a select few.
