Cryptocurrency Payments Now Accepted at 80 French Riviera Businesses

Binance Pay, in collaboration with French fintech Lyzi, has successfully introduced cryptocurrency payment options to over 80 businesses across the French Riviera. This initiative spans key cities such as Cannes, Nice, Antibes, and Monaco, integrating digital assets into the region's thriving luxury tourism and retail economy. The French Riviera, renowned for its allure as a tourist destination, now offers visitors and locals the convenience of paying with stablecoins and other cryptocurrencies at a variety of establishments, including hotels, restaurants, beach clubs, luxury retailers, and service providers.

The partnership facilitates seamless transactions through QR code scanning and confirmation, allowing customers to settle their bills instantly without incurring gas fees. Merchants, on the other hand, benefit from immediate euro settlements through the system’s integration. This move not only enhances the customer experience but also provides merchants with a modern and efficient payment solution.

City officials in Cannes have been vocal in encouraging crypto adoption among local merchants. Earlier this year, Cannes Mayor David Lisnard urged local businesses to start accepting cryptocurrency payments alongside euros, warning they risk missing out if they don’t adapt. This push for crypto adoption is part of a broader strategy to embrace digital assets in everyday life. David Princay, CEO of Binance France, highlighted the significance of this initiative, stating that it demonstrates the growing acceptance of digital assets in high-profile destinations. The payment system supports over 100 cryptocurrencies, including euro and US dollar-backed stablecoins, and offers robust security features such as encrypted transfers, two-factor authentication, and real-time confirmations.

Notable venues that have embraced this initiative include the JW Marriott and Hotel Gray d’Albion in Cannes, Palais Stéphanie Beach, and luxury retailers like Parker and Smith in Monaco. Wellness-focused businesses such as Palm Gym in Antibes have also joined the movement, reflecting the diverse range of industries adopting cryptocurrency payments.

To further promote the adoption of crypto payments, Binance Pay launched a promotional campaign offering shoppers a 5 EURI reward for eligible purchases of at least 20 euros in crypto. This campaign, running until Sunday, aims to incentivize consumers to try out the new payment method and experience its benefits firsthand.

The initiative in the French Riviera is part of a global trend where regions are increasingly embracing cryptocurrency for tourism. This move not only enhances the visitor experience but also positions the region as a forward-thinking destination that is at the forefront of technological innovation. The French Riviera's adoption of crypto payments aligns with similar efforts in other regions, such as Bhutan, which recently launched a payment system in partnership with Binance Pay and DK Bank, allowing travelers to use over 100 cryptocurrencies for local services. Additionally, Thailand announced plans to let tourists spend cryptocurrency by linking their digital assets to credit cards, enabling seamless local purchases with merchants receiving Thai baht without knowing crypto was used. These initiatives collectively highlight the growing integration of digital assets into the global tourism industry, offering both visitors and merchants new opportunities and benefits.