Moscow (VNA) – Vietnam welcomed more than 742,000 Russian visitors in the first half of 2026, nearly three times higher than the same period last year, making Russia the Southeast Asian country's largest source of tourits behind China and the Republic of Korea.
The Association of Tour Operators of Russia (ATOR) reported that Vietnam ranked fourth among the best-selling package tour destinations in the Russian market in July, capturing a 7.8% market share, up 3.2 percentage points year-on-year. The country overtook Thailand (4.7%) and China (4.3%).
The association attributed the strong growth to shifting travel demand towards Asian beach destinations following the United Arab Emirates' withdrawal from the market and a decline in domestic tourism's market share.
Vietnam has also outperformed Thailand by steadily expanding its flight programmes, ATOR said.
Insiders forecast that the Russian market will maintain strong growth in the second half of the year.
Travel companies have expanded summer flight programmes to Da Nang, while additional direct services to Phu Quoc are set to launch in the autumn. If the current momentum continues, Vietnam could welcome as many as 1.5 million Russian visitors by the end of the year.
Earlier, a Russian travel blogger summed up Vietnam's appeal with the phrase "Cheaper than Türkiye, more colourful than Thailand."
The blogger identified five key factors attracting Russian travellers, namely direct flights and simple visa procedures; affordable holiday costs, making Vietnam one of Asia's most budget-friendly destinations; a wide range of accommodation options, from bustling beaches in Nha Trang to the tranquil resorts in Phu Quoc; a safe environment and genuine hospitality; and vibrant local culture, attractive excursions and high-quality coffee./.
