With transport links running smoothly, urban infrastructure upgraded and digital platforms built out in a more systematic way, tourism would move beyond a purely consumption-driven sector to become a deeper, more durable engine of growth.
During the days, the capital city served 110,000 foreign arrivals and 450,000 domestic tourists, up nearly 287% and over 240%, respectively. These figures reflect a strong recovery and robust growth right at the start of the year.
The sector aims to attract 25 million international visitors, serve 150 million domestic tourists, and earn some 1.12 quadrillion VND in revenue in 2026.
With an estimated growth rate of 21% this year, Vietnam's tourism industry is now regarded by the United Nations World Tourism Organisation as one of the fastest-growing in the world.
The country welcomed 17.6 million foreign visitors in 2024 and another 15.4 million in the first nine months of 2025, putting it on track to hit the 25 million target by year-end. As of the third quarter, Vietnam had more than 192,000 midscale-to-luxury hotel rooms, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 10.9% over the past decade, one of the highest in Southeast Asia.
Vietnam has in recent years emerged as one of Asia’s hottest destinations, driven by creative approaches and compelling promotional content.
Tourism remains a standout performer in Vietnam’s economy, acting as a major growth driver in the third quarter and the first nine months of 2025, according to the National Statistics Office under the Ministry of Finance.
Vietnam’s tourism sector is aiming for a very ambitious target of welcoming 25 million international visitors this year, requiring significant efforts from the entire industry, with facilitative policies and breakthrough, innovative solutions.
The four-day holiday, which began from August 30, not only brought huge revenues to the tourism sector, but also boosted domestic consumption, with strong demand for dining, shopping, and travel.
The National Day holiday highlighted Vietnam’s growing appeal as a safe and adaptable destination, laying a positive foundation for the year’s final months.
As global travelers are seeking nature-immersive experiences that reduce emissions and respect local culture, especially in the mid to high-end range. Vietnam must develop a globally credible and prestigious green brand, according to insiders.
Vietnam’s e-visa system is now seen as one of the most efficient, convenient, and transparent in the region. Fully online registration, no paperwork or interviews, and fast and flexible processing time have improved foreigners’ entry experience, creating a competitive advantage over countries clinging to complicated and costly visa procedures.
Tourism contributed significantly to socio-economic development in the January–June period, generating total revenue of 518 trillion VND.
The Russian market’s strong rebound has not only revived tourism in Khanh Hoa but also contributed significantly to Vietnam’s overall tourism recovery. According to the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT), Russia was the only international market to post a record growth rate of over 139% in the first half of 2025.
With the country rapidly advancing its plan to merge provincial-level administrative units, set to be completed by mid-August, the tourism industry, along with other sectors, is presented with challenges but also significant opportunities for innovation and sustainable growth in the era of the nation's rise.
Vietnam faces a serious shortage of capable managers and skilled workers who meet international standards and possess strong foreign language fluency.
Although there was a temporary decline in tourist numbers following the Songkran holiday in mid-April, the ministry anticipates a rebound, supported by additional flights from Thai Airways, ongoing tourism and sports promotions, and government initiatives designating 2025 as Thailand's "Year of Tourism and Sports".
As Vietnam is emerging as a trending destination for ultra-luxury and high-spending travellers, localities nationwide are working to tap into this highly potential market.
Hanoi’s tourism sector is set to introduce distinctive travel experiences as part of its ambitious goal to welcome 31 million visitors, including approximately 7.5 million foreigners.
Many localities in Vietnam recoorded trillions of VND in tourism revenue during the nine-day Lunar New Year 2025 holiday.