Rome (VNA) – A Vietnam-Italy tourism promotion programme was held in Milan on May 6 with the participation of nearly 200 people from agencies, localities and businesses of the two countries.
The event, jointly organised by the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT), national flag carrier Vietnam Airlines, Hanoi's Department of Tourism and Saigontourist Group, is part of the Vietnam-Europe tourism promotion programme which includes Switzerland and France.
Speaking at the event, VNAT Director Nguyen Trung Khanh said that Vietnam identifies Italy as one of the key markets in Europe. Italian tourists are famous for their refined aesthetic taste, deep understanding of culture, art and history and for their passion for discovering original values and sophistication in experiences.
Meanwhile, Vietnam, with its diverse tourism ecosystem, heritages recognised by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), majestic nature, rich cuisine and culture can meet Italian tourists’ demand, Khanh said.
According to the official, strengthening aviation connectivity, exchanging business delegations and developing suitable products are key factors to promote tourism between Vietnam and Italy.
In particular, the official launch of the Hanoi - Milan direct flight by Vietnam Airlines from July 1 is an important step that opens up favourable opportunities for direct connection between the two cultures and two potential tourism markets.
Vietnamese Ambassador to Italy Duong Hai Hung said that the Vietnam - Italy tourism promotion programme in 2025 in Milan, following the 2024 tourism roadshow, is a testament to Vietnam's strong commitment to the Italian market and to strengthening two-way tourism relations in a practical and long-term way.
Lombardy region’s Secretary of State Raffaele Cattaneo affirmed that the Lombardy region has been strengthening its relationship with Vietnam from all angles, particularly tourism.
Cattaneo said that he is also very impressed with the recovery of Vietnamese tourism, affirming that Vietnam is a new and attractive destination for Italian tourists.
In 2024, 89,000 Italian tourists visited Vietnam, an increase of 56% compared to 2023. In the first three months of 2025, the number of Italian visitors reached 32,000, or 29% higher than the same period last year.
At the event, participants were informed about Vietnam's tourism policies, unique destinations of the capital city of Hanoi, and products and services offered by Vietnam Airlines and Saigontourist./.
