Paris (VNA) – Vietnam’s tourism industry is entering a milestone year, evolving from a destination that welcomed only around eight million international visitors a decade ago into one of Asia’s fastest-expanding markets, France’s air-journal.fr has reported.
The French aviation news site said Vietnam attracted nearly 17.2 million foreign visitors in the first ten months of 2025, a year-on-year increase of 21.5%. More than six million arrivals were recorded in the first quarter alone, the highest ever, marking a 29.6% surge. Projections indicate that Vietnam could exceed 20 million international visitors this year, placing it among the world’s most dynamic tourism markets alongside Japan.
French arrivals have climbed by 55% over the past year, making Vietnam the fastest-growing long-haul destination for the French market. SETO, the French tour operators association, lists Vietnam among the country’s most popular winter destinations, alongside Egypt and the Dominican Republic. Historical ties and French-influenced architecture in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City remain strong draws for travellers.
Vietnam’s expanded e-visa policy for European visitors, including those from France, now allows stays of up to 45 days. Air links have also improved: Vietnam Airlines operates a daily Hanoi–Paris service and four weekly flights between Paris and HCM City, while Air France runs three weekly direct flights to HCM City.
According to air-journal.fr, Vietnam’s appeal stems from its rich, varied travel experience. Many French travellers recommend the country for its blend of culture, landscapes and local lifestyle.
Northern Vietnam offers highlights such as Hanoi’s historic quarters, temples and lakes; Ha Long Bay’s iconic limestone formations; and Sa Pa’s terraced fields and ethnic villages. Central Vietnam captivates visitors with beaches from Da Nang to Nha Trang, vibrant fishing communities and cultural heritage sites, with Hue’s UNESCO-listed imperial complex remaining a standout. In the South, HCM City presents a modern, energetic urban centre, while the Mekong Delta provides a serene world of waterways, floating markets and orchards.
Although airfares may be high, the website notes that Vietnam remains budget-friendly for French visitors, with meals costing about 2 EUR (2.31 USD) and hostel stays under 10 EUR per night.
Major French tour operators such as Asia and Maisons du Voyage, along with local specialists like Routes du Vietnam by Nativ, are expanding their offerings with package holidays and themed tours, from culinary routes to family trips and combined itineraries covering Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos.
Air-journal.fr underscores that tourism is becoming a key economic pillar for Vietnam, generating substantial revenue and employment. As the sector continues to grow, the “S-shaped country” is focusing on diversifying its products, promoting cultural and natural assets and enhancing community-based tourism. Vietnam is consolidating its appeal as a leading destination while advancing sustainable development and safeguarding its cultural identity./.
