Vietnam Tourism Hits Record 21.2M Visitors in 2025

Vietnam just proved that sometimes the comeback is better than the setback.

After years of pandemic recovery, the Southeast Asian nation welcomed 21.2 million international tourists in 2025, a 20% increase that shattered expectations. The milestone puts Vietnam firmly on the map as one of the region's hottest travel spots.

The surge wasn't accidental. In 2023, Vietnam rolled out a game-changing 90-day multiple-entry e-visa that made visiting dramatically easier. Eleven European countries, including the Netherlands and Poland, now enjoy 45 days of visa-free travel, nearly doubling their previous allowance.

The policy shift paid off immediately. China and South Korea led the charge, with Chinese tourists alone accounting for a quarter of all international arrivals. These visitors flock to Vietnam's beaches, rich cultural heritage sites, and world-renowned street food scene.

Getting there became easier too. Major airlines like Philippine Airlines, Emirates, and Scoot added new routes to Vietnamese cities, particularly Da Nang. The central coastal city now boasts over 2,200 tourist accommodations and 140 hotels, transforming it into a hub for both beach lovers and business travelers.

Da Nang's rise highlights Vietnam's broader strategy of spreading tourism beyond traditional hotspots. While Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City remain popular, cities like Da Nang now attract international conferences and high-end events at venues like the Ariyana Convention Centre. Modern infrastructure meets ancient culture, creating experiences that keep visitors coming back.

The Ripple Effect

Vietnam's tourism boom isn't just bringing visitors in. It's sending Vietnamese travelers out in record numbers too. Over 6.7 million Vietnamese people explored international destinations in 2025, with South Korea and Japan topping the list.

This outbound travel surge signals something bigger than wanderlust. It reflects a growing middle class with disposable income and global curiosity. As Vietnamese families discover the world, they return home with fresh perspectives and ideas that strengthen their own tourism industry.

The numbers tell a story of strategic planning meeting pent-up demand. Vietnam didn't just wait for tourism to recover. They made it easier to visit, improved infrastructure, and diversified their offerings beyond beaches and street food.

Other countries struggling with post-pandemic tourism slumps should take notes. Vietnam proved that smart policy changes, combined with authentic cultural experiences and modern conveniences, create momentum that builds on itself.

Twenty-two million visitors later, Vietnam isn't just recovering from the pandemic—it's thriving beyond it.