Travel and Tour World page on January 5 published an article saying that just entering 2026, Vietnamese tourism recorded unprecedented growth momentum. For the New Year holiday alone, Vietnam welcomed about 3.5 million domestic and international visitors - a number considered a record, reflecting the increasing attractiveness of the S-shaped destination on the world tourism map. China, South Korea and the United States continue to be the 3 largest tourist markets, contributing to making Vietnam the leading outstanding destination in Southeast Asia.
This explosion is part of the expected general growth trend for the whole year 2026. Vietnam's tourism industry aims to welcome about 25 million international visitors this year, making an important contribution to economic growth, job creation and promoting related service industries.
The three markets that play a leading role in this growth momentum are China, South Korea and the United States. In 2026, the presence of tourists from these 3 countries is expected to skyrocket.
Chinese tourists gather in large cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to experience culture and shopping, and at the same time flock to famous sea and island destinations such as Phu Quoc and Nha Trang for vacation.
Many direct flights are operated almost daily, reflecting large and stable demand. Vietnam aims to welcome about 3.5 million Chinese passengers in 2026, and early year signals show that this goal is completely feasible.
Korea continues to be the most important source market for Vietnamese tourism. It is expected that in 2026, nearly 3 million Korean tourists will come to Vietnam, thanks to the increasingly expanded direct flight network and vibrant cultural and economic exchange programs between the two countries. Korean tourists not only come to Vietnam for vacation but also combine tourism with work and investment. Destinations such as Da Nang and Hoi An are especially popular thanks to their beautiful landscapes, quality services and harmonious intersection of tradition and modernity.
The US market, although smaller in scale than China and South Korea, plays an increasingly important role in the tourism picture of Vietnam in 2026. US tourists are attracted by the diverse nature, cultural depth and "worth-of-money" of experiences in Vietnam. Notably, the trend of US tourists is shifting from familiar destinations to still pristine, less crowded areas such as Ha Giang (now Tuyen Quang) - a place that brings unique experiences of landscape and local life. Faced with the increasing demand, many airlines have opened more direct flights or increased the frequency of connecting Vietnam with major US centers such as Los Angeles, San Francisco and New York.
Many international hotel groups are promoting investment and opening new establishments in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang and key tourist destinations. The high-end segment is developing rapidly, meeting the increasing needs of high-income groups.
2026 is expected not only to explode in terms of visitor volume but also to improve quality, gradually affirming its position as an attractive, safe and unique destination in the region and in the world.
