As Vietnam ushers in the Lunar New Year (Tết Nguyên Đán) of 2026, the country is witnessing a vibrant surge in both travel and lifestyle trends, with young people and families alike seeking to make the most of the nearly nine-day holiday. According to a report published on January 26, 2026, by Vietnam News Agency, the extended break has sparked a clear uptick in demand for both domestic and international travel, while local hotspots in Ho Chi Minh City are abuzz with youthful energy, especially at vintage-style coffee shops perfect for Tết photo sessions.
Domestic tourism stands out as a pillar of choice for Vietnamese travelers this season. Data from Booking.com, as reported by VNA, shows that Phú Quốc tops the list as the most searched domestic destination. The island’s warm climate, diverse accommodation options, and picturesque beaches have made it a favorite for families hoping to escape the city bustle. Not far behind, established destinations like Đà Nẵng, Nha Trang, Đà Lạt, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City itself remain popular, thanks to their robust tourism infrastructure and convenient transport links.
The extended holiday has brought about a shift in travel behavior. Instead of crowding into peak days, many travelers are opting to start their trips early or extend their stays beyond the main holiday, seeking a more relaxed and less crowded experience. This trend is particularly pronounced in Đà Lạt, which, according to Agoda data cited by VNA, saw a remarkable 44% increase in searches and bookings compared to the previous year. Phú Quốc followed closely with a 41% rise, while Nha Trang, Đà Nẵng, and Vũng Tàu also saw significant growth.
Interestingly, travelers are venturing further afield within Vietnam. Sa Pa and Phan Thiết, for example, experienced a fivefold increase in interest, reflecting a growing willingness among Vietnamese holidaymakers to explore distant locales when time permits. Branavan Aruljothi, Booking.com’s country director for Vietnam, observed that this year, “travelers are more proactive and flexible in planning their journeys, choosing times that avoid crowds and prioritizing meaningful experiences that suit the tastes of each family or group of friends.”
But it’s not just about travel. In Ho Chi Minh City, the Tết spirit is alive and well in its vibrant café scene. A January 25, 2026 report from Tuổi Trẻ highlights how young people are flocking to nostalgic, vintage-style coffee shops to capture the essence of Tết in their photos. One standout is Tiệm cà phê thập niên 2000, tucked away in a quiet alley in Hòa Hưng ward. With its wooden furniture, vintage décor reminiscent of the early 2000s, and cozy, intimate atmosphere, it’s become a go-to destination for those seeking a traditional Tết backdrop. “The café has so many beautiful corners, like the red wall and yellow apricot blossom decorations that really evoke the spirit of a traditional Tết,” said Thu Phương, a visitor from Bình Thạnh ward.
Another favorite is So Far So Good, a coffee shop styled like an old European villa on Vũ Ngọc Phan street in Bình Lợi Trung ward. The venue features carefully curated spaces, abundant natural light, and a lush garden, making it a magnet for photo enthusiasts, especially those donning áo dài for the holiday. “The space at So Far So Good is really spacious, and the café invests a lot in decoration, so there are many poetic corners for photos. The drinks are also good and affordable for us,” shared Bảo Ngọc, who traveled from Xuân Hoà ward for a Tết photo shoot with friends.
On Pasteur street in Xuân Hòa ward, Ấp cafe offers a different kind of retreat, blending a cozy, vintage glass house aesthetic with soft yellow lighting and the soothing sounds of old music. Its simple, inviting exterior and tranquil interior make it ideal for those seeking a peaceful spot to unwind or capture a serene Tết photo. “We often stop by Ấp cafe because it’s centrally located and convenient. The menu is diverse, and the space is great for taking áo dài photos,” said Hoàng Minh from Cầu Ông Lãnh ward. The café’s festive decorations—bright chrysanthemums, apricot and peach blossoms, and a wall adorned with old CDs—provide a nostalgic, springtime setting that draws both men and women in traditional dress.
These coffee shops aren’t just about looks; their menus cater to a wide range of tastes, offering trendy drinks like matcha lattes and cacao marshmallows alongside local favorites such as bạc xỉu, milk coffee, milk tea, and fresh juices. The thoughtful mix of traditional and modern elements mirrors the broader mood of Tết in Vietnam: a time to honor the past while embracing new experiences.
While domestic destinations are thriving, international travel is also on the rise. The VNA article notes that Bangkok continues to lead as the top international destination for Vietnamese travelers during Tết, thanks to its short flights, developed tourism infrastructure, and diverse attractions. Other Asian hotspots—Singapore, Tokyo, Hong Kong, and Bali—round out the list, appealing to families, groups of friends, and solo travelers alike. Notably, interest in longer-haul destinations is growing, with searches for New Delhi surging by 500% compared to last year. Japanese cities beyond Tokyo, such as Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka, are also attracting attention, reflecting a deeper interest in cultural and culinary experiences over mere shopping or relaxation.
The nearly nine-day Tết holiday is a key factor driving this travel boom. With more time on their hands, many Vietnamese are opting for longer, more immersive trips, sometimes combining several cities or extending their stays to savor the full breadth of their chosen destination. Airlines have responded in kind: Vietjet Air has added nearly 390,000 seats—about 1,800 flights—for the holiday rush, while Vietnam Airlines and Bamboo Airways have each increased capacity on key domestic routes. Promotional fares and flexible schedules are making it easier than ever for people to reunite with family or embark on new adventures as the new year begins.
All told, the 2026 Tết season in Vietnam is a testament to the country’s evolving tastes and growing appetite for experience—whether that means exploring a new corner of the country, sipping coffee in a nostalgic setting, or jetting off to a distant city. As the holiday unfolds, one thing is clear: Vietnamese travelers and city-dwellers alike are embracing both tradition and change, capturing the spirit of the season in every journey and every snapshot.