As Vietnam gears up for the April 30 - May 1 holiday, Hoi An has emerged as one of the top domestic destinations sought after by Vietnamese tourists, according to a recent report from Booking.com. The charming town is ranked among the ten most searched locations, alongside popular spots such as Da Nang, Da Lat, and Ho Chi Minh City. This surge in interest highlights a growing trend among travelers who are increasingly prioritizing cultural and historical experiences during their holidays.
Booking.com’s latest findings reveal that the complete list of the ten most searched domestic destinations for the upcoming holiday includes: Da Nang, Da Lat, Vung Tau, Nha Trang, Ho Chi Minh City, Hue, Phu Quoc, Ha Long, Hanoi, and Hoi An. Notably, Hoi An's inclusion in this list is a testament to its enduring appeal, especially as it was also recognized as a top destination during the recent Hung Kings Commemoration holiday. The city is renowned for its well-preserved ancient town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, drawing visitors eager to explore its rich history and vibrant culture.
According to Booking.com’s 2025 Travel Trends report, a significant 65% of Vietnamese tourists prioritize good weather when selecting their travel destinations. This preference has contributed to the rising popularity of coastal cities like Da Nang and Da Lat, which are known for their favorable climates. However, the enduring allure of culturally rich locales such as Hanoi, Hue, and Hoi An reflects a broader trend of travelers seeking deeper, more meaningful experiences.
In addition to domestic travel, Vietnamese tourists are also showing a keen interest in international destinations. This year, the top ten international locations attracting Vietnamese travelers include Bangkok, Seoul, Tokyo, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Taipei, Hong Kong, Osaka, Shanghai, and Sydney. The diversity of these destinations highlights the growing global curiosity among Vietnamese tourists, who are eager to explore various cultures and experiences beyond their borders.
Meanwhile, in Hanoi, significant strides are being made to boost tourism as the city sets ambitious goals for 2025. According to Mr. Tran Trung Hieu, Deputy Director of the Hanoi Department of Tourism, the city aims to welcome over 30 million visitors, including more than 7 million international tourists. This target reflects a robust growth trajectory, as the city has already seen an increase in tourism indicators in the early months of 2025.
Through the first three months of this year, Hanoi welcomed an estimated 7.3 million visitors, marking an 8.6% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Among these, approximately 1.85 million were international tourists, representing a remarkable 17.3% growth. The total revenue generated from tourism has reached 29.93 trillion VND, up by 11.3%. This positive trend is further supported by a 45% increase in international searches for accommodation in Vietnam during the first half of February 2025, as reported by Google's market trend monitoring tool.
To capitalize on this momentum, Hanoi has launched a series of over 60 major events under the "Hanoi Tourism welcomes 2025 - Get on Hanoi 2025" program. These initiatives are designed to promote the city as a vibrant and attractive destination. Events include traditional festivals, cultural exhibitions, and community engagement activities that showcase local heritage and hospitality.
Mr. Hieu emphasized the importance of diversifying tourism offerings to appeal to different types of travelers. Plans include the introduction of new tourism products aimed at attracting high-spending visitors who prefer extended stays. For instance, Hanoi is looking to launch new community-based tourism experiences that immerse visitors in the cultural traditions of local ethnic minorities. Additionally, the city plans to enhance its river tourism routes and develop high-quality golf tours.
Furthermore, Hanoi is committed to promoting sustainable tourism practices. This includes initiatives such as the "Free Restroom" program in Truc Bach ward, which aims to enhance visitor comfort and promote a friendly image of the city. The tourism sector is also collaborating with local businesses to protect the environment, as seen in the recent campaign against plastic waste at the ancient village of Duong Lam.
As part of its strategic push, Hanoi is focusing on digital transformation in tourism. This involves establishing electronic ticketing systems at popular attractions to streamline visitor access and enhance the overall experience. By 2025, the city aims to attract 31 million tourists, including 7.5 million international visitors, with a total revenue increase of over 13%, reaching approximately 125.3 trillion VND.
These ambitious goals are supported by a commitment to professional marketing and promotion, including partnerships with major airlines and participation in international tourism fairs. The city plans to host significant events such as the Hanoi Tourism Gift Festival and the Hanoi Ao Dai Festival, which will further solidify its position as a leading destination in the region.
In conclusion, as Vietnam prepares for the upcoming holiday, the rising interest in destinations like Hoi An and the ambitious tourism goals set by Hanoi reflect a dynamic and evolving travel landscape. With a focus on cultural experiences, sustainability, and digital innovation, the Vietnamese tourism sector is poised for a promising future.
