Hoi An, Vietnam, is experiencing a remarkable surge in international tourism popularity as travelers from around the globe increasingly seek out its cultural allure. From late November 2024 to early February 2025, searches for travel to this enchanting city have jumped between 15% to 45% compared to the previous year, signaling its status as one of Vietnam's must-visit destinations.
According to reports from Thuong Hieu Cong Luan, nearly 2.1 million international tourists visited Vietnam during January 2025, marking a 36.9% increase compared to the same month the prior year. Within this growth, Quang Nam province, home to Hoi An, welcomed approximately 530,000 international visitors. The rising interest is particularly notable, especially as people from countries like the United States, Australia, India, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, the UK, Canada, Germany, and Malaysia are making Hoi An one of their primary destinations.
Why this sudden spike? Hoi An's unique charm lies within its well-preserved historical architecture and its capacity to evoke nostalgia. The city is truly breathtaking, adorned with classic yellow buildings reminiscent of its ancient trading history. Streets are laid out like chessboards, winding through the town, inviting visitors to explore its hidden nooks and crannies. "This beautiful old town retains its ancient charm with yellow-toned buildings and winding streets," explains local commentator Lê Dũng.
Notably, venues like the iconic Cầu Chùa, often referred to as the soul of Hoi An, and other historical houses such as Nhà cổ Quân Thắng, Tấn Ký, and Đức An, contribute to the city’s magical atmosphere. Visitors can experience not only the architecture but the spirit of the local community, which has gracefully balanced modernity with tradition.
During their time here, tourists are encouraged to visit rooftop cafés to take in expansive views of the ancient streets, enjoying the vibrant environment that's soaked with history. The appeal of Hoi An goes beyond aesthetics; it’s rich culture and warm hospitality have made it even more appealing to foreign travelers. "Tourists come to experience the nostalgia reflected through the architecture, especially the famous Cầu Chùa and ancient houses," notes Dũng.
This growing trend is expected to continue, thanks to concerted efforts by local businesses and tourism authorities aimed at enhancing travel experiences, promoting Hoi An’s cultural heritage, and improving accessibility for travelers. The beautiful blend of natural scenery, historic places, and activities has made it feasible for Hoi An to cement its status as one of Vietnam's key tourist spots.
With partnerships and promotional campaigns driving interest, as well as improvements to transportation infrastructure, Hoi An seems poised for continued growth. There’s no doubt visitors are eager to soak up everything this charming town has to offer.
Looking forward, the impact of this tourist influx on the local economy cannot be understated. Increased visitor numbers lead to greater demand for services and goods, providing livelihoods for the local population and supporting arts and culture. Hoi An stands as a shining example of how cultural heritage can not only endure but thrive, attracting new generations of tourists.
The future certainly looks bright for Hoi An, which has proven to be much more than just another tourist destination. It encapsulates the soul of Vietnam's past, beautifully wrapped within the fabric of modern tourism.