Vietnam has become one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic travel destinations — where bustling cities, emerald rice terraces, limestone bays, and ancient temples meet.
After an impressive recovery from the pandemic, Vietnam welcomed 14.98 million international visitors in 2024, surpassing its pre-COVID benchmark from 2019.
The tourism industry contributed nearly $34 billion to the national GDP and cemented Vietnam’s place among the top 5 most visited countries in Asia.
Key stats: Vietnam Tourism
- About 17.6 million international visitors in 2024 — Vietnam bounced back strongly from pandemic lows, nearly reaching its 2019 peak.
- ~110 million domestic travellers in 2024 — the local tourism engine is roaring alongside international recovery.
- ~USD 28.9 billion in accommodation/catering revenue (2024) — tourism is not just about arrivals, but serious spending too.
- First half of 2025: ~10.7 million foreign visitors (+21%) — early signs that 2025 could be another strong year.
- First seven months of 2025: ~12.23 million arrivals (+22.5%) — keeping up the momentum heading into the second half.
- ~84% of visitors arrive by air, showing Vietnam’s openness and connectivity improvements.
- Target for 2025: 22-23 million international visitors — ambitious, but backed by strong early‐year growth.
- China and South Korea lead as source markets, demonstrating Vietnam’s importance in the Northeast Asian travel circuit.
- Tourism to contribute over 7% of GDP and support 5.6 million jobs — the sector is a key pillar of the economy.
- Visitors arriving by road increased ~63% in 2024, and by sea ~97%, indicating broader growth beyond air travel.
How Many Tourists Visit Vietnam Each Year?
Vietnam recorded 14.98 million international arrivals in 2024 — up 52% from 2023.
| Year | International Visitors | Growth YoY |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 18.0M | — |
| 2020 | 3.8M | ▼79% |
| 2021 | <0.4M | ▼90% |
| 2022 | 3.66M | ▲900% |
| 2023 | 9.0M | ▲146% |
| 2024 | 14.98M | ▲52% |
Vietnam’s tourism revival was driven by new e-visa policies, rising airline connectivity, and the return of Chinese and South Korean travelers.
How Many Tourists Visit Vietnam Each Day?
Vietnam welcomed about 41,000 international visitors daily in 2024.
This number peaks around major festivals like Tet (Lunar New Year) and Golden Week holidays, when domestic and inbound travel reach record highs.
How Much Do Visitors Spend in Vietnam?
Total tourism revenue in 2024 reached approximately $33.9 billion USD, a 45% increase from 2023.
- International visitor spending: $17.5B
- Domestic tourism spending: $16.4B
- Average spend per international visitor: ~$1,170
- Tourism share of national GDP: ~6.5%
Which Countries Visit Vietnam the Most?
South Korea, China, and Taiwan remain Vietnam’s largest inbound markets, followed by the U.S. and Japan.
| Country | Visitors (2024 est.) | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 🇰🇷 South Korea | 3.6M | 24% |
| 🇨🇳 China | 2.7M | 18% |
| 🇹🇼 Taiwan | 960K | 6% |
| 🇺🇸 United States | 900K | 6% |
| 🇯🇵 Japan | 800K | 5% |
| 🇲🇾 Malaysia | 670K | 4% |
| 🇹🇭 Thailand | 620K | 4% |
| 🇦🇺 Australia | 500K | 3% |
| 🇸🇬 Singapore | 460K | 3% |
| 🇫🇷 France | 400K | 3% |
What Are the Most Visited Attractions in Vietnam?
From ancient cities to UNESCO World Heritage sites, Vietnam’s attractions draw millions each year.
| Attraction | Annual Visitors (est.) | Region |
|---|---|---|
| Ha Long Bay | ~4.4M | Quảng Ninh |
| Hoi An Ancient Town | ~3.2M | Quảng Nam |
| Ho Chi Minh City (District 1) | ~9.5M | South |
| Hanoi Old Quarter | ~8.7M | North |
| Phú Quốc Island | ~5.5M | Kien Giang |
| Nha Trang | ~5.0M | Khánh Hòa |
| Da Nang Beach | ~3.7M | Central |
| Ba Na Hills (Golden Bridge) | ~3.2M | Da Nang |
| Sapa Terraces | ~2.4M | Lào Cai |
| Cu Chi Tunnels | ~2.1M | HCMC area |
When Is the Best Time to Visit Vietnam? (Seasonality)
Vietnam’s tourism follows regional weather patterns rather than one national season.
| Season | Trend | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | High | Dry & cool in the North; warm in the South |
| Spring (Mar–May) | High | Ideal weather; Tet Festival draws millions |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Moderate | Hot; domestic tourism peak |
| Autumn (Sep–Nov) | Moderate | Pleasant weather, fewer crowds |
What Are the Biggest Events Attracting Tourists to Vietnam?
Festivals and cultural events are a major draw for both locals and foreign visitors.
| Event | Visitors (est.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year) | 5M+ | Vietnam’s biggest annual event |
| Hue Festival | ~500K | Heritage & arts celebration |
| Danang International Fireworks Festival | ~300K | Summer spectacle |
| Hoi An Lantern Festival | ~200K monthly | Ancient town lights up every full moon |
| Vietnam International Travel Mart (Hanoi) | ~80K | Industry + cultural showcase |
| Sapa Love Market | ~50K | Ethnic cultural fair |
How Much Money Does Vietnam Make From Tourism?
Tourism generated about $33.9 billion in 2024, employing more than 2.5 million people.
- Direct jobs in tourism: ~1.1M
- Indirect employment: ~1.4M
- Tourism GDP contribution: ~6.5%
Which Cities Are Most Popular With Tourists in Vietnam?
| City | Annual Visitors (2024 est.) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Ho Chi Minh City | ~9.5M | Business hub, nightlife, history |
| Hanoi | ~8.7M | Culture, museums, street food |
| Da Nang | ~3.8M | Beaches, Ba Na Hills |
| Nha Trang | ~5M | Resorts, diving |
| Phú Quốc | ~5.5M | Island paradise |
| Hue | ~2.5M | Imperial heritage |
| Hoi An | ~3.2M | Ancient architecture, lanterns |
How Has Vietnam’s Tourism Industry Recovered?
Vietnam’s recovery is among the fastest in Asia.
- 2024 arrivals reached 83% of 2019’s record level.
- 2025 projections expect 17–18 million international visitors.
- E-visa expansion to all nationalities (effective Aug 2023) significantly boosted travel demand.
- Flagship carriers (Vietnam Airlines, Bamboo Airways, VietJet) reopened long-haul routes to Europe, Australia, and North America.
FAQ – Vietnam Tourism Insights
How many tourists visited Vietnam in 2024?
14.98 million international visitors, +52% YoY.
Which country sends the most tourists to Vietnam?
South Korea (3.6M).
What is the biggest source of tourism revenue?
International visitors, generating about $17.5B in 2024.
What are Vietnam’s top tourist cities?
Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Da Nang, Hoi An, and Phú Quốc.
When is the best time to visit?
Spring (Mar–May) and winter (Dec–Feb) for the best weather.
How much does tourism contribute to Vietnam’s economy?
Around 6.5% of GDP (~$34B).
Sources
- Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT) — Vietnam Tourism Statistics 2025 Report
- General Statistics Office of Vietnam (GSO) — Monthly Statistical Information – Tourism
- UNWTO — Asia-Pacific Tourism Recovery Outlook 2024
- Reuters — Vietnam’s Tourism Revenue Surges in 2024
- Nikkei Asia — Vietnam’s Tourism Industry Surges Back to Life (2024)
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