Vietnam surpasses Singapore to become Southeast Asia's fastest-growing tourism destination

This remarkable growth has positioned Vietnam as the fastest-developing tourism destination in Southeast Asia.

In 2024, Vietnam surpassed Singapore to become the third most-visited country in the region, welcoming 17.5 million international arrivals. That put Vietnam third in the region, after Malaysia which welcomed 25 million visitors, and Thailand, with 35 million.

According to The Economic Times, Vietnam has also outpaced Thailand to become the most beloved destination among travelers in the region.

Foreign tourists in Phu Quoc. Photo courtesy of Sun Group

The global trend of travelers choosing Vietnam is gaining unprecedented momentum. In January 2025, Vietnam welcomed over 2.1 million international arrivals, a 36.9% increase from the same period last year. This figure surpasses even the pre-pandemic record of January 2020.

Visitor numbers from Russia surged by more than 116%, while major Western European markets such as Germany, France, the U.K., and Italy also saw robust double-digit growth. Notably, arrivals from Northern Europe, a region known for its appreciation of nature and sustainable travel, climbed significantly, with Norway up 35.6%, Sweden 31.8%, and Denmark nearly 18%.

Contributing to these impressive results are three standout destinations: Phu Quoc, Ha Long, and Da Nang. Phu Quoc alone welcomed nearly 1.4 million tourists in the first 2 months of 2025, reflecting a 37% year-on-year increase. Da Nang saw a 42.1% rise in international arrivals in Q1 compared to the same period in 2024.

These destinations share a natural beauty that appeals to international visitors. While My Khe Beach in Da Nang is popular for its vibrant sports and events scene, the powdery white sands and emerald waters of Kem and Sao Beaches in Phu Quoc offer a tranquil escape. Meanwhile, Ha Long captivates with its UNESCO-recognized heritage bay, home to thousands of majestic limestone islets.

Kem Beach in Phu Quoc. Photo courtesy of Fatel Belek

Beyond their natural landscapes, Phu Quoc, Da Nang, and Ha Long are also home to integrated tourism ecosystems that offer more than just scenic retreats. These destinations boast world-class entertainment complexes and luxury resorts operated by renowned international brands.

A prime example is the Sun Paradise Land ecosystem in southern Phu Quoc, which features the world's longest three-cable gondola ride to Hon Thom Island, the beachfront VUI-Fest night market with over 50 stalls, the Kiss of the Sea show with the world's largest sea screen, and nightly fireworks displays.

Da Nang offers a seamless blend of mountain adventures and seaside luxury, with attractions such as Sun World Ba Na Hills, where visitors can enjoy entertainment experiences atop the Ba Na mountain. Premier beachfront resorts like the InterContinental Da Nang Sun Peninsula Resort and Premier Village Da Nang redefine coastal luxury.

Phu Quoc and Ha Long are emerging as prime destinations for ultra-luxury travel, especially for significant celebrations. According to The Times of India, an increasing number of affluent Indian families are selecting Vietnam, particularly Phu Quoc and Ha Long, as the venue for their extravagant weddings. These destinations provide breathtaking backdrops, opulent accommodations, and expert event planning services, making them ideal for life's most memorable moments.

Phu Quoc and Ha Long have become top wedding destinations for affluent Indian families seeking grandeur and exclusivity. Photo courtesy of Sun Group

Vietnam's rapid rise in the global tourism market is also supported by flexible visa policies and an expanding air network. The streamlined e-visa system, along with selective visa waivers for citizens from several countries, makes Vietnam more accessible to international travelers than ever before.

Airlines like Singapore's Scoot have introduced new direct routes to emerging destinations such as Phu Quoc, further increasing the country's appeal to global travelers seeking fresh experiences.

In 2025, Vietnam's tourism scene is thriving with vitality and promise. According to expert, recognition from global media and travelers is not just a milestone; it's a springboard for Vietnam's ambition to become Southeast Asia's leading destination for travel and leisure. Looking ahead, the bigger picture reveals a goal to become the second most-visited country in Southeast Asia by the end of this decade.