Vietnam Sparks Tourism Revival As Russian Visitors Drive A New Wave Of Premium Travel Growth In Da Nang

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Vietnam Boosts Tourism Growth As Russian Travellers Return To Da Nang With Rising Demand Vietnam’s tourism sector is witnessing a major revival from Russia and Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) markets, with Da Nang emerging as one of the most attractive destinations for travellers seeking beaches, premium resorts and unique cultural experiences. Rising arrivals, restored connectivity and changing travel preferences are creating new opportunities for Vietnam to strengthen its position among international holiday destinations.

A recent tourism exchange programme focused on strengthening cooperation between Da Nang, Russia and CIS markets highlighted the growing relationship between the regions and explored future opportunities for tourism development.

Russian Travellers Fuel Vietnam’s Growing Tourism Recovery

Vietnam has experienced a remarkable increase in Russian tourist arrivals during the first eight months of 2026. Visitor numbers from Russia exceeded 1 million, representing a significant rise of around 166% compared with the same period in 2025.

The rapid growth reflects renewed confidence among Russian travellers in Vietnam as an attractive holiday destination in Southeast Asia. The country’s beautiful coastline, diverse attractions, affordable luxury experiences and welcoming environment have helped increase demand among international visitors.

The changing profile of Russian tourists is also shaping Vietnam’s tourism market. A growing number of visitors belong to higher-income groups and premium travel segments, creating opportunities for destinations to develop more specialised experiences.

Rather than focusing only on increasing visitor numbers, Vietnam’s tourism industry is now looking towards attracting travellers who spend more on accommodation, dining, entertainment and local experiences.

Industry representatives highlighted that the recovery of international air connections has supported the return of Russian visitors. However, improved connectivity is only one part of the growth story. Vietnam’s stable tourism environment, convenient visa policies and stronger promotional campaigns have also contributed to rising demand.

Da Nang Becomes A Major Hub For Russian And CIS Tourism Growth

Da Nang has strengthened its position as one of Vietnam’s leading destinations for Russian and CIS travellers. The coastal city welcomed more than 440,000 visitors from these markets during the first eight months of 2026, showing growth of nearly 95% compared with the previous year.

The city currently ranks among Vietnam’s top destinations for Russian arrivals, following Nha Trang, which has traditionally attracted a large share of visitors from this market.

The return of charter flights connecting Da Nang with different cities across Russia and CIS countries has played a crucial role in rebuilding tourism flows. Easier access has encouraged more travellers to choose Da Nang for holidays focused on relaxation, sightseeing and resort experiences.

Beyond transportation improvements, Da Nang has increased destination promotion through business partnerships, tourism networking activities and digital marketing campaigns. These efforts aim to introduce the city to more international travellers and create stronger links with overseas markets.

The city is also working to develop tourism products that match the evolving expectations of modern travellers, particularly those looking for comfort, personalised services and memorable experiences.

New Russian Travel Habits Transform Vietnam’s Tourism Strategy

The travel behaviour of Russian visitors has changed significantly after the pandemic, creating a new direction for Vietnam’s tourism development.

In the past, Russian tourists were mainly older travellers who preferred organised package tours. Today, the market has become younger and more independent, with Gen Z travellers and families becoming increasingly important segments.

Around 80% of Russian travellers now fall within younger and family travel groups. Many families aged between 25 and 45 are independently searching for flights, hotels and activities before deciding where to travel.

This shift has encouraged destinations to improve digital information, online booking options and personalised travel experiences. Visitors are no longer simply choosing a package holiday but are looking for destinations that offer flexibility and a wide range of activities.

Russian travellers are also spending longer periods abroad. Many are choosing extended holidays, booking one-way flights and exploring multiple Vietnamese cities during a single trip.

For destinations such as Da Nang, this trend creates opportunities to attract longer-staying visitors who contribute more to the local economy.

Vietnam Focuses On Quality Tourism And Premium Experiences

The rapid growth of Russian arrivals has encouraged Vietnam to focus on improving tourism quality rather than simply increasing visitor numbers.

Tourism experts said destinations need to understand traveller preferences, spending capacity and expectations to create products that deliver greater value. A large number of visitors alone does not guarantee sustainable tourism growth unless destinations provide high-quality services and meaningful experiences.

Da Nang is now targeting travellers interested in premium accommodation, wellness services, boutique properties and resort-based holidays. Russian visitors are increasingly researching destinations and hotels before travelling, with many showing interest in combining relaxation with entertainment, sightseeing and cultural activities.

Travel companies have also expanded connections between Russia, CIS cities and Vietnam. During the recent travel season, one tourism operator linked 21 cities across Russia and CIS countries with Vietnamese destinations, while Da Nang welcomed visitors from 11 of those locations.

The growing interest from Russian travellers presents a valuable opportunity for Vietnam’s tourism industry. By improving services, expanding experiences and focusing on higher-value visitors, Da Nang and other destinations can build stronger international tourism growth in the years ahead.