Vietnam Tourism Sector Experiences Strong Growth with Digital Innovations and Festive Offerings for the 2025 Season, Enhancing Visitor Experience

Published on December 8, 2025

As the year wraps up, the tourism sector of Vietnam is observing impressive growth in both domestic and international travel. According to the VNAT, domestic travelers reached an estimated 125 million in the first 10 months of 2025, while international arrivals hit 17.2 million. The growth of visitor numbers has been reflected in the revenue of the tourism sector: travel firms reported earnings at an estimated VND 77.4 trillion-nearly USD 3 billion-while accommodation and dining services contributed more than VND 695 trillion.

The positive growth indicators have strengthened business confidence and reiterated prospects that the industry may possibly reach its annual targets or even surpass them, particularly in view of the upcoming waves of Christmas, New Year, and Tet travel. This momentum has inspired the launch of new tourism products enabled by digital technologies, cultural experiences that can attract the interest of travelers.

Digital Tourism Innovations Enhance Cultural Experiences

Vietnam’s tourism industry is increasingly leveraging digital technologies to enhance the visitor experience, particularly targeting younger audiences who seek interactive and immersive content. Digital experiences, including VR (Virtual Reality), AR (Augmented Reality), and QR-based applications, have become central to promoting Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage.

One standout example is the “Legendary Truong Son Trail, Command Bunker” VR tour in Quang Tri, which vividly recreates the rugged terrain of Highway 20 and the intense wartime atmosphere faced by drivers. This use of digitalization has not only enhanced the product appeal but has significantly increased visitor engagement, especially for younger tourists who prefer the ability to “try before booking.” By bringing cultural stories to life through imagery and sound, these immersive digital tours help boost conversion rates from interest to purchase, driving further growth in Vietnam’s tourism market.

Across provinces such as Lao Cai, Tuyen Quang, Dien Bien, and Thai Nguyen, immersive tourism is becoming an emerging trend, replacing traditional sightseeing. Visitors can now experience local activities, such as donning ethnic costumes, cooking local dishes in Ta Van, picking and roasting tea in Thai Nguyen, or weaving brocade in Bac Ha. These activities not only enhance the tour value but also encourage longer stays, as tourists are given the chance to interact with local communities in a meaningful way.

Promotions to Boost Travel During Peak Season

As the peak holiday travel season approaches, tourism businesses are ramping up promotions to stimulate demand. Voucher systems, e-vouchers, and flight-and-resort combo packages have been launched early to capture the attention of potential travelers. Nguyen Cong Hoan, General Director of Flamingo Redtours, noted that searches for tours and hotel rooms surged in November and December, creating favorable conditions for boosting sales during the festive season.

For international markets, Bui Thanh Tu, Marketing Director of BestPrice, highlighted strong growth prospects from key regions like Australia, the US, Europe, and Northeast Asia, with arrivals expected to rise steadily from November 2025 through the first quarter of 2026. Domestic tourism remains stable, benefiting from the upcoming year-end holidays.

Festive Destinations: Vietnam’s Seasonal Tourism Surge

One of the most popular festive destinations is Da Lat, where early morning mist over Xuan Huong Lake and Christmas lights along the city’s iconic slopes attract large crowds. As central districts fill up, many visitors are shifting to quieter areas like Trai Mat and Xuan Truong, enjoying a more peaceful atmosphere while still taking in the festive ambiance.

In Ho Chi Minh City, streets like Dong Khoi, Le Loi, and Nguyen Hue are illuminated with Christmas lights, artificial snow displays, and giant Christmas trees, drawing crowds to landmarks such as the Notre Dame Cathedral and Diamond Plaza. The city is a hub for festive energy, with Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street becoming the focal point for New Year’s Eve celebrations, where tens of thousands gather for midnight fireworks.

For a contrasting experience, Phu Quoc offers a “tropical Christmas,” with golden sunshine, calm seas, and beachside festive parties. The island’s most pleasant weather in December makes it ideal for families and travelers escaping winter chills. Seashell-themed Christmas trees, European-style night markets, and seaside feasts create a unique holiday ambiance for visitors.

Tourism Impact: Supporting Economic Recovery and Long-Term Growth

The festive tourism surge in Vietnam is having a positive economic impact, with local businesses, hotels, and tour operators benefitting from the influx of domestic and international visitors. Cultural tourism experiences, such as Nile cruises, local handicrafts, and ethnic village activities, help not only generate revenue for local communities but also preserve and celebrate Vietnam’s rich heritage.

As the tourism sector continues to recover, Vietnam’s tourism growth will help drive socioeconomic development, with benefits extending beyond major cities to regional tourism hubs. This growth in holiday travel and the introduction of new experiences are expected to enhance job creation, tourism infrastructure, and overall economic resilience.

Looking Ahead: Continued Tourism Growth and Diversification in 2026

Looking ahead, Vietnam’s tourism sector is on track for continued growth in 2026, with festive tourism expected to remain a key driver. As the country works to diversify tourism products, boost international arrivals, and expand digital engagement, Vietnam is poised to become a top cultural tourism destination in Southeast Asia.

The future of tourism in Vietnam is bright, with opportunities for eco-tourism, adventure tourism, and cultural tourism continuing to grow in popularity. As the sector strengthens its infrastructure and diversifies its offerings, the economic impact of tourism in Vietnam will continue to expand, helping to sustain long-term growth and job creation in the country’s tourism industry.

A Year of Growth and Optimism for Vietnam’s Tourism Industry

As the festive period approaches, Vietnam is getting ready to achieve success within its tourism sector. From digital innovations to immersive experiences and promotions tailored to domestic and international markets, Vietnam continues to reposition itself as a world leader. The increasing focus on sustainability, cultural preservation, and tourism infrastructure secures a bright future for Vietnam’s tourism industry as exciting and prosperous for both tourists and locals alike.