Hanoi tops the list of most-searched destinations for the holiday period (from 29/8 to 3/9), according to Booking.com, with a wealth of culinary, cultural, and unique accommodation experiences awaiting discovery.

Combining the parade with exploring the capital city

National Day, with the spirited atmosphere of "national celebration," is the perfect time to explore Hanoi's beauty. Beyond watching the parade, visitors can book tours available on the Booking.com app, such as cooking classes, walking or motorbike tours to explore the old quarter, participate in workshops like coffee brewing, visit traditional craft villages, explore historical sites like the Temple of Literature, the Imperial Academy, Hoa Lo Prison, or embark on food tours throughout the city.

Experiencing new types of accommodation

Booking.com's 2025 travel trends reveal the growing popularity of alternative accommodations, attracting increasing interest from travelers. For those seeking immersion in local life, especially during festivals, non-traditional accommodation models offer a worthwhile experience. Visitors can easily search for unique accommodations using Booking.com and apply filters to select options based on their needs.

In the Filter section, select "Accommodation Type" to find the desired non-traditional accommodation. Screenshot

In the Filter section, select "Accommodation Type" to find the desired non-traditional accommodation. Screenshot

For multi-generational families, villas or multi-room homestays are suitable choices. Couples can enjoy a romantic, quiet getaway within a resort or experience a night of stargazing in luxury tents. Solo travelers can opt for hostels or capsules for budget-friendly options.

Besides long trips, staycations are increasingly popular, especially when people have the opportunity to discover a new perspective on their place of residence, particularly during festive seasons and cultural events. With staycations, choosing a location based on holiday needs is crucial. To witness the grand parades, visitors can choose hotels in the city center for proximity to the parade route and convenient access to historical and cultural sites.

Conversely, for those seeking tranquility, the West Lake area, with its lakeside homestays and guesthouses nestled amidst nature, presents an ideal choice. Families seeking a change of scenery can opt for suburban areas like Ba Vi or Hoa Binh. Here, bungalows and farm stays amidst peaceful landscapes offer relaxation and closeness to nature, allowing for rejuvenation before returning to daily life.

However, the high demand for bookings, tickets, and tours during holidays creates opportunities for scams. Given these increasingly sophisticated tactics, tourists should book services through reputable platforms. Booking.com provides 24/7 customer service, ensuring safer and more convenient holiday travel.

Furthermore, visitors can join Booking.com's Genius program for discounts while still ensuring memorable experiences.

Genius Level 1: By simply creating an account, you become a Genius Level 1 member and receive at least a 10% discount on select accommodations and car rentals.

Genius Level 2: After accumulating 5 bookings within 2 years, you receive additional benefits such as free breakfast and free room upgrades at certain hotels.

Genius Level 3: With 15 bookings accumulated within two years, you unlock even more perks, including priority support for all bookings on the platform.

Book flights early

Flight prices fluctuate based on booking time, remaining seats, and market demand. Booking close to the departure date often results in higher prices and fewer choices of airlines, flight times, and seats. Planning early and securing tickets in advance saves money and ensures a smooth journey during peak season.

First-time bookers can utilize online platforms like Booking.com, which offers transparent pricing, no hidden fees, and flight connection features for international travel.

Consider ground transportation

Besides airfare, planning transportation at the destination is also important for a comfortable trip. Visitors can pre-book airport transfers on Booking.com or explore popular ride-hailing apps locally.

Visitors can opt for jeep or vintage motorbike tours with guides to avoid crowds. Photo: Booking.com

Visitors can opt for jeep or vintage motorbike tours with guides to avoid crowds. Photo: Booking.com

For those wanting a road trip experience, renting a car early from a reputable provider ensures vehicle availability and a smooth start to the journey.

The Dan