In the first six months of the year, Vietnam welcomed nearly 10.7 million international tourists and 77.5 million domestic tourists, generating over 515,000 billion VND in tourism revenue, according to data released by the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism on 6/7.

European tourism to Vietnam has shown clear signs of recovery. Russia leads the way with the strongest growth, bringing in 260,000 visitors, a nearly 140% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Other key markets like the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Denmark, Norway, and Sweden all experienced double-digit growth, ranging from 10% to 24%.

Several factors contribute to Vietnam's appeal to Russian tourists, according to representatives of travel agencies specializing in the Russian market. Warm weather and beaches are a major draw.

Vietnam's tropical climate offers year-round sunshine in coastal areas like Nha Trang, Mui Ne, and Phu Quoc, providing a welcome escape from the cold Russian winter. Many restaurants and hotels in popular tourist destinations cater to Russian visitors with menus and staff fluent in Russian.

Convenient flight routes and competitive tour prices are also advantageous. Russia's Azur Air launched flights to Khanh Hoa province in late February, departing from major Russian cities such as Moscow, Yekaterinburg, Kazan, Novosibirsk, Siberia, and the Far East, according to the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism.

Russian tourists walk on the streets in Khanh Hoa. Photo: Bui Toan

Vietnam's affordability compared to competing destinations in Southeast Asia, the Maldives, and the UAE is another attractive factor. Additionally, the government's relaxed visa policy aims to boost international tourism. On 7/3, Vietnam extended its visa exemption for citizens of 12 countries, including Russia, for another three years. The visa-free stay allows for up to 45 days from the date of entry, facilitating multiple visits or extended stays.

Before the pandemic, Russia consistently ranked among Vietnam's top source markets, fostering the growth of Russian-Vietnamese travel agencies. Many localities and tourism businesses had already developed products specifically catering to Russian tourists.

Besides Russia, Poland and Switzerland also saw increased tourist numbers, rising by 44.3% and 10.2%, respectively, compared to the same period in 2024. This growth results from the government's resolution to grant short-term visa exemptions to citizens of Poland, the Czech Republic, and Switzerland as part of the 2025 tourism stimulus program.

Northeast Asia remains the largest source market, accounting for 60% of total international visitors. China is the leading source market for Vietnam and also shows the strongest growth momentum, with over 2.7 million visitors, a surge of more than 44% compared to the same period in 2024.

Phuong Anh