Vietnam’s tourism industry has seen a steady growth in recent years, with an increasing number of both international and domestic visitors. In 2021, Vietnam’s tourism industry attracted 2.35 million international tourists, which was less than half of the expected goal of 5 million. Despite the setback, it still contributed a significant share to the country’s GDP, estimated at 9.2%. 

While the final numbers are not yet in for 2022, Vietnam did see a steady recovery in the tourism sector. The country is working on new initiatives to attract tourists and improve the industry. It is estimated that the number of international tourists will reach 3.5 million in 2022, and 4.5 million in 2023.

Vietnam’s tourism industry is an important contributor to the country’s economic growth and development. And still has much room to grow. According to the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, in 2020, the country welcomed more than 17 million visitors, of which almost 7 million were international tourists. 

The majority of international visitors to Vietnam come from Asia, with the top three countries being China, South Korea and Japan. These three countries accounted for nearly half of all foreign arrivals in 2020. Other popular source countries include the United States, France, Australia, and the United Kingdom. In terms of demographics, the majority of visitors to Vietnam are young adults aged 18-34, followed by those aged 35-54. 

There are many factors that attract visitors to Vietnam. The country is known for its stunning natural beauty, including its long coastline, lush jungles and breathtaking mountain ranges. It is also home to a rich and vibrant culture, with a long history and a diverse range of ethnic groups. In addition, Vietnam is known for its friendly locals and its delicious cuisine. The country is also very affordable, making it an attractive destination for budget travelers. 

Here is a list of the most popular tourist destinations in Vietnam: 

1. Halong Bay – Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its stunning limestone karst seascape. Visitors can take boat tours to explore the bay and discover its many hidden caves and islands. 

2. Ho Chi Minh City – Vietnam’s largest city, Ho Chi Minh City, is a bustling metropolis with plenty of attractions, including the Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral and the War Remnants Museum. 

3. Hue – Hue is a historic city with a rich cultural heritage. The city’s main attraction is its Imperial Enclosure, which is home to the Ngo Mon Gate, the Thai Hoa Palace and other ancient sites. 

4. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park – This national park is a karst mountain formation with numerous magnificent caves, such as the Paradise Cave and the Phong Nha Caves. 

5. My Son – My Son is an ancient temple city dating back to the 4th century. It is home to around 20 temple structures, as well as a museum, making it a popular attraction for history buffs. 

6. Hoi An – Hoi An is an old trading port known for its well-preserved architecture, including merchant houses, the iconic Japanese Bridge and the Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation. 

7. Sapa Countryside – The countryside around Sapa is filled with lush rice paddies and is home to many of Vietnam’s ethnic minorities. It is a popular trekking destination and offers stunning views of the Hoang Lien Mountains. 

With the right policies and initiatives in place, the industry could help to boost the overall economy and create more jobs for the country’s youth. In order to ensure sustainable growth, Vietnam needs to focus on improving infrastructure and services, as well as creating attractive destinations that can appeal to both domestic and international tourists.