According to data released by the General Statistics Office, over 2 million foreign tourists visited Vietnam in December alone-up 15.7% compared to the same month last year-capping off a breakthrough year for the country’s post-pandemic tourism revival.

China, Korea, and India lead growth

China remained Vietnam’s largest source market in 2025 with over 5.28 million arrivals, a significant 41.3% increase year-on-year. South Korea followed with 4.33 million, and Taiwan (China) placed third with 1.23 million visitors.

Other key contributors to Vietnam’s top 10 markets included the United States (849,000), Japan (814,000), India (746,480), Russia (689,714), Cambodia (687,132), Malaysia (573,716), and Australia (548,471).

Russia posted the most dramatic increase, growing 196.9% from the previous year. India also demonstrated strong momentum with a 48.9% rise, bolstered by a wave of new direct flight routes launched by Vietnamese carriers to major Indian cities.

Several other markets recorded notable growth: the Philippines (up 81.3%), Cambodia (up 44.8%), and China (up 41.3%).

European markets benefit from visa policy reforms

Visa liberalization policies contributed significantly to double-digit growth across European markets. France saw a 21.2% increase, the UK 20.3%, Italy 20.7%, Poland 42.6%, Norway 19.1%, and the Netherlands 17.5%.

These figures reflect the broader impact of relaxed entry regulations, enhanced promotional campaigns, diversified tourism offerings, and service quality improvements introduced throughout 2025.

Momentum builds despite unmet targets

While Vietnam fell slightly short of its initial goal of 23–25 million international arrivals, surpassing the 21 million mark for the first time marks a historic leap forward.

According to the General Statistics Office, 2025’s results signify a critical turning point in Vietnam’s integration into the global tourism market, affirming its competitiveness and brand strength on the international stage.

The success lays a solid foundation for even more ambitious growth in the years to come.

Milestone moment: 20 millionth visitor lands in Phu Quoc

One of the year’s highlights was the celebration of the 20 millionth international visitor-marked by a special ceremony on December 15 in Phu Quoc. The honored guest was a female traveler from Poland, underscoring the growing appeal of Vietnam’s emerging destinations to European tourists.

From pandemic to peak: A stunning recovery

Vietnam’s tourism journey from Covid-19 lockdowns to record-breaking success in 2025 has been one of resilience and transformation. The sector has not only recovered to pre-pandemic levels but exceeded them by over 110%, placing Vietnam among the fastest-rebounding destinations in the region.

With strong government support, infrastructure investment, and global connectivity improvements, the industry is poised to aim even higher in 2026.

Ngoc Ha