From historic streets and spectacular coastlines to a food culture that keeps travelers coming back, Vietnam continues to strengthen its appeal on the global tourism map. In 2026, the country earned another international recognition, ranking among the world’s 10 most-loved countries in the Readers’ Choice Awards by Condé Nast Traveler.
Vietnam Earns Recognition From Travelers Worldwide
In the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2026, Vietnam ranked 10th among the world’s 20 favorite countries, scoring 92.99 out of 100. The result reflects the country’s appeal as a destination where travelers can enjoy a wide range of experiences, from cultural exploration and local cuisine to beach escapes and authentic encounters with everyday life.
Part of Vietnam’s charm lies in the diversity of its regions. A journey might begin with a morning stroll through Hanoi’s historic streets, continue to the spectacular landscapes of Ha Long Bay, and then head to central Vietnam to explore the heritage of Hue and Hoi An or unwind along Da Nang’s coastline. Further north, winding mountain roads reveal a different side of the country, while the Mekong Delta offers a glimpse into life along its waterways.
Moc Chau tea hills in Son La Province. Photo by Tu Flycam 4K for Topas.
Beyond its scenery, Vietnamese cuisine and local culture remain central to the visitor experience. From a steaming bowl of pho and freshly made banh mi to a cup of traditional Vietnamese coffee, everyday pleasures often become some of the most memorable parts of a trip.
More Than Beautiful Scenery: What Makes Vietnam Stand Out
Vietnam’s place among the world’s top 10 favorite countries is a notable achievement for its tourism industry. As travelers increasingly seek authentic experiences, cultural connections and meaningful journeys, Vietnam stands out for offering a variety of travel experiences within one destination.
Heritage tours, local food experiences, nature-based activities and coastal getaways give visitors plenty of reasons to explore beyond the country’s best-known attractions. Improvements in transport infrastructure and the expansion of international air connections are also helping make different regions more accessible to overseas travelers.
For Da Nang, the growing appeal of Vietnam as an international destination creates further opportunities to showcase the city’s own strengths. Its sandy beaches, Son Tra Peninsula, distinctive central Vietnamese cuisine and convenient access to Hoi An and Hue make Da Nang an attractive choice for travelers looking to combine relaxation, nature and cultural discovery in one trip.
Vietnam has set a target of welcoming 25 million international visitors in 2026, reflecting its ambition to expand the tourism sector and strengthen its global competitiveness. International recognition can help raise the country’s profile, while encouraging destinations to improve service quality, develop distinctive tourism products and create more rewarding experiences for visitors.
Travelers may first remember Vietnam for a beautiful landscape, a memorable meal or a special moment along the way. But it is the variety of experiences that can give them a reason to return.