Market research shows that French tourists tend to seek immersive experiences in culture, history, and nature; they prefer longer, eco-friendly trips that respect local identity. This trend perfectly aligns with Vietnam's potential and values.
Therefore, the Vietnam Tourism Promotion Program, chaired by the Vietnam National Tourism Administration, recently took place in Paris, France (on the afternoon of May 12th, local time) - the final "stop" on the journey to launch the market in three European countries (Italy, Switzerland, and France), from May 3rd to 13th.
What do French tourists like about Vietnam?
According to Nguyen Trung Khanh, Director General of the Vietnam National Tourism Administration, France has always been a key market for Vietnamese tourism. In 2024, Vietnam welcomed nearly 279,000 French tourists, a 97% recovery compared to pre-pandemic levels. In just the first three months of 2025, the number of French tourists to Vietnam reached over 102,000, an increase of more than 28% compared to the same period last year.
This positive outcome is partly due to Vietnam's unilateral visa exemption for French citizens traveling for 15 days, effective from 2025; and the extension of the temporary stay to 45 days from August 15, 2023. This policy is considered a significant step forward in attracting international tourists. In addition, the air connectivity between the two countries is expanding, with frequent direct flights.
According to the National Tourism Administration, French tourists not only desire relaxing trips but also have a genuine need to live and immerse themselves in local life, experiencing authenticity in every moment. "Slow travel," linked to sustainable values and personalized experiences, is becoming the dominant trend in French travel preferences.
Director General of the Vietnam National Tourism Administration, Nguyen Trung Khanh, at the event. (Photo: Vietnam National Tourism Administration)
Accordingly, Vietnam's tourism industry is focusing on developing heritage tourism products in Hanoi, Hue, Hoi An, and Ninh Binh to offer journeys that explore the depth of Vietnamese history, architecture, and culture.
In Hanoi and Hue, visitors can admire ancient structures, explore royal cuisine and traditional culture. Hoi An, with its moss-covered ancient houses and dazzling lantern festival, along with Ninh Binh, often called the "Ha Long Bay on land," are attractive destinations for travelers who appreciate tranquility and ancient beauty.
To cater to the desire to explore nature, Vietnam's tours include the world natural wonder Ha Long Bay, trekking in Sa Pa, Ha Giang - a majestic land with unique ethnic minority cultures, or exploring the magnificent cave systems in Phong Nha - Ke Bang and the mysterious Central Highlands... These regions will allow tourists to immerse themselves in the spectacular beauty of Vietnam's nature.
Coastal and island tourism combined with cultural experiences, learning about the lives of fishermen, participating in coastal folk festivals and exploring unique cultural heritage sites in Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Hoi An - Cu Lao Cham, Quy Nhon, and Con Dao is also increasingly attracting French tourists…
With rich historical ties between Vietnam and France, the architecture, ancient towns, and harmonious Asian-European culinary culture of Hanoi, Saigon, Da Lat, Hue, and Hoi An offer French visitors a feeling that is both familiar and novel. These are fascinating points of convergence and intersection between the two cultures, sparking curiosity, exploration, and empathy with every step of the traveler.
Businesses from both countries had the opportunity to meet, exchange information, update tourism data, and explore investment opportunities. (Photo: Vietnam National Tourism Administration)
"With continuous efforts in diversifying products, improving service quality, and preserving cultural values, Vietnam not only hopes to provide French tourists with complete and meaningful trips in Vietnam, but also hopes that each experience will become a cultural bridge, further strengthening the friendship between the people of Vietnam and France," Director Nguyen Trung Khanh affirmed.
Opportunities for connection through culture and tourism.
The Vietnamese Ambassador to France, Mr. Dinh Toan Thang, stated that Vietnam, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural landscapes, has always been an attractive destination for international tourists. From the beautiful beaches of Nha Trang and Da Nang to world cultural heritage sites like Hoi An and My Son, or scenic spots like Ha Long Bay, each place in Vietnam holds its own unique stories and experiences.
The Ambassador believes that Vietnam has great potential for promoting its culture and tourism through cinema. The Ambassador also highly appreciated the series of activities promoting Vietnamese culture and tourism organized by the Vietnam National Tourism Administration at the Cannes Film Festival 2025, which will take place from May 13-16. Through these activities, Vietnam conveys the message that it is always ready to welcome and facilitate French filmmakers to explore and carry out projects in the country.
The Ambassador expressed confidence that, with the joint efforts of agencies, businesses, and the community, Vietnam's tourism potential, the beauty of its land and people, will be further promoted to French and international friends, while also deepening the comprehensive strategic partnership between Vietnam and France.
At the event, delegates enjoyed spectacular artistic performances, listened to presentations on Vietnamese tourism and the National Tourism Year - Hue 2025, and learned about the products and flight network of Vietnamese airlines.
Vietnam is a favorite tourist destination for the European market, including French tourists. (Illustrative photo: CTV/Vietnam+)
In addition, tourism management agencies in provinces and cities, as well as Vietnamese businesses, also brought many unique and high-class tourism products and services to promote and introduce to partners.
In particular, businesses from both sides had the opportunity to meet, exchange, share, and update tourism information, while also seeking investment opportunities, establishing business cooperation relationships, and attracting and exchanging tourists.
(Vietnam+)
Source: https://www.vietnamplus.vn/du-lich-viet-xay-cau-noi-giup-khach-phap-toi-trai-nghiem-van-hoa-ban-dia-post1038256.vnp
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