Hanoi among key destinations in Vietnam’s year-end travel momentum

Booking.com’s latest insights show strong search activity for both domestic and international destinations, with Hanoi positioned prominently among the top choices.

Hanoi’s St. Joseph Cathedral glows with festive spirit on Christmas Eve. Photo: Ngoc Tu/ The Hanoi Times

According to the travel website, the capital’s cool winter climate, cultural vibrancy, and festive atmosphere are drawing heightened attention from travelers nationwide. This rising interest is further amplified by favorable holiday timing: with 83% of Vietnamese travelers preferring weekend departures, the New Year’s holiday falling adjacent to a weekend is encouraging many to extend their leisure plans.

The Booking.com’s latest Travel Trends 2025 data shows that domestic travel continues to play a dominant role in holiday planning, with 69% of Vietnamese travelers opting to explore destinations within the country. Convenience and familiarity remain key motivators, as 42% prefer returning to well-known places while 37% value the shorter travel times offered by domestic trips. The festive season also enhances the appeal of local experiences, with 45% stating that cultural events and community celebrations influence their travel decisions.

Hanoi, with its unique charm- a harmonious blend of East and West, tradition and modernity- remains a perennial favorite for tourists. Photo: Ngoc Tu/ The Hanoi Times

Hanoi’s unique seasonal charm underscores its elevated position among top-searched destinations. The capital blends year-end coolness with lively cultural celebrations, traditional markets, and illuminated public spaces, making it a standout choice for travelers seeking both ambiance and authenticity.

Alongside Hanoi, Phu Quoc has emerged as the most-searched domestic destination for travel from 20 December 2025 to 4 January 2026, recording an 86% year-on-year increase in search volume. Da Lat and Ho Chi Minh City follow closely, supported by their distinctive holiday activities. Meanwhile, coastal favorites such as Da Nang, Nha Trang, Vung Tau, and Mui Ne continue to appeal to those seeking restorative beachside getaways, while cultural towns like Hoi An and Sapa remain popular for immersive seasonal experiences.

The domestic trend is reflected in individual traveler sentiment. Nguyen Thi Phuong Anh, a 32-year-old office worker from Ho Chi Minh City planning to visit Hanoi and then Sa Pa for the New Year period, emphasized the capital’s festive appeal. “I wanted to feel the excitement of the season, and Hanoi always has a special energy at year’s end,” she noted.

“The cool weather, the lights around Hoan Kiem Lake, and the cultural events make it feel like a true holiday. With the New Year falling near the weekend, it was the perfect opportunity to combine Hanoi with a relaxing stop in Sapa afterward,” she added.

As 2025 draws to a close, Vietnamese travelers are embracing both familiar and international journeys, with Hanoi taking a central role in shaping domestic travel trends and reaffirming its position as one of the country’s most compelling festive-season destinations.

By Jenna Duong

Nguồn: http://sodulich.hanoi.gov.vn/hanoi-among-key-destinations-in-vietnams-year-end-travel-momentum.html