Top 10 must visit destinations in Vietnam for 2025

Vietnam is poised to be one of the most exciting emerging travel destinations in Southeast Asia for 2025, thanks to its evolving tourism offerings that cater to both high-end luxury travelers and niche market needs. Whether it’s for incentive tours, leisure set departure trips, or unique cultural experiences, Vietnam provides a diverse range of options. In this post, we explore the top 10 must-visit emerging destinations in Vietnam for 2025, showcasing the best spots for travel professionals to consider when designing future-forward packages.

1. Why Vietnam in 2025 Is a Goldmine for Travel Professionals ?

Vietnam’s tourism landscape in 2025 is primed for growth, fueled by improved infrastructure, diverse experiences, and increased demand from global travelers seeking authentic yet premium journeys.

For travel professionals, this is not just a list of destinations — it’s a blueprint for building high-demand itineraries, from leisure FITs to MICE groups. This guide includes the best seasons, unique selling points (USPs), and operational tips for each spot, so you can package and sell with confidence.

2. Top 10 Must-Visit Destinations in Vietnam for 2025

2.1 Sapa – Colorful highlands and ethnic culture

Best for: Cultural immersion, nature lovers, adventure tours

• Why it sells: Terraced rice fields, Fansipan cable car, vibrant markets with ethnic minorities

• Best time: September–November (golden harvest season) & March–April (blossoms)

• Pro tip: Pair with Hanoi or Ha Giang for a complete northern Vietnam adventure

Sapa, located in the northern highlands, has consistently remained a top destination for travelers seeking adventure and cultural immersion. With its terraced rice fields, ethnic minority villages, and breathtaking landscapes, Sapa offers a truly unique experience. For 2025, it is ideal for ethnic-inclusive pre-tour visits, where travelers can explore remote villages, stay in traditional homestays, and enjoy treks through the mountains. The demand for eco-tourism and cultural experiences is expected to rise, making Sapa a prime location for personalized itineraries that cater to both group and luxury travelers.

2.2. Da Nang – Beach city & events hub

Best for: Incentive travel, family packages, beach leisure

• Why it sells: My Khe Beach, Golden Bridge, annual events like DIFF fireworks festival

• Best time: March–August

• Pro tip: Pair with Hoi An & Hue for a Central Heritage Route

Son Tra Peninsular

Bach Ma National Park Trekking Tour

Da Nang continues to grow in popularity as a destination for both leisure and incentive tours. It boasts a blend of natural beauty, cultural sites, and luxury resorts. The city is home to the famous Marble Mountains, My Khe Beach, and the ancient town of Hoi An nearby. Da Nang is also an excellent base for river cruises to explore the region’s waterways. For those seeking outdoor adventure, a trek through Bạch Mã National Park offers one of the most stunning natural landscapes in central Vietnam. The park is renowned for its rich biodiversity, scenic waterfalls, and mountain trails, making it an ideal destination for trekking enthusiasts

2.3 Hoi An – Ancient town with timeless charm

Best for: Cultural tours, couples, photography trips

• Why it sells: Lantern-lit streets, tailor-made clothing, river cruises

• Best time: February–April, August–October

• Pro tip: Offer “Hoi An By Night” packages with cooking classes or basket boat rides

Hoi An, with its ancient town charm, remains one of the most cost-effective and culturally rich destinations in Vietnam. With UNESCO World Heritage status, Hoi An offers a fantastic setting for incentive groups and leisure travelers. The town is perfect for guided tours through its historic streets, food tours, and boat rides on the Thu Bon River. For 2025, it continues to attract both budget-conscious travelers and those seeking an affordable yet authentic Vietnamese experience. Hoi An’s popularity for group departures, cultural immersion, and its affordability make it a must-visit destination.

2.4 Phu Quoc – Luxury island escape

Best for: Resort vacations, honeymooners, incentive groups

• Why it sells: High-end resorts (Regent, JW Marriott, InterContinental), pristine beaches

• Best time: November–April

• Pro tip: Offer sunset dinner cruises and private island experiences

Mong Tay island

Phu Quoc Island has been steadily gaining attention as Vietnam’s top luxury beach destination. Known for its pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and high-end amenities, Phu Quoc is expected to trend in 2025 as a go-to location for extended beach vacations. For incentive tours or private luxury travel, Phu Quoc offers exclusive options, such as private yacht charters, high-end spa retreats, and tailored beach experiences. The island's growing tourism infrastructure makes it a perfect destination for both group and private luxury tours.

2.5 Ho Chi Minh City – The City of Events

Best for: Urban explorers, nightlife, culinary tours

• Why it sells: French colonial landmarks, rooftop bars, Mekong Delta excursions

• Best time: December–April

• Pro tip: Perfect start or end point for multi-country Indochina tours

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's largest and most vibrant city, is undergoing a transformation into a hub for local and international events. After years of focusing on domestic tourism, the city is once again positioning itself as a key destination for conferences, festivals, and corporate gatherings. In 2025, Ho Chi Minh City will host numerous events, making it an ideal destination for incentive groups and business travelers. The city’s blend of modernity and history, combined with its vibrant cultural scene, will draw both business and leisure visitors. With world-class venues, hotels, and restaurants, Ho Chi Minh City is the perfect city for event-focused tourism.

2.6 Halong Bay – Luxury Cruises & Private Tours

Best for: Day trips from Hanoi, eco-tourism

• Why it sells: Trang An boat ride, Tam Coc rice paddies, Bai Dinh Pagoda

• Best time: Late May–early June for lotus bloom

• Pro tip: Combine with Hanoi & Ha Long for a Northern Highlights itinerary

Halong Bay is one of Vietnam’s most iconic destinations, known for its emerald waters and towering limestone karsts. In 2025, luxury cruises and private yacht charters will continue to dominate, with travelers looking for exclusive experiences in this UNESCO World Heritage site. Halong Bay offers the perfect combination of adventure and luxury, with opportunities for kayaking, cave exploration, and private beach picnics. Travel professionals can offer bespoke Halong Bay itineraries for both corporate incentive tours and private leisure trips.

2.7 Mekong Delta River Cruise to Cambodia – Scenic & Cultural Exploration

Best for: Cross-border itineraries, slow travel, cultural immersion

• Why it sells: Combines Vietnam’s lush Mekong waterways with Cambodia’s vibrant Phnom Penh and iconic Angkor temples. Guests experience floating markets, rural villages, and river life before crossing into a new country.

• Best time: November–April (dry season for smooth cruising)

• Pro tip: Position it as a luxury extension for FITs or as part of a multi-country group itinerary. Partner with premium cruise lines for an all-inclusive experience, from gourmet dining to curated shore excursions.

The Mekong Delta is a vast network of rivers and canals, offering travelers a peaceful haven away from the hustle and bustle of Vietnam’s cities. A river cruise from this water world to Cambodia is a truly unique experience, blending natural beauty with profound cultural discovery. 

What makes this journey truly unforgettable, however, is the mouthwatering array of local delicacies awaiting you. In the Mekong Delta, travelers can savor a wide range of regional specialties—most notably the crispy, fragrant banh xeo, a beloved crepe-like dish bursting with vibrant flavors. Each bite not only delights the palate, but also reveals a slice of the area’s rich cultural tapestry, inspiring visitors to delve deeper into the culinary wonders of southwestern Vietnam. This river cruise is the ideal choice for travelers who yearn for an immersive cultural journey through Vietnam and Cambodia, enhanced by the irresistible charm of local cuisine.

2.8 Hue – Imperial heritage and royal cuisine

Best for: History tours, culinary experiences, educational trips

• Why it sells: Imperial Citadel, royal tombs, UNESCO-recognized royal court music

• Best time: January–April

• Pro tip: Include a Royal Banquet dinner for MICE groups

Hue, once the imperial capital of Vietnam, is home to the famous Imperial City and royal tombs. For 2025, Hue will continue to attract cultural tourists, especially those seeking an insight into Vietnam’s royal history. Incentive tours in Hue offer the opportunity to explore the ancient citadel, visit UNESCO World Heritage sites, and take part in traditional Vietnamese cultural experiences. Hue’s tranquil atmosphere combined with its historical significance makes it an ideal destination for incentive tours and cultural groups.

2.9 Phnom Penh & Siem Reap – Cross-Border Luxury Overland Tours

Best for: High-end cultural travelers, heritage lovers, incentive groups

• Why it sells: Blends the elegance of Cambodia’s capital with the timeless wonder of Angkor Wat. Includes Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace, National Museum, and French-colonial riverside, followed by Siem Reap’s UNESCO-listed temple complex and luxury resorts.

• Best time: November–March

• Pro tip: Offer it as an overland journey starting from Ho Chi Minh City or via Mekong cruise disembarkation in Phnom Penh. Include luxury transfers, 5-star accommodations, and private guides for a seamless cross-border experience.

For travelers looking for a multi-country experience, the cities of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap in Cambodia offer rich cultural experiences. In 2025, cross-border overland tours from Vietnam to Cambodia and Thailand will be a hit, offering luxury travelers the chance to explore temples like Angkor Wat and visit historical sites like the Killing Fields. These overland tours provide a unique opportunity for cultural discovery and adventure while offering luxury accommodations and private guides.

2.10 Nha Trang – Coastal playground

Best for: Family vacations, island hopping, diving tours

• Why it sells: VinWonders theme park, hot mineral springs, luxury resorts

• Best time: February–August

• Pro tip: Upsell scuba diving or private yacht rentals

Nha Trang, a popular coastal destination, is ideal for luxury and leisure set departure tours. Known for its beaches, resorts, and water activities, Nha Trang is a perfect spot for group tours, golfing holidays, and family vacations. The city is also home to a number of luxury resorts and spas, offering travelers the opportunity to relax and unwind in style. In 2025, Nha Trang remains a top destination for incentive and luxury leisure travelers looking to explore Vietnam’s coastal beauty.

3. Why Travel Professionals Should Promote These Destinations in 2025

As Vietnam transforms into a top-tier destination for 2025, embracing its emerging spots gives travel professionals a competitive edge.

• New demand = Less saturation

• Rising interest from high-value travelers

• Diversification of packages for incentive, FIT, and niche groups

DMCs like Dong DMC are perfectly positioned to deliver personalized itineraries across these rising destinations, from private Mekong cruises to ethnic village treks, and overland journeys to Cambodia and Thailand.