Vietnam among top five destinations searched by French travellers

Asia is emerging as one of the regions attracting the greatest interest from French travellers in 2026, with Vietnam ranking among the most searched destinations, according to a recent survey.

  • Hanoi named among world’s 50 most beautiful cities by Condé Nast Traveler
Vietnam among top five destinations searched by French travellers -0
Tourists check in at the cherry apricot blossom garden in the O Quy Ho Pass area, Sa Pa. (Photo:VNA) 

The findings were released on March 11 by the organisers of the World Tourism Fair ahead of the event, scheduled to take place in Paris from March 12 to 15. The survey, conducted in November 2025 with nearly 900 respondents, showed that 98% of residents in the Île-de-France region plan to travel in 2026, reflecting a growing preference for international trips.

Among those surveyed, 73% said they intend to travel abroad, while nearly half indicated they take overseas trips at least twice a year.

In terms of destination preferences, Europe remains the most popular choice, accounting for 38%. However, Asia has risen to second place with 28% — the highest level recorded since the survey was first conducted in 2019. Japan, Vietnam and Thailand were among the most searched destinations, alongside well-established European favourites such as Italy and Spain.

According to the fair’s organisers, the results highlight an increasingly clear trend among French tourists to seek out new destinations offering rich cultural and natural experiences. About 28% of respondents said they are particularly interested in lesser-known or emerging locations on the global tourism map.

Vietnam has been recognised as one of Asia’s standout destinations thanks to its blend of cultural heritage, distinctive cuisine and diverse natural landscapes. At the 2026 World Tourism Fair, Vietnam and other Asian countries such as Nepal, India and Thailand will be promoted as experience-rich travel options for international visitors.

The survey also pointed to the growing popularity of experiential travel. French travellers expressed strong interest in discovering local cultures, sampling traditional food and engaging in nature-based activities. Many also prefer travelling outside peak seasons such as in May, June or September to avoid crowds and enjoy more immersive experiences.

Regarding travel arrangements, most respondents still favour independently organised trips, though demand for package tours is on the rise. Around 60% of participants said they begin planning their journeys at least three months in advance.

  • Vietnam among top five destinations searched by French travellers ảnh 2 IMF expert highlights Vietnam as appealing destination for foreign investors
  • Vietnam among top five destinations searched by French travellers ảnh 3 Bai Say - Dam River shine as new destinations for ecotourism
VNA

Other News

Digital innovation breathes new life into Vietnam's museums

Digital innovation breathes new life into Vietnam's museums

Technology is similarly enriching exhibitions at the Vietnam Women’s Museum in Hanoi. Wartime letters, a typewriter and other artefacts linked to former Vice President Nguyen Thi Binh have been digitally integrated with collections held at the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City. Through projection mapping, 3D displays and a virtual reality recreation of the Paris Peace Agreement, visitors can engage more deeply with the life and achievements of one of Vietnam’s most prominent diplomats.

Vesak 2026 highlights Buddhism's enduring commitment to nation in new era

Vesak 2026 highlights Buddhism's enduring commitment to nation in new era

Most Venerable Thich Tri Quang, Supreme Patriarch of the VBS Patronage Council, called on Buddhist dignitaries, monks, nuns, and followers to continue serving society with mindfulness and compassion, uphold the noble traditions of Vietnamese Buddhism, and spread the light of kindness to foster a better life for all.

Soul of Mong people's panpipe kept alive in mountainous schools

Soul of Mong people's panpipe kept alive in mountainous schools

In recent years, many localities across the Dong Van Karst Plateau have strengthened efforts to integrate traditional culture preservation into schools. "Khen" performances, linen weaving, folk songs and traditional games are gradually becoming more familiar once again to younger generations.

Australia – Vietnam promote cooperation in contemporary music

Australia – Vietnam promote cooperation in contemporary music

Australian Ambassador to Vietnam Gillian Bird said: “We are thrilled to support this musical collaboration between Australia’s Matthew Ifield and Vietnam’s Mỹ Anh. Creative connections and exchange between young people in Australia and Vietnam will help build cultural understanding between our nations”.

VFF leader sends Vesak greetings to Buddhist community

VFF leader sends Vesak greetings to Buddhist community

Vietnamese Buddhism has consistently upheld the spirit of “protecting the nation and serving the people” while accompanying the nation in promoting social ethics, strengthening great national unity, and advancing national development.

Ho Chi Minh City boosts tourism appeal through culinary, cultural experiences

Ho Chi Minh City boosts tourism appeal through culinary, cultural experiences

According to Vu Ngoc Lam, Country Director of Agoda Vietnam, travellers are becoming more selective when choosing accommodation, prioritising properties with strong reviews, quality amenities and distinctive dining options. This trend reflects a growing emphasis on the overall travel experience, alongside peer-based quality assurance.

Chinese destinations become increasingly popular among Vietnamese tourists

Chinese destinations become increasingly popular among Vietnamese tourists

With its majestic landscapes, rich ethnic cultures and immersive tourism experiences, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and the Old Town of Lijiang are becoming increasingly attractive to Vietnamese travellers, while also contributing to stronger tourism and cultural exchanges between Vietnam and China’s Yunnan province.

Flights connecting Da Nang, Moscow resumed

Flights connecting Da Nang, Moscow resumed

The increase in flights from Russia, the CIS and Belarus to Da Nang not only helps diversify the city’s international visitor markets but also reflects growing confidence among international travel companies in Da Nang’s attractiveness and tourism capacity.

Command Cave tour breathes new life into Truong Son legend

Command Cave tour breathes new life into Truong Son legend

The Command Cave tour offers domestic and international visitors an opportunity to explore the values of the World Natural Heritage site of Phong Nha-Ke Bang while commemorating the victories and sacrifices of forces operating along the Truong Son route.

📝OP-ED: Building culture 'immunity' through high-quality works of art

📝OP-ED: Building culture 'immunity' through high-quality works of art

The representative of the Vietnam Cinema Association stated that in the context of today’s fourth Industrial Revolution, the requirement to respect and ensure historical authenticity through cinema has become more important than ever, as digital platforms and cyberspace have enabled the widespread dissemination of cross-border media products.

When millions of beautiful stories together tell of a Happy Vietnam

When millions of beautiful stories together tell of a Happy Vietnam

PSNews - "We have always affirmed that the greatest strength lies in the people, and the greatest creativity also comes from the people. When millions of positive stories are shared and spread simultaneously, we are not only promoting the image of our country, but also helping to strengthen social trust, enhance consensus, elevate national prestige, and proactively counter false and distorted information about Vietnam in the international arena", said Trinh Thi Thuy - Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Head of the Organizing Committee of the award.