Vietnam emerges as top favorite destination for Australian travelers
DNO - For the first time, Vietnam entered the list of the 10 most searched destinations by Australian travelers in March 2026.
According to Australian travel site Escape, geopolitical uncertainties in some regions and rising costs in Europe are prompting Australian travelers to seek destinations that are closer, safer and more affordable.
Vietnam, in particular, stands out as an ideal, safe, accessible, and budget-friendly destination.
The country is also recognized for its diverse landscapes, rich culture, vibrant cuisine and well-developed tourism ecosystem.
Notably, direct flight times of under 10 hours from Australia provide a clear competitive advantage.
Data from Travel Agent Finder shows that Vietnam has, for the first time, ranked among the top 10 most searched destinations in March 2026. This signals the strong increase in Vietnam's tourism appeal in the international market and positions the country as a potential tourism hotspot this year.
Beyond search trends, actual demand was also on the rise. Expedia reported that Vietnam’s coastal cities led travel trends in Asia.
In particular, Nha Trang and Da Nang recorded a 65% increase in accommodation searches compared to the same period last year. Phu Quoc saw a 45% rise, surpassing popular coastal destinations in Indonesia and Thailand.
Ms. Sarah King, an Expedia representative, noted “Nha Trang is often described by international travelers as Vietnam’s beach resort capital thanks to its long coastline, year-round sunshine and relaxing atmosphere. These are the excellent values that Australian tourists previously sought in the Mediterranean region”.
In addition to its existing tourism resources, Vietnam’s competitive pricing and diverse cultural and culinary experiences further enhance its appeal.
Visitors can enjoy distinctive local cuisine at reasonable prices, while travel and accommodation costs remain highly competitive compared to many other international destinations.
Currently, air connectivity between Vietnam and Australia is becoming increasingly convenient with multiple direct flights linking Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth to Ha Noi and Ho Chi Minh City.
Airlines such as Vietnam Airlines, Qantas, and VietJet Air are actively operating these routes, providing further momentum for Vietnam’s tourism growth in 2026 and beyond.