Vietnam ranks among world’s top 10 favorite countries
DNO - Vietnam has ranked 10th among the world’s 20 favorite countries in the 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards by Condé Nast Traveler, highlighting its growing appeal to international travelers.
The prestigious ranking, compiled from votes by readers of the renowned travel magazine, recognizes destinations that stand out for their travel experiences, cultural appeal and natural attractions.
Vietnam’s position in the top 10 with 92.99 points reflects its increasing prominence on the global tourism map, according to the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism.
Southeast Asia secured four places on the list, with Cambodia, Vietnam, Thailand and Singapore representing the region. Vietnam and Cambodia were particularly notable for their top-10 positions, reflecting the region’s strong appeal among international travelers.
Vietnam attracts visitors with its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage and distinctive cuisine. From bustling metropolitan centers to mountainous regions, pristine coastlines and culturally rich rural communities, the country offers a wide range of experiences for travelers seeking both adventure and cultural immersion.
Major cities such as Ha Noi, Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang appeal to visitors with their vibrant urban lifestyles, culinary diversity and access to nearby cultural and natural attractions.
Meanwhile, the country’s beaches, islands and highland destinations provide opportunities for relaxation, exploration and encounters with local traditions.
Vietnam’s tourism sector has also recorded strong growth. In the first nine months of 2026, the country welcomed 17.7 million international visitors, while tourism revenue was estimated at VND874 trillion (approximately US$33 billion).
The latest recognition adds to Vietnam’s recent achievements in international tourism awards. In late September 2026, the country received recognition in several categories at the World Travel Awards, including Asia’s Leading Destination and Asia’s Leading Heritage Destination.
Its growing presence in international rankings and awards is expected to strengthen the country’s tourism brand, raise its profile among global travelers and support efforts to attract more international visitors.
Vietnam’s appeal extends beyond its well-known landmarks. Its culinary scene, ranging from street food stalls to upscale restaurants, has become an important part of the visitor experience.
The combination of regional specialties, fresh ingredients and distinctive local flavors continues to draw food enthusiasts from around the world.
Earlier, the World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Development Index 2026 showed that 13 of Vietnam’s 17 tourism development indicators were rated from upper-middle to world-leading levels.
Notably, Vietnam ranked ninth globally for safety and security, placing it among the world’s top 10 countries in this category. This strength is a key asset as Vietnam’s tourism sector targets 25 million international arrivals and approximately 150 million domestic tourist trips in 2026.
Looking ahead, Vietnam aims to welcome 70 million international visitors annually by 2045, an ambitious target that underscores its long-term aspirations for tourism development.
The 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards ranking further reinforces Vietnam’s position as an increasingly attractive destination for travelers seeking diverse landscapes, authentic cultural encounters and memorable culinary experiences.
The Readers' Choice Awards, selected by over 800,000 readers, is the longest-running honor in the travel industry that recognizes excellence in hotels, resorts, and destinations worldwide.
The world’s 20 favorite countries are Japan, Italy, Ireland, Cambodia, Spain, Portugal, France, Greece, Panama, Vietnam, the Republic of Korea, Thailand, Poland, Norway, Croatia, Austria, Switzerland, Singapore, Sweden and Germany.
Japan was named the world’s most attractive country for the fourth consecutive year, extending a winning streak as record numbers of overseas visitors continue to flock to the country.