Vietnam’s travel scene is having a major moment. In the recently announced Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2025, two of Vietnam’s favorite destinations—Ho Chi Minh City and Phu Quoc Island—claimed impressive spots among Asia’s finest, celebrating their rise as must-visit luxury escapes.
Ho Chi Minh City: Where Heritage Meets Hustle
Ranked 7th among the best cities in Asia Pacific, Ho Chi Minh City continues to charm the world with its irresistible mix of old and new. Beyond the towering glass facades and dynamic economy, this city beats to the rhythm of heritage. Stroll along leafy boulevards to the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, lose yourself in the poignant stories of the War Remnants Museum, or embrace the chaos and color of Ben Thanh Market.
But it’s not just about sightseeing. Ho Chi Minh City’s culinary scene is evolving fast, with hidden street food stalls and sleek rooftop restaurants giving travelers plenty to savor—day and night.
Phu Quoc: Vietnam’s Pearl Island Makes Waves
In the islands category, Phu Quoc Island proudly secured 3rd place, standing shoulder to shoulder with iconic beach destinations like Bali, Koh Samui, and Phuket. Nicknamed the “pearl island” of Vietnam, Phu Quoc offers more than picture-perfect beaches. Think: turquoise waters, world-class resorts, and adventures ranging from hiking through national parks to visiting traditional pepper farms and fish sauce distilleries.
And when the sun goes down? The vibrant Phu Quoc Night Market promises flavors, souvenirs, and seaside memories.
Numbers Don’t Lie
Vietnam’s tourism boom is backed by the stats. Ho Chi Minh City welcomed over 1.63 million international visitors in just the first three months of 2025—an impressive 18.2% growth from last year. Phu Quoc saw even more dramatic growth, with 4.4 million visitors in the first half of 2025, including nearly 900,000 international arrivals, skyrocketing 76.7% year-on-year.