Hanoi Ranked as the Second Most Beloved Destination in Asia for 2026

Hanoi has just been named the second most beloved destination in Asia in the Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Destinations 2026 rankings, released by the global travel platform Tripadvisor. This recognition highlights the city’s growing appeal and strong performance among international travelers, reaffirming its status as one of the most compelling urban destinations on the continent.

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In the 2026 edition of the rankings, Hanoi trails only Bali in Indonesia, which secured the top spot as the most favored Asian destination. Following Hanoi is Bangkok in Thailand at third place, while other iconic cities including Siem Reap in Cambodia and Tokyo in Japan also made the prestigious top five list.

This achievement marks a significant milestone for Hanoi tourism, reflecting how the city has successfully captured the imaginations of travelers from around the world. The ranking is part of Tripadvisor’s most influential annual travel awards, which are uniquely based on genuine traveler reviews and feedback, rather than expert selections or promotional campaigns.

Photo: Hoan Kiem Lake

What the Ranking Represents

The Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Destinations is widely regarded as one of the most reputable global travel indices. It compiles data from millions of reviews submitted by tourists who visited destinations between October 2024 and September 2025. These reviews cover travelers’ impressions of lodging facilities, attractions visited, and overall satisfaction levels, offering a comprehensive assessment of the quality of experiences delivered by each destination.

This ranking is designed to honor places that consistently provide high-quality experiences over time, rather than cities that may momentarily trend due to short-term marketing efforts. Because only a very small portion of destinations on Tripadvisor earn the “Best of the Best” label each year, being included and particularly ranked among the top is a remarkable distinction.

Photo: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Vietnam’s Growing Presence on the Travel Map

Vietnam’s influence on the Asian travel scene is further underscored by the fact that another Vietnamese destination, Hoi An, entered the top ten and climbed to seventh place in the same ranking. This represents a significant jump from its position in the previous year, emphasizing the global interest in Vietnam’s cultural heritage, local traditions, and immersive travel experiences.

Both Hanoi and Hoi An continue to draw attention for their unique qualities. Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, is celebrated for its rich history, vibrant street life, and compelling blend of ancient and contemporary experiences. From the atmospheric Old Quarter and centuries-old temples to modern cafes and expanding cultural attractions, the city offers something for every type of traveler.

Meanwhile, Hoi An captivates visitors with its well-preserved ancient town, charming lantern-lit evenings, and historic architecture that transports travelers back in time. Both cities showcase different facets of Vietnam’s cultural depth and appeal, helping elevate the national profile on the global travel stage.

Photo: The Old Quarter of Hanoi

Tourism Growth Backed by Strong Numbers

Hanoi’s ranking is not only symbolic but also backed by impressive tourism statistics. In 2025, the city welcomed more than 33.7 million visitors, representing a 20.8% increase compared to the previous year. Of that total, over 7.82 million were international travelers, marking a 22.7% year-on-year growth in foreign arrivals. Tourism revenue for the city was also substantial, with estimated earnings exceeding 134,000 billion Vietnamese dong, an increase of 21.5% compared to 2024.

These figures demonstrate that Hanoi is not only winning praise in global surveys but also experiencing real, measurable growth in travel demand. The increase in visitor numbers and revenue reflects broader trends in Southeast Asia, where regions rich in cultural history, local traditions, and authentic experiences have become increasingly sought-after by international travelers.

Photo: Temple of Literature – Imperial Academy

Why Hanoi Resonates with Travelers

Several factors contribute to Hanoi’s charm and its appeal to travelers. The city’s deep historical roots, visible in landmarks like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and historic temples, give visitors a sense of connection to centuries-old traditions. At the same time, vibrant street scenes, lakeside promenades, and leafy boulevards offer modern comforts and spaces for relaxation and discovery.

Hanoi also boasts more than 600 temples and pagodas, parks, and cultural sites, making it a destination that blends heritage with contemporary vibrancy. The contrast between old and new, traditional and modern, gives travelers a rich palette of experiences within a single urban environment.

The testimonies and reviews that feed into rankings like Tripadvisor’s are drawn from first-hand traveler experiences, giving potential visitors a reliable picture of what to expect. High satisfaction scores across accommodations, attractions, food, and cultural experiences suggest that Hanoi consistently delivers memorable experiences worthy of global recognition.

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