Vietnam is witnessing a notable surge in travel interest from Eastern European countries, following the country’s recent visa exemption policy expansion. The policy, effective from August 15, 2025, allows citizens from 12 European nations to enter Vietnam without the need for a visa, streamlining the process for visitors and significantly enhancing the country’s appeal to international tourists.
According to a report from Agoda, a leading digital travel platform, the new visa exemption has led to a 59% increase in travel interest from Eastern Europe. This rise in interest is based on accommodation search data from Agoda’s platform, indicating a shift in travel patterns towards Vietnam. The surge in searches from Eastern European travelers follows the announcement of the new visa policy, highlighting the growing popularity of the Southeast Asian destination.
Countries like Slovenia, Poland, Bulgaria, Romania, and Slovakia have seen substantial increases in travel interest since the visa exemption policy was put into place. Agoda’s data revealed that accommodation searches from Slovenia jumped by 77%, while Poland saw an increase of 74%. Other nations such as Bulgaria and Romania reported search increases of 72% and 69%, respectively, and Slovakia experienced a 61% rise. These increases reflect a growing enthusiasm for Vietnam among Eastern European travelers, a trend that aligns with the government’s efforts to make travel to the country more accessible.
The newly implemented visa-free entry policy has clearly had a positive impact on Vietnam’s tourism sector, with key destinations experiencing a surge in interest. Phú Quốc Island, renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant tourism scene, leads the pack, with accommodation searches showing a remarkable 113% year-on-year growth. This tropical paradise has become an increasingly popular destination for Eastern European tourists, drawn by its natural beauty and wide range of recreational activities.
Following closely behind Phú Quốc are the bustling urban centers of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, recorded a 77% increase in interest, while Ho Chi Minh City, the country’s largest metropolitan hub, saw a 56% rise in searches. These two cities, known for their rich culture, history, and vibrant atmosphere, continue to be major attractions for international travelers.
In addition to the urban centers, Vietnam’s picturesque coastal cities have also gained popularity. Da Nang, a beach city located along the central coast, experienced a 36% increase in interest, while Nha Trang, known for its beautiful beaches and resorts, saw a 35% growth in searches. These destinations offer travelers a combination of relaxation, cultural experiences, and natural beauty, making them top choices for visitors from Eastern Europe.
The growing interest from Eastern European travelers is not limited to Agoda’s data alone. Official statistics from the National Statistics Office of Vietnam reveal that European arrivals have risen by nearly 35% in the first nine months of 2025. In the third quarter alone, Vietnam welcomed 568,370 European tourists, reflecting a 38% increase compared to the previous quarter and a 60% year-on-year rise. This steady growth highlights Vietnam’s increasing prominence as a travel destination for Europeans.
The expanded visa-free policy is seen as a crucial factor in this growth. By eliminating the need for a visa, the policy has made it significantly easier for travelers to visit Vietnam. This has not only made the country more accessible but also more appealing to a wider audience, particularly those from Eastern Europe who have traditionally faced more stringent visa requirements.
Agoda, as a key player in the global travel industry, is helping to facilitate this surge in tourism by providing Eastern European travelers with a user-friendly platform to plan their trips to Vietnam. With access to over six million properties, 130,000 flight routes, and 300,000 activities, Agoda’s platform offers seamless booking options that allow travelers to tailor their itineraries to their preferences.
Whether travelers are seeking a relaxing beach getaway, a cultural exploration, or an adventure-filled coastal escape, Agoda’s platform offers the tools and resources necessary to plan the perfect trip to Vietnam. By combining accommodation, flights, and activities into a single booking, Agoda is making it easier than ever for travelers from Eastern Europe to experience the best of what Vietnam has to offer.
As more European travelers flock to Vietnam, the country’s tourism sector is expected to continue growing, with the expanded visa exemption policy playing a key role in this expansion. The increasing demand for flights and accommodations in top destinations like Phú Quốc, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City is a testament to Vietnam’s rising status as a must-visit destination for international travelers.
The new policy on visa exemptions has fuelled travel interest from Eastern Europe, prompting foreign tourists to discover Vietnam’s varied topography and beautiful culture. This increased accessibility will reinforce the future potential of Vietnam’s tourism industry and expanding the market scope for tourism-related businesses.
To sum up, the impetus given to tourism from Eastern Europe is, to a large extent, a result of Vietnam’s new policy on visa exemptions. Eastern Europeans are now visiting Vietnam in unprecedented numbers. Easy travel to Vietnam, with its glorious landscapes, beautiful cities, and rich culture, is bound to increase its tourism allure and solidify its rank as a top travel destination. This optimism is evident in the development of Vietnam’s tourism industry.
Tags: Eastern Europe, new policy on visa exemptions Vietnam’s tourism industry
