Russian tourists surge into Vietnam's top 3 source markets in 2026

With arrivals exceeding the one-million mark, the Russian market recorded a nearly-166-percent increase from the same period last year, ranking third among Vietnam’s 10 largest source markets for international tourism, up from seventh in 2025.

The authority attributed the surge to several factors, including Vietnam's growing reputation as a safe, friendly and attractive destination in Asia.

The resumption and increased frequency of charter flights connecting major Russian cities directly with Vietnam's coastal destinations have also played a significant role in attracting Russian tourists.

In addition, growing demand among Russian tourists for beach holidays, along with Vietnam's advantages in terms of climate, tourism products and competitive costs, has further driven growth in the Russian market.

Popular destinations among Russian visitors include Nha Trang, Mui Ne and Phu Quoc, which offer year-round warm weather, diverse cuisine and modern resort facilities.

While the Russian market rose to third place, China remained the top market with 3.54 million visitors, followed by South Korea with 2.76 million.

Together, the two leading markets accounted for 6.3 million visitors, or nearly 40 percent of Vietnam’s total international arrivals.

Overall, Vietnam received nearly 16 million foreign visitors in the first eight months of 2026, reaching nearly 64 percent of its full-year target.

International arrivals in August alone neared two million, up 19.7 percent from July and 18.4 percent year on year.

The strong growth came despite August falling within Vietnam's traditional low season for international tourism.

Asian markets remained Vietnam’s largest source market, with about 11.8 million visitors, or nearly 74 percent of the country’s total international arrivals in the first eight months, up 7.4 percent year on year. 

European markets sent about 2.68 million visitors, up 53.4 percent from a year earlier, while arrivals from Africa increased 25.1 percent, Oceania 23.3 percent and the Americas 20.7 percent.

With such strong growth, Vietnam is making steady progress toward its target of welcoming 25 million international visitors in 2026.