In 2025, Vietnam marks a momentous milestone—the 80th anniversary of its National Day. With a four-day holiday weekend set for the occasion, the nation is not only preparing for a historic celebration but also gearing up for an unprecedented boom in domestic travel. This year, all roads lead to one destination: the capital city of Hanoi, which has become the magnetic heart of the festivities.
A nationwide travel surge with Hanoi as the epicenter
This year’s National Day holiday is shaping up to be a powerful catalyst for Vietnam’s domestic tourism industry. Travel agencies reported a surge in interest and bookings as early as July, with demand for local tours heating up daily, particularly for itineraries heading to the northern region.
What makes this year truly unique is a dramatic shift in travel patterns. In previous years, Hanoi and other northern provinces were often places residents traveled from during holidays. Now, the roles have completely reversed. The capital has transformed into a “tourism magnet,” drawing an immense wave of travelers from across the country, especially from southern and central Vietnam.
This incredible surge is backed by impressive data. According to the online travel platform Booking.com, Hanoi has soared from the 7th most-searched destination in 2024 to the number one spot for Vietnamese travelers this year. Similarly, data from Agoda reveals that searches for accommodation in Hanoi have skyrocketed, increasing by more than 44 times compared to the same period last year. Unsurprisingly, hotels and guesthouses in central locations near Hoan Kiem Lake, the Old Quarter, and especially Ba Dinh Square have been fully booked for months.
The Unifying Power of the Grand Parade and National Pride
The primary driver behind the “Hanoi fever” is the series of events celebrating the 80th anniversary, culminating in a grand-scale state military parade and procession at Ba Dinh Square on the morning of September 2nd. This historic, once-in-a-generation event has ignited a powerful sense of national pride, inspiring people from all corners of the country to travel to the capital to witness and be part of this sacred, historical atmosphere.
Capitalizing on this sentiment, travel companies have swiftly launched a range of specially designed tour packages. Vietravel has introduced its Hòa nhịp concert quốc gia (Join the National Concert) series, while Saigontourist, in partnership with Vietnam Airlines, has created the “Proud Vietnam Journey,” offering travelers a front-row seat to the parade’s majestic atmosphere. History-focused tours like Vietluxtour’s “Following Uncle Ho’s Footprints” have also been met with an enthusiastic response.
These patriotic tours are attracting a diverse crowd, from families and groups of friends to young couples and solo travelers, all eager to experience a defining moment in their nation’s history.
Hanoi Reimagined: 80 New Tours for a Modern Capital
To accommodate the massive wave of visitors and diversify their experiences, Hanoi’s tourism authority has proactively developed and launched 80 new and captivating tourism products. These offerings are thoughtfully designed to showcase every facet of the capital, from its ancient history to its modern, vibrant pulse.
New itineraries include everything from one-day city tours and suburban excursions to specialized culinary and cultural explorations. Highlights include the “Southern Thang Long-Hanoi Heritage Road” and the “Bell of Tran Vu Temple” tour. A unique addition is the “Five Gates” night train tour, which offers a magical journey through the nostalgic spaces of old Hanoi amidst the modern cityscape.
Further enhancing the visitor experience, many of the capital’s key attractions, such as the Ho Chi Minh Museum, the National Museum of History, and the Vietnam National Fine Arts Museum, will offer free admission during the holiday, inviting everyone to explore the nation’s rich cultural and historical tapestry.
Beyond the Capital: Coastal Escapes and a Bright Outlook
While Hanoi is undoubtedly the star of the show, a significant number of travelers are still opting for classic holiday getaways. Coastal destinations like Thanh Hoa, Da Nang, and Phu Quoc remain top choices for those seeking relaxation and pristine beaches to enjoy the last days of summer.
The incredible energy and positive signals from this year’s National Day holiday are expected to create powerful momentum for Vietnam’s tourism industry as it heads into the peak year-end season. It’s a celebration not just of the nation’s past, but also a vibrant indicator of the bright future ahead for domestic travel.
Australian Hospitality Alumni Network Vietnam 