Amid a world full of incredible travel spots, Vietnam continues to shine, with Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City named among the Best Cities on Earth in The Telegraph Travel Awards 2025.
Selected by nearly 20,000 readers worldwide, this prestigious ranking places Hanoi in an impressive 31st position—outperforming other iconic Asian cities like Bangkok (40th), Mumbai (43rd), Kuala Lumpur (68th), and Dubai (73rd).
Hanoi proudly ranks 10th in the regional category for the best cities outside Europe and the Americas.
Meanwhile, Ho Chi Minh City secures the 77th spot, steadily gaining international recognition for its vibrant city life and unique mix of historic charm and contemporary appeal.
Hanoi: A living tapestry of Vietnamese culture
For travelers, Hanoi unfolds like a poetic blend of history, culture, and genuine charm. As The Telegraph puts it, an ideal city is one that “brings together historical depth, distinctive beauty, exceptional cuisine, vibrant culture, and a wealth of experiences to discover”—a description Hanoi embodies effortlessly.
From the evocative charm of its 36 ancient streets in the Old Quarter to the refined elegance of French colonial architecture, every corner of Hanoi whispers a tale of history and culture. Landmarks such as the Temple of Literature, the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake, and the vibrant Old Quarter pulse with a distinct energy, captivating both first-time visitors and those returning for more.
Hanoi continues to garner praise from international media. In 2025, Travel + Leisure included the city in its list of 15 Dream International Vacations That Are Surprisingly Affordable, spotlighting Hanoi’s rich thousand-year heritage, sophisticated cuisine, and impressively low travel costs.
Welcoming more than 18.36 million visitors—including 4.21 million international tourists—in the first seven months of 2025, Hanoi has solidified its reputation as a top global travel destination.
For Emma Watson, a visitor from the United Kingdom, Hanoi feels like a living postcard. “I spent a week discovering hidden cafés tucked behind art galleries, joined a cooking class in a charming colonial villa, and even watched a traditional water puppet performance. It’s one of those cities that blends timeless charm with modern flair,” she told The Hanoi Times.
Ho Chi Minh City: The beating heart of the south
In southern Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City pulses with a distinct energy—vibrant, fast-moving, and firmly focused on the future.
Formerly known as the “Pearl of the Orient,” this vibrant metropolis stands as Vietnam’s largest economic powerhouse, where history and modernity intertwine. As described by The Telegraph, it’s a city of contrasts—motorbikes weaving through neon-lit avenues, towering skyscrapers neighboring ancient pagodas, and sleek shopping malls sharing space with war memorials and remnants of French colonial architecture.
Earlier this year, The Independent spotlighted Ho Chi Minh City’s rich and multifaceted character: “In a marriage of tradition and modernity, Ho Chi Minh City is the metropolis where pagodas meet skyscrapers and innovative commerce hubs thrive.” Travelers are often captivated by the striking Notre Dame Cathedral, moved by the powerful exhibits at the War Remnants Museum, and intrigued by the descent into the Cu Chi Tunnels—a poignant glimpse into Vietnam’s enduring spirit.
In July 2025 alone, Ho Chi Minh City welcomed nearly 700,000 international visitors—a remarkable 75% increase compared to the same month last year and more than 26 million total arrivals so far this year, the city is proving itself not only as a dynamic business hub but also as a vibrant destination for global travelers in search of culture, energy, and adventure.
Miguel Rodriguez, a traveler from Spain, remarked, “Ho Chi Minh City is pure energy. From buzzing rooftop bars to the haunting depths of historic tunnels, every moment felt like an adventure I didn’t want to end. The food was incredible—dishes like banh xeo, banh mi, and com tam (steamed broken rice) were not only delicious but cheaper than a cup of coffee back in Madrid. What stood out most, though, was the warmth and friendliness of the people.”
Vietnam is a country of vivid contrasts, most clearly seen in its two major cities. In the north, Hanoi captivates with its tranquil lakes, ancient temples, and enduring sense of tradition. In the south, Ho Chi Minh City buzzes with modern energy—alive with dynamic street scenes, contemporary creativity, and a nightlife that never sleeps.
Each city tells a different story, yet both form two essential chapters of the Vietnamese experience. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, a backpacker, or a luxury traveler, these two cities have something unforgettable in store for you.
If you have the opportunity to visit Vietnam, don’t miss the chance to explore Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, where many fascinating experiences await.And don’t forget to order visa to Vietnam at vietnamvisapro before departing to this wonderful place.We as a trusted and reliable visa service, we are here to help turn your dream vacation into reality from the very first step.
