Vietnam’s Top Tourist Destinations Experience Record Crowds During Lunar New Year 2024

The Lunar New Year, or Tet, is the most significant holiday in Vietnam, and in 2024, the surge in domestic and international tourism reached unprecedented levels. Across the country, iconic landmarks and scenic landscapes were transformed into bustling hubs of activity as millions of travelers set out for their spring excursions. From the northern highlands to the southern coastal cities, the 'Tet rush' was felt everywhere, highlighting both the beauty of Vietnamese traditions and the challenges of managing peak-season travel.

In the northern province of Ha Giang, the famous Ma Pi Leng Pass and Tham Ma Slope saw significant traffic congestion. On the 4th day of Tet, travelers spent over an hour navigating stretches that usually take only 20 minutes. Local authorities reported that nearly 300,000 visitors flocked to the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, leaving hotels and homestays at nearly 100% capacity. Similarly, in Sa Pa, the town center near the Stone Church was packed with tourists. Long queues formed at the Fansipan cable car station, and narrow roads leading to Cat Cat Village were frequently gridlocked. Experts advised visitors to adjust their schedules to early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heaviest crowds.

Moving to Central Vietnam, the historic city of Hue and the ancient town of Hoi An experienced a massive influx of visitors. In Hue, the newly restored Kien Trung Palace within the Imperial City became a hotspot for photography, with tourists waiting in long lines to capture the perfect shot. Hoi An Ancient Town remained vibrant day and night, with its streets filled with people cycling, walking, and enjoying local delicacies. Meanwhile, Ninh Binh province welcomed approximately 235,000 visitors during the first five days of Tet. Popular spots like the Trang An Landscape Complex and Bai Dinh Pagoda saw tens of thousands of arrivals daily, with many waiting over an hour just to board a boat for a scenic tour.

Southern destinations like Da Lat and Vung Tau were equally popular. Da Lat saw a 22.4% increase in visitors compared to the previous year, with many travelers arriving from Ho Chi Minh City to enjoy the cool mountain air. In Vung Tau, the coastal roads were busy with tour buses, and public beaches like Cam Binh and Bai Sau were filled with families enjoying the sun. Ho Chi Minh City itself remained a major draw, with attractions like Suoi Tien Theme Park and the Botanical Gardens reporting high attendance. With over 1.8 million visitors across various entertainment sites in the city, the economic impact of the holiday season was substantial, generating billions in revenue and showcasing Vietnam's enduring appeal as a premier travel destination in Southeast Asia.

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Top Vietnamese Street Foods to Try During Lunar New Year 2024 Travel

The Lunar New Year, or Tet, is the most significant celebration in Vietnamese culture, a time for family reunions and exploring the rich heritage of the country. As we look toward Tet 2024, travel trends indicate that food is becoming the primary motivator for domestic and international tourists alike. According to a recent study by Booking.com, nearly 73% of Vietnamese travelers are prioritizing 'must-try' local delicacies when choosing their holiday destinations. For those planning a trip across Vietnam this season, several cities stand out not just for their beauty, but for their iconic flavors.

In the misty highlands of Da Lat, the cool climate provides the perfect backdrop for warm, comforting dishes. Travelers visiting to see the cherry blossoms in February should not miss the artichoke soup, a local specialty known for its health benefits and delicate taste. Other highland favorites include 'com lam' (bamboo-cooked sticky rice) and 'banh trang nuong,' often referred to as Vietnamese pizza. These dishes capture the cozy essence of this mountain retreat.

Moving to the coast, Nha Trang remains a top-tier destination for sun-seekers and foodies. The city is famous for its jellyfish and fish cake noodles (bun ca sua), featuring a light, savory broth and crunchy jellyfish that offer a refreshing taste of the ocean. For a more interactive snack, 'banh can'—small savory pancakes topped with shrimp or squid—is a staple of the local night markets.

In Central Vietnam, Da Nang offers a sophisticated blend of northern and southern culinary influences. The city's signature 'nem lui' (lemongrass pork skewers) and 'banh xeo' (crispy savory crepes) are celebrated for their balance of fresh herbs and rich dipping sauces. Meanwhile, Vung Tau, a favorite weekend getaway from Ho Chi Minh City, lures visitors with its famous stingray hotpot (lau ca duoi). The dish’s sour and spicy broth, combined with tender fish, makes it an unforgettable meal for groups.

Finally, the island of Phu Quoc and the bustling metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City provide distinct ends to the culinary spectrum. Phu Quoc, the 'fish sauce capital,' is the birthplace of 'bun quay' (stirred noodles), where diners can customize their own dipping sauce. In Ho Chi Minh City, the quintessential 'com tam' (broken rice) and 'banh mi' remain the gold standard for street food. Whether you are trekking through the highlands or lounging on a tropical beach, the flavors of Tet 2024 promise to be as vibrant as the festivities themselves.

#VietnameseFood , #Tet2024 , #TravelVietnam , #StreetFood , #CulinaryTravel , #LunarNewYear