Nha Trang Named Among Top Global Summer Destinations by Mastercard
For the first time, Vietnam’s coastal city of Nha Trang has made it onto Mastercard’s list of the world’s top 15 summer travel destinations in 2025, marking a significant milestone for the country’s tourism industry on the global stage.
According to Mastercard’s Global Summer Travel Trends 2025 report, the Asia-Pacific region has emerged as a leading force in international travel demand, with 8 of the top 15 destinations coming from this region. Among them, Nha Trang ranks 11th globally, right after Singapore, surpassing several traditionally popular cities. This is the first time a Vietnamese city has entered the list, reflecting its growing international appeal.
Nha Trang’s Surprising Rise
The report credits Nha Trang’s impressive rise to several factors, including the expansion of direct international flights from key markets such as South Korea, China, Japan, Thailand, Singapore, and Russia. Combined with strong tourism stimulus policies — such as discounted attraction tickets, improved service standards, and diversified tourism offerings — Nha Trang has successfully positioned itself as a favorite summer destination.
Its appearance in the top 15 is described as a “pleasant surprise” and a testament to the untapped tourism potential of Vietnam’s coastal cities.
Natural Assets and Sustainable Appeal
With its long coastline, crystal-clear waters, over 19 islands, and vibrant marine ecosystems, Nha Trang offers exceptional potential for beach tourism, ecotourism, and marine experiences. Nha Trang Bay, once listed among the most beautiful bays in the world, is home to iconic beaches like Doc Let, Hon Chong, and Bai Dai, as well as coral-rich spots for diving such as Hon Mun and Hon Tam.
Thanks to its mild tropical climate with over 300 days of sunshine a year, Nha Trang is a year-round destination. Its tourism infrastructure is well developed, featuring a wide range of four- and five-star resorts, beachfront villas, wellness centers, and family-friendly attractions — all catering to a diverse range of travelers, from couples and families to retirees seeking long-term stays.
The Power of Events, Culture, and Cruises
Mastercard’s report also highlights the growing role of sports and cultural events in driving summer travel trends. Cities like Tokyo, Seoul, and Singapore have experienced tourist surges thanks to high-profile international events. In Nha Trang, the upcoming Nha Trang Sea Tourism Festival in June 2025 is set to be a major highlight, featuring street parades, food festivals, beach sports, art performances, and cultural exhibitions.
A standout addition this year is the launch of Emperor Cruises Legend Nha Trang, a luxurious heritage cruise ship introduced by Lux Cruises Group. Timed to coincide with the festival, the 99-guest boutique vessel offers royal-inspired interiors, fine Vietnamese dining, and onboard art exhibitions by renowned Vietnamese painter Pham Luc, often dubbed the “Picasso of Vietnam.” Experiences such as sunset viewing, cultural storytelling, and live music are designed to attract high-end travelers seeking immersive and elegant escapes.
Dr. Pham Ha, Chairman of Lux Cruises Group, shared: “Nha Trang possesses all the elements to become a world-class coastal destination. Its recognition in Mastercard’s global ranking affirms the value of sustainable development efforts and smart tourism investment in the region.”
Expanded Connectivity and Bright Prospects
Cam Ranh International Airport, located just 30 kilometers from Nha Trang city, now receives nearly 50 international flights per day, with increased frequency during the summer months. This enhanced connectivity is considered a “golden key” to expanding access for international tourists, especially with Vietnam’s new e-visa policies and extended visa exemptions for strategic markets.
Nha Trang is also home to a host of international and local hospitality brands, including Accor, Marriott, InterContinental, Vinpearl, Fusion, and more. Emerging areas such as North Cam Ranh Peninsula, Hon Tre Island, and Bai Dai are being developed under the model of “smart, sustainable, and luxury tourism.”
Emerging Travel Trends and Vietnam’s Opportunity
Aside from sun and sand, today’s international tourists are increasingly drawn to local cuisine, wellness, and authentic cultural experiences. Nha Trang, with its rich culinary heritage, offers everything from vibrant street food to fine dining restaurants with panoramic ocean views. Popular activities include yoga cruises, herbal spa treatments, mineral mud baths, diving adventures, and fishing village tours — all of which appeal to international guests seeking holistic, meaningful travel.
Being included in Mastercard’s prestigious top 15 global summer destinations is not just a win for Nha Trang — it’s a clear signal of Vietnam’s growing global tourism presence. As demand for sustainable, high-quality travel continues to rise, this presents a golden opportunity for Vietnam’s tourism industry to level up, enhance service quality, diversify products, and align with global trends.
The Mastercard Global Travel Trends report is based on aggregated consumer data, AI-driven analytics, and survey responses from over 30 countries. It forecasts the world’s most anticipated summer destinations in 2025. Nha Trang’s debut on this list marks a new chapter for Vietnamese tourism on the global stage — one filled with promise, innovation, and cultural charm.
