A report from the digital travel platform Agoda recorded a 59% increase in travel interest from Eastern European countries based on accommodation search data, following Vietnam’s recent expansion of its visa exemption policy.

The new policy, effective from August 15, 2025, extends visa-free entry to 12 European nations.

Agoda’s data shows rising interest from Eastern European travellers in particular, with searches from Slovenia up 77%, Poland up 74%, Bulgaria up 72%, Romania up 69%, and Slovakia up 61%.

The findings are drawn from searches made on Agoda between August 15 and September 30, after the new visa regulations were announced, for check-ins between October and November -- compared with the same period last year.

“The data clearly demonstrates how simplified entry procedures and improved accessibility encourage more travellers from Europe and other long-haul markets to visit Vietnam,” said Vu Ngoc Lam, Vietnam country director at Agoda.

Top destinations rise

Eastern European travellers are showing diverse preferences when exploring Vietnam with Phu Quoc Island leading searches with an increase of 113% year-on-year.

The tropical island is followed by the bustling urban hubs of Hanoi and HCM City in second and third place, which have seen 77% and 56% growth in interest, respectively.

Picturesque beach cities Da Nang with a 36% increase and Nha Trang with a 35% increase round out the top five destinations, both enjoying strong growth in searches from Eastern European visitors.

The increase in European interest observed on Agoda aligns with official data from the National Statistics Office, which reports that European arrivals climbed nearly 35% in the first nine months of 2025.

In the third quarter alone, Vietnam welcomed 568,370 European tourists, up 38% from the previous quarter and an impressive 60% increase year on year.

“The expanded visa-free policy has made Vietnam more accessible and appealing to European travellers. We’re thrilled to support this growth and attract more international tourists to Vietnam by offering a user-friendly platform with simple tools and the best deals on accommodation, flight, and activity options, helping travellers easily plan and enjoy their journey across Vietnam,” Lam said.

With over six million properties, 130,000 flight routes, and 300,000 activities available to be combined in a single booking, Agoda makes it easier than ever for travellers from Europe to plan their trips to Vietnam.

Whether it’s a relaxing getaway, a cultural journey, or a coastal escape, Agoda’s seamless platform helps European tourists discover and experience the best of Vietnam with convenience and confidence.

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