Author: TTW News Desk

Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur have slipped far down the global rankings in 2025, while Hanoi has surged ahead to claim a coveted position among the world’s top cities for cultural depth and authentic travel. In a recent international survey of 20,000 global travelers, Vietnam’s capital stood out for its unique blend of tradition and modernity, outperforming its regional rivals in both visitor appeal and cultural value. With its preserved Old Quarter, East-West architecture, vibrant food scene, and rapid tourism growth, Hanoi captured international admiration as a destination that offers more than just sightseeing — it delivers a living, breathing experience of history, identity, and local life that today’s travelers increasingly seek.

Hanoi has risen in global recognition, securing the 31st position in a newly released list of the world’s top cities for travelers. This milestone highlights the Vietnamese capital’s expanding international appeal, fueled by its deep cultural roots, ongoing urban development, and increasing interest from global visitors. By outperforming other major regional cities such as Bangkok, which ranked 40th, and Kuala Lumpur, which came in at 68th, Hanoi has firmly established itself as one of Asia’s leading destinations in 2025.

The rankings come from a large-scale global survey organized by a major U.K.-based publication. This annual survey invites tens of thousands of global travelers to vote for the cities they believe offer the best travel experiences. The 2025 edition drew insights from 20,000 readers who weighed in on cities around the world based on categories like cultural vibrancy, historical value, scenic appeal, and travel experience.

Hanoi emerged as a clear favorite among Asian cities, beating out regional rivals that have traditionally dominated international tourism. The capital’s unique fusion of traditional Vietnamese culture with French colonial heritage and modern city life has helped set it apart from other destinations in the region. Its historic Old Quarter, vibrant street food scene, centuries-old temples, and lively arts districts offer visitors a blend of authenticity and energy that continues to resonate on the global stage.

Hanoi ranked 31st globally and secured the 10th spot among cities outside of Europe and the Americas, marking a significant milestone in regional standings. This strong performance placed the Vietnamese capital ahead of numerous destinations across the Asia-Pacific, Middle East, and Africa. Survey participants highlighted Hanoi’s distinctive combination of historical depth and modern energy, often pointing to its iconic architecture, lively street markets, and evolving urban landscape as key factors driving its growing popularity.

Hanoi’s growing presence in the global spotlight is reinforced by a remarkable spike in international tourism this year. In the first half of 2025, the city welcomed nearly 3.7 million visitors from abroad — marking a substantial 22% increase over the same period in 2024. This surge highlights Hanoi’s rising appeal among travelers from Europe, North America, and various parts of Asia, many of whom are now placing the Vietnamese capital high on their must-visit lists.

The city’s tourism revival has also been supported by local investment in infrastructure, heritage conservation, and public services aimed at enhancing visitor experiences. New international flight routes, upgraded airport facilities, and tourism-friendly policies have contributed to Hanoi’s appeal as a convenient and welcoming destination. Additionally, the city has made efforts to preserve its cultural landmarks while supporting modern developments, resulting in a more balanced and immersive experience for travelers.

While Hanoi’s ranking is impressive, it also reflects Vietnam’s broader momentum as a growing tourism power in Southeast Asia. Further south, Ho Chi Minh City — Vietnam’s largest and most commercially vibrant metropolis — also made it onto the global list but came in at a lower rank of 77th. Despite its cosmopolitan atmosphere and economic strength, Ho Chi Minh City has seen slower growth in international tourism engagement compared to the capital, possibly due to a different mix of visitor expectations and cultural offerings.

The 2025 list of the world’s top ten cities showcases an exciting lineup of destinations that combine cultural richness, scenic beauty, and travel convenience. Leading the pack is Cape Town, South Africa, a city known for its dramatic ocean views, mountainous backdrop, and vibrant mix of cultures. In second place sits Seville, where historic palaces and a deep-rooted flamenco tradition continue to charm visitors year after year.

Sydney takes third with its iconic harbor, beaches, and laid-back lifestyle. Japan shines with a double entry — Tokyo and Kyoto — both celebrated for their blend of ancient traditions and futuristic innovation. Copenhagen claims the sixth position, offering travelers a taste of Nordic minimalism, modern design, and eco-conscious city life.

Next on the list is Vancouver, where stunning coastal landscapes meet sleek urban living. Venice, still as magical as ever, holds its place with winding canals, gothic facades, and centuries-old ambiance. Porto follows with cobbled streets, historic riverside views, and a rich legacy rooted in wine and craftsmanship. Rounding out the top ten is Singapore, a sleek, cosmopolitan city that harmonizes high-tech marvels with deep multicultural roots.

What sets all these cities apart is their ability to immerse travelers in an atmosphere that feels authentic and unforgettable. Each one offers a unique sense of place, shaped by heritage, community, and the seamless blending of past and present.
For Vietnam, Hanoi’s rise in the rankings represents a milestone achievement. After years of quietly building its reputation as a must-visit destination, the capital has now joined a prestigious list of world-class cities recognized for their travel appeal. The recognition reflects years of consistent efforts to modernize the city’s infrastructure, preserve its historical core, and market itself to global audiences through travel fairs, media outreach, and cultural exchange programs.

Hanoi has surged ahead of Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur in the 2025 global city rankings thanks to its rich cultural heritage, authentic local experiences, and fast-rising appeal among international travelers seeking deeper, more meaningful journeys.

As international tourism continues to rebound in the post-pandemic era, destinations like Hanoi are beginning to benefit from a shift in traveler preferences. Many tourists today seek meaningful, authentic experiences that go beyond luxury resorts and crowded attractions. Hanoi offers exactly that — a living, breathing city filled with stories, traditions, and contrasts. From sipping egg coffee on a narrow sidewalk to walking through ancient temples or witnessing the rhythmic chaos of motorbikes in the Old Quarter, the city delivers a journey unlike any other.

Hanoi’s rise in the global city rankings is expected to spark even more international curiosity about Vietnam as a whole. With stronger air connections, strategic tourism partnerships, and continued government backing, the capital is on track to welcome a more diverse wave of visitors in the near future — including independent travelers, culture seekers, digital entrepreneurs, and international business interests. This momentum also sets the stage for other destinations across Vietnam to shine, as the country continues to spotlight its rich cultural tapestry, regional variety, and stunning natural landscapes on the global travel map.

In a region filled with travel heavyweights, Hanoi’s rise speaks volumes about what the city offers — and how far it has come. As more international travelers look eastward in search of new, meaningful journeys, Vietnam’s capital stands ready to deliver something truly unforgettable.