Vietnam Among Top 10 Friendliest Countries In The World - Ultimate Guide You Need To Know

Let’s together with Hanoi Local Tour discover why Vietnam is among top 10 friendliest countries in the world for 2025. Practical Vietnam travel tips, best places to meet locals, safety, culture, and itinerary ideas for first-time visitors.

Top 10 Friendliest Countries In the World According To The 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards

In the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards by Condé Nast Traveller, Vietnam secured an impressive 6th place among the world’s top 10 friendliest countries, with a score of 97.27.

This survey is based on votes from thousands of travelers worldwide who evaluated each destination’s hospitality, warmth, and overall travel experience.

Top 10 Friendliest Countries 2025 (Condé Nast Traveller):

Kenya. Score: 98.46
Barbados. Score: 98.18
Mexico. Score: 98.00
Bhutan. Score: 97.78
Cambodia. Score: 97.33
Vietnam. Score: 97.27
Chile. Score: 96.67
Mauritius. Score: 96.67
Seychelles. Score: 96.36
Thailand. Score: 96.36

The results highlight Vietnam as one of Asia’s warmest and most welcoming destinations, standing proudly alongside its regional neighbors Cambodia and Thailand.

What Makes Vietnam One of the Top 10 Friendliest Countries in 2025?

Vietnam’s inclusion in the top 10 friendliest countries in the world 2025 isn’t just hype—it’s backed by global surveys and traveler votes. According to the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards by Condé Nast Traveller, Vietnam secured the sixth spot with an impressive score of 97.27 out of 100. This ranking highlights the country’s exceptional hospitality, where locals go out of their way to assist strangers, often with a smile and a helpful gesture.

But what exactly contributes to this friendliness? It’s a blend of cultural values, historical resilience, and everyday interactions that set Vietnam apart. Vietnamese culture emphasizes community and respect, rooted in Confucian principles that promote harmony and helpfulness. Travelers frequently report instances where locals invite them for tea, offer directions without being asked, or even share meals.

Top 10+ Destinations in Vietnam You Should Experience

When exploring Vietnam in top 10 friendliest countries in the world 2025, certain spots exemplify its hospitality. These places not only boast natural beauty but also communities eager to welcome you. From the misty mountains of the north to the sun-kissed beaches of the south, each location offers unique ways to connect with locals.

Hanoi Vietnam – The Heartbeat of Northern Hospitality

Hanoi, the bustling capital, is where history meets heartfelt welcomes. As you navigate the chaotic yet charming Old Quarter, shopkeepers and cyclo drivers often pause to offer tips or share a laugh, making you feel instantly at home. The city’s blend of French colonial architecture and ancient temples creates a backdrop for genuine interactions, like joining locals for morning exercises around Hoan Kiem Lake.

Stroll through the Old Quarter’s narrow streets, where vendors invite you to taste street foods like bun cha and engage in friendly haggling.
Visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, where knowledgeable guides—often locals passionate about history—share stories with enthusiasm and might even recommend hidden eateries.
Take a water puppet show at Thang Long Theater; afterward, chat with performers who love discussing this traditional art form with visitors.
Explore Dong Xuan Market for souvenirs, where sellers go beyond sales to offer cultural insights, such as how to brew Vietnamese coffee.

Hanoi’s energy, combined with its residents’ eagerness to help, makes it a top spot for experiencing Vietnam’s friendliness firsthand. In my visits, I’ve been invited to impromptu tea sessions that turned into hours of storytelling.

Sapa Vietnam – Mountain Retreats with Ethnic Warmth

Nestled in the northwest highlands, Sapa is a haven for trekkers seeking authentic cultural exchanges. Home to ethnic minorities like the Hmong and Dao, the region is famous for its terraced rice fields and misty landscapes. Locals here embody hospitality by welcoming hikers into their homes, sharing meals, and guiding through trails with personal anecdotes.

Trek to villages like Cat Cat or Ta Phin, where homestay owners prepare traditional dishes and teach handicrafts, fostering deep connections.
Visit the weekend Bac Ha Market, bustling with colorful attire and vendors who eagerly explain their wares, often gifting small tokens to polite buyers.
Ride the cable car to Fansipan Peak for panoramic views, then descend to chat with farmers about their daily lives amid the clouds.
Join a cooking class with local families, learning to make dishes like thang co while hearing folklore passed down generations.

Sapa’s cooler climate and serene vibe amplify the warmth of its people, making it ideal for those wanting off-the-beaten-path hospitality.

Halong Bay – Serene Waters and Welcoming Cruises

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Halong Bay’s emerald waters and limestone karsts provide a stunning setting for hospitality on the water. Cruise crews and island villagers treat guests like family, offering personalized service and sharing legends of the bay’s dragons.

Embark on an overnight cruise, where staff organize kayaking trips and cave explorations, followed by seafood dinners with storytelling sessions.
Visit floating fishing villages like Vung Vieng, where residents demonstrate pearl farming and invite you for fresh catches.
Hike to viewpoints on Cat Ba Island, guided by locals who point out hidden spots and offer herbal remedies from the forest.
Try squid fishing at night, a fun activity where crew members teach techniques and celebrate your catches with cheers.

The bay’s magical atmosphere, paired with its hospitable inhabitants, creates unforgettable bonds.

Ninh Binh Vietnam – Tranquil Rivers and Rural Kindness

Often called “Halong Bay on land,” Ninh Binh’s dramatic landscapes of rivers and karsts are matched by its friendly rural communities. Boat rowers in Tam Coc share smiles and songs, turning rides into cultural journeys.

Boat through Tam Coc’s caves, where oarswomen narrate local myths and might share snacks from their baskets.
Cycle to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, stopping at villages where elders recount history over green tea.
Climb Hang Mua for views, then relax at nearby homestays with family-style meals.
Explore Trang An Grottoes, a UNESCO site, with guides who enhance the experience with personal touches.

Ninh Binh’s peaceful setting highlights Vietnam’s grassroots hospitality.

Hoi An Ancient Town

This lantern-lit UNESCO gem is a hotspot for tailored experiences. Tailors and artisans not only craft custom clothes but also invite visitors into their workshops for cultural demos.

Wander the Ancient Town at night, joining lantern releases on the river with locals who explain festival traditions.
Cycle to nearby villages like Tra Que, where farmers teach herb gardening and host farm-to-table lunches.
Attend a lantern-making class, bonding with instructors over shared creativity.
Relax on An Bang Beach, where beachside vendors offer massages and fresh coconuts with friendly chats.

Hoi An’s preserved charm and open-hearted people make it a hospitality highlight.

Da Nang Vietnam – Coastal Vibes and Laid-Back Friendliness

Da Nang, with its modern skyline and golden beaches, is praised for its relaxed atmosphere. Locals at My Khe Beach often organize volleyball games with tourists, embodying the city’s easygoing spirit.

Cross the Dragon Bridge for weekend fire shows, mingling with crowds in festive moods.
Visit the Marble Mountains, where cave explorers and monks provide insightful tours.
Stroll Han Market for street food, with sellers recommending specialties like mi quang.
Ride the Ba Na Hills cable car to the Golden Bridge, chatting with fellow riders about local lore.

Da Nang’s blend of urban convenience and warmth is perfect for families.

Ho Chi Minh City – Southern Energy and Open Arms

The vibrant south’s hub, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), pulses with entrepreneurial spirit. From Ben Thanh Market hagglers to cafe owners, the hospitality is energetic and inclusive.

Tour the Cu Chi Tunnels with veteran guides sharing personal histories.
Wander District 1’s streets, joining sidewalk coffee sessions with locals.
Day trip to the Mekong Delta, where river families host boat rides and fruit tastings.
Visit Notre-Dame Cathedral and nearby parks for picnics with friendly groups.

The city’s dynamism enhances its welcoming nature.

Phu Quoc Island Paradise with Beachside Hospitality

Vietnam’s largest island, Phu Quoc, offers tropical bliss with locals who treat visitors like old friends at seafood shacks and night markets.

Snorkel at Sao Beach, with guides pointing out marine life and sharing eco-tips.
Explore pepper farms, where owners offer tastings and recipes.
Cable car to Hon Thom for water park fun, with staff ensuring enjoyable rides.
Sunset cruises with barbecues, fostering group camaraderie.

Phu Quoc’s relaxed pace amplifies its friendly allure.

These destinations showcase Vietnam’s diverse hospitality, from urban buzz to island serenity.

Practical Tips for Travelers to Experience Vietnam in 2025-2026

Planning a trip to one of the top 10 friendliest countries? Here’s an expanded guide on how to maximize your experience, based on my journeys and updated advice from travel experts

Vietnam Visa and Entry Requirements

Most nationalities can enter visa-free for 45 days, but for longer stays, apply for an e-visa online via the official portal. Ensure your passport is valid for six months beyond your stay, and have proof of onward travel ready at immigration to avoid hassles.

Best Time to Visit Vietnam

Aim for February to April or August to October for milder weather and fewer crowds. Northern areas like Sapa are cool year-round, while the south is tropical—avoid the rainy season (May-October in the north, November-April in the south) to enjoy outdoor hospitality without interruptions.

Packing Essentials When Visiting Vietnam

Pack lightweight, breathable clothes for humidity, but include layers for cooler evenings in highlands like Da Lat or Sapa. Don’t forget reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle (with filter), comfortable walking shoes for treks. Underpack if possible – local markets offer affordable replacements. For women, modest attire for temples; quick-dry outfits for sweat-prone days.

Vietnam Currency and Budgeting

Use Vietnamese Dong (VND) for transactions – ATMs are widespread, but carry cash for rural areas. Expect $30-50 USD daily for budget travel (hostels, street food), $50-100 for mid-range (hotels, tours), and $100+ for luxury. Tipping isn’t customary but appreciated for exceptional service.

Transportation Options in Vietnam

Fly into Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh for international arrivals. Domestically, use budget airlines like VietJet, sleeper trains for scenic routes (e.g., Hanoi to Hue), or buses. In cities, Grab rideshares are safe and cheap; rent motorbikes only if experienced, and always wear helmets. For eco-friendly travel, opt for electric buses in major hubs.

Cultural Etiquette and Interactions

Show respect by removing shoes indoors, using two hands for exchanges, and avoiding public displays of affection. Learn phrases like “cảm ơn” (thank you) to unlock warmer responses.

Useful Apps and Technology

Download Google Translate (with offline Vietnamese pack), Grab for rides/food, Zalo for local chats, and Google Maps for maps. Use eSIMs for data; Wi-Fi is ubiquitous in cafes and hotels.

Sustainable Travel Practices

Support local economies by choosing family-run businesses. Minimize plastic use, respect wildlife in national parks, and offset carbon via eco-tours.

Vietnam in the top 10 friendliest countries in the world 2025 inspires you to plan your own journey, there’s no better way to experience it than with Hanoi Local Tour https://www.hanoilocaltour.com/ – your trusted local expert for authentic, people-centered travel across Vietnam and Southeast Asia.

Our team of passionate travel specialists and local guides are dedicated to showing you the true heart of Vietnam – from warm homestays in Sapa and lantern-lit evenings in Hoi An, to Mekong Delta floating markets filled with smiles. Every itinerary is crafted to connect travelers with real communities, culture, and cuisine, beyond the typical tourist path.

Let’s discover why Vietnam’s friendliness wins hearts worldwide!