Hanoi’s Remarkable Rise in the World’s Best Cities Survey
Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi, has achieved a significant milestone by ranking 31st in the prestigious Telegraph Travel Awards 2025, outpacing regional heavyweights such as Bangkok (40th) and Kuala Lumpur (68th). This annual survey, organized by the UK-based newspaper The Telegraph, is one of the travel industry’s most respected accolades, drawing on the opinions of approximately 20,000 global readers to determine the world’s most outstanding urban destinations.
The recognition of Hanoi as a top-tier city is not just a testament to its enduring charm but also a reflection of broader trends in global tourism, where travelers increasingly seek destinations that blend cultural authenticity with modern vibrancy. The 2025 rankings highlight the changing preferences of international tourists and the growing appeal of Southeast Asian cities on the world stage.
What Makes Hanoi Stand Out?
The Telegraph describes Hanoi as a dynamic metropolis ideal for those drawn to cultural richness and the fusion of tradition and modernity. The city’s unique East-West architectural heritage, bustling street life, and thriving culinary scene have made it a magnet for visitors seeking both the poetic beauty of the past and the energetic pulse of the present.
In its commentary, The Telegraph notes: “Hanoi is a dynamic city ideal for those drawn to cultural richness and the fusion of tradition and modernity, especially reflected in its unique East-West architectural heritage.”
This blend is visible in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, where centuries-old temples and colonial-era buildings stand alongside trendy cafes and art galleries. The city’s lakes, tree-lined boulevards, and vibrant markets offer a sensory experience that is both timeless and contemporary.
How the Telegraph Travel Awards Work
The Telegraph Travel Awards are among the most influential reader-driven accolades in the travel industry. Each year, the awards invite tens of thousands of readers to vote for their favorite destinations, hotels, airlines, and travel experiences across multiple categories. The 2025 edition attracted around 20,000 participants, reflecting a broad spectrum of traveler preferences and experiences.
Cities are evaluated based on a combination of factors, including:
- Visual appeal and iconic landmarks
- Historical and cultural significance
- Quality and diversity of food and nightlife
- Accessibility and infrastructure
- Overall visitor experience
The results are closely watched by tourism boards, city officials, and industry professionals, as they often signal emerging trends and shifts in global travel demand.
Hanoi’s Regional and Global Context
Hanoi’s 31st-place finish is particularly noteworthy given the intense competition from other Asian cities. In the regional rankings, Hanoi secured 10th place among cities outside Europe and the Americas, underscoring its growing stature as a must-visit destination in Asia.
Other major Asian cities in the rankings include:
- Bangkok (40th)
- Mumbai (43rd)
- Kuala Lumpur (68th)
- Dubai (73rd)
- Ho Chi Minh City (77th)
Singapore was the only Southeast Asian city to break into the global top 10, coming in at 10th place. This highlights the diversity and competitiveness of the region’s urban tourism offerings.
Tourism Boom: Hanoi’s Growing International Appeal
Hanoi’s recognition in the Telegraph Travel Awards comes amid a surge in international tourism. In the first half of 2025, the city welcomed nearly 3.7 million international visitors, a 22% increase from the previous year. Total visitor numbers, including domestic tourists, surpassed 15.5 million, generating tourism revenue estimated at over VND62 trillion (approximately US$2.37 billion), up nearly 15% year-on-year.
This growth is driven by several factors:
- Vietnam’s successful post-pandemic reopening and visa reforms
- Increased international flight connectivity
- Rising global interest in Vietnamese cuisine, culture, and heritage
- Major events and festivals drawing visitors from around the world
Hanoi’s tourism authorities have capitalized on these trends by promoting the city’s unique blend of history, art, and gastronomy, as well as its reputation for safety and hospitality.
Ho Chi Minh City: Vietnam’s Southern Metropolis Also Shines
While Hanoi leads Vietnam’s charge in the rankings, Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) also earned a spot among the world’s best, coming in at 77th. The southern hub is celebrated for its energetic urban spirit, characterized by the roar of motorbikes, colonial-era architecture, glittering skyscrapers, and modern shopping centers.
According to Báo Tuổi Trẻ, “Ho Chi Minh City is depicted as a vibrant destination defined by the roar of motorbikes, colonial-era architecture, glittering skyscrapers, and modern shopping centers—evoking its energetic urban spirit.”
The inclusion of both cities in the global rankings reaffirms Vietnam’s growing appeal as an international travel destination and highlights the country’s diverse urban experiences.
Inside the Top 10: What Defines the World’s Best Cities?
The 2025 Telegraph Travel Awards’ top 10 cities reflect a mix of perennial favorites and rising stars from across the globe. The list is led by Cape Town, South Africa, which has now topped the rankings seven times in the past 11 years. The rest of the top 10 includes:
- 1. Cape Town, South Africa
- 2. Seville, Spain
- 3. Sydney, Australia
- 4. Tokyo, Japan
- 5. Kyoto, Japan
- 6. Copenhagen, Denmark
- 7. Vancouver, Canada
- 8. Venice, Italy
- 9. Porto, Portugal
- 10. Singapore
Each city is celebrated for its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, culinary excellence, and vibrant urban life. For instance, Cape Town is praised for its stunning scenery, Table Mountain, and Atlantic coastline, while Seville is renowned for its Moorish heritage and lively tapas bars. Tokyo and Kyoto represent the best of Japan’s modernity and tradition, and cities like Copenhagen and Vancouver are lauded for their quality of life and innovative urban design.
Changing Travel Trends Reflected in the Rankings
The 2025 rankings reveal several notable trends:
- Rising interest in cities that offer a mix of tradition and modernity
- Growing appeal of destinations with strong culinary and cultural identities
- Preference for cities with accessible green spaces and sustainable tourism practices
- Recognition of cities that have successfully balanced tourism growth with quality of life for residents
Hanoi’s ascent in the rankings aligns with these trends, as the city continues to invest in preserving its heritage while embracing innovation and modernization.
Why Hanoi’s Recognition Matters for Vietnam
Hanoi’s high ranking in the Telegraph Travel Awards is more than just a point of pride—it has tangible implications for Vietnam’s tourism industry and international reputation. Such recognition can boost the city’s visibility among global travelers, attract new investment, and inspire further improvements in infrastructure and services.
For Vietnam, the achievement signals its emergence as a leading destination in Asia, capable of competing with established tourism powerhouses. The country’s ability to maintain and improve its rankings in future years will depend on continued efforts to enhance the visitor experience, promote sustainable tourism, and preserve the unique qualities that make its cities special.
Expert Perspectives and Official Reactions
Vietnamese tourism officials and industry experts have welcomed the news, viewing it as validation of the country’s strategic investments in tourism development and international marketing. The recognition also comes at a time when Vietnam is seeking to diversify its tourism offerings and attract higher-spending visitors from new markets.
One tourism authority noted, “This achievement reflects the hard work of our tourism sector and the enduring appeal of Hanoi as a destination that offers something for every traveler.”
Local media coverage has emphasized the significance of the award, with outlets such as VnExpress and Báo Tuổi Trẻ highlighting the city’s cultural richness, economic impact, and role in shaping Vietnam’s global image.
The Broader Impact: What Lies Ahead for Hanoi and Regional Tourism?
Hanoi’s success in the Telegraph Travel Awards is likely to have a ripple effect across Vietnam and the broader Southeast Asian region. As more travelers seek out authentic, culturally rich destinations, cities like Hanoi are well-positioned to capture a larger share of the international tourism market.
Looking ahead, the challenge for Hanoi will be to manage growth sustainably, ensuring that increased visitor numbers do not compromise the city’s heritage, environment, or quality of life. Investments in infrastructure, public transportation, and green spaces will be crucial, as will efforts to promote responsible tourism practices among visitors and residents alike.
For regional rivals such as Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur, Hanoi’s rise serves as both inspiration and a reminder of the importance of continuous innovation and investment in the tourism sector. The competition among Asian cities is fierce, and the ability to stand out in global rankings requires a commitment to excellence across all aspects of the visitor experience.
In Summary
- Hanoi ranked 31st in the 2025 Telegraph Travel Awards, surpassing Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur.
- The awards are based on votes from around 20,000 global readers, reflecting current travel trends and preferences.
- Hanoi’s blend of tradition and modernity, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant urban life contributed to its high ranking.
- The city saw a 22% increase in international visitors in the first half of 2025, highlighting its growing appeal.
- Ho Chi Minh City also featured in the rankings, coming in at 77th place.
- The global top 10 cities include Cape Town, Seville, Sydney, Tokyo, Kyoto, Copenhagen, Vancouver, Venice, Porto, and Singapore.
- Hanoi’s recognition is a significant achievement for Vietnam’s tourism industry and its international reputation.
