Vietnam is gearing up for one of its busiest travel periods of the year as the country prepares to celebrate its 80th National Day. From August 30 to September 3, the holiday period will feature nationwide events, with Hanoi taking center stage for the grand military parade and troop review on September 2. This rare spectacle is drawing huge crowds from across the country and abroad, creating a wave of demand that is sending flight prices soaring and hotel rooms quickly filling up.
Flight Prices Climb to Record Highs
Airfares across Vietnam have surged sharply. The route between Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi has seen the steepest increases, with round-trip tickets for daytime departures now ranging between VND 5.6 million and 6.5 million. This is more than double the usual VND 2 million fare. Airlines say demand is so high that even off-peak flights are near capacity. Those who delay booking risk paying even more or finding no seats at all.
Flights to Da Nang are also in high demand. One-way tickets from Hanoi are now about VND 3.8 million, while flights from Ho Chi Minh City are around VND 3.4 million. These rates match those seen during the summer peak in June, signaling just how strong the holiday rush has become.
Over at Phu Quoc Island, round-trip airfares now range from VND 5.4 million to 8 million, exceeding the cost of some short-haul international flights to China or Thailand.
Hotels Near Full in Central Hanoi
Hanoi’s Old Quarter and Ba Dinh Square, where the parade will take place, are at the heart of the tourism boom. Four- and five-star hotels in these areas are now reporting 85 to 90 percent occupancy, while three-star properties are close to 80 percent. Even boutique hotels and serviced apartments are seeing a rush in reservations.
Visitors are drawn not only by the parade but also by Hanoi’s cultural attractions, street food, and historical landmarks. For many, witnessing the parade is a once-in-a-lifetime event, adding urgency to secure accommodation in prime locations.
Phu Quoc’s Mixed Booking Picture
While flights to Phu Quoc are expensive, hotel occupancy remains relatively low at 30 to 40 percent. This suggests some travelers are buying tickets early but delaying hotel bookings, possibly waiting for deals. Luxury resorts, budget hotels, and mid-range accommodations are all seeing slower bookings compared to the surge in Hanoi.
Impact on Transport and Local Businesses
The holiday rush is affecting more than just flights and hotels. Car rentals, ride-hailing services, and intercity buses are all experiencing higher demand. In Hanoi, traffic is expected to be heavy around Ba Dinh Square and other major attractions.
Restaurants, cafes, and tourist sites are preparing for large crowds by extending hours and hiring extra staff. Local businesses are optimistic about the increased sales, though they are also mindful of managing service quality during peak times.
Why This Year’s Surge Is Special
Vietnam’s National Day always draws domestic tourists, but the 80th anniversary adds extra significance. The military parade is a symbol of national pride, featuring thousands of participants, military vehicles, and cultural displays. For many Vietnamese, attending the parade is both a celebration and a way to honor the country’s history.
The holiday also reflects a growing trend of domestic tourism. As Vietnam improves its transport and hospitality infrastructure, more citizens are choosing to travel locally for major holidays instead of going abroad.
Tips and Alternatives for Travelers
Travel experts recommend booking flights and hotels as early as possible. For those looking to avoid the highest prices and largest crowds, destinations like Hue, Nha Trang, and Ha Long Bay offer appealing alternatives. These cities still have holiday events, but they are less crowded and often more affordable.
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