Central Vietnam has been ranked among the world’s top travel destinations for 2026 by UK-based travel magazine Time Out.
This underscores the region’s growing appeal as a destination that seamlessly blends cultural depth, natural beauty and high-end leisure experiences.
UK-based travel magazine Time Out has named the best places in the world to travel in 2026, with central Vietnam ranking 8th in the overall list. Photograph: worradirek / Shutterstock
In its list of the 19 best places in the world to travel in 2026, Time Out placed Central Vietnam 8th overall, highlighting the region as ideal for travelers seeking “the right balance between adventure and indulgent downtime”.
According to the magazine, Central Vietnam is emerging from the shadow of larger global cities to become a standout destination in its own right. Improved accessibility has played a key role in this transformation.
“It’s never been easier to get there thanks to a wave of new international flights landing at Da Nang International Airport, and the city’s skyline is getting a serious upgrade with the debut of Nobu Hotel Danang – think 43 stories of beachfront luxury alongside Nobu’s signature Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine”, Time Out editors remarked.
Bay Mau coconut forest in Hoi An, Da Nang, Vietnam viewed from above. Photo: DNO
The development reflects the city’s ambitions to position itself as a premium coastal destination while retaining its relaxed seaside character.
Vietnam North to South Beach & Leisure Journey
Further north, the ancient capital of Hue is experiencing what Time Out describes as a “royal renaissance”.
Extensive cultural restoration projects are underway in the former imperial city, breathing new life into its historic palaces, citadels and monuments.
At the same time, Hue is expanding its appeal through wellness-focused hospitality developments.
“And if you’re all burnt out from daily life, then the upcoming wellness-heavy Grand Royal Riverside Hue is the balm”, according to Time Out.
Beyond the region’s major urban centres, Central Vietnam offers a diverse range of landscapes and experiences.
From the sweeping sand dunes of Mui Ne to the laid-back coastal atmosphere of Da Nang, the area presents a rare combination of outdoor adventure, heritage exploration and refined leisure.
Time Out notes that this balance is precisely what sets Central Vietnam apart, positioning it as a destination capable of meeting the evolving expectations of global travellers in 2026 and beyond.
| Other destinations featured in Time Out’s 2026 list include the Canadian Rockies, Rabat in Morocco, Algodões in Brazil, Hamburg in Germany, Aoraki/Mount Cook in New Zealand, Mendoza in Argentina and Cirencester in England. |
The inclusion of Central Vietnam among these globally recognised destinations reflects the region’s rising profile on the international tourism map and signals growing confidence in Vietnam’s ability to offer world-class travel experiences rooted in culture, nature and contemporary luxury.
Source: DNO – en.baodanang.vn
