Six ideal destinations for green tourism in Vietnam

Sustainable practices while traveling inspire 75% of Vietnamese travelers, enabling them to be more engaged in their daily lives, and 94% want to ensure that the trips they take next year are more mindful and environmentally conscious.

Foreign travellers in Hoi An Ancient Town, Quang Nam Province. Photo: Nguoi Hoi An

It indicates that green travel has become a trend among local travelers as said in Booking.com's Sustainable Travel Report 2024.

The accommodation platform has recently unveiled six destinations chosen by travelers for mindful travel experiences in 2024, including Ha Giang Province, Danang City, Hoi An Ancient Town, Quy Nhon City, Song Cau Town, and Ho Chi Minh City.

Located in the central coastal province of Phu Yen, Song Cau Town is famous for its pristine beaches and charming fishing villages. It offers a wonderful insight into local life with historic lighthouses, scenic treks to capture panoramic views of Mui Dien cape, or stroll through the villages and observe the traditional practices of local shrimp farmers.

The tiny charming town is now taking various sustainability measures like investing in community-based tourism models such as developing marine reserves and mangrove restoration projects that support local communities.

The tranquil beauty of Song Cau Town, Phu Yen Province. Photo: Booking.com

Located in the northeastern mountainous region, Ha Giang Province is defined by stunning karst mountains, steep passes, winding roads, and mist-shrouded villages. It is also home to ethnic minorities who continue to maintain their traditional cultures and lifestyles. Ha Giang has prioritized cultural preservation and responsible tourism.

The UNESCO-recognized ancient town of Hoi An in the central province of Quang Nam is now combining conservation with tourism development and promoting activities that support local communities. Travelers to the site will have the chance to explore the charming old town with its well-preserved architecture, watch skilled artisans create traditional products, and embark on an enchanting journey through the Bay Mau coconut forest.

Travelers take the Hoian Basket Boat Tour through Cam Thanh Coconut Village. Photo: Thu Nguyen

In recent years, Quy Nhon City has become a hotspot for ecotourism. Its vibrant marine ecosystem is maintained through initiatives such as strict coral reef protection measures and community efforts to keep the marine environment clean and beautiful. Beach lovers seeking unspoiled coastlines can explore Ky Co Eo Gio, one of Quy Nhon's most famous attractions, where they can marvel at uniquely shaped rock formations and sparkling clear waters under the sun. Quy Nhon also offers other stunning beaches to swim and snorkel, such as Hon Kho Beach, or to camp and enjoy fresh seafood at Bai Xep.

The charming beauty of Quy Nhon City, Binh Dinnh Province, Vietnam. Photo: Booking.com

Meanwhile, with 96% of Vietnamese travelers reporting an enhanced experience by renting a bike, the central coastal city of Danang is ideal for those who want to explore the city by biking.

The city boasts excellent cycling routes, from serpentine paths through lush greenery to bridges over the Han River, offering scenic and sweeping views of the city. Relaxing on My Khe Beach, known for its gentle slope, is the perfect end to a leisurely bike ride along the coast. With relatively little traffic and designated bike lanes, Danang is known for emission-free exploration.

The Golden Bridge in Danang City, Vietnam. Photo: Danang Travel

Since 2023, Ho Chi Minh City has been enforcing ASEAN tourism standards to ensure a balance between tourism and environmental protection. The dynamic city offers travelers a wide variety of options, from exploring the bustling markets filled with local produce and handicrafts to admiring the architectural wonders, to taking a scenic cruise along the Saigon River or sipping a cocktail at one of the dozens of sky-high rooftop bars.

As confirmed by Booking.com, these destinations were selected from the top 500 destinations based on the volume of properties with independent third-party sustainability certification and ranked by the highest percentage of total properties with independent third-party sustainability certification. The destinations were slightly curated to ensure geographic distribution.

The romantic sunset on the Saigon River. Photo: Mia Saigon Hotel