Sunday, June 15, 2025
Thailand and Vietnam are emerging as the top destinations for Russian tourists in summer 2025 because both countries have restored direct flight connections and extended visa-free entry, making travel easier, faster, and more affordable. This strategic combination is driving a major tourism recovery across Southeast Asia, with both nations experiencing a sharp rise in Russian arrivals seeking sun-soaked escapes without the usual entry barriers.
Two of Southeast Asia’s most popular travel hotspots—Thailand and Vietnam—are experiencing a dramatic increase in Russian tourists this summer. With international flights back in full swing and both countries relaxing visa policies, travelers from Russia are flocking to the region in numbers not seen since before the pandemic or geopolitical disruptions.
Projections suggest that more than 6.4 million Russians will travel abroad during the summer season, compared to just over 5.1 million during the same period last year. This jump signals a clear rebound in outbound travel from Russia, driven largely by demand for warm, affordable, and accessible holiday destinations. Vietnam and Thailand stand at the center of this revival, offering both the convenience of direct flights and favorable entry requirements.
Vietnam Sees Rebound After Air Link Restored
Vietnam has quickly risen to the top of Russian travelers’ wish lists. A major contributor to this rise is the resumption of direct flights between Hanoi and Moscow, which had been suspended for nearly three years due to ongoing regional tensions. The reinstated air route is now making travel easier, faster, and more attractive for Russian tourists seeking Southeast Asian vacations.
Vietnam’s coastal regions are particularly benefiting from the renewed connections. One major tour company has significantly expanded its charter flight operations between Russia and Vietnam. It currently runs around 50 to 55 flights per month from 11 Russian cities to the resort town of Cam Ranh—a popular beach destination known for its turquoise waters and luxury resorts. By July, this frequency is expected to rise to between 90 and 100 flights per month, matching growing demand.
This aggressive ramp-up in connectivity reflects how Vietnam has positioned itself to absorb the growing wave of outbound Russian tourism. The Vietnamese government has supported this trend by easing visa restrictions. In a key move earlier this year, the government extended visa exemptions for several countries through 2028, including Russia. This long-term commitment signals a broader strategy to boost tourism revenues and expand the country’s appeal to global travelers.
Vietnam is expected to welcome approximately 100,000 Russian tourists between June and August alone. That figure represents a 140% increase year-over-year, underlining the powerful combination of accessible flights, visa-free entry, and competitive pricing that Vietnam currently offers.
Thailand Maintains Stronghold as Russian Favorite
While Vietnam continues to gain momentum, Thailand is firmly maintaining its status as a preferred summer destination among Russian travelers. Thanks to years of tourism-friendly policies and robust travel infrastructure, Thailand has long attracted large numbers of Russians seeking beach vacations, affordable luxury, and tropical weather.
In 2025, this trend is accelerating once again. The country is projected to receive around 260,000 Russian visitors over the summer, which marks a 17% increase compared to last year. That growth is driven by a mix of increased flight capacity, expanded resort offerings, and the government’s continued openness to international arrivals.
Thailand’s appeal is further reinforced by its visa policies, which remain favorable for short-term Russian tourists. Travelers can enter with minimal paperwork or fees, and the country’s tourism sector has actively tailored services, signage, and even dining experiences to Russian preferences. From Phuket to Pattaya to Koh Samui, hotels and tour operators are reporting a clear uptick in bookings from Russia.
Data from the first five months of 2025 shows that Russia ranks as Thailand’s fourth-largest source of international arrivals. Nearly 961,000 Russians have already visited Thailand since January, a number that reflects both pent-up demand and the broader revival of Southeast Asian tourism.
Rising Demand for Sun and Simplicity
Several key factors explain the dramatic increase in Russian outbound travel this year—and why Thailand and Vietnam are leading the pack. First and foremost, the restoration of direct flight routes has removed a major barrier to international travel. Long-haul trips are now quicker and more convenient, allowing travelers to bypass costly layovers or circuitous routes.
Secondly, the visa frameworks in both countries provide Russian citizens with easy and affordable access. With little to no paperwork required for short-term stays, and no costly visa fees in many cases, both destinations have effectively eliminated one of the primary friction points that often deter international travelers.
In addition to logistics, affordability plays a major role. Compared to destinations in Europe or the Middle East, Thailand and Vietnam offer exceptional value. Visitors can enjoy high-end accommodations, local cuisine, guided excursions, and world-class beaches at prices significantly lower than in Western markets. For Russian families, couples, and solo travelers looking for relaxation without breaking the bank, both countries present a strong value proposition.
A Competitive Edge in Southeast Asia
While other Southeast Asian nations also attract tourists from Russia, Thailand and Vietnam are currently outperforming due to their decisive moves in aviation, visa policy, and targeted marketing. Their ability to adapt quickly to shifts in international travel demand has given them a competitive advantage.
As the summer season progresses, these two countries are poised to capture an even larger share of the outbound Russian travel market. Industry observers expect additional flight routes, new tourism packages, and potential policy tweaks to keep the momentum going into the autumn and winter seasons.
Thailand and Vietnam are leading Southeast Asia’s tourism recovery in summer 2025 as Russian tourists return in record numbers, driven by visa-free access and the full restoration of direct flights.
Vietnam and Thailand are setting the pace for a new chapter in Russian tourism. By restoring essential travel links and simplifying the entry process, both countries have positioned themselves as top choices for Russians seeking sun, sea, and stress-free holidays. With demand climbing and infrastructure already in place, Southeast Asia’s tourism revival is not only underway—it’s accelerating.
