Le Parisien’s June 13 article presents Việt Nam as one of Asia’s most captivating travel destinations. — VNA/VNS Photo

PARIS — French newspaper Le Parisien has spotlighted Việt Nam as one of Asia’s most captivating travel destinations, highlighting the country’s stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage and world-renowned cuisine as key draws for international visitors.

In a recent feature, the newspaper described Việt Nam as a destination that leaves a lasting impression from the moment travellers arrive. It singled out iconic attractions such as Hạ Long Bay, sweeping terraced rice fields and ancient temples and pagodas, while also noting Việt Nam’s emergence as one of Asia’s most dynamic economies, home to more than 100 million people.

While acknowledging that the bustling streets of Hà Nội, filled with motorbikes and constant traffic, may seem overwhelming at first, Le Parisien said visitors are quickly won over by the friendliness of local people and the country’s vibrant food culture.

The newspaper noted that Việt Nam’s diverse landscapes, cultures and historical sites make it difficult to fully experience in a short stay. Stretching the length of the country and covering more than 330,000 square kilometres, Việt Nam offers enough attractions to warrant a trip of at least 10 days, it said.

Among the destinations featured, Hà Nội was celebrated as a haven for street-food enthusiasts, with recommendations to sample phở, bánh mì and egg coffee in the Old Quarter. The capital’s railway street was also highlighted as a uniquely local experience.

Le Parisien portrayed Hạ Long Bay as a dreamlike landscape where thousands of limestone islets rise from mist-covered waters, suggesting that an overnight cruise provides the best opportunity to appreciate the bay’s beauty and tranquillity.

The publication also praised Ninh Bình, often referred to as 'Hạ Long Bay on land', for its striking combination of limestone karsts, waterways and rice paddies. With fewer crowds than many of the country’s better-known attractions, it was described as an ideal retreat for nature lovers.

Tourists paddle into a cave in Hạ Long Bay. — VNA/VNS Photo

In central Việt Nam, Huế stood out for its imperial heritage and the grandeur of the Nguyễn Dynasty’s architectural legacy. The newspaper highlighted ongoing restoration efforts at the Imperial Citadel, which offer visitors deeper insight into Việt Nam’s past.

The feature also recommended Trà Quế vegetable village in Hội An Tây Ward, Đà Nẵng, as a destination where travellers can explore Vietnamese culinary traditions through interactive cooking experiences.

Rounding off the journey was Hội An Ancient Town, which the newspaper described as one of Việt Nam’s most charming and romantic destinations. The glow of thousands of lanterns along the Hoài River and throughout the ancient town was cited as one of the country’s most memorable sights.

According to Le Parisien, Việt Nam’s growing appeal among international travellers stems from its compelling mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, historical depth and diverse gastronomy, making it an increasingly sought-after destination in Southeast Asia. — VNA/VNS