At the Vietnam–Europe Tourism Promotion event held at Salone Dei Tessuti in Milan, Vietnam Airlines officially announced the launch of its new nonstop service between Hanoi and Milan, marking a significant milestone in strengthening tourism, cultural exchange, and economic ties between Vietnam and Italy.

Set to begin on July 1, 2025, the new route will make Vietnam Airlines the first Vietnamese carrier to offer direct flights between Hanoi and Milan — a major European center of fashion, culture, and commerce. The airline will operate three round-trip flights per week using the state-of-the-art Boeing 787 Dreamliner, with each flight lasting approximately 12 hours.

This addition expands Vietnam Airlines’ European network to nine direct routes, enhancing greater connectivity and convenience for travelers between Vietnam and Europe.

The Vietnam–Europe Tourism Promotion is an annual event aimed at fostering tourism, trade, and investment partnerships between Vietnam and European countries, while promoting Vietnam as an attractive and dynamic destination for European visitors.

During the event, high-level representatives from the Vietnamese Embassy in Italy, the Italian Government Tourist Board (ENIT), and the Lombardy regional government reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral partnerships in tourism and trade. 

Key Vietnamese organizations — including the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism, the Hanoi Municipal Department of Tourism, Vietnam Airlines, and Saigontourist Group — introduced new tourism products, highlighted updates to Vietnam’s visa policies, and shared strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing cooperation with European partners.

Speaking at the event, Mrs. Alessandra Priante, President of the Italian Government Tourist Board , said: “The introduction of this nonstop service is a significant step forward in enhancing bilateral tourism between Italy and Vietnam. Both nations boast vibrant cultural legacies and distinctive travel experiences that appeal to global audiences. With continued collaboration among airlines, industry leaders, and tourism authorities, we are confident in fostering a dynamic and sustainable partnership in the tourism sector.”

Dinh Van Tuan, Executive Vice President of Vietnam Airlines, also addressed the route’s importance at a related event, Destination Italy, in Hanoi: “The upcoming nonstop Hanoi–Milan service will greatly shorten travel time and provide a seamless connection for travelers eager to experience the rich cultural and scenic offerings of both Vietnam and Italy. As we strive to reach our goal of welcoming 22 to 23 million international visitors in 2025, we see Italy—with its strong tourism appeal and supportive visa policies—as a key partner in this effort.”

The launch of the nonstop Hanoi–Milan route enhances travel convenience and underscores Vietnam Airlines’ leadership in international aviation. For over 30 years, the airline has connected Vietnam with the world, supporting its global integration.

Previously, travelers between Vietnam and Italy often faced long layovers in cities like Paris or Doha. This new direct route eliminates the need for transfers, offering quicker access to Italy’s major highlights such as Rome, Florence, and Venice. In return, Italian tourists gain direct entry to Vietnam’s most iconic and culturally rich destinations, from Hanoi, Ha Long Bay to Hoi An, Hue, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh…

More than a new route, this launch—timed with the Vietnam–Europe Tourism Promotion—marks a meaningful step in deepening bilateral ties and cultural exchange between Vietnam and Italy.