Condé Nast Traveler Names Phu Quoc Top Island in Asia — Sunset Town South Island Itinerary
Celebrating Phu Quoc's recognition as the #1 Top Island in Asia (95.26 points) by Condé Nast Traveler, here is a curated 1-day South Island itinerary featuring Sunset Town, Kiss Bridge, and the cable car.
1. Phu Quoc Named #1 Top Island in Asia by Condé Nast Traveler 2026
Vietnam’s Phu Quoc island has earned first place in the "Top Island in Asia" category in the 2026 Readers' Choice Awards by the globally recognized US travel publication, Condé Nast Traveler (US).
According to major Vietnamese news media (Vietnam News on 2026-10-08, VnExpress on 2026-10-08, and VTV on 2026-10-09), Phu Quoc achieved an outstanding score of 95.26 out of 100, securing the top ranking in Asia.
*(Note: The award was announced on October 6 according to the VnExpress report.)*
Vietnam News also reported that this #1 ranking reflects the US edition (Condé Nast Traveler US). In the UK edition (Condé Nast Traveller UK) readers' survey, Phu Quoc ranked 2nd in Asia with 98.26 points (with Palawan, Philippines taking 1st place).
Among local media, Vietnam News highlighted Phu Quoc's natural beaches alongside South Island attractions: the sea-crossing cable car, sunset strolls at Kiss Bridge, evening arts and culture at Sunset Town, and nightly fireworks displays. (VnExpress and VTV coverage highlighted the island’s key tourism infrastructure, including the sea-crossing cable car).
2. South Island 1-Day Itinerary (Suggested Itinerary)
The specific hours and stay durations listed in the table below (approx. 8–10 hours for the full course, 4–5 hours for a half-day visit) represent a suggested itinerary created by the My Phu Quoc editorial team to help travelers plan their visit. Please adjust your schedule flexibly based on operating timetables and on-site conditions.
| Time | Schedule | Key Visit Points |
|---|---|---|
| 09:30 Departure ~ 13:00 | Cable Car & Hon Thom Nature Park | Ride the Hon Thom Cable Car (*operating schedule unverified; check official on-site timetable beforehand*) and explore Aquatopia Water Park |
| 13:30 ~ 16:30 | Return to Sunset Town & Alley Walk | Stroll along pastel-toned hillside alleys and relax at Starbucks Beach House |
| 17:00 ~ 18:30 | Kiss Bridge Sunset Stroll & Golden Hour | Watch the ocean sunset from Kiss Bridge |
| 18:30 ~ 20:30 | Dinner at VUI-Fest Seaside Night Market | Savor local seafood and street bites at VUI-Fest Bazaar |
| 21:00 ~ 21:40 | Night Ocean Performance & Fireworks | Watch Kiss of the Sea or view the fireworks from the outdoor terrace at Sun Bavaria Gastropub |
3. Top 3 Landmarks of Sunset Town
① Kiss Bridge (Cầu Hôn)
Kiss Bridge is an iconic pedestrian bridge stretching out over the sea, featuring two spans that face each other with a 30cm gap. (*The 30cm facing distance is as stated on the My Phu Quoc kiss-bridge facility information page.*) It offers an unobstructed vantage point for enjoying the sunset.
② VUI-Fest Bazaar Night Market
VUI-Fest Bazaar is a modern seaside night market arranged along the waterfront promenade, where visitors can enjoy sea breezes, sample local street snacks, and shop for souvenirs.
③ Sun World Hon Thom Cable Car
Departing from An Thoi station and crossing the open sea to Hon Thom island, the Hon Thom Cable Car provides panoramic aerial views of turquoise waters and southern island fishing villages. (*Exact operating hours are subject to seasonal adjustments; please verify on-site.*)
4. Practical Travel Tips
1. Accommodation: Staying in central Sunset Town allows convenient walking access to major attractions. Consider La Festa Phu Quoc, Curio Collection by Hilton for a luxury stay, or boutique hotels within Sunset Town for great views and value.
2. Getting Around: Take advantage of the complimentary electric buggy service to navigate Sunset Town’s hilly terrain effortlessly.
3. Check Schedules: Night shows and cable car operations may adjust according to local weather or weekly policies (Kiss of the Sea may be closed on Tuesdays). Be sure to check the My Phu Quoc Events board or on-site notices on the day of your visit.
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. How much time is needed to explore Sunset Town?
This is a suggested itinerary by our editorial team: allowing half a day or more (approx. 8–10 hours) from daytime through the evening is recommended for the full course including the cable car and night show. For a relaxed stroll, sunset viewing, and dinner, arriving around 16:00 for a 4–5 hour visit is ideal.
Q2. How does VUI-Fest Bazaar differ from Duong Dong Night Market?
While Duong Dong Night Market in central Phu Quoc offers a traditional and bustling local market experience, the southern VUI-Fest Bazaar offers a contemporary, neatly organized promenade setting with street entertainment and seaside views.
Q3. What is Phu Quoc's weather like during the dry season (November to April)?
The dry season beginning in November brings minimal rainfall, clear skies, and calm seas, marking Phu Quoc's peak travel season. It provides optimal conditions for comfortable sunset viewing and outdoor sightseeing.
Sources
- Vietnam News (2026-10-08): https://vietnamnews.vn/life-style/1801476/phu-quoc-sweeps-prestigious-conde-nast-global-island-rankings.html
- VnExpress (2026-10-08): https://vnexpress.net/phu-quoc-la-dao-dep-nhat-chau-a-2026-5129568.html
- VTV (2026-10-09): https://vtv.vn/phu-quoc-dung-dau-binh-chon-dao-duoc-yeu-thich-nhat-chau-a-100261008193924304.htm