The COVID-19 pandemic has severely affected Vietnam's tourism industry and caused unprecedented losses. After the COVID-19 pandemic, should Vietnam's tourism industry recover towards a more sustainable tourism model or return to the former overdeveloped mass tourism model is a question that needs to be studied thoroughly saved. This study analyzes the impact of mass tourism development, the COVID-19 pandemic on the tourism industry, and directions for sustainable recovery to ensure a better future for Vietnam's tourism industry, thereby contributing more positively to the overall prosperity of the economy. The research results can be considered a valuable reference for Vietnam's tourism management units in finding solutions for adaptation and sustainable development of the post-COVID-19 tourism industry.