Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam: 6 Best Areas & Hotels

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Planning a trip to Ho Chi Minh City? You’re in the right place!

I’ve spent a lot of time exploring this buzzing city, and one thing I’ve learned is that where you stay really shapes your experience. Each district has its own personality, whether you want to be in the heart of the action, find a quieter spot with a more local feel, or enjoy a longer stay in a leafy neighborhood.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best areas to stay in Ho Chi Minh and share hotel recommendations for every budget, so you can make the most of your time here. Let’s dive in!

Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh map

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Ho Chi Minh

Ho Chi Minh City is a big, sprawling city, but specific neighborhoods are fairly walkable—you might just need to dodge street food carts and stray motorbikes every now and then! However, to get from one area to another, we recommend using Grab to get around. 

Grab offers cars and motorbike rides. Bikes are quicker and can offer quite a thrill, but cars are more comfortable. When we were traveling here, we often just ordered a bike each to get from A to B! Still, cars are definitely your friend when it’s raining.

• Ben Nghe Ward (District 1) – This is the area where most of the main tourist attractions are, plus tons of restaurants and Nguyen Hue walking street. Most of Saigon’s historic war hotels can be found here, too, including the elegant Caravelle Saigon.

• Pham Ngu Lao Ward (District 1) – This is the main backpacker hub that centers around the notorious Bui Vien party street, so expect lots of hostels and tour offices, and very loud music! New World Saigon Hotel offers a quiet stay just a short walk from all the action.

• Ben Thanh (District 1) – This area sits between Ben Nghe and Pham Ngu Lao, so it’s super central, and it’s home to the famous Ben Thanh Market! A&EM Saigon Hotel offers a classy boutique stay just a block away from the market.

• District 3 – This is the geographical centre of the city, and it’s super close to everything, but it feels more local and less touristy than District 1. Hotel Des Arts Saigon Mgallery Collection is one of the most beautiful hotels in the city!

• Thao Dien (District 2) – Saigon’s main expat hub is less chaotic than other parts of the city, with a village-like feel and lots of great bars and restaurants. Amanaki Thao Dien offers a charming boutique stay with great city views.

• District 7 – This area is about half an hour south of District 1, but with its wide, calm roads and green spaces, it feels a world away! MerPerle Crystal Palace offers a plush stay in this polished part of the city.

Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh

Ben Nghe Ward (District 1)

Ben Nghe Ward is the beating heart of Ho Chi Minh City and the best place to stay if it’s your first visit. It’s a central and historic area that’s home to many of the city’s most famous sights, including the Saigon Opera House, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Central Post Office. Best of all, they’re all within walking distance of one another! 

This ward is also home to Nguyen Hue Walking Street. This pedestrian-only road is always buzzing, but it features a walkway that’s closed to vehicles, so it offers a nice break from Saigon’s chaotic traffic. It’s home to the Cafe Apartment building as well as the gorgeous City Hall, while Bitexco Tower and its jaw-dropping observation deck are right around the corner.

Another thing we love about Ben Nghe is that it’s home to some of the city’s most historic hotels, where journalists used to hang out and throw their notorious parties during the Vietnam War. A lot of them have great bars where you can sip drinks and enjoy the views at happy hour!

All in all, we think that this lively and more polished part of Saigon is perfect for travelers who want to be right in the middle of the action, but a safe distance away from backpacker central! 

Pros

• Central location close to top attractions
• Wide choice of hotels, restaurants, and nightlife

Cons

• Can feel busy and touristy
• Higher prices compared to other districts

Park Hyatt Saigon – $$$

Park Hyatt Saigon is one of the city’s most luxurious hotels, combining classic French colonial style with modern elegance. The rooms are spacious and refined, with high ceilings, wooden furnishings, and large windows that let in plenty of light. The whole place just feels very regal—there’s no other way to put it! 

We love the beautiful outdoor pool, which is surrounded by tropical gardens—you’ll be grateful for it after a day of exploring in the heat, trust me! The hotel’s location is unbeatable, too, as you’ll be right across from the Opera House and just steps away from the city’s main sights.

If you want refined service and timeless luxury in the heart of Ho Chi Minh, the Park Hyatt is hard to beat. Prices typically range between $300 and $1,000 USD per night, depending on your dates and room category.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Caravelle Saigon – $$

The Caravelle Saigon is a legendary hotel! It was a gathering place for journalists during the Vietnam War, and scenes from The Quiet American were shot here. Today, it offers modern comfort while keeping that historic charm alive.

The rooftop bar, Saigon Saigon, is a must-visit for panoramic city views and drinks at sunset, and it offers live music every night from 9 pm onwards! The rooms here are sleek and comfortable, and the hotel also features a spa, outdoor pool, and several excellent restaurants. Its location right next to the Opera House makes it ideal for exploring on foot.

Honestly, Caravelle Saigon strikes a perfect balance between history, luxury, and affordability, making it one of our favorite hotels in the entire city! Prices here range between $135 and $500 USD per night.

See all the options and reserve your stay here!

Bay Hotel Ho Chi Minh – $

Bay Hotel Ho Chi Minh is a simple but very comfortable hotel that’s perfect for budget-conscious travelers who still want a central location. The rooms are compact but modern, with crisp linens and contemporary décor. There’s also a rooftop pool and bar with views over the city, which is a real bonus at this price point!

Staying here offers easy access to Nguyen Hue Walking Street and the many restaurants, cafés, and shops nearby. The service here is efficient and friendly, and the hotel has an intimate, boutique feel compared to larger chains.

For a budget-friendly stay in the heart of District 1, we think that Bay Hotel is an excellent choice. Rooms here typically cost between $50 and $175, although business triple king rooms can reach up to $350 USD.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Pham Ngu Lao Ward (District 1)

Pham Ngu Lao Ward is Ho Chi Minh City’s backpacker hub. It’s one of the liveliest neighborhoods in the city… which is to say, it’s party central! 

Bui Vien Walking Street is the center of the action here. Every night is an all-night party here! This street is closed to traffic in the evenings, when it comes alive with thumping music, neon lights, huge clubs, and bars that spill out onto the street.

There are lots of party hostels around here, as well as tour agencies selling everything from Mekong Delta day trips to night buses up the coast. Casual Vietnamese eateries are everywhere, making it easy to grab a bite any time of day (or night). You’ll find plenty of late-night bánh mì stands, and be sure to grab a bowl at Pho Quynh, which is beloved by locals and tourists alike! 

Pham Ngu Lao is also just a quick Grab ride from the city’s main attractions, including Ben Thanh Market, the Central Post Office, and Nguyen Hue Walking Street. If you don’t mind the noise and want to be surrounded by energy, this area is perfect for you!

Pros

• Budget-friendly accommodations and hostels
• Lively nightlife and easy access to tours

Cons

• Noisy and chaotic, especially at night
• On the seedy side 

Happy Life Grand Hotel & Rooftop Skybar – $$$

Happy Life Grand Hotel & Rooftop Skybar is a surprisingly stylish option in the heart of Pham Ngu Lao. It’s one of the few upscale stays in the neighborhood, with sleek, modern rooms and an awesome rooftop pool that looks out over the city skyline! The rooftop sky bar is the real highlight here because it’s perfect for enjoying a drink before heading out to explore Bui Vien’s nightlife.

The location is fantastic if you want to be close to the action while still having a comfortable retreat to come back to. It’s just an 8-minute walk from Bui Vien, so it’s close to the party without being directly above it. Prices typically range from $65 to $500 USD per night, depending on your dates and room category.

Check availability and book your stay here!

New World Saigon Hotel – $$

New World Saigon Hotel sits just on the edge of Pham Ngu Lao, which makes it a great option if you want a peaceful stay while still being just a 10-minute walk from the thick of it all. It’s a large, modern hotel that features a huge outdoor pool, a fitness center, and multiple dining options. The rooms are spacious and elegantly designed, so it’s a comfortable place to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

We especially love its location across from the September 23rd Park because it’s perfect for a morning walk or people-watching. You’re also super close to tons of restaurants and just a 6-minute walk from Ben Thanh Market. Rooms and suites here usually cost between $145 and $350 USD per night.

See all the options and reserve your stay here!

Elios Hotel – $

Elios Hotel offers a budget-friendly stay right in the heart of Pham Ngu Lao. In fact, it’s actually on the ward’s eponymous street, which is a direct offshoot of Bui Vien. It doesn’t get more central than this!

You’ll find the rooms clean, simple, and air-conditioned, with all the essentials for a comfortable stay. As a bonus, the rooftop pool, restaurant, and bar overlook September 23rd Park and the bustling streets beneath.

We think that this is an amazing choice for anyone who wants to be super central and close to all of the party action without staying in a hostel. Prices generally range between $30 and $135 USD per night.

Find the best rates and book your stay here!

Ben Thanh (District 1)

Ben Thanh is one of the most convenient areas to stay in Ho Chi Minh City, sitting right between the lively backpacker streets of Pham Ngu Lao and the more polished Ben Nghe Ward. At its center is the famous Ben Thanh Market, which is one of Saigon’s most famous attractions. It’s a real hotspot for browsing souvenirs, sampling street food, and practicing your bargaining skills. 

We like this area because it feels very central, so it’s easy to explore both the historic landmarks and nightlife nearby. It offers a slightly calmer environment than Bui Vien’s party scene—although it’s still Saigon, so don’t expect tranquility. However, it’s a nice reprieve from thumping music, but you’re still just a 10-minute walk or quick Grab ride from party central.

There are some fantastic restaurants around here that are definitely worth checking out, too. We love Hoang’s Kitchen, and Pizza 4Ps is a must; just be sure to make a reservation! Oh, and head to Banh Mi Huynh Hoa for the best sandwich in the city—you’ll know you’ve found the right spot when you see a huge queue outside, but don’t worry because it moves quickly! 

Pros

• Central location near Ben Thanh Market
• Easy access to restaurants, shopping, and nightlife

Cons

• Busy and touristy, especially around the market
• Can feel crowded and hectic at night

Central Palace Hotel – $$$

Central Palace Hotel offers classic luxury right in the middle of District 1, just steps from Ben Thanh Market. The rooms are spacious and elegantly decorated, with marble floors, large windows, and modern amenities. We love the rooftop pool, which offers panoramic views of the city skyline, and the generous breakfast buffet.

The hotel is also within easy walking distance to major attractions like the Independence Palace and Notre Dame Cathedral, making it an excellent choice for sightseeing. It strikes a fantastic balance between comfort and convenience, and we think it offers great value for money, too! Prices typically range between $50 and $300 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

A&EM Saigon Hotel – $$

A&EM Saigon Hotel is a sleek and elegant hotel just a short walk from Ben Thanh Market. The rooms are chic and contemporary, with comfortable beds, stylish décor, and plenty of natural light. The rooftop pool is very Instagram-friendly, and there are two on-site restaurants. One serves Japanese food, while the other offers up both Vietnamese and international dishes.

We love that this hotel is close to major shopping streets and tons of cute cafés, but it still feels like a relaxing retreat at the end of the day. It’s also just a 5-minute walk from the Independence Palace. If you want a well-connected and stylish stay at a reasonable price, A&EM is a fantastic pick. Rooms usually cost between $75 and $250 USD per night.

See all the options and reserve your stay here!

Sanouva Saigon Hotel – $

Sanouva Saigon Hotel is a great budget-friendly choice located just around the corner from Ben Thanh Market. The rooms here are simple yet comfortable, with clean décor, flat-screen TVs, and modern bathrooms. The hotel also has a small gym and offers a good breakfast buffet, which you’ll definitely appreciate before a day of sightseeing.

The location is excellent because you’re within walking distance of both the market and many of the city’s cultural highlights. The staff are friendly and helpful, and the atmosphere feels welcoming and homely. For an affordable stay that doesn’t sacrifice convenience, Sanouva Saigon is a top option. Prices generally range between $40 and $175 USD per night.

Find the best rates and book your stay here!

District 3

District 3 is one of the best areas to stay if you want to experience a more local side of Ho Chi Minh City while still being close to the main tourist attractions. It’s the geographical center of the city, and it borders District 1, so you’ve got easy access to everything.

In fact, several major attractions are here, including the War Remnants Museum, the Barbie pink Tan Dinh Church, and Turtle Lake, which is a popular local hangout spot. We love District 3 because there are some fantastic hotels here, and you can get to major tourist areas in as little as 10 minutes, but it feels more authentic and local.

Honestly, Vietnam’s local life is pretty fascinating, so we love being able to enjoy all of the street eats. District 3 is even home to Banh Mi Hoa Ma, which was the first banh mi stand in the city! 

I wouldn’t say that District 3 offers a slower pace of life than District 1—nowhere in Saigon is quiet! But if you’d like to stay somewhere that feels more local, while still being super close to all of the city’s top attractions, then we think it’s a fantastic choice.

Pros

• More local and authentic atmosphere than District 1
• Close to cultural landmarks like the Jade Emperor Pagoda and War Remnants Museum

Cons

• Less nightlife compared to District 1
• Traffic can still be heavy during peak hours

La Vela Saigon Hotel – $$$

La Vela Saigon Hotel is a luxurious stay known for its incredible rooftop infinity pool. It’s the largest in the city—seriously, it basically covers the entire rooftop and has a swim-up bar and sunbathing platforms in the middle. Sunsets are incredible from up here!

The rooms are spacious and elegant, with big beds, floor-to-ceiling windows, and spacious bathrooms. The suites are particularly amazing—we actually snagged a free upgrade once, and it was just incredible. Prices range between $110 and $1,500 USD per night, including an incredible breakfast buffet.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Hotel Des Arts Saigon Mgallery Collection – $$

Hotel Des Arts Saigon Mgallery Collection is a stylish boutique hotel with a chic, art-inspired design. It’s super classy, with beautifully decorated rooms that mix modern comfort and Indochine flair. Some rooms even have big bathrooms with epic city views! 

One of the highlights of this hotel is the rooftop pool and Social Club bar, which I think is the most beautiful bar in the entire city. There’s a gorgeous pool with a sunken DJ booth and bar, and the views from up here are just epic.

As a guest, you get to swim in this beautiful pool, and there’s also a glass bridge that connects the Social Club to the skyscraper next door. Walking across it is a true test of nerves! Rooms typically cost between $110 and $250 USD per night.

See all the options and reserve your stay here!

Sherwood Residence – $

We think that Sherwood Residence is a fantastic option for families or longer stays in Saigon. It offers spacious serviced apartments complete with kitchens, dining areas, and living rooms, so you get the comfort of home with the perks of a hotel.

There’s also a swimming pool, fitness center, kids’ playroom, and even a free shuttle service to popular attractions. The location in District 3 is convenient, too, as this hotel is close to the border with District 1.

Plus, you’re just a 10-minute Grab ride from Ben Thanh Market or Nguyen Hue Walking Street, 5 minutes from Notre Dame and the Central Post Office, and 15 minutes from Bui Vien. Prices generally range between $100 and $150 USD per night.

Find the best rates and book your stay here!

Thao Dien (District 2)

Thao Dien is one of the most unique neighborhoods in Ho Chi Minh City. Once a swamp area, it’s now one of the city’s most sought-after neighborhoods, as well as the expat hub. It’s filled with international restaurants, trendy coffee shops, salons, and craft breweries, all of which are within walking distance of one another! 

At the same time, Thao Dien doesn’t feel sterile or devoid of character. It has a more village-like feel, and all the international options are still interspersed with plenty of local flair. Quoc Huong Street, one of the neighborhood’s main arteries, in particular, feels a bit more typically Vietnamese, with tons of street food spots, local shops, and market stalls around.

The area sits right on the Saigon River, so many hotels and cafés here have gorgeous water views. You can even go and have drinks or dinner on the river at The Deck or the Boathouse, which are both stylish riverside bars. 

You won’t find many of Ho Chi Minh’s main attractions here, but it’s just a 15-20 minute Grab ride into District 1 from here, so it’s still easy to explore. If you have been to Saigon before, staying in Thao Dien is a great way to see a different side of the city, and it’s nice to have so many international amenities right on your doorstep.

Pros

• Riverside location with a (relatively) calm, village-like vibe
• Great dining, coffee shops, and international restaurants

Cons

• Further from the main attractions in District 1
• Less traditional Vietnamese atmosphere compared to other areas

Villa Song Saigon – $$$

Villa Song Saigon is a stunning boutique hotel situated on the riverside, offering a peaceful escape from the city. Set in a colonial-style villa, the property has lush gardens, an outdoor pool, and a private boat that can take you directly to District 1—how cool is that?

The rooms here are elegant and romantic, with four-poster beds, hardwood floors, and balconies that overlook the river or the pool. The on-site restaurant is fantastic, serving both Vietnamese and international dishes with a view of the Saigon River, and it’s a popular spot for sunset drinks.

We think this is the perfect honeymoon stay in Ho Chi Minh City because it offers a luxurious stay with plenty of charm, with boat access to downtown. Prices range from $180 USD per night but can go up to $1,000 USD and above for the most sumptuous suites.

Check availability and book this boutique-style stay here!

Amanaki Thao Dien – $$

Amanaki Thao Dien is a stylish boutique hotel that blends contemporary design with warm hospitality. The rooms are sleek and modern, with large windows, comfortable beds, and minimalist décor. There’s also a rooftop pool and bar, where you can relax with a drink while enjoying views over the neighborhood.

We love its location in the heart of Thao Dien, close to plenty of trendy cafés, bars, and restaurants. It’s easy to explore the neighborhood on foot, but you’re also just a short ride from downtown Saigon. This is a great option for couples or solo travelers who want something chic without spending a fortune. Rooms usually cost between $150 and $300 USD per night.

See all the options and reserve your stay here!

M Village Living Nguyễn Văn Hưởng – $

M Village Living Nguyễn Văn Hưởng is a budget-friendly option set inside a white, colonial-style villa. It’s an elegant property with minimalist-chic decor, and there’s a small rooftop area where you can enjoy nice views of Thao Dien, as well as Landmark 81, which is the tallest building in Vietnam! 

The location on Nguyễn Văn Hưởng Street puts you right in the heart of Thao Dien, with tons of restaurants and coffee shops just steps away. Meanwhile, the rooms have kitchenettes and balconies, which make them great for longer stays! Prices typically range between $60 and $140 USD per night.

Find the best rates and book your stay here!

Related Read: Once you’ve figured out where to stay, take a look at our detailed 3-day Ho Chi Minh itinerary to help plan out the perfect trip.

District 7 

District 7 is one of the most modern and organized neighborhoods in Ho Chi Minh City. In fact, it feels a world away from the rest of Saigon, even relatively relaxed areas like Thao Dien. The first time I came here, I felt like I had traveled to a totally different part of the world!

District 7 is about 20 to 30 minutes south of District 1. It’s also known as Phu My Hung, and it was all planned out in the 1990s, which explains why it feels so different and modern around here. There are far fewer motorbikes around, and big, wide boulevards replace maze-like alleyways.

This is another area that’s popular with expats, and there’s a big Korean population in this area. If you like Korean BBQ, you’ll be very well catered for around here! There are three large malls in the area—Crescent Mall, VivoCity, and LotteMart—so it’s a great place to shop.

I wouldn’t necessarily recommend District 7 if it’s your first time in Ho Chi Minh City, but if you have been here before and are craving a different—and much calmer—experience, then it’s a great choice. Saigon can be very overstimulating, and District 7 offers a welcome reprieve from the chaos!

Pros

• Clean, modern, and organized with lots of green spaces
• Great for families, long-term stays, or business travelers

Cons

• Further from District 1’s main attractions
• Lacks the traditional Vietnamese street life found in other areas

Collection O Emerald Luxury Apartment – $$$

Collection O Emerald Luxury Apartment offers spacious, upscale apartments that are perfect for longer stays or travelers who value extra comfort. The units are modern and fully equipped, with kitchens, dining areas, and balconies overlooking the city. There are definitely some nods to classical style throughout, and you can opt to add breakfast for just $5 USD per day.

We like that it’s set in the heart of Phu My Hung, so you’re within walking distance of Crescent Mall, plenty of restaurants, and international supermarkets. It’s ideal for families or business travelers who want modern luxury in a quieter part of Saigon. Prices usually range between $25 and $450 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

MerPerle Crystal Palace – $$

MerPerle Crystal Palace is a stylish mid-range hotel right in the center of District 7. It’s known for its elegant interiors, with chandeliers, marble floors, and a classy vibe that makes it feel more like a city landmark than just a hotel! We also love the rooftop infinity pool, which is a great spot to relax and sunbathe.

The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with modern amenities and big windows that let in plenty of natural light. There are three restaurants on site, plus a fitness center, and it’s close to the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center. Crescent Mall is also just a few minutes away! Rooms typically cost between $125 and $250 USD per night, with breakfast included.

See all the options and reserve your stay here!

Oakwood Residence Saigon – $

Oakwood Residence Saigon is a fantastic budget-friendly choice for those who want apartment-style living without the high price tag. These serviced apartments come with full kitchens, washing machines, and living spaces, which makes them great for anyone planning a longer stay in District 7!

The property also has a swimming pool, gym, and children’s play area, so it’s a really practical option. Plus, you’re right by SC VivoCity Mall, giving you easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment.

It’s a little outside of District 7’s main hub, so expect a 10-minute grab ride to get to Phu My Hung’s best restaurants, but with modern comforts at this price, we still think it offers excellent value. Prices generally range between $95 and $170 USD per night.

Find the best rates and book your stay here!

Top Activities to do in Ho Chi Minh

With your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City sorted, it’s time to plan out the experiences that will make your trip unforgettable! From crawling through the historic Cu Chi Tunnels to floating down the lush Mekong Delta, eating your way through hidden food stalls, or even learning to cook pho yourself, these are some of our favorite tours that gave us a deeper look at the city’s culture, history, and flavors!

• Tour the Cu Chi Tunnels & Mekong Delta – See two of Southern Vietnam’s top attractions in one day with this well-organized tour. Travel by limo for extra comfort, explore the Cu Chi Tunnels with an expert guide, and then float along the Mekong Delta. From hidden canals to traditional music, this experience perfectly blends history and scenery!

• Eat our way through Saigon – This private food tour takes you beyond the tourist traps and into the real flavors of Ho Chi Minh City. With local guide Charlie leading the way, you’ll taste everything from BBQ seafood to bánh mì while sipping rice wine and beer. It’s a foodie dream packed with flavor, fun, and local insight!

• Cruise the Mekong River – A day on the Mekong means culture, scenery, and incredible food. This private cruise starts with Vinh Trang Pagoda before visiting local workshops, tasting fresh honey, and watching cultural performances in friendly riverside villages. End the day paddling down lush canals and sampling handmade coconut candy.

• Learn to cook Vietnamese dishes – More than just a lesson, this cooking class begins with a guided wet market tour before heading to Ann’s kitchen. You’ll learn step by step how to cook iconic dishes like pho in a small-group setting, with plenty of hands-on help. It’s fun, educational, and you’ll leave with recipes to recreate at home!

• See the city’s highlights – Short on time? This all-inclusive city tour makes sightseeing stress-free. With a knowledgeable guide, explore French Colonial architecture, browse local markets, and visit key landmarks like the War Remnants Museum and the Opera House. It’s a full-day look at Ho Chi Minh’s culture, history, and energy!

Related Read: For even more ideas (and insider tips!), check out our full guide to the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City here!

Thanks for reading!

With so many different districts to choose from in Ho Chi Minh, we hope this guide has helped you figure out which area is the best fit for your trip. Whether you want to be in the heart of the action in Ben Nghe, enjoy a more local vibe in District 3, or relax riverside in Thao Dien, we know you’ll find a spot you’ll love.

Before you go, be sure to check out our other Vietnam blogs here! We’ve written detailed guides on everything from itineraries to the best tours and top activities across the country, so you’ll have all the tools you need to plan the ultimate Vietnam trip. We’ve also included a few of our most popular guides below to help inspire your travels even more!

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