Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City: Best Areas & Hotels
Vietnam is a land of striking natural landscapes and boom cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh offer you plenty to do and experience. Once the capital of the country, Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam and home to over 9 million people.
So, if you are planning a visit and wondering where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City, in this guide, I will show you the best districts and places to stay in Ho Chi Minh City as well as show you the best hotels to book in each neighbourhood.
Where To Stay In Ho Chi Minh: Top Hotel Picks
5 Best Districts to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City is known for its warm hospitality, French colonial architecture, modern skyscrapers, jasmine-scented temples, chic rooftop bars, botanic gardens, nearby beaches, and vibrant nightlife. It is a city that is always humming, day and night, and those that visit can feel the energy pulsating throughout its many districts and neighbourhoods.
In total, there are 24 districts in Ho Chi Minh. 19 of them are city districts, while the remaining 5 are the city’s suburban or rural districts.
The city is further divided into two halves by the Saigon River. It is important to note that certain districts are referred to by just a number while others are referred to by names.
The best neighbourhoods in Ho Chi Minh City for tourists and travelers to stay in are Districts 1, 2, 3, and 5:
District 1: Considered the main central district and is both the economic and tourist hub of the city – home to many cultural and historic attractions.
District 2: The largest in Saigon by land mass and is now part of Thu Duc City – a modern municipal city that has become the go-to place for accommodation options for ex-pats and wealthy Vietnamese.
District 3: Also considered part of Ho Chi Minh's city center, District 3 is known for its famous street food and museums.
District 5: Famous for being Vietnam's largest Chinatown, District 5 is all about experiencing Chinese culture and food.
1. Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh for the First Time & Best Sightseeing: District 1
I believe the best location to stay in Ho Chi Minh City for first-time travelers and sightseeing is District 1, also referred to as downtown Saigon.
The business and commercial core of the city is renowned for its iconic tourist destinations, colonial buildings, and buzzing late-night clubs such as Piu Piu and the Lighthouse.
District 1 is the best area for:
- First-time visitors to the city
- Those wanting close proximity to many main sights
- Foodies looking for the best eats
Best Hotels To Stay in Ho Chi Minh District 1
Let’s look at the best hotels in Ho Chi Minh City District 1 based on your travel style and budget.
Luxury: Sedona Suites Ho Chi Minh City
When it comes to staying in 5-star hotels in Ho Chi Minh, nothing beats the luxurious and centrally located Sedona Suites. With lavish modern rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, and all the luxury amenities you would expect from the best hotel in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Sedona Suites is perfect for those wanting to live in style, comfort, and luxury. Many of Saigon's top attractions are also just walking distance away, including Ben Thanh Market, Ho Chi Minh City Museum, and Ly Tu Trong Park.
Mid-Range: M Hotel Saigon
The modern M Hotel Saigon is a superb mid-range hotel for those seeking practicality and luxury. Its central location, spacious and clean rooms, tons of amenities, friendly staff, and an all-inclusive buffet breakfast are just some of the reasons to stay here. Nearby attractions include Ben Thanh Market, Union Square, and Ho Chi Minh Museum, all within walking distance.
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Budget: Little Saigon Boutique Hotel
Little Saigon is the ideal “value-for-money” accommodation option for couples and first-time visitors. Helpful and friendly staff, beautifully designed rooms with balconies, and plenty of amenities make for a comfortable and memorable stay without emptying your wallet. It is also located in the heart of the city center and just a short walk away from top attractions such as the Saigon Opera House, War Remnants Museum, and the Saigon Notre Dame Basilica.
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Things to See and Do in District 1
District 1 offers tourists plenty of sightseeing opportunities with top attractions such as the Independence Palace, Saigon Central Post Office, City Hall, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Jade Emperor Pagoda, all within walking distance or a short taxi ride away from each other.
The famous Nguyen Hue Walking Street and Dong Khoi Street are also located in District 1. Packed full of attractions, Dong Khoi Street and Nguyen Hue Street are best traversed by foot to get a sense of the city’s ancient heritage, graceful architecture, and bustling streets.
Historical and cultural attractions include the Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of Vietnamese History. The Saigon Zoo and Botanic Garden is also a must-visit attraction for those wanting to reconnect with nature.
Other popular tourist attractions include Bach Dang Wharf, Hung Kings’ Temple, and the Saigon River Tunnel.
District 1 is also home to Ho Chi Minh City’s best shopping districts, including the famous Ben Thanh Market, the Bitexco Financial Tower, and Takashimaya.
These local markets contain all types of products imaginable, as well as fragrant and flavorful Vietnamese street food vendors. Just be sure to bargain to get the best deals!
2. Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City For Nightlife & Backpackers: Pham Ngu Lao & Bui Vien
The neighborhood of Pham Ngu Lao, also part of District 1, is centered around the most famous walking street in Ho Chi Minh City, Bui Vien Walking Street.
Pham Ngu Lao is the best area for:
- Backpackers and budget travelers
- Those wanting to live close to the city's top attractions
- Young solo travelers
- The best nightlife experience
Best Hotels to Stay for Nightlife in Ho Chi Minh
Best Overall: Elios Hotel
Located on Pham Ngu Lao Street, this budget accommodation also comes with a rooftop restaurant and bar that offers scenic views of 23/9 Park and serves a variety of delicious Vietnamese and Western cuisines. The hotel also offers luxury amenities such as a spa and fitness center and spacious rooms that are clean and elegantly furnished.
Luxury: Pullman Saigon Centre
Those seeking to enjoy Ho Saigon's nightlife in exemplary luxury and comfort will love spending a night or two at the Pullman Saigon Centre. This luxury hotel offers modern luxury rooms with world-class facilities such as a swimming pool and fitness center. A rooftop restaurant and bar also offer the perfect spot to enjoy city views while dining on a wide selection of Eastern and Western cuisines and beverages.
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Budget: Ngoc Minh Hotel
Pham Ngu Lao is renowned for its budget hotel options, and the Ngoc Minh Hotel doesn’t disappoint. This gem of a place offers clean and quiet air-conditioned rooms and a terrace restaurant and rooftop bar. It is also just a 2-minute walk from Bui Vien’s vibrant nightlife scene and 3 minutes from Thai Binh Market.
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Things to See and Do in Pham Ngu Lao & Bui Vien
Referred to as the backpacker district, this neighborhood is renowned for its backpacker-friendly budget accommodations and irresistible Vietnamese street food. It is also famed for its lively nightlife scene, with plenty of back alley bars, pubs, dance clubs, and sidewalk beer cafes found around every corner. Most of them open until dawn!
For backpackers and solo travelers on a budget, Pham Ngu Lao and Bui Vien are the best places to stay in Ho Chi Minh for nightlife.
Its central location is also perfect for visiting some of the city’s top attractions, including the Independence Palace, War Remnants Museum, and the Notre Dame Cathedral.
3. Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh with Family & for Expats/Digital Nomads: District 2/Thao Dien
Across the Saigon River, on the eastern side of Ho Chi Minh City, lies District 2, which was once the city's poorest and least developed area.
However, recent developments have transformed District 2 and made it the wealthiest and most exclusive district in the city, filled with mansions, villas, high-rise residential buildings, luxury accommodations and fine-dining riverside restaurants.
District 2 is also one of the most popular areas to live in for expats, digital nomads, and wealthy families. The air here is better, there is less traffic, and it's quiet and clean.
District 2 is the best area for:
- Families, expats, and digital nomads
Those wanting to get away from the more touristy and crowded areas of the city
- Foodies that are craving authentic Western and Eastern cuisines
Best Hotels to Stay in Ho Chi Minh District 2
Luxury: Villa Song Saigon
This beautiful riverside hotel is arguably the best boutique hotel in Ho Chi Minh City and one of the most sought-after places to stay in District 2. The Villa Song Saigon offers its guests elegantly designed rooms with premium bedding, an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a luxurious spa to truly make them feel pampered and loved.
Mid-Range: Amanaki Thao Dien
Featuring an indoor swimming pool, a sauna, and plenty of useful amenities, the Amanaki Thao Dien is situated in a great location away from all the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City. Although from the city's main tourist attractions, it offers guests a chance to get away from the chaos and noise of the central business district and unwind in comfort and serenity.
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Budget: Mecozy Apartel
Budget travelers wanting to stay in District 2 will find the Mecozy Apartel to be the best value for money. This budget hotel offers clean and well-equipped air-conditioned rooms with a private bathroom, free Wifi, and daily housekeeping. The service is excellent and the location is not bad either.
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Things to See and Do in District 2
While this neighbourhood is a little quieter and more residential, top attractions in District 2 include the Hue Nghiem Pagoda, nearby Kim Cuong or Diamond Island, and The Minh Dang Quang Buddhism Institute.
4. Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh Without The Crowds: District 3
District 3 has always been one of the best places to stay in Ho Chi Minh City. It is a less touristy area that is home to some of the oldest neighborhoods in the city.
Even though it is less busy than District 1, it is still very close to the city center and many of the city's main tourist attractions.
District 3 is the best area for:
- Those wanting to get away from the crowds
- History buffs
- Art and music lovers
Best Hotels To Stay in Ho Chi Minh District 3
Luxury: Mai House Saigon Hotel
This five-star hotel is located just minutes away from some of the city's top attractions, such as the Independence Palace and Diamond Plaza. It features plenty of luxury amenities, including two swimming pools, a sun terrace, a spa and wellness center, and an in-house restaurant and bar.
Mid-Range: Le Vela Saigon Hotel
Arguably the best hotel in Ho Chi Minh, Le Vela Saigon Hotel features a rooftop infinity pool, a terrace, a fitness center, and free breakfast for private room bookings. The hotel also has an amazing staff, lavish rooms, and the best rooftop pool in the city!
Check availability & best rates
Budget: M Village The Boutique
This boutique hotel offers guests something hard to come by in Ho Chi Minh City – outdoor space. At the M Village The Boutique, guests can enjoy strolling or relaxing in the hotel's garden and sun terrace area that comes equipped with a BBQ and outdoor fireplace. Each room also comes with its own private bathroom and comfortable bedding for a thoroughly relaxing stay.
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Things to See and Do in District 3
This district has many of the oldest buildings in the city, built during the French colonial period, unique coffee shops, and the best live music venues.
Travelers that stay here will find local life present around every corner and some of the best choices for accommodation in Ho Chi Minh City.
Top attractions in District 3 include the War Remant Museum, The Venerable Thich Quang Duc Monument, Tan Dinh Church, Vin Ngheim Pagoda, Xa Loi Pagoda, and the Southern Vietnam Women Museum.
Turtle Lake and Saigon Square are also popular areas for shopping and entertainment.
5. Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh on a Budget: District 5 (Cholon/Chinatown)
Those wanting to stay in a place off the beaten path will find Ho Chi Minh City's very own Chinatown to be a perfect fit for their travel style.
District 5, or “Cho Lon” as it is locally called, literally translates to “Big Market” and is the city's main wholesale and trading district.
District 5 is the best area for:
- Those wanting to stay in a place that is off the beaten path
- People who speak Cantonese or Mandarin
- Fans of Chinese culture and food
Best Hotels To Stay in Ho Chi Minh District 5
Luxury: Zazz Urban Ho Chi Minh
This luxury hotel offers guests amenities such as an outdoor pool, an open terrace area, a fitness center, and an in-house restaurant and bar. The rooms come well-equipped with premium bedding, luxury toiletries, and free Wifi.
Mid-Range: Lam Kinh Hotel
The Lam Kinh Hotel, whilst away from the city center, has plenty of facilities to make for a comfortable and memorable stay. The hotel features an in-house bar and restaurant, comfortable beds, a private bathroom for each room, and a shared lounge and kitchen space for guests.
Check availability & best rates
Budget: Luxurious Chinatown Hideaway
The Luxurious Chinatown Hideaway is a great place for solo or budget travelers. This small boutique hotel features a well-designed room with a balcony offering city views and a spa and wellness center to destress and relax.
Check availability & best rates
Things to See and Do in District 5
Home to a large Chinese population, this district has a lot of temples, pagodas, and a popular shopping destination. Other Chinese attractions for tourists to explore include the Thien Hau Pagoda and Quan Am Pagoda.
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Where To Stay in Ho Chi Minh – Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best district to stay in Ho Chi Minh City?
If this is your first time traveling to Ho Chi Minh City, I highly recommend you stay in District 1. The beating heart of the city, District 1 has some of the best hotels in Saigon and is home to many of its most famous attractions.
Is the city called Ho Chi Minh or Saigon?
Ho Chi Minh City, the largest city in Vietnam, was formerly known as Saigon. It was renamed in 1975 after the unification of North and South Vietnam. Despite the official name change, many locals and tourists still refer to the city as Saigon.
Is Ho Chi Minh safe?
Yes, for the most part, Ho Chi Minh City is a safe destination for tourists. While petty criminals such as pickpockets and snatch thieves exist, violent crimes against foreigners are rare and mostly unheard of.
Where do I find the best nightlife in Vietnam?
The best nightlife in Vietnam can be experienced in two of Vietnam’s largest cities: Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. In Ho Chi Minh, the best nightlife areas are the neighborhoods of Pham Ngu Lao & Bui Vien, in District 1, which are packed with upscale rooftop bars and underground rave clubs that are open until dawn. In Hanoi, head to Old Quarter and Train Street for a party.
How to get around Ho Chi Minh? Is the city walkable?
Walking in Ho Chi Minh can seem like an intimidating task. The chaotic traffic, lack of traffic regulations, and narrow streets don’t paint a pretty picture for pedestrians. However, once you get used to the chaos, Ho Chi Minh City is definitely walkable and a great way for tourists to explore different attractions and landmarks.
Is Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi better to visit?
Choosing between the two cities comes down to personal preference. Think of it this way. Hanoi is much like Washington D.C. It is the capital of Vietnam and a city full of historic attractions that offer visitors a more traditional and cultural experience. Ho Chi Minh City, on the other hand, is much like New York City, in the sense that it never sleeps.
Where To Stay in Ho Chi Minh – Final Words
When considering where to stay in Ho Chi Minh, luckily, as a tourist, you are spoilt for choice.
While Districts 1, 2, 3, and 5 are the most popular places in the city for tourists and ex-pats to stay in, Ho Chi Minh has plenty of other districts to explore for the more adventurous traveler and many hidden gems to discover.
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