Craving a break from the South East Asia humidity that constantly sticks to you like a second skin? Da Lat’s got the cure!
The hazy mountains of southern Vietnam is home to Da Lat, a destination that is an absolute must to add to your backpacking itinerary. This refreshingly cool climate offers breathtaking views, mouthwatering eats, and an abundance of fun activities to keep you busy.
With so much on offer, it can be quite overwhelming when trying to decide where to stay in Da Lat.
This guide is your key to finding the coolest neighbourhoods and sweetest hostels at price points that make your backpacker budget sing.
Get ready for mountain magic, unforgettable experiences, and a stay that won’t leave you sweating by 11am! Let’s dive in.
Photo: @taya.travels
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Da Lat’s Five Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in
With so much history, culture and scenery to enjoy, Da Lat is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam!
Da Lat is not a typical Vietnamese destination. Forget sweltering beaches and steamy jungles; this mountain town has a pleasant climate all year round. In fact, I’d go as far as to say that it was one of my favourite places in Vietnam.
The town is covered in an almost other-worldly mist, giving it the nickname “City of Eternal Spring.” Imagine waking up to chilly, fresh mornings and spending your days exploring beneath a canopy of beautiful, rolling clouds—pure magic!
City Centre
The city centre mixes French colonial architecture, Buddhist landmarks, markets and nightlife in one compact area. It’s busy, touristy and full of character, with easy access to historical sites, bars, live music and transport links. If this is your first visit and you want everything within walking distance, this is the most straightforward base.
Phuong 8
North-west of the centre, Phuong 8 leans greener and quieter, with lakes, cycling routes and outdoor activities taking priority over sightseeing. Accommodation is cheaper, cafés are laid-back and the area suits travellers who want nature and low costs without being totally cut off from town.
Phuong 3
This is where Da Lat lets its hair down. Live music venues, bars and late nights define the area, making it the obvious choice if evenings matter as much as daytime exploring. It’s lively, social and not especially subtle.
Phuong 10: French Quarter
Phuong 10 stands out for its architecture alone. French villas sit alongside Vietnamese homes, giving the neighbourhood a slower, more polished feel. It’s quieter than the centre, visually striking, and ideal for travellers who value atmosphere over convenience.
Phuong 4: Tuyen Lam Lake
Centred around Tuyen Lam Lake, this area is calmer, more local and surrounded by scenery. Lakeside activities, waterfalls and open space make it well suited to families and travellers who want a break from crowds while still staying close to the city.
Photo: @taya.travels
1. City Centre – Where to Stay in Da Lat for Your First Time
Da Lat’s city centre is the town’s pulsing heart, with a bustling mix of history, food, and adventure – ideal for budget-conscious backpackers. The hostels here are notoriously social so you won’t have any issues making travel pals if you’re a solo backpacker! There’s plenty of culture to soak up in the central Da Lat whether it’s from the city’s colonial history or its Buddhist routes.
Visit Linh Son Pagoda, a stunning hilltop pagoda, to immerse yourself in Da Lat’s heritage. The views from here are spectacular! In the evening, definitely don’t miss a stroll you around the gorgeous Xuan Huong Lake at sunset… If you want to be extra fancy, you can also rent a boat.
The city centre might get a little touristy, but hey, that just means more people to share your Da Lat adventures with, right? Plus, you’re never far from must-see spots like Xuan Huong Lake and the Da Lat Night Market. Bonus points: the city centre boasts some of the best hostels in town, all with that sweet Vietnamese “bang for your buck” that we all know and love.
- Best For: First-time visitors, solo backpackers
- The Vibe: Social, busy, central
- Proximity to Transport: Central and well connected
- Budget: Budget to mid-range
- Crowds: Moderate to high, especially in the evenings
Photo: @taya.travels
Things to See and Do in the City Centre:
- Head to Linh Son Pagoda, a beautiful hilltop temple, for a bit of culture and a great view.
- Get some cheap street eats at Da Lat Night Market.
- Take a swing at Dalat Palace Golf Club.
- Try the local cuisine on a food tour – Be prepared with an open mind and an empty stomach!
- Take a boat ride or just walk the perimeter of the stunning Xuan Huong Lake.
- Immerse yourself in the unique flavours of coffee, wine, and tea on an agricultural tour.
Le Gia Hotel | Best Budget Hotel in Da Lat City Centre
Le Gia Hotel is where Vietnam really shines – securing cheap ass accommodation that gives you a LOT of bang for your buck. Few places in the world will offer you a balcony, AC and modern furnishings for less than 10 bucks a night. It’s smack bang in the middle of the city centre, making getting through your Da Lat itinerary a breeze.
Dalat Family Hostel | Best Budget Hostel in Da Lat City Centre
Few hostels have left a mark like Dalat Family Hostel has on my heart. Not only is it the cheapest hostel I’ve stayed in (for $1 a night, I mean c’mon on…) but they really are a family hostel. You are greeted by a hug at check-in and check-out and made extra family dinner to accommodate my late arrival. I felt like I was getting looked after by my mum and, after months of travelling, it really meant a lot.
The Hilley – HAZEL APT | Best Airbnb in the City Centre
Relax in the peace of your own private studio within this chic designer home. This bright, stylish flat is bathed in natural light from the skylight, with contemporary and mid-century design elements that merge harmoniously. It’s a little more than the cheapest of budget stays in the city, but you can easily save money with your own kitchen. It’s decked out with a rice cooker, microwave, kettle, fridge with freezer, and all the cookware required to prepare simple meals.
2. Phuong 8 – Best Place to Stay in Da Lat on a Budget
To the northwest of the Da Lat is Phuong 8. This is the perfect place to find low-cost or even free things to do in and around the city, without sacrificing on fun! There’s so much beauty in the nature surrounding Da Lat and it can all be enjoyed at very little expense. My favourite thing to do in this area is to hire a motorbike and drive through the mountainous roads and take in the beautiful views.
Phuong 8 is a great base for some countryside adventures. Sign up for a countryside tour to see breathtaking woods, silk farms, flowing waterfalls, and hillside coffee estates. Feeling adventurous? Hike up Lang Biang Mountain and enjoy amazing views of Da Lat City.
With so much beautiful (and free) nature to experience, this is the perfect part of Da Lat for adventure-seeking backpacker types exploring Vietnam on a budget. If you’re seeking a charming, laid-back escape with easy access to stunning landscapes and unique experiences, Phuong 8 is your perfect Da Lat haven!
- Best For: Budget travellers, nature lovers, scooter explorers
- The Vibe: Laid-back, local, green
- Proximity to Airport: Around 45 minutes to Lien Khuong Airport
- Transport Level: Easy with a motorbike, limited on foot
- Budget: Low, some of the cheapest stays in Da Lat
- Crowds: Light, mostly locals and long-stay travellers
Photo: @taya.travels
Things to See and Do in Phuong 8:
- For a bit of romance, head to the Valley of Love! Set beside a beautiful lake, there’s artwork, ornate gardens and even swan-shaped boats!
- Head to Lumiere Da Lat – Light Garden, an art gallery where you can take some epic pictures.
- Enjoy the sights of forests, silk farms, hillside coffee gardens and beautiful waterfalls on a countryside tour.
- If you love hiking, take a trip out to Lang Biang Mountain to see the beautiful view overlooking Da Lat City.
- Chase the sunrise above a misty valley on a guided morning hike to a mountain peak.
- Take a day trip out to Golden Stream Lake, to see the amazing network of walkways and bridges and some stunning views.
- For a bit of fun, head out to ZooDoo Zoo. There are hundreds of animals, a hydrangea garden and a gorgeous coffee garden!
Lê Mùi Hotel – Apartment | Best Budget Hotel in Phuong 8
The hotel is well designed, with clean, airy rooms that feel comfortable rather than flashy. Each room comes with a balcony and a solid view, making it an easy place to slow down and switch off. There’s an on-site café if you need to sit down and get things done. The staff are genuinely helpful, offering practical advice on getting around Da Lat and the surrounding area, and the scooter rental on-site makes exploring the city simple.
Berry Valley Homestay | Best Homestay in Phuong 8
The strawberry farm attached to the property is a highlight. You can pick the strawberries yourself, and they’re genuinely sweet compared to other strawberries I’ve had in Vietnam. The room is distinctive, laid out over two levels with a comfortable bed that makes it easy to relax.
The location is well away from the main tourist areas, which is a plus if you value quiet. Getting a Grab is straightforward, and the setting feels peaceful rather than inconvenient. For only a few dollars more per night than a hostel, it’s an easy upgrade and a great valley escape
La maison a Dalat | Best Airbnb in Phuong 8
Enjoy Da Lat’s pleasant climate in style! This modern mini-villa, managed by a Superhost, provides a large and trendy getaway in a central location. Relax in the light-filled room or unwind in the front or back yard, which is ideal for enjoying the pure mountain air. With all of your needs fulfilled at an affordable price, this villa will home the whole gang for your trip to Da Lat.
3. Phuong 3 – Best Area to Stay in Da Lat For Nightlife
Da Lat’s not just history and lakes, Phuong 3 is where you’ll find one of the best Vietnamese nights out. If you want to party but also soak in some Vietnamese culture, there’s still loads to do in this vibrant neighbourhood! The streets are lined with budget-friendly bars, ideal for getting a cheap beer and trading stories with other travellers after a day of exploring.
While live music isn’t a guarantee, Phuong 3’s pubs might surprise you with a local band belting out everything from Vietnamese jams to classic rock covers. Phuong 3 in Da Lat isn’t known for sophisticated nightclubs or cocktail bars, but it does provide a unique nightlife experience for backpackers seeking adventure. Plus, compared to its older siblings like Hanoi and Saigon, the nightlife here is way more sedate and safe for travellers.
Aside from nightlife, the Crazy House is definitely one of Da Lat’s most unusual tourist attractions. Imagine a massive treehouse entrance, rooms designed like animals, and staircases that twist like jungle vines. It’s a quick visit, but memorable, and adds a bit of weirdness to balance out the nights (if they weren’t weird enough for you already).
- Best For: Backpackers, social travellers, casual nightlife
- The Vibe: Lively, scrappy, traveller-heavy
- Proximity to Airport: Around 45 minutes to Lien Khuong Airport
- Transport Level: Easy on foot, taxis everywhere
- Budget: Low to mid-range, great value stays
- Crowds: Moderate at night, relaxed during the day
Photo: @taya.travels
Things to See and Do in Phuong 3:
- If you want to blow the cobwebs away, the best place to visit in Phuong 3 is Dalat’s Flower Park. This flower park is mellow and expansive – it even has a yearly festival!
- Head to Truc Lam Buddhist Monastery, a traditional Zen Buddhist temple located on a hill with mountain views.
- Discover the coffee plantations and flower farms of the countryside on a motorcycle trip in Dalat.
- Visit the locally named Crazy House! Designed by a famous Vietnamese architect, it’s like something out of a fairy tale and definitely worth a visit.
- For a bit of peace and serenity, take a trip to Domaine de Marie. It’s a tranquil pink church with some amazing gardens!
Nature Hotel – Luong The Vinh | Best Budget Hotel in Phuong 3
The stay offers solid value for money, and the staff are friendly, attentive and easy to deal with. The location is quiet but still convenient, with restaurants and coffee shops close by and the town centre within walking distance. Rooms are clean and come with a balcony, and the shared veranda has wide, panoramic views over the city. Being slightly removed from the busy centre makes it easier to enjoy the scenery and get some good walks in.
My Dream Hotel | Best Mid-Range Hotel in Phuong 3
From a broke backpacker point of view, My Dream Hotel lives up to the name. It’s basic, but for just over five dollars a night it delivers far more than expected. Despite being right in the centre, it sits in a tucked-away spot that stays quiet and feels secure. The rooms are spacious, with balconies and genuinely great views, and the shared upstairs terrace is an easy place to hang out. Scooter rental on site and flexible luggage storage before and after check-in make it a very practical stay.
An apartment with valley view and garden | Best Airbnb in Phuong 3
Everything feels calm and intentional in this airbnb, from the layout to the shared terrace, which is a great place to unwind in the evening. The space is well furnished and thoughtfully decorated, and the balcony view is why you come to Da Lat in the first place. The location is a real bonus too, with cafés just across the road and Da Lat Lake and the Big C supermarket about a ten-minute walk away.
4. Phuong 10: French Quarter – Coolest Place to Stay in Da Lat
Want a taste of French charm in Da Lat? Look no further than Phuong 10, also known as the French Quarter). This neighbourhood is ideal for history buffs and those looking for a more calm atmosphere than the hectic city centre.
History isn’t the only thing Phuong 10 has going for it. There’s also a bustling cafe scene there (legit one of the reasons it’s my favourite city in Vietnam). Grab a nice coffee and a flaky croissant in a cute cafe and take a moment to savour in the relaxed vibe. For travellers looking to unwind after a day of touring Da Lat’s many attractions, it’s the perfect base as it has a much calmer environment than the city centre.
- Best For: Slow travellers, couples, culture lovers
- The Vibe: Calm, leafy, old-world charm
- Proximity to Airport: Around 45 minutes to Lien Khuong Airport
- Transport Level: Short taxi rides, walkable pockets
- Budget: Mid-range, good value for space and comfort
- Crowds: Low and blissfully unbothered
Things to See and Do in Phuong 10
- If you’re artsy, head to Lam Vien Square to admire the building in the shape of a giant wild sunflower and take up the opportunity to do some fabulous shopping.
- Admire the old station building that makes up Da Lat Railway Station.
- Venture into Dalat’s countryside on a day trip from Dalat on a motorbike tour.
- Experience the beautiful Japanese-style flower hill that is Hoàng Long Ohayo.
- Head on a tour to explore the Silk Village, Elephant Falls and experience coffee tasting.
- Hop on a cable car at Da Lat Cable Car Station to get a good look at this beautiful city and the surrounding countryside.
Zen Valley Dalat | Best Mid-Range Hotel in Phuong 10
Zen Valley Dalat definitely lives up to its name. The rooms are large, with magnificent bathrooms including big tubs and exquisite decor. Whether you’re relaxing in the outdoor pool or appreciating the view from your room, you’re bound to find a little bit of Zen here. The little extras definitely make this one worth the splurge.
Win Villa Coffee | Best Budget Hotel in Phuong 10
The staff at Win Villa Coffee are friendly, enthusiastic and genuinely helpful throughout the stay. Rooms are spacious, clean and airy, set away from the main road so nights stay quiet. The location is convenient, close to the city centre with parking available and easy access for vehicles. The villa itself is well equipped and secure, with comfortable beds, soft mattresses and warm blankets that make sleeping easy.
Tiny House by the lake | Best Airbnb in Phuong 10
This Airbnb is not just any ordinary stay; it is a TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice Award nominee. Tucked away in a quaint Vietnamese neighbourhood, this distinctive and roomy sanctuary radiates comfort and style. With a Superhost in charge, it makes sense why it has earned the title of “unique stay”. Imagine relaxing in a traditional Vietnamese home that has all the conveniences needed for a worry-free getaway. You’ll be forking out more than a hostel but for a stay this unique, it’s well worth it.
Avocado House | Another Great Airbnb in Phuong 10
If you’re seeking a relaxing getaway, you’ll find it right here. Cook up tasty meals in the well-equipped kitchen, which includes everything a culinary enthusiast might want. Curl up on the couch with a steaming cup of tea and watch a movie marathon on internet TV. Step into your own little refuge, a home garden ideal for nature lovers looking for a splash of green.
5. Phuong 4: Tuyen Lam Lake – Best Neighborhood in Da Lat for Families to Stay In
Forget the hustle and bustle of the city centre! Tuyen Lam Lake, located south of the city centre, provides a peaceful respite with plenty of family activities. Kids of all ages will enjoy the endless lakefront activities available here. Breathe in the pure mountain air and enjoy the tranquil ambience; it’s the ideal spot to unwind and reconnect with nature.
Don’t worry about the distance; the beautiful surroundings and easy access to the city centre make it ideal. For an adrenaline rush, visit Datanla Waterfall! Hold on tight and unleash your inner child on the alpine coaster. Weave through the lush forest, past cascading waterfalls, and scream your heart out (your voice might not thank you later.)
- Best For: Families, nature lovers, slower travel
- The Vibe: Peaceful, green, outdoorsy
- Proximity to Airport: Around 45 minutes to Lien Khuong Airport
- Transport Level: Taxi or private transport needed
- Budget: Mid-range to higher-end resorts and villas
- Crowds: Low, especially in the evenings
Photo: @taya.travels
Things to See and Do in Tuyen Lam Lake:
- Visit Da Lat’s Clay Tunnel – an art installation area with an array of giant clay sculptures of everything from lizards to trains.
- Spend the afternoon at Datanla Waterfall, admire the waterfalls and zip through the lush forest of Datanla on an alpine coaster!
- Spend the day admiring the beauty around Tuyen Lam Lake.
- Take the kids on an amazing cable car ride with breathtaking views overlooking Prenn Falls! There’s even a rickety ladder up to a treehouse!
- Discover the scenery surrounding Dalat and taste some coffee and rice wine on a guided day tour.
- Embrace your inner adventurer and conquer Da Lat’s wide gorges with a heart-pounding canyoneering adventure!
- Find some zen at Truc Lam Buddhist Monastery – a traditional Zen Buddhist temple located on a hill with picturesque mountain views.
CEREJA Hotel & Resort Dalat | Best Mid-Range Hotel in Tayun Lam Lake
The view here seriously delivers, especially from the lake-facing rooms looking out over pine hills and Tuyen Lam Lake in the distance. It’s properly quiet up here, the kind of place where mornings feel slower and the city feels far away. Rooms are spacious with comfortable beds, the grounds are well looked after, and the staff and gardeners keep everything ticking along smoothly.
Binh An Village Resort | Best Luxury Hotel in Tayun Lam Lake
If you want your own lakeside space, look no further than this Da Lat Hotel! It is modern and stylish, combining the classic French style of the area with a more contemporary finish. With extraordinary lake and forest views, you can enjoy the beauty of this neighbourhood from the very moment you wake up! Sure, it’s pricier than a dorm, but if you’re looking for a unique stay on the lake in a unique corner of Vietnam – I’d say it’s worth the price tag.
Homestay Nhà Hí | Best Homestay in Tuyen Lam Lake
The hosts are incredibly warm, friendly and enthusiastic, the kind of Vietnamese hospitality that sticks with you long after you leave. The food is genuinely good, and the rooms are clean, bright and comfortable, but the real reason to stay here is the atmosphere they create. It’s an easy place to slow down, switch off and spend a few quiet days away from the noise of the city.
FAQs about Finding a Place to Stay in Da Lat
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Da Lat and where to stay.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Da Lat
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Da Lat.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Which Part of Da Lat Should You Choose?
Da Lat, wrapped in mist and tucked into the Central Highlands, feels like a reset button after the heat and chaos found elsewhere in Vietnam. Cooler air, slower mornings and a mix of scenery, food and neighbourhoods make it easy to travel here on almost any budget without feeling like you’re missing out.
For a first visit, starting in the city centre still makes the most sense. It’s where affordable guesthouses, cafés and landmarks come together, with clear traces of French colonial influence running through the architecture. From cable car views over the hills to quiet moments at Linh Son Pagoda, the centre gives you a solid introduction without overcomplicating things. If you want a social stay that keeps costs laughably low, Dalat Family Hostel stands out for its location, atmosphere and organised trips beyond the city, all while staying firmly budget-friendly.
Da Lat rewards travellers who slow down and stay curious. Wander its neighbourhoods, drink too much coffee, chase waterfalls, and give yourself time to feel the place rather than rush through it. Pack light layers and lean into the cooler climate, because you might find yourself a bit nippy here!
