Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh? (MUST READ • 2023)

Not too fussed about which area you stay in? These are my highest recommendations for places to stay in Ho Chi Minh City.

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Best Airbnb in Ho Chi Minh City: Colonial French Era Loft

The French-style apartment overlooks Dong Khoi Street and Nguyen Hue Street. It’s within walking distance of Saigon Opera House, Saigon Notre Dame Basilica, Nguyen Hue Street, Ben Thanh Market, and the Reunification Palace. The apartment has one bed, a fully equipped kitchen, and fast wifi.

Best Hostel in Ho Chi Minh City: Vy Da Backpacker Hostel

Vy Da Backpacker Hostel is not only one of the cheapest hostels in the city, it’s one of the best hostels in Ho Chi Minh. At only $4 a night, this place comes with some crazy value for money. It’s not super close to Dong Khoi Street, but it is within walking distance of the Ben Thanh Market and other tourist attractions.

Best Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City: Chez Mimosa Boutique Hotel

The Chez Mimosa Boutique Hotel offers great value for money. They have a rooftop terrace where guests can enjoy a free drink at happy hour.

They also offer free laundry service and a Vietnamese foot soak! The staff are all very friendly and go out of their way to make sure guests are taken care of by offering recommendations for whatever you’re looking for. It’s the perfect option for where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City.

FIRST TIME IN HO CHI MINH

FIRST TIME IN HO CHI MINH

Dong Khoi Street

Ho Chi Minh Distric 1 is the beating heart of Ho Chi Minh City, and Dong Khoi Street is the main historical area that has seen the biggest changes throughout the city’s past.

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ON A BUDGET & NIGHTLIFE

ON A BUDGET & NIGHTLIFE

Pham Ngu Lao

Known as the “backpacker district,” Pham Ngu Lao is an area in Ho Chi Minh District 1 that attracts budget travelers thanks to the low prices for everything from food and drink to accommodation.

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COOLEST PLACE TO STAY

COOLEST PLACE TO STAY

Cholon

District 5 is more commonly known as Cholon and it’s Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown. Cholon literally means “big market” and it’s obvious why as soon as visitors arrive at Binh Tay Market, which is the largest market in the country.

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FOR FAMILIES

FOR FAMILIES

Thao Dien

In the past, District 2 was one of the poorest areas in Ho Chi Minh City because the Saigon River separated it from District 1, but nowadays things are much different.

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Ho Chi Minh City is a vast and eclectic city. It’s got a huge variety of neighbourhoods, so make sure to pick the one that’s best for you.

Ho Chi Minh District 1 is the heart of HCMC. Established by the French Government in 1859 as the centre for government office buildings, this is the central commercial, cultural, and business hub.

You’ll find beautiful French architecture, busy markets, tree-lined boulevards, and cuisine from all around the world. With so many things to explore here, this is a great area to base yourself on your first visit.

If you’re visiting Ho Chi Minh City on a budget or looking for nightlife, then Pham Ngu Lao is the place to go. This area of Ho Chi Minh District 1 has been well-known in backpacker circles for years.

Bordering the south end of District 1 is Ho Chi Minh District 5. Home to a massive Chinatown (known locally as “Cholon”), this area is a great way to escape colonial architecture and Western fast-food restaurants and truly feel like you’re in Asia.

Finally, District 2 is the best place to stay if you’re visiting Ho Chi Minh City with your family. It’s a mostly residential area and is also popular among expats.

Now, let’s check out each of these areas in more detail. I’ve included my top accommodation and activity picks in each, so you know exactly what to expect.

1. Dong Khoi Street – Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City for Your First Visit

District 1 is the beating heart of Ho Chi Minh City, and Dong Khoi Street is the main historical area. There is a PLETHORA of amazing things to do in Ho Chi Minh all condensed into one small area, District 1.

During French colonial times, the street called Rue Catinat was a glamorous area. Then during the Vietnam War, it was called Tu Do which means “Freedom Street.” When Saigon fell to the North at the end of the War the street was renamed again to Dong Khoi which means “Total Revolution.”

Now, this street is the heart of the commercial life of Ho Chi Minh City and the perfect place to stay for first-time visitors to Vietnam. Here, you can admire the old colonial buildings, grab a coffee in a stylish cafe, shop for international brands and local boutiques, and dine in world-class restaurants.

Best Airbnb in Dong Khoi Street Area: Colonial French Era Loft

The French-style apartment overlooks Dong Khoi Street and Nguyen Hue Street. It’s within walking distance of Saigon Opera House, Saigon Notre Dame Basilica, Nguyen Hue Street, Ben Thanh Market, and the Reunification Palace. The apartment has one bed, a fully equipped kitchen, and fast wifi.

Best Hostel in Dong Khoi Street Area: Vy Da Backpacker Hostel

Vy Da Backpacker Hostel is not only one of the best value hostels in the city, it’s one of the best hostels in Vietnam (value-wise). At only $4 a night, this place comes with some crazy value for money. It’s not super close to Dong Khoi Street, but it is within walking distance of the Ben Thanh Market and other tourist attractions.

Best Hotel in Dong Khoi Street Area: Sheraton Saigon Hotel & Towers

Sheraton Hotel & Towers is one of Ho Chi Minh’s best luxury hotels. It’s equipped with an outdoor swimming pool, spa and fitness centre, and a whole lot more. Sheraton boasts a great location; it’s close to the Ben Thanh Market and within walking distance of some popular tourist attractions like the Notre Dame Cathedral and Dong Khoi Street itself. If you’re looking for luxury, you’ll find it here, trust me.

Things to See and Do in Dong Khoi Street Area

1. Send a letter or souvenir to friends and family from the iconic Saigon Central Post Office.
2. Take an Insta-worthy photo of the incredible architecture of the City Hall building, formerly the Hotel de Ville.
3. Admire the Notre Dame Cathedral’s stunning facade made from imported materials from France.
4. Casually stroll through the 30-4 Park which takes its name from Vietnam’s Liberation Day, April 30th.
5. Visit the Reunification Palace – a place frozen in time following the Vietnam War.
6. See a different perspective of the War at the War Remnants Museum.
7. Wander through the Ben Than Market trying cheap, delicious food and browsing the endless amount of things for sale.
8. Head to the Bitexco Financial Tower to enjoy the sweeping views of the city from the Saigon Skydeck.
9. Take a Jeep tour around the city.
10. Enjoy an evening of Opera or classical music at the Saigon Opera House.

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2. Pham Ngu Lao – Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City on a Budget & for Nightlife

Known as the “backpacker district,” Pham Ngu Lao is an area in Ho Chi Minh District 1. It attracts budget travellers thanks to the low prices for everything from food and drinks to accommodation.

Pham Nhu Lao is a street that runs parallel to another street called Bui Vien. Between the two are a handful of small connecting alleyways full of spas, delicious restaurants, and plenty of hostels. It’s very reminiscent of Khao San Road in Bangkok.

This district of Ho Chi Minh City has a wide range of backpacker accommodation, and prices are quite competitive so it’s easy to negotiate a pretty good deal.

Pham Ngu Lao is also the best area of Ho Chi Minh City to visit for nightlife. There are bars all along the street as well as restaurants with cuisine from all over the world. You’ll also find a high concentration of street food carts here. It’s the best area to stay in if you want to party and not spend a ton of money.

Best Airbnb in Pham Ngu Lao: Tropical Hideout Bathtub

This is a super unique Airbnb in a stunning central location, just off Pham Ngu Lao Street. What’s unique about this place is the 100-inch projector with Spotify, Netflix and everything else you need. This Airbnb sleeps up to three guests and is perfect for couples or small families.

Best Hostel in Pham Ngu Lao: Bui Vien Street Hostel

This hostel’s central location is what makes it so great. It’s right in the city center, and close to the backpacker haven of Bui Vien Walking Street. Boasting a rooftop bar, free breakfast and super comfy dorm beds for as little as $7, this place is a steal.

Best Hotel in Pham Ngu Lao: Chill Suites

The Chill Suites offer clean and comfortable rooms complete with a desk and a TV. Each room also has a fridge and a sitting area.

The hotel is located in a popular area close to multiple restaurants and tourist sites. It’s a great budget hotel for where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City.

Best Hotel in Pham Ngu Lao #2: Chez Mimosa Boutique Hotel

The Chez Mimosa Boutique Hotel offers great value for money. They boast a rooftop terrace where guests can enjoy a free drink at happy hour, as well as a Vietnamese foot soak. Rooms are elegantly decorated and free wifi is available throughout.

Things to See and Do in Pham Ngu Lao

1. Indulge in amazing yet cheap spa treatments like massages and pedicures.
2. Grab an inexpensive Bia Hoi at one of the many bars lining the street.
3. Delight your taste buds with the best bowl of Pho you’ve ever had at Pho 2000.
4. Dance the night away after enjoying your dinner and comfort food at the Crazy Buffalo bar.
5. Book your onward travel at one of the many budget travel agents.
6. Join a Vintage Vespa Tour and explore Saigon on two wheels.
7. Take a trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels and learn how the village protected itself during the War.
8. Dance to the live music while enjoying a cheap cocktail at Thi Bar.
9. Learn about Saigon’s troubled past at the Museum of Ho Chi Minh City.
10. Sip on a cup of coffee while reading a good book at the Bookworm’s Coffee Saigon.

3. Cholon (District 5) – Coolest Place to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City

District 5 is more commonly known as Cholon and it’s Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown. Cholon literally means “big market” – which is pretty apt as it’s home to Binh Tay Market, the largest market in the country.

Ethnic Chinese people have been settling in this area of Vietnam since 1778, and it has become a commercial centre for both locals and tourists since. They began selling Chinese products here, which is what led to the big market area it is today. During the war, it was a black market for American troops selling American Army issue supplies.

The Chinese influence in Cholon is very apparent in the many charming temples and pagodas scattered throughout the district.

The best part about this area is all the delicious Chinese food. You can find all kinds of Chinese and Vietnamese dishes at the food court inside the Binh Tay Market as well as outside. There are food vendors everywhere!

There aren’t very many hostels in District 5, I would recommend anyone looking to stay in a hostel to go elsewhere.

Best Airbnb in District 5: Airy Apartment

Located nicely in the heart of Cholon is super host Happy’s Airy Apartment. I would recommend this Airbnb for its consistently good reviews, which I agree with.

Happy was such a nice host, he really made sure I was comfortable during my stay. The only downside is I was sharing the property with other guests, but if you’re lucky you could get it to yourself!

Best Hotel in District 5: Windsor Plaza Hotel

The Windsor Plaza Hotel offers a luxurious stay at an affordable price. It’s located in the heart of Cholon District (Chinatown) and each room has large windows with incredible views of the city.

Guests can relax with a massage at the spa, work out at the fitness centre, or arrange a day trip at the tour desk.

Things to See and Do in District 5

1. Wander through Binh Tay Market admiring all the things for sale.
2. Visit Cha Tam Church to see where the first president of Vietnam – Ngo Dinh Diem – was arrested.
3. Shop for fabrics, clothing, homewares, craft goods, handmade jewellery, and hand-carved woodwork at An Dong Market.
4. Admire the ornate decorations on the walls of the Phuoc An Hoi Quan, a Chinese Taoist Temple.
5. Take a street food tour.
6. Light a stick of incense and admire the shrines at the Thien Hau Temple.
7. Pray to the Goddess of Fertility at the Tam Son Hoi Quan Pagoda – a Buddhist temple.
8. Take a traditional cyclo ride around the district to give your feet a rest.
9. Slide down the waterslides at Dai The Gioi Waterpark.
10. Reflect on life while enjoying the reflections in the pond at Quan Am Pagoda.

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4. Thao Dien – Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City with a Family

In the past, District 2 was one of the poorest areas in Ho Chi Minh City because the Saigon River separated it from District 1. Nowadays, things are much different.

Thao Dien in District 2 is a thriving area with high-rise apartment buildings and cute restaurants and cafes. It’s also a very popular area among expats.

Despite the cost of living in Vietnam being extremely cheap, this is NOT the cheapest area of the city. This is mainly due to the fact that sadly, they’re aren’t many hostels in this area, so if you’re looking to stay in a hostel, check out another area.

Boasting the largest amount of healthy eateries in the entire city, visitors can also find plenty of health and fitness classes like yoga and pilates.

With the recent opening of the metro station in 2019, it’s also easier than ever to explore Ho Chi Minh City using District 2 as a base.

Best Airbnb in District 2: Luxury Apartment with Front Balcony

Although it’s definitely not the cheapest place to stay in Vietnam, this luxury Airbnb is simply stunning. Featuring a balcony, and 53 other useful amenities such as a free washing machine and workspace, this place really has EVERYTHING. Located in the heart of District 2, if you can afford this place, it’s a no-brainer.

Best Hotel in District 2: Villa Song Saigon

Stay classy in the city at Villa Song Saigon. Located on the Saigon River, all the rooms at this boutique-style hotel come with a view of the river, pool, or garden.

Breakfast is included and guests can easily get downtown thanks to the complimentary two-way shuttle by speed boat to the city center. This is an ideal hotel for those wondering where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City.

Things to See and Do in Thao Dien:

1. Sip a tasty cocktail or two along the banks of the Saigon River at one of these establishments: The Deck, Villa Song, or BoatHouse.
2. Take a boat and dinner cruise down the Saigon River.
3. Take in the impressive exhibitions on light, poetry, and philosophical questions at The Factory Contemporary Arts Center.
4. Improve your upper body strength by rock climbing at Saigon Outcast.
5. Practice your dunking skills at Jump Arena Trampoline Park.
6. Enjoy a beer while you mingle with the varied clientele over a game of darts at Buddha Bar.
7. Indulge in a spa treatment at Thao Dien Spa.
8. Forget you’re in sweltering Southeast Asia by ice skating at Vincom Mega Mall.
9. Spend an hour relaxing at Dolphy Cafe.
10. If you need a pick-me-up, grab a massive iced coffee from Hue Cafe Roastery.

Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Ho Chi Minh and where to stay.

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Ho Chi Minh City can be overwhelming. This is a massive metropolis and has enough to keep you entertained for months.

If you’re still not sure where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City, I recommend checking out Dong Khoi. It’s got a bit of everything and offers a great insight into what this destination has to offer.

The Dorm Saigon is my top pick for the best budget accommodation in Ho Chi Minh City. It features rustic and cosy furnishings and enjoys a central location.

For something more upmarket, the Chez Mimosa Boutique Hotel provides excellent accommodation with superb amenities.

Have you been to Ho Chi Minh City and think I’ve missed something? Let us know in the comments below!

If you’re still feeling a little nervous about your security, then check out our dedicated travel safety guide for Vietnam stacked with useful information and tips.

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