Best areas at a glance
| Area | Best for | Mid-range per night |
|---|---|---|
| District 1 – Dong Khoi / Ben Nghe | Landmarks, rooftop bars, luxury | US$70–150 |
| District 1 – Pham Ngu Lao / Bui Vien | Backpackers, nightlife, budget | US$25–60 |
| District 3 | Local cafés, quieter streets | US$40–90 |
| Thao Dien (Thu Duc City) | Families, expat cafés, river | US$50–120 |
| Binh Thanh | High-rise apartments, Landmark 81 | US$40–100 |
District 1: Dong Khoi and Ben Nghe
The historic centre around the Opera House, Nguyen Hue Walking Street and the river, within walking distance of most sights.
- Luxury: Park Hyatt Saigon, The Reverie Saigon
- Historic: Hotel Majestic Saigon, Caravelle Saigon
District 1: Pham Ngu Lao and Bui Vien
The backpacker district, full of hostels, cheap guesthouses, bars and tour agencies. Fun but very noisy at night; choose a room on a side alley.
District 3
Next to District 1, with leafy streets, colonial villas, local restaurants and cafés. A short Grab ride to the main sights.
- Upscale: Hotel des Arts Saigon
Thao Dien
A green, expat-friendly neighbourhood across the river with villas, brunch cafés and riverside restaurants. Now linked to the centre by Metro Line 1.
Binh Thanh
Home to Landmark 81 and modern apartment towers. Good for serviced apartments with pools and city views.
Compare hotel prices in Ho Chi Minh CityWhich area is right for you?
- First visit: Dong Khoi / Ben Nghe.
- Budget and nightlife: Pham Ngu Lao / Bui Vien.
- Quiet and local: District 3.
- Families or longer stays: Thao Dien.
Plan your days with our Ho Chi Minh City itinerary.
For events, opening hours and official visitor information, see Vietnam Travel, the official tourism site.
More Ho Chi Minh City guides
- Ho Chi Minh City travel guide
- 20 best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
- Ho Chi Minh City itinerary: 3, 4 or 5 days
- Best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City
- Ho Chi Minh City airport to the city
- Cu Chi Tunnels tour
- Mekong Delta day trip
- Vietnam e-visa guide
FAQ: where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City
Is District 1 the best place to stay?
Yes for first-time visitors: it’s central, walkable and has the most hotels and restaurants.
Is Bui Vien too noisy?
The street itself is loud until late. Stay a block or two away for easy access and better sleep.
How far is District 1 from the airport?
About 6–8 km, or 25–45 minutes depending on traffic.
Plan your trip to Ho Chi Minh City
The trusted services we use to plan our own trips.
