Amongst South East Asia’s most enduringly popular destinations, Vietnam is a marvellous country for travellers of all ages to explore. Long and narrow, it boasts a seemingly endless stretch of picturesque coastline — as well as being home to the striking Phu Quoc and the Con Dao Islands, amongst others. Venture inland for lush jungles and restful hill country retreats, or head to the cities for an insight into Vietnam’s fascinating history and its lively 21st-century soul. With tranquil riverside escapes, chic boutique hotels and luxurious beach resorts aplenty, our list of the best places to stay in Vietnam really does offer something for everyone.

Vietnam’s capital, elegant Hanoi sits far to the north. It’s an intriguing starting point for a journey across the country, with bustling markets, a tremendously characterful Old Quarter and fabulous food scene. The centre of French Indochina until the 1950s, it also has a strong French influence. In total contrast sits Ho Chi Minh City — still known to many as Saigon. The country’s main commercial hub, the southern city of HCMC has a youthful buzz and a great late-night scene as well as impressive historic architecture. You’ll sense the impact of the American War in both cities, and we’d highly recommended guided tours or museum visits.

Hanoi is the gateway to the idyllic hill town of Sapa, famed for its wonderful natural scenery as well as its rich cultural diversity. Outdoorsy types and wellness enthusiasts will adore exploring this part of northern Vietnam, as well as restful Dalat, to the south. Heritage aficionados, on the other hand, should look to magical Hoi An or to Hue, Vietnam’s old royal capital. Head further south to the towns and villages which dot the mighty Mekong Delta for nature-focused activities, fantastic bird-watching and the chance to unwind in blissful tranquility at one of the best places to stay in Vietnam.

The Best Places to Stay in Vietnam

For Boutique Chic

• Smarana Hanoi Heritage is based around a colourful collection of Hang Trong folk paintings. Whimsical rooms are inspired by the seasons, with upholstered headboards and patterned wallpapers. The gourmet French eatery and rooftop bar complete the unique boutique experience.
• Bach Suites Saigon, just 500 metres from Ho Chi Minh City's iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, is an elegant, design-led property with 36 rooms and suites decorated in white and warm blues. Set behind a French-inspired façade, this is a swish choice for a romantic break or well-heeled business trip. The Home Kitchen Restaurant and rooftop pool complete the picture.
• Poulo Condor Butique Resort & Spa combines elements of 20th-century French architecture with traditional Vietnamese design in its inviting 35 suites & villas. Think pretty patterned tiles and four-poster beds, as well as plunge pools and private terraces. Two-bedroom villas are ideal for families and friends. A romantic wedding or honeymoon escape, not far from the coast on Con Son Island.

For Old-World Charm

• Sofitel Legend Metropole, just across from the Hanoi Opera House, has been a city icon since it opened in 1901. A beautifully restored French-era hotel with glamorous interiors, it's a favourite with well-heeled travellers. The hotel's fabulous cookery school will delight foodies, whilst partygoers will adore live music nights and frequent events. Very indulgent.
• Hotel Majestic Saigon first opened its doors in 1925. An Art Deco masterpiece of white-painted columns, imposing arched doorways and glittering chandeliers, this is an elegant city landmark, set close to the Saigon River in District 1. Expect excellent Vietnamese cuisine, a choice of rooftop bars and plenty of timeless glamour.
• Azerai La Residence is a gorgeous French-era building with a striking Art Deco façade in Hue. Set on the banks of the Perfume River and overlooking the former Imperial Citadel, this is a glamorous hotel with elegant interiors and stacks of 1950s charm. For well-heeled travellers and romantics.
• Dalat Palace Heritage Hotel has been an imposing city landmark since 1922. Overlooking Xuan Huong Lake, this opulent hotel boasts sumptuous interiors done in white and gold, with glittering chandeliers and lavish events spaces. Also offering tennis courts and a top-notch French restaurant. Brilliant for weddings, food-focused holidays or fun family trips.

For a Wellness Retreat

• Tia Wellness Resort boasts Asia's first all-inclusive spa. A sophisticated resort with slick monochrome interiors in indulgent suites and villas with private pools, it's the perfect escape for wellness enthusiasts as well as families. Tailor-made programmes strive to nourish mind, body and spirit in style. Fabulous.
• Sapa Jade Hill Resort is a restful retreat within easy reach of Sapa's old town. Rooms, suites and villas have a rustic yet elegant feel, with exposed wood, handwoven textiles and marvellous views. The soothing spa showcases natural healing therapies, the glass-roofed pool opens to the sky, and pop-up market evenings celebrate traditional cuisine. Very romantic.
• Tam Coc Garden Resort has just 16 indulgent suites and heritage houses within gorgeous gardens. Striking and secluded, this romantic escape has a strong eco and wellness focus, with a superb spa, community connections and fabulous cuisine using garden-grown produce and fresh fish or prawns from the river. A soulful hideaway for those looking to slow down.
• Avana Retreat is a gorgeous eco hotel in Hoa Binh with spacious suites and multi-bedroom villas overlooking private pools and iridescent rice fields. Built using traditional techniques and featuring handwoven textiles, this is a wonderfully luxurious escape with sustainability at its heart. Very romantic.
• Ana Mandara Villas offers a gorgeous collection of 17 ochre-painted French villas set in the wooded Dalat hills. Rooms with wooden beamed ceilings and big bathtubs are very inviting. The pampering spa, refreshing swimming pool and superb French restaurant make this a romantic gem. A perfect hideaway in the hills.

FOR FAMILIES

• The Anam Cam Ranh, an expansive beach resort near Nha Trang, has an impressive 212 rooms, suites and villas. Book a multi-bedroom villa with private pool for a fun-filled family holiday, complete with screenings at Vietnam's first 3D cinema, rounds on the putting green, water sports, a lively kids club and art workshops. Indulgent and friendly.
• Emeralda Resort in Ninh Binh fuses traditional Vietnamese architecture with 21st-century amenities in a beautiful setting on the edge of the Van Long Nature Reserve. Families will adore the large suites, the kids club, babysitting services and array of nature-focused activities. You can also unwind at the spa after big days out!
• Anantara Mui Ne Resort & Spa sits on a golden stretch of beach, perfect for soaking up the sunshine or honing your kite and wind surfing skills. Contemporary rooms, suites and villas have flexible options for families, with the best villas boasting private plunge pools. Feast in two restaurants, hit the karaoke room or kick back at the spa whilst the little ones play at the kids club. Great fun for the whole family.

For a Riverside Escape

• An Lam Retreats Saigon River offers gorgeous riverside suites and villas with contemporary furnishings and nods to Vietnamese craft and design. The best villas have plunge pools, perfect for a romantic escape. Savour French-Vietnamese fusion fare, unwind at the spa or head into the city by boat.
• The Island Lodge is a laid-back riverside retreat on Unicorn Island in the Mekong Delta. The 12 inviting guest rooms fuse understated modern design with classic Vietnamese style and natural textures, including lots of bamboo. Kick back by the swimming pool or feast on French-Vietnamese fusion cuisine. A delightful hideaway for romantics or outdoorsy explorers.
• Nghê Prana Villa & Spa has 23 airy, minimalist rooms and suites on the banks of the Thu Bon River near Hoi An. Polished concrete interiors with modern art pieces and free-standing tubs are fresh and appealing. The strong wellness ethos is reflected in yoga classes, meditation workshops and healing gong baths. Great value for a restful, reflective trip.

For Absolute Luxury

• Capella Hanoi is the creation of acclaimed designer Bill Bensley, who has taken the flamboyant world of opera's golden age as inspiration. Gorgeous interiors feature rich, jewel-like textiles in lavish suites and theatrical restaurants with glittering chandeliers. Foodies will adore the Michelin-starred Chef's Table: Hibana by Koki.
• Six Senses Hideaway is an exceptional island resort on a tranquil stretch of golden beach. Fusing contemporary luxury and a welcoming rustic feel, this gorgeous escape promises unrivalled luxury for guests of all ages in the remote Con Dao Islands.
• Amanoi is an elegant resort set on the rugged cliffs of Núi Chúa National Park. A dazzling minimalist masterpiece, this is a gorgeous spot, complete with a sensational spa, cliff-edge infinity pool and floating lake dining. For a restorative spa retreat or dream honeymoon.
• Bai San Ho is a gorgeous eco-resort with 73 villas on 245 acres of lush grounds overlooking the ocean. Decorated in soothing, earthy tones and featuring artisanal textiles, most of the villas have private pools, free-standing tubs and multiple bedrooms. Swim, snorkel and cycle, play a game of tennis with friends and family, or unwind in the serene Hoa Sen Spa. Wellness-focused seclusion.

For Great Value

• Mai Chau Lodge, near the banks of Mo Luong Lake, prides itself on having been built entirely from natural materials. A relaxed and affordable eco-lodge with 16 rustic rooms, it's a charming base for outdoorsy explorers eager to cycle and hike in the surrounding hills. Lovely.
• Mango Bay Resort is a relaxed and rustic-feeling beach destination in Phu Quoc, perfect for families looking to kick back in two-bedroom thatched bungalows with open-air bathrooms and netted four-posters. Enjoy beach activities, kayaking, trekking and cooking classes as a family. Also very affordable.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR VILLA

• If you’d prefer to stay in an apartment or villa we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Fly to Hanoi's Noi Bai International Airport, to Ho Chi Minh City International Airport or to Da Nang International Airport. Take the bus or train if travelling within the country, or hop aboard a short regional flight to one of Vietnam's many domestic airports. Speak to your hotel in advance about organising an airport pick-up.
• If you're comfortable driving in Asia and intend to venture into the surrounding countryside, contact our partner Rentalcars to hire a car.
• Visit between December and April for warm, dry weather, with temperatures ranging between 25–35°C. December is the coolest time of year, with temperatures heating up and becoming increasingly humid from January onwards. Expect more rain between May and October, with dramatic monsoon deluges in the south of the country. The mountain retreats of Sapa and Dalat are cooler for much of the year.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Expand your search to discover the best places to stay in Hanoi.
• Alternatively, check out our pick of the best places to stay in Cambodia.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.