Vietnam's commercial hub, Ho Chi Minh City — previously Saigon — is a bustling metropolis brimming with cultural landmarks, foodie hotspots and a buzzy nightlife scene. Here, towering skyscrapers jostle for space with French colonial-era buildings, hole-in-the-wall eateries spill out onto the street and hawkers ply their trade in booming markets. HCMC is a feast for the senses, and a fabulous destination for couples, friends, families and business travellers alike. Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic riverside bolthole or a glitzy contemporary hotel, our list of the best places to stay in Ho Chi Minh City has it all.

Divided into 24 districts, HCMC can seem a little overwhelming to the wide-eyed first-time visitor, and it's worth thinking carefully about where to base yourself. The heart of the action is undoubtedly District 1. Stroll along tree-lined boulevards or weave your way through the city’s famously lively motorcycle traffic to see elegant French buildings such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Saigon Opera House and the gorgeous Central Post Office. The nearby Reunification Palace, Ho Chi Minh Museum and War Remnants Museum also offer valuable insights into the city’s turbulent history. Head to the sprawling Bến Thành Market for souvenirs and street food, or join the late-night party crowd in Pham Ngu Lao. For designer shopping, look no further than Dong Khoi Street.

On the other side of the Saigon River lies more laid-back District 2. Also known as Thao Dien, this more residential neighbourhood is particularly popular with expats or families, and plays host to some great cafés, restaurants, boutiques and bars. For fantastic street food and a flavour of old Vietnam, venture instead to District 4, or to District 5’s enormous Chợ Bình Tây Market. Guided city tours come highly recommended, as do day trips into the marvellous Mekong Delta and along the Saigon River. Gather at one of the best places to stay in Ho Chi Minh City after days of exploring, and kick off your evening in style!

The Best Places to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City

For City Style

• The Sheraton Saigon, close to the Saigon River in District 1, has almost 500 sophisticated rooms and suites. Bedecked with all the mod-cons, these are fabulous spaces for business travellers or well-heeled couples. With eight drinking and dining options — including a hip rooftop bar — plus a high-end spa this is a top city break spot.
• Hotel des Arts is glamorous and romantic, with 168 rooms and suites clad in a white-on-white palette, with elegant furnishings, hardwood flooring and claw-footed bathtubs. Bask in the sunshine beside the rooftop infinity pool, gather at the Social Club Rooftop Bar for craft cocktails, and sink into big cosy beds after days of exploring. A chic choice.
• Sofitel Saigon Plaza boasts panoramic city views, a refreshing rooftop swimming pool and a sumptous spa. The French restaurant is a particular favourite with the city's foodie crowd. Interiors have a glossy, grown-up feel, with a warm and soothing palette of dark greens and charcoal. Very stylish.
• Bach Suites Saigon, just 500 metres from the 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.

For Old-World Charm

• 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.

For Families

• Le Meridien Saigon is a brilliant choice for a city break. Expect marvellous river views — ideal for soaking up the magic of the city's skyline at night — and sleek, polished interiors with funky colours and modern shapes. Families will appreciate the swimming pool, generous suites and flexible accommodation options. Also walking distance from Bến Thành Market.
• Intercontinental Asiana Saigon, also close to the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Bến Thành Market, has more than 300 decadent rooms and suites, with hardwood floors and classic decor. Little ones will love the large swimming pool, whilst the grown-ups can kick back at the spa.

For a Riverside Retreat

• Villa Song is a charming 23-bedroom boutique hotel on the banks of the Saigon River in more laid-back District 2. The interiors are clad in dark wood with white linens and original artwork. Explore trendy D2's cafés, galleries and riverside eateries, or hop aboard the complimentary 15-minute shuttle into the city centre. Lovely.
• 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.

For High-Rise Luxury

• Park Hyatt Saigon is an elegant luxury hotel with a white-painted French colonial and Art Deco-inspired façade. The 245 rooms and suites are impeccably decorated, the location is wonderfully central — bordering Dong Khoi Street and the Opera House — and the hotel's Lam Son Bar is one of the trendiest in town. Superb.
• The Reverie Saigon, a glitzy high-rise which glitters with lights at night, is an opulent hotel choice. Lavish, Italian-designed interiors feature lots of warm gold and cream shades, and private butlers await your instructions. Feast on Asian or Italian cuisine after cracking cocktails.

For Great Value

• The Alcove Library Hotel, very close to the airport, offers affordable rates for smart, comfortable rooms set above an extensive library. The leafy location is lovely for those eager to stroll or cycle. Very well-priced.

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

• Want to fly to Ho Chi Minh City?

• Fly to Ho Chi Minh City International Airport, the busiest in Vietnam. There are regular buses into town from the airport, or taxi ranks with green Man Linh and Vinasun cabs. Alternatively, speak to your hotel in advance about organising an airport pick-up.
• The city is easy to navigate by public transport, but 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 giving way to dazzling sunshine; carry an umbrella and be prepared to shelter in cafés until the rain stops!

STILL NOT SURE?

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

Weather

Monthly Weather in Ho Chi Minh City