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.
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Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam)
An elegant boutique hotel, slightly off the beaten track. The decor focusses around their extensive library, with flashes of colonial French accents. Comfortable and stylish rooms with classic and fresh look. An unusual and pleasing find. The Bookmark restaurant is popular amongst guests.
Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam)
A tranquil haven in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, this elegant, design-led property has a timeless sense of style, with a French-inspired façade and 36 romantic white-on-white rooms & suites with lovely dark blue and brass elements. The flavoursome Vietnamese cuisine is a total highlight!
Hanoi (Hoan Kiem, Vietnam)
A small yet perfectly formed boutique bolthole in the heart of the famous Old Quarter. Chic rooms feature hardwood floors, clean design and large double windows leading onto private balconies. A real gem of a hotel for guests of all ages at an excellent price.
Hanoi (Hoan Kiem District, Vietnam)
An elegant hotel situated in Hanoi's vibrant Old Quarter. Chic rooms feature rosewood floors, enormous beds and large works of Vietnamese art. Uber-modern bathrooms have big bathtubs, there's a Vietnamese fusion restaurant, a rooftop bar and a piano bar. Well-priced and well-located.
Sapa (Lao Cai, Vietnam)
Great-value boutique hotel situated in the heart of Sapa. The property's prime location means that both trekking in the surrounding rice paddies and exploring local street markets are easy to do. Rooms and suites feel fresh and are tastefully decorated. There is a good Vietnamese restaurant and spa.
Sapa (Vietnam)
A charming small hotel set right in the heart of Sapa. Despite its location, most of the rooms offer superb mountain views from their large picture frame windows. The best have private balconies, whilst a casual restaurant serves Vietnamese fare. A laid-back choice, perfect for exploring.
Hoi An (Vietnam)
With just 23 airy, minimalist rooms & suites, this is an appealingly intimate hotel in tranquil surroundings close to historic Hoi An. Bordering the Thu Bon River, spaces fuse traditional Vietnamese elements & more modern design, with bright local artwork, polished concrete floors & big bathtubs.
Hoi An (Vietnam)
Inspired by the vibrant peacock, Delicacy Hotel's comfortable rooms & suites feature bold murals in jewel-like blues & greens, as well as pretty teal headboards. The best suites boast free-standing tubs & private balconies, perfect for unwinding in style. Rooftop sundowners are a real treat!
Nha Trang (Vietnam)
Nestled on a serene beach just a short drive from the centre of Nha Trang. Chic and effortlessly stylish rooms with parquet flooring, al fresco bathtubs and wonderful views. Scuba diving in its private waters and island hopping are popular activities.
Nha Trang (Vietnam)
A tropical paradise set on a stretch of private beach, this heavenly hideaway is exceptional in every way. Expect award-winning architecture, with slick suites and villas offering uninterrupted ocean views and plenty of privacy for couples or families. Pure indulgence.
Phú Quốc (Vietnam)
A hamlet of thatched huts spread across a wild garden, sloping down to the private beach, on Phu Quoc island. Private huts have luxurious open air bathrooms, well situated terraces and netted four-poster beds. Cuisine and views are second to none. Simple, beautiful and wonderfully unspoilt.
Phú Quốc (Vietnam)
Ten minutes from the airport, the Salinda Resort blends traditional Asian charm with cutting edge design, all on a beautiful tropical island. A magical retreat from everyday life, with a serious injection of style. Stylish rooms feature state of the art bathrooms and private balconies.
Da Nang (Vietnam)
A chic high-rise hotel with a swish rooftop pool overlooking the ocean in Da Nang. Generous suites are decorated in cream & pale blue tones, with floor-to-ceiling windows & private balconies. Lively & convivial, this cool, contemporary property has a fresh, innovative appeal. Ideal for city breaks.
Da Nang (Khue My Ward, Ngu Hanh Son District)
A has-it-all luxury resort set on a private stretch of China Beach. Interiors have been styled with French and Vietnamese influence - expect dark rosewood and floaty muslin. Activities abound from endless watersports to golf or tennis. While the spa is utterly spoiling. Beach perfection.
