About Ho Chi Minh City

Once known as the “Pearl of the Far East,” Ho Chi Minh City radiates a charm that feels half-French, half-Vietnamese, and completely unique. Set in southern Vietnam, the city blends colonial architecture, tree-lined boulevards, and neon-lit markets that never really sleep. From the bustling Ben Thanh Market to the tranquil Jade Emperor Pagoda, this metropolis captures the heart and mind of every traveler. At any given hour, you’ll find scooters zipping through traffic like a ballet in motion, locals sipping thick coffee laced with condensed milk, and travelers whispering over rooftop cocktails about tomorrow’s plans. And oh, the food, it’s a story in itself. Whether it’s steaming bowls of phở that wrap you in comfort or crispy gỏi cuốn spring rolls dipped in peanut sauce, you can feel the city’s pulse on your palate.

Today, Ho Chi Minh City hotels line every district from affordable guesthouses to chic 5 star hotels in Ho Chi Minh City that glint over the skyline. Whether you’re chasing street markets or skyline views, every traveler finds a corner that feels like their own. The best hotels in Ho Chi Minh City are not just about luxury; they’re about immersion, the kind that makes you wake up to temple bells mixed with traffic sounds and the aroma of grilled pork rising through an open window. Book your Ho Chi Minh City tour packages with us and get the best of the city.

Ho Chi Minh City airport Address

If you’re landing in Vietnam’s cinematic south, your entry point is Tan Son Nhat International Airport.

• Name: Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN)
• Address: Trường Sơn Street, Ward 2, Tân Bình District, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
• Contact: +84 28 3848 5383
• Email: info@tsnairport.vn 

It’s comfortably close to most districts, just a 20-minute ride to the Ho Chi Minh City hotel clusters in District 1 if you time your arrival right (and pray to the traffic gods). For convenience, many hotels in Ho Chi Minh City near airport even offer shuttle transfers or pickups that make sliding into vacation mode effortless.

The Best Time to Visit Ho Chi Minh City

Let’s be real because this city doesn’t really do “bad weather.” But if you want to strut comfortably along Nguyen Hue, camera in one hand and iced coffee in the other, aim for the dry season (December to April). These months bring clear blue skies, manageable humidity, and blissful sunsets that paint the Ho Chi Minh City hotels in golden hues.

The rainy season (May to November) has its poetry too. It’s warm, moody, and cinematic in that Southeast Asian way, you might find yourself reading by a window of a hotel in Ho Chi Minh City, watching rain cascade down palm leaves outside. Even in the drizzle, the city hums and mopeds glide past reflection-soaked streets, and local markets steam with life.

How to reach Ho Chi Minh City

By air:

Reaching Ho Chi Minh City is easiest by flight. Tan Son Nhat International Airport connects directly to major cities like Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Seoul, and Tokyo. Domestic flights from Hanoi, Da Nang, or Phu Quoc make it a central hub for travelers exploring Vietnam.

By rail:

Taking the train to Ho Chi Minh City via the Reunification Express is an old-school adventure at its finest. The line runs from Hanoi to Saigon, offering a moving panorama of rice fields, mountains, and coastal towns. If you love slow travel, this is your golden ticket. When you arrive, several hotels in Ho Chi Minh City near railway station welcome train wanderers with warm comfort and cold drinks.

By road:

Buses and shuttles connect Ho Chi Minh City with nearby cities like Phnom Penh (Cambodia), Vung Tau, and Can Tho. The long bus rides may test your patience, but they pay you back with landscape views you’d miss from the sky. Along the way, you’ll spot roadside vendors selling fresh fruit and tiny cafés that feel frozen in time.

Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

1. Visit the War Remnants Museum — a humbling, eye-opening experience.
2. Cruise along the Saigon River at sunset.
3. Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels — crawl through history itself.
4. Get lost in Ben Thanh Market.
5. Visit Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon.
6. Step into the Central Post Office — still a masterpiece of French design.
7. Street food hopping in District 4.
8. Grab a rooftop drink at Chill Sky Bar.
9. Take a day trip to the Mekong Delta.
10. Marvel at the Bitexco Tower’s sky deck.
11. Join a Vietnamese cooking class.
12. Wander Chinatown (Cholon).
13. Enjoy the live music scene around Bui Vien Street.
14. Relax at Tao Dan Park early in the morning.
15. Hop on a Vespa night food tour.

Shopping in Ho Chi Minh City

1. Ben Thanh Market – The beating heart of the city. Every traveler visits once and usually twice.
2. Saigon Square – Bargain paradise for clothes, shoes, and souvenirs.
3. Vincom Center – For a cool, air‑conditioned break and big brands.
4. Takashimaya Vietnam – A luxury Japanese department store in the heart of District 1.
5. An Dong Market – A true local spot for textiles and fashion.
6. The New District Market – Where artists and designers showcase handmade crafts.
7. Lucky Plaza – Compact but full of affordable perfume and accessories.
8. Crescent Mall – Chic, modern, and great for high‑end shopping.
9. Saigon Outcast Market – Hipster heaven with recycled art and food trucks.
10. Ben Thanh Night Market – Street food, souvenirs, soft lantern light — magical.
11. Russian Market – Oddly famous for winter clothes in tropical heat.
12. Diamond Plaza – Great spot near Notre Dame Cathedral for quality brands.
13. Street markets near Bui Vien – Cheap fashion and quirky finds.
14. Art galleries on Dong Khoi Street – Traditional lacquer art that glows beautifully under warm light.
15. Boutiques in District 3 – Local designers blending French chic with Saigon soul.

When you’re done shopping, slide into one of the cool cafes or return to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City for a well‑deserved afternoon nap. Many Ho Chi Minh City hotels have spa corners that feel like a blissful reset button.

Famous Restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City

1. The Deck Saigon – Riverside dining perfection.
2. Secret Garden – Hidden rooftop with traditional dishes served home‑style.
3. Pizza 4P’s – Japanese‑Vietnamese fusion pizza; yes, it works.
4. Quan An Ngon – A must‑try for every Vietnamese classic under one roof.
5. Cuc Gach Quan – Antique wooden décor and unforgettable canh chua.
6. Hum Vegetarian – Soulful food and warm interiors.
7. Pho Hoa Pasteur – Oldest pho house in the city, since 1968.
8. El Gaucho Steakhouse – For the occasional carnivore craving.
9. Bún Chả 145 Bui Vien – Smoke, laughter, and the best grilled pork in town.
10. Ngoc Suong Seafood & Bar – Modern Vietnamese with playful cocktails.
11. Shri Restaurant & Lounge – Dinner with a panoramic city view.
12. The Vintage Emporium – Heavenly brunch and strong coffee.
13. Anan Saigon – Award‑winning “new Vietnamese” fine dining.
14. Pho 2000 – Famously visited by a U.S. president; pho still steals the show.
15. Pasteur Street Brewing Co. – Craft beer with tropical notes you’ve never tasted before.

After a meal, nothing beats returning to your Ho Chi Minh City hotel balcony, coffee in hand, watching scooters stream below like neon veins of the city. The mix of quiet and chaos somehow feels perfect, especially at night when the skyline flickers.

Popular Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City

1. The Reverie Saigon – Probably the most famously opulent Ho Chi Minh City hotel. Italian interiors, velvet everything.
2. Caravelle Saigon – History, luxury, and great cocktails.
3. Hotel Des Arts Saigon Mgallery – Boutique charm meets art deco flair.
4. Park Hyatt Saigon – The classic choice for luxury travelers.
5. Pullman Saigon Centre – Modern, central, and deeply relaxing.
6. Sofitel Saigon Plaza – Elegant French touch in heart of District 1.
7. Majestic Hotel Saigon – Colonial beauty by the river.
8. Lotte Hotel Saigon – Spacious suites with river views.
9. Liberty Central Saigon Riverside Hotel – Perfect mix of comfort and location.
10. Alagon D’Antique Hotel & Spa – Stylish and serene boutique hideaway.
11. Silverland Yen Hotel – Modern zen aesthetics and rooftop bar.
12. Norfolk Mansion – Ideal for long stays or families.
13. Icon Saigon Hotel – Great mid‑range find in District 1.
14. Sunland Hotel – Friendly, bright, and one of the best cheap hotels in Ho Chi Minh City.
15. First Hotel – Among top hotels in Ho Chi Minh City near airport for a convenient arrival or early flight.

Whether you’re splurging on luxury hotels in Ho Chi Minh City or hunting for the cheapest hotel in Ho Chi Minh City, the city has a home‑base for every style and story. Travelers on a budget can find surprisingly chic 2 star hotels in Ho Chi Minh City, while those seeking opulence will adore the Ho Chi Minh City 5 star hotel scene anchored by hyatt, sofitel, and reverie brands.

Popular Resorts in Ho Chi Minh City

1. An Lam Retreats Saigon River
2. Villa Song Saigon
3. Thao Dien Boutique Hotel & Resort
4. La Maison De Campagne Resort
5. Sky Gem Central Hotel & Spa
6. Saigon Domaine Luxury Residences
7. Blue Diamond Signature Hotel
8. Mia Saigon Luxury Boutique Hotel
9. Merperle Crystal Palace
10. The Myst Dong Khoi
11. Adamas Saigon Hotel
12. Muong Thanh Luxury Saigon Hotel
13. Alma Oasis Resort
14. Sedona Suites Serviced Apartments
15. Hotel Majestic Saigon Riverside Resort Wing

From riverside resorts to charming urban sanctuaries, these stays redefine indulgence. And if you’re traveling for business or family, the hotel apartments in Ho Chi Minh City make it easy, they mix the space of a home with the perks of a luxury suite.

Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City

• District 1: This is the heart of it all, perfect if you want to be near historic landmarks, street food, and nightlife. Most Ho Chi Minh City hotels are concentrated here, from the grand 5 star hotels in Ho Chi Minh City to chic designer hideaways.
• District 2 (Thao Dien): For peace and riverside luxury. Think yoga studios, riverside brunch spots, and boutique luxury hotels in Ho Chi Minh City surrounded by greenery.
• District 3: Slightly quieter yet close to everything as many locals claim it’s the city’s soul. Great mix of hotel apartments in Ho Chi Minh City and cozy guesthouses.
• Phu Nhuan & Tan Binh: Closer to the airport, ideal if you want hotels in Ho Chi Minh City near airport.
• District 4 & 7: Modern, family‑friendly, and not as crowded; you’ll find both cheap hotels in Ho Chi Minh City and scenic riverfront stays.

Places to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City near Popular Attractions

• Near Ben Thanh Market: Stay at Liberty Central Saigon Centre or Alagon Zen Hotel.
• Close to Notre Dame Cathedral & Post Office: Try Sofitel Saigon Plaza or Park Hyatt Saigon.
• Along Saigon River: Majestic Hotel and The Reverie Saigon glow beautifully at night.
• Around Bui Vien Street: Budget travelers love Saigon Europe Hotel and Sunland Hotel.
• Near War Remnants Museum: Hotel des Arts Saigon for design lovers.
• Around Bitexco Tower: Icon Saigon and Silverland Ben Thanh Hotel.
• For train travelers: Cinnamon Hotel Saigon among favorite hotels in Ho Chi Minh City near railway station.

Wherever you check in, the Ho Chi Minh City hotel price comparison game is worth playing, you’ll often find major deals if you book mid‑week or during off‑season months.

Budget Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City

You don’t need deep pockets to sleep well here. Some surprisingly stylish cheap hotels in Ho Chi Minh City make you forget you’re paying budget rates.

Top picks for comfort on a dime:

• Vy Da Backpackers Hostel – lively social vibe.
• The Common Room Project – minimalist and friendly.
• Bui Vien Home Hotel – right in the heart of nightlife.
• Saigon Inn – cozy, clean, and walkable to landmarks.
• A&EM Corner Sai Gon Hotel – often discounted but feels premium.

If you’re counting each dollar, try a 2 star hotel in Ho Chi Minh City; clean, well‑located, and with genuine Vietnamese warmth.

Ho Chi Minh City Hotels by Star Rating 

Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City offer a variety of experiences across different star ratings. The 5 star hotels in Ho Chi Minh City provide ultra‑luxury stays featuring spas, rooftop pools, and French‑Vietnamese fine dining, with top choices like The Reverie Saigon, Park Hyatt Saigon, and Caravelle Saigon. 4 star hotels bring classic comfort for both business and leisure travelers, including Liberty Central Saigon Riverside and Alagon D’Antique. The 3 star hotels balance affordability and comfort, such as Icon Saigon, Silverland Yen, and Cititel Parkview. For those on a tighter budget, 2 star hotels in Ho Chi Minh City offer clean, safe stays ideal for backpackers or short trips, with favorites like Saigon Inn and Minh Chau Hotel. Travelers seeking stylish ambiance often prefer boutique hotels, which combine trendy design with cozy charm; Hotel des Arts Saigon and The Myst Dong Khoi perfectly embody this mix of individuality and warmth.  

Best Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City based on Location

• Downtown District 1: The Reverie Saigon, Caravelle Saigon
• Near Airport (Tan Binh): First Hotel, Ibis Saigon Airport
• Riverside Views: Lotte Hotel Saigon, Majestic Hotel Saigon
• Business Travel: Pullman Saigon Centre, Fusion Suites Saigon
• Romantic Escapes: Hotel des Arts Saigon, The Myst Dong Khoi
• Long Stay Travelers: Norfolk Mansion, Sherwood Residence

Whether you’re flying in for a weekend or planning a long digital‑nomad stint, there’s a corner of this city waiting with your name on the check‑in book.

Family-Friendly Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City  

Not every trip is solo. For families, space and quiet are golden. The best hotels in Ho Chi Minh City for families offer pools, international menus, and easy access to parks or malls.

• Norfolk Mansion – full apartments, great kitchens.
• Sedona Suites – central yet calm.
• Hotel Majestic Saigon – historic and kid‑friendly.
• Sherwood Suites – great modern design.
• Fusion Suites Saigon – wellness‑oriented and playful.

Many family travelers praise the modest Ho Chi Minh City hotel price structures as compared to other Asian capitals, you often get twice the space for half the cost.

Ho Chi Minh City Hotels Tariff

The average nightly rate for hotels in Ho Chi Minh City varies depending on comfort and luxury. The 5 star hotels in Ho Chi Minh City generally cost between $120 and $300 per night, offering upscale stays with premium amenities. 4 star hotels usually range from $70 to $120, while 3 star hotels provide mid-range comfort between $40 and $70 per night. Budget travelers can find cozy 2 star hotels in Ho Chi Minh City priced around $20 to $40. For backpackers and solo explorers, hostels or guesthouses are the most economical option, typically costing between $10 and $25 per night.  

Ho Chi Minh City Travel Tips

1. Book Flights in Advance: Ho Chi Minh City flight tickets can vary in price. To secure the best fares, it’s advisable to book cheap flights to Ho Chi Minh City well in advance.

2. Stay Hydrated: The weather in Ho Chi Minh City is typically hot and humid, so make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially when exploring the city on foot.

3. Learn Basic Vietnamese Phrases: While English is spoken in tourist areas, knowing a few basic Vietnamese phrases like “Xin chào” (Hello) or “Cảm ơn” (Thank you) can go a long way in showing respect for the local culture.

4. Use Grab for Easy Transportation: Taxis are available, but Grab (the Southeast Asian ride-hailing app) is often more affordable and convenient for getting around the city.

5. Be Prepared for the Traffic: Ho Chi Minh City is known for its chaotic traffic, with motorbikes and cars zipping in all directions. Always stay alert when crossing streets, and use pedestrian crossings when available.

6. Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels: Take a day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an extensive network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. It’s a fascinating historical experience.

7. Dress Modestly: While the city is modern and lively, it’s still respectful to dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites like temples and pagodas.

8. Try Vietnamese Coffee: Ho Chi Minh City is a great place to try traditional Vietnamese coffee. Don’t miss out on trying a “cà phê sữa đá” (iced coffee with condensed milk) at a local café.

9. Bargain at Local Markets: At markets like Ben Thanh or Cholon, don’t be afraid to haggle. Bargaining is part of the shopping experience in Ho Chi Minh City, and you can often get a better deal.

10. Watch Out for Scams: While Ho Chi Minh City is generally safe, be cautious of common scams, such as overcharging by taxi drivers or street vendors. Always agree on prices upfront.

11. Visit the War Remnants Museum: For a deep dive into Vietnam’s history, particularly the Vietnam War, the War Remnants Museum is an eye-opening experience with exhibits that may be emotionally intense.

12. Explore the Food Scene: The city offers incredible street food, from pho to bánh mì to fresh spring rolls. Explore local eateries and food markets to discover authentic Vietnamese cuisine.

13. Plan for a Night Out: The nightlife in Ho Chi Minh City is vibrant, with plenty of bars, clubs, and rooftop lounges. District 1 is particularly famous for its trendy spots.

14. Use Sunscreen: The sun in Ho Chi Minh City can be intense, especially in the afternoon. Bring sunscreen and reapply it regularly, especially if you’re out in the sun for extended periods.

15. Carry Small Change: Small denominations of Vietnamese dong are useful for everyday purchases, especially at local markets and street vendors. Always have some cash on hand.

You can easily apply for a Vietnam visa online through Akbar Travels, ensuring a hassle-free and quick process for your upcoming trip to Vietnam.