Best Places to Stay in Vietnam 🇻🇳: Top Areas & Hotels

Updated on October 5, 2024
by Alex Miller

When planning a Vietnam trip, finding the best accommodation in Vietnam is crucial to enjoying your stay. From the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, the largest city in Vietnam, to the serene sand beaches of Nha Trang Beach, there are many amazing places to explore. The capital, Hanoi, offers a rich tapestry of history and culture, with attractions like Uncle Ho’s mausoleum and sites from the Vietnam War. Whether you’re looking for budget hotels or luxury resorts with a private beach, Vietnam has something for everyone.

Our Pick of the Best Hotels

For couples looking for a romantic getaway, the coast of Vietnam and the central highlands of Vietnam offer stunning landscapes and peaceful retreats. Hoi An City, with its charming lantern-lit streets, is a place to get lost in time, while the vibrant Saigon River offers city views and attractions in Ho Chi Minh City. The best areas to visit in Vietnam often include a mix of urban excitement and natural beauty, making travel insurance a wise choice for those venturing outside the city. With hotels in Vietnam ranging from luxury to budget, you’re sure to find the best fit for your needs, whether it’s right on the beach or nestled in the heart of the city. The ideal time to visit ensures you experience the best in Vietnam, from bustling markets to tranquil beaches.

The Best Places to Stay: Quick Guide

  • 🏙️ For first-time visitors, urban explorers, and culture enthusiasts: Hanoi
  • 🏖️ For beach lovers, history buffs, and eco-conscious travelers: Da Nang
  • 🍲 For food lovers and culture enthusiasts: Ho Chi Minh City
  • 🌴 For beach enthusiasts and art lovers: Nha Trang
  • 🎨 For history enthusiasts and romantics: Hoi An
  • 🏛️ For history buffs and archaeology enthusiasts: Hue
  • 🚂 For nature lovers and adventure seekers: Sapa
  • 🐬 For those seeking tranquility and nature: Phu Quoc

1. Hanoi: The Vibrant Capital of Vietnam 🌆

🏙️ Cultural Richness: Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, is a vibrant hub of culture and history, showcasing a blend of ancient traditions and modern influences. The city is home to numerous historical sites, museums, and cultural landmarks that provide visitors with a deep insight into Vietnamese heritage. Its rich tapestry of history is evident in the architecture, local customs, and the everyday life of its residents.

🍜 Culinary Delights: Renowned for its diverse culinary scene, Hanoi offers a plethora of street food options and local delicacies. From the famous pho to mouthwatering banh mi, food lovers will find an array of flavors to explore. The city’s bustling markets and street vendors create an immersive gastronomic experience that reflects the heart of Vietnamese cuisine.

🌉 Scenic Beauty: The picturesque landscapes of Hanoi, including serene lakes and lush parks, provide a refreshing contrast to the urban environment. Hoan Kiem Lake, with its iconic Turtle Tower, is a central feature of the city, offering a tranquil escape for both locals and tourists. The scenic beauty is enhanced by the charming streets of the Old Quarter, which are lined with traditional shops and cafes.

🌟 The Best Sights

  • Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: A monumental tribute to Vietnam’s revolutionary leader, this mausoleum is a must-visit for its historical significance and architectural grandeur.
  • Hanoi Old Quarter: Known for its narrow streets and colonial architecture, this area is rich in culture and offers a glimpse into Hanoi’s past.
  • Hoan Kiem Lake: A central landmark surrounded by parks and cafes, perfect for leisurely strolls and enjoying the view of the Turtle Tower.
  • Temple of Literature: Vietnam’s first university, this beautiful complex is dedicated to Confucius and showcases stunning traditional architecture.

🍽️ The Best Places to Eat in Hanoi

  • Pho Bat Dan: Famous for its authentic pho, this eatery is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
  • Cha Ca Thang Long: Specializing in cha ca (grilled fish), this restaurant offers a unique dining experience in a traditional setting.
  • Banh Mi 25: A popular spot for delicious banh mi sandwiches, perfect for a quick and tasty meal on the go.
  • KOTO: A social enterprise restaurant that serves a variety of Vietnamese dishes while supporting disadvantaged youth.

🚍 Getting Around: Navigating Hanoi is convenient due to its extensive transportation options. Visitors can explore the city on foot, especially in the Old Quarter, where many attractions are within walking distance. For longer distances, taxis and ride-hailing services are readily available, while renting a bicycle or motorbike offers a more adventurous way to see the sights.

🏨 Where to Stay in Hanoi

⭐ Best Hotels in Hanoi

🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

🛏️ Best Hostels

2. Da Nang: Coastal Gem of Vietnam 🌊

🏖️ Stunning Beaches: Da Nang is famous for its beautiful sandy beaches, such as My Khe and Non Nuoc, which attract sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts. The coastline offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, making it an ideal destination for beach lovers.

🏞️ Natural Wonders: The city is surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes, including the Marble Mountains and the scenic Hai Van Pass. These areas provide opportunities for hiking, photography, and exploring unique rock formations and caves.

🏙️ Modern Urban Vibe: Da Nang boasts a modern skyline with impressive architecture, including the iconic Dragon Bridge and the Golden Bridge at Ba Na Hills. The city’s vibrant nightlife, shopping centers, and cultural attractions create a lively atmosphere for visitors.

🌟 The Best Sights

  • My Khe Beach: Renowned for its soft sands and clear waters, perfect for sunbathing and water activities.
  • Marble Mountains: A cluster of five marble and limestone hills featuring caves, temples, and stunning views.
  • Golden Bridge: Famous for its unique design supported by giant stone hands, this bridge offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Dragon Bridge: An iconic symbol of Da Nang, this bridge features a dragon design and lights up beautifully at night.

🍽️ The Best Places to Eat in Da Nang

  • Banh Xeo Ba Duong: Known for its delicious Vietnamese pancakes, this eatery is a local favorite.
  • Mi Quang 1A: Specializes in Mi Quang, a traditional noodle dish from Da Nang, served with a variety of toppings.
  • Quan Com Hue Ngon: Offers a range of authentic Hue dishes, providing a taste of central Vietnamese cuisine.
  • Sea Breeze Restaurant: A beachfront restaurant known for its fresh seafood and stunning ocean views.

🚎 Logistic: Da Nang is well-connected with public transportation options, including buses and taxis. Many attractions are easily accessible by walking or cycling, especially along the beachfront. For those looking to explore further, motorbike rentals are a popular choice among tourists.

🏨 Where to Stay in Da Nang

⭐ Best Hotels in Da Nang

  • ”InterContinental: Highly-rated 9.3/10 luxury resort set on a private bay. Offers a private beach, 2 outdoor pools, a spa, and multiple restaurants and bars.
  • Hyatt Regency Danang Resort and Spa: 8.4/10 rated beachside resort featuring pools, formal and casual dining options, and a spa.
  • Naman Retreat: 8.9/10 rated refined seaside property offering lavish rooms and villas, some with private pools, plus upscale dining.

🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

  • Wink Hotel Danang Centre: Modern hotel offering great value with stylish rooms and amenities. Located in the city center, it’s perfect for exploring Da Nang.
  • Sala Danang Beach Hotel: Beachfront hotel providing comfortable rooms and good facilities at moderate prices. Features a rooftop infinity pool with sea views.
  • Bluesun Hotel: Well-rated hotel offering good value accommodations in a convenient location.
  • Minh Toan Galaxy Hotel: Modern hotel with a rooftop pool and bar, offering comfortable rooms at reasonable rates.

🛏️ Best Hostels

  • The Memory - Da Nang: Highly-rated hostel known for its unique design and comfortable accommodations. Offers a mix of dormitory and private rooms.
  • Rom Casa Hostel: Trendy hostel set in converted shipping containers, featuring an outdoor pool and cafe/bar. Offers a unique stay experience for budget travelers.
  • Lighthouse Danang Hostel: Budget-friendly hostel providing basic but comfortable accommodations. Great for backpackers and solo travelers.
  • Seahorse Tropical Da Nang Hostel: Tropical-themed hostel offering a laid-back atmosphere and affordable rooms. Popular among young travelers and digital nomads.

3. Ho Chi Minh City: The Heart of Southern Vietnam 🌇

🏙️ Dynamic Urban Center: Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is a bustling metropolis filled with energy and activity. The city’s vibrant streets are lined with shops, cafes, and markets, making it a hub for commerce and culture.

🍽️ Culinary Paradise: The city is renowned for its diverse food scene, offering everything from street food stalls to high-end restaurants. Visitors can indulge in local specialties such as pho, banh mi, and fresh seafood, reflecting the rich culinary heritage of Vietnam.

🏛️ Historical Significance: Ho Chi Minh City is steeped in history, with numerous landmarks that tell the story of Vietnam’s past. Sites like the War Remnants Museum and the Reunification Palace provide insight into the country’s tumultuous history.

🌟 The Best Sights

  • War Remnants Museum: A poignant museum that documents the impact of the Vietnam War through photographs and exhibits.
  • Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon: A stunning example of French colonial architecture located in the heart of the city.
  • Ben Thanh Market: A bustling market offering a wide variety of goods, from souvenirs to local delicacies.
  • Reunification Palace: A historic site that played a significant role in the Vietnam War, now a museum showcasing its history.

🍽️ The Best Places to Eat in Ho Chi Minh City

  • Pho Hoa: A legendary spot for authentic pho, popular among locals and tourists.
  • Banh Mi Huynh Hoa: Renowned for its delicious banh mi sandwiches, this eatery is a must-visit.
  • Cuc Gach Quan: A charming restaurant offering traditional Vietnamese dishes in a cozy setting.
  • Quan An Ngon: A popular dining destination featuring a variety of Vietnamese street food in one location.

🚌 Transportation: Ho Chi Minh City offers various transportation options, including buses, taxis, and ride-hailing services. The city is also bike-friendly, with many rental services available for those who prefer to explore on two wheels. Walking is a great way to experience the vibrant street life and local culture.

🏨 Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City

⭐ Best Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City

  • The Reverie Saigon: Highly luxurious hotel known for its opulent design, exceptional service, and world-class amenities. Features Hermes toiletries, Poltrona Frau furniture, and a Rolls Royce Phantom Dragon for guest transport.
  • Mia Saigon - Luxury Boutique Hotel: Intimate luxury boutique hotel offering a unique blend of French Art Deco style and modern amenities. Features a spa, riverside location, and excellent dining options.
  • Vinpearl Landmark 81, Autograph Collection: Located in Vietnam’s tallest building, offering stunning city views, luxury amenities, and a unique sky-high experience.
  • Hotel Des Arts Saigon Mgallery Collection: Artistic luxury hotel combining Vietnamese charm with contemporary design.
  • InterContinental Saigon: Well-established luxury hotel offering high-end amenities and excellent service in a central location.

🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

  • Alagon Saigon Hotel & Spa: Good value hotel offering comfortable rooms and spa facilities at moderate prices.
  • Silverland Yen Hotel: Well-rated hotel providing quality accommodations at reasonable rates.
  • Fusion Suites Saigon: Stylish hotel with Scandinavian-inspired design, offering good amenities and comfort at mid-range prices.

🛏️ Best Hostels

4. Nha Trang: Coastal Paradise 🏖️

🏖️ Beautiful Beaches: Nha Trang is famous for its stunning beaches, characterized by soft white sands and crystal-clear waters. The coastline is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and various water sports, making it a favorite destination for beach lovers.

🌊 Vibrant Marine Life: The area is known for its rich marine biodiversity, attracting snorkelers and divers eager to explore the colorful coral reefs and underwater ecosystems. Nearby islands, such as Hon Mun, offer fantastic opportunities for marine adventures.

🏙️ Lively Atmosphere: Nha Trang boasts a lively atmosphere with a mix of modern resorts, local markets, and bustling nightlife. The city’s vibrant energy is complemented by its cultural attractions, including temples and historical sites.

🌟 The Best Sights

  • Long Son Pagoda: A beautiful Buddhist temple featuring a giant white Buddha statue and stunning views of the city.
  • Nha Trang Cathedral: A striking Gothic-style cathedral known for its unique architecture and serene atmosphere.
  • Vinpearl Land: An amusement park and resort located on an island, offering entertainment, water slides, and a cable car ride with breathtaking views.
  • Po Nagar Cham Towers: Ancient Hindu temples that provide insight into the region’s history and culture.

🍽️ The Best Places to Eat in Nha Trang

  • Nha Trang Seafood: A popular spot for fresh seafood dishes, offering a variety of local specialties.
  • Lanterns Vietnamese Restaurant: Known for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine and cozy ambiance.
  • Bun Cha Ca: Famous for its fish cake noodle soup, a local delicacy that visitors must try.
  • MIX Restaurant: Offers a fusion of Vietnamese and international dishes with a modern twist.

🚘 Well-connected: Nha Trang is easily navigable, with options for taxis, motorbike rentals, and bicycles. Many attractions are within walking distance, especially along the beachfront promenade. Public buses also connect various parts of the city for more extensive exploration.

🏨 Where to Stay in Nha Trang

⭐ Best Hotels in Nha Trang

  • Mia Resort Nha Trang: Stunning cliff-edge luxury resort with beautiful sea views, private beach, infinity pool, and excellent spa. Offers chic villas and suites, some with private pools.
  • Vinpearl Luxury Nha Trang: High-end beachfront resort on its own island, featuring luxurious villas, multiple pools, and extensive facilities.
  • InterContinental Nha Trang: Centrally located luxury hotel with modern rooms, some offering beautiful sea views. Features an outdoor pool, well-liked restaurants, and excellent service.
  • Gran Meliá Nha Trang: Upscale beachfront resort offering luxurious accommodations and top-notch amenities.

🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

🛏️ Best Hostels

5. Hoi An: Ancient Town Charm 🏘️

🏛️ UNESCO World Heritage Site: Hoi An is renowned for its well-preserved ancient town, a UNESCO World Heritage site that reflects a blend of different architectural styles. The charming streets are lined with traditional wooden houses, temples, and vibrant markets, making it a picturesque destination.

🌅 Cultural Experiences: The town offers a rich cultural experience, with opportunities to participate in traditional craft workshops, cooking classes, and lantern-making sessions. Visitors can immerse themselves in Hoi An’s unique heritage and local customs.

🍜 Culinary Haven: Hoi An is famous for its culinary delights, including local specialties like cao lau and banh bao. The town’s lively food scene, with street vendors and cozy restaurants, provides a delightful gastronomic journey.

🌟 The Best Sights

  • Japanese Covered Bridge: An iconic symbol of Hoi An, this historic bridge showcases unique architecture and cultural significance.
  • Hoi An Ancient Town: A maze of narrow streets filled with shops, cafes, and historical buildings, perfect for leisurely exploration.
  • An Bang Beach: A tranquil beach located just a short distance from the town, ideal for relaxation and beach activities.
  • Tra Que Vegetable Village: A charming village known for its organic farming and cooking classes, offering a taste of local life.

🍽️ The Best Places to Eat in Hoi An

  • Morning Glory: A popular restaurant known for its authentic Hoi An dishes and vibrant atmosphere.
  • Banh Mi Phuong: Famous for its delicious banh mi sandwiches, this eatery is a must-visit for food lovers.
  • Cargo Club: A restaurant and bakery offering a mix of Vietnamese and international cuisine in a charming setting.
  • Nu Eatery: A trendy spot known for its creative dishes and cozy ambiance, perfect for a casual meal.

🚶‍♂️ Walkable: Hoi An’s compact size makes it easy to explore on foot or by bicycle. Many attractions are within walking distance, allowing visitors to soak in the town’s charm. Taxis and motorbike rentals are also available for those looking to venture further afield.

🏨 Where to Stay in Hoi An

⭐ Best Hotels in Hoi An

🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

  • La Charm Hoi An Hotel & Spa: Good value hotel with comfortable rooms, a spa, and convenient location. Offers a nice balance of amenities and affordability.
  • Hoi An River Town Hotel: Well-located hotel near the old town, offering comfortable rooms and good facilities at moderate prices.
  • Hoi An Odyssey Hotel: Affordable hotel with clean rooms and friendly service, providing good value for budget-conscious travelers.

🛏️ Best Hostels

  • Tribee Bana: Popular hostel offering both dorms and private rooms, with a social atmosphere and good facilities for backpackers.
  • The Seaside Hostel: Beachside hostel providing a relaxed atmosphere and affordable accommodations near An Bang Beach.
  • Under The Coconut Tree Homestay: Laid-back homestay offering a local experience with basic but comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere.

6. Hue: The Imperial City 🏰

🏛️ Historical Significance: Hue is known for its rich history as the former imperial capital of Vietnam. The city is home to the Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where visitors can explore the remnants of the Nguyen Dynasty and learn about Vietnam’s royal heritage.

🌊 Cultural Heritage: The city boasts a wealth of cultural attractions, including ancient temples, pagodas, and traditional craft villages. Hue’s unique blend of history and culture provides a fascinating backdrop for exploration.

🌳 Scenic Landscapes: Hue is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, including the Perfume River and lush gardens. The natural beauty of the area complements its historical sites, offering a serene environment for visitors.

🌟 The Best Sights

  • Imperial City: A vast complex of palaces and temples showcasing the grandeur of the Nguyen Dynasty.
  • Thien Mu Pagoda: A stunning pagoda located on the banks of the Perfume River, known for its iconic seven-story structure.
  • Tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh: A unique blend of traditional Vietnamese and European architecture, this tomb is a must-visit for its intricate designs.
  • Perfume River: A tranquil river that offers scenic boat rides and beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes.

🍽️ The Best Places to Eat in Hue

  • Hanh Restaurant: Known for its traditional Hue dishes, offering an authentic dining experience.
  • Les Jardins de La Carambole: A charming restaurant that serves a mix of Vietnamese and French cuisine in a beautiful setting.
  • Risotto Restaurant: Offers Italian cuisine with a Vietnamese twist, perfect for a unique dining experience.
  • Lac Thien: Famous for its delicious banh khoai (Hue-style pancakes), a local specialty.

🚌 Easy-access: Hue’s compact layout makes it easy to explore on foot or by bicycle. Many attractions are within walking distance, while taxis and cyclos (bicycle rickshaws) are available for longer distances. Boat rides on the Perfume River are also a popular way to see the city.

🏨 Where to Stay in Hue

⭐ Best Hotels in Hue

🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

  • Hue Serene Palace Hotel: Well-rated hotel offering good value with modern amenities and convenient location.
  • The Scarlett Boutique Hotel: Charming boutique hotel with 18 rooms, providing personalized service and comfort at moderate prices.
  • Cherish Hue Hotel: Modern hotel with well-equipped rooms, offering good amenities including a fitness center and spa services at reasonable rates.

🛏️ Best Hostels

  • Rubis Hostel: Budget-friendly hostel option for backpackers and budget travelers.
  • Thanh Huong Homestay: Affordable homestay providing a local experience for budget-conscious travelers.
  • Maily Hostel: Well-located hostel offering basic but comfortable accommodations for backpackers.

7. Sapa: The Mountain Retreat 🏔️

🏞️ Stunning Landscapes: Sapa is renowned for its breathtaking mountain scenery, terraced rice fields, and vibrant ethnic cultures. The area offers stunning views of the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.

🌍 Cultural Diversity: Home to several ethnic minority groups, Sapa provides a unique cultural experience. Visitors can engage with local communities, learn about their traditions, and participate in cultural activities, enhancing their understanding of Vietnam’s rich heritage.

🚶 Adventure Opportunities: Sapa is a hub for outdoor activities, including trekking, hiking, and exploring the surrounding landscapes. The region’s diverse terrain offers numerous trails for all skill levels, making it a popular destination for adventure seekers.

🌟 The Best Sights

  • Fansipan Mountain: Known as the “Roof of Indochina,” this peak offers stunning views and challenging trekking opportunities.
  • Cat Cat Village: A traditional village where visitors can experience local culture and craftsmanship.
  • Terraced Rice Fields: Iconic landscapes that showcase the beauty of Sapa’s agricultural practices, especially during the harvest season.
  • Silver Waterfall: A picturesque waterfall located just outside of Sapa, ideal for a scenic visit.

🍽️ The Best Places to Eat in Sapa

  • Good Morning Vietnam: A popular restaurant offering a mix of Vietnamese and international dishes in a cozy setting.
  • Sapa Lotus Restaurant: Known for its local specialties and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Mountain View Restaurant: Offers a variety of Vietnamese dishes with a focus on fresh ingredients and local flavors.
  • The Hill Station Signature Restaurant: A charming eatery that serves a range of traditional Vietnamese dishes with a modern twist.

🚖 Getting Around: Sapa’s compact town center is easily navigable on foot, with many attractions within walking distance. For those looking to explore further, motorbike rentals and taxis are available. Trekking tours are also a popular way to discover the stunning landscapes and local villages.

🏨 Where to Stay in Sapa

⭐ Best Hotels in Sapa

  • Hotel de la Coupole - MGallery: Highly-rated luxury hotel offering stunning mountain views, elegant rooms, and top-notch amenities including a heated indoor pool and spa.
  • Bamboo Sapa Hotel: Well-regarded hotel known for its clean rooms, great mountain views, and scenic pool area.
  • Sapa Charm Hotel: Charming hotel offering comfortable accommodations and good amenities in Sapa.

🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

🛏️ Best Hostels

  • Flaco Hostel Sapa: Popular hostel offering budget-friendly accommodations for backpackers and budget travelers.
  • Sapa Odyssey Hostel: Well-rated hostel providing affordable stays in Sapa.
  • Lustig Hostel: Budget-friendly hostel option for travelers looking for inexpensive accommodations in Sapa.

Where to Stay in Vietnam

Vietnam offers a diverse range of accommodation options and experiences across its many beautiful destinations. Whether you’re seeking luxury resorts, cultural immersion, or budget-friendly adventures, there’s something for every traveler. From the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the serene mountains of Sapa, each location provides its unique charm anand attractions, ensuring a memorable journey through this captivating country.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Vietnam?

The best time to visit Vietnam depends on the region. Generally, the months from November to April are ideal for most parts of the country, offering pleasant weather and fewer chances of rain. However, the north can be quite cold during this period, so it’s essential to pack accordingly.

How can I travel between cities in Vietnam?

Vietnam has a well-connected transportation network. You can travel between cities by domestic flights, trains, or buses. For shorter distances, renting a motorbike or using ride-hailing services like Grab are convenient options.

Is Vietnam a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Vietnam is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. However, like any other country, it’s advisable to take standard precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding isolated areas at night.

What currency is used in Vietnam, and can I use credit cards?

The official currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). While credit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and shops in major cities, it’s a good idea to carry cash, especially when traveling to rural areas or smaller towns.

Do I need a visa to visit Vietnam?

Visa requirements for Vietnam vary depending on your nationality. Many countries are eligible for a visa exemption for short stays, while others may require a visa in advance. It’s best to check the latest visa regulations before planning your trip.