About District 1 accommodation
District 1 is Ho Chi Minh City’s downtown engine room. It’s where high-end hotels meet historic streets, street food meets rooftop bars, and every kind of traveller finds their spot. It’s the city’s most popular base for a reason: stay here and you’re never far from the action, whether that’s markets, museums, late-night pho or riverside strolls.
You’ll find everything from backpacker hostels to all-out luxury, with standout stays near landmarks like the Saigon Opera House, Ben Thanh Market and Nguyen Hue walking street. Whether you're planning a short city stop or a longer Vietnam itinerary, District 1 is the kind of place that makes a great first impression and will keep you coming back.
Where to stay in District 1
- Dong Khoi & Nguyen Hue: District 1’s grand centre blends French-era buildings with gleaming high-rises and rooftop bars. You’ll be close to the Opera House, Saigon River, and some of Vietnam’s most luxe hotels. Think riverside glamour with heritage edge, which is ideal for couples, business travellers, or anyone wanting to stay stylishly central.
- Ben Thanh Market area: This is where you land if you want to hit the ground running. Buzzing markets, bánh xèo until midnight, and plenty of hotel choices make it great for first-timers, food lovers, and anyone who wants walk-everywhere access.
- Bui Vien & Pham Ngu Lao: The backpacker zone is unapologetically lively: neon lights, cheap drinks, street eats and hostel bars. If you’re here to meet people or keep costs low, this one’s for you. Great for solo travellers, partygoers and short-stay nomads.
- Japanese Quarter near Le Thanh Ton: A little tucked away, this quiet enclave is full of izakayas, ramen joints and serviced apartments. Loved by longer-term visitors, business travellers and foodies chasing a local rhythm without the chaos.
How much is accommodation in Ho Chi Minh City?
Whether you're after a budget bunk or full-blown indulgence, Ho Chi Minh City stays are famously good value, especially by Aussie standards. Prices shift slightly during Tet (Lunar New Year) or dry season peaks, but year-round deals are easy to find if you know where to look.
- Backpacker hostels & budget hotels: From AU$10 per night. Tiled rooms, bunk beds and basic amenities close to Bui Vien Street, Ben Thanh or bus links. Great for solo travellers who want a clean crash pad near late-night eats.
- Mid-range hotels: From AU$45 per night. Think rooftop pools, breakfast buffets and convenient spots near Dong Khoi or Le Thanh Ton. Many include perks like free airport pickup or early check-in.
- Boutique hotels: From AU$80 per night. Design-led stays in heritage buildings or leafy laneways. Expect local art, courtyard cafés and curated interiors, especially around the Japanese Quarter and quieter D1 corners.
- Luxury hotels: From AU$180 per night. Five-star towers with skyline views, rooftop pools and cocktail bars. Big names like The Reverie or Park Hyatt bring over-the-top glamour, while sleek newcomers up the design game with a more minimalist edge.
Top-rated hotels in Ho Chi Minh City
- Saigon Chill Hostel – District 1: In the thick of backpacker-central near Bui Vien Street, this sociable hostel brings nightly vibes and daily tours. The bar’s downstairs, beds are comfy, and it’s a breeze to meet fellow travellers.
- Fusion Suites Saigon – District 1: Just north of the parklands, this all-suite boutique stay does smart, Scandi-inspired design with big windows and spa perks. A quiet pocket close to the action that manages to be both wellness-focused and very central.
- Silverland Jolie Hotel – District 1: By the river and tucked away from the noise, this mid-range hotel has a rooftop hot tub, daily afternoon tea, and French-colonial architecture. In short, it feels more luxe than the price tag suggests.
- The Reverie Saigon – District 1: At the top of the Times Square building, this OTT luxury tower blends gilded Italian interiors with jaw-dropping Saigon views. It’s bold, maximalist, and made for those “go big” city moments.
Tips for finding the perfect accommodation in District 1
- Pick an area wisely: District 1 has a range. Dong Khoi is sleek and central, Ben Thanh is busy and practical, while Bui Vien brings the late-night noise. Match your stay to your style.
- Use Traveloka filters to fine-tune what you’re looking for: Looking for rooftop pools near the markets? Want late checkout or airport pickup? Our filters help you sort by vibe, not just price.
- The best boutique stays are tucked into the backstreets: D1’s tucked-away lanes hide some of the best boutique hotels in the city—think leafy courtyards, local charm and standout value away from the crowds.
- Avoid Tet for better deals and open doors: Lunar New Year is peak chaos and peak prices. For smoother stays and lower rates, book in April–June or September–November when the weather and prices ease off.