Ho Chi Minh has emerged as the hottest travel destination in Asia. It’s not without reasons. Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh is the largest city in Vietnam. It’s located in the southeast region of Vietnam and is surrounded by the Saigon River, one of its main tourist attractions.

The city boasts a metropolitan atmosphere with bustling nightlife. You will find many landmarks that celebrate Vietnam’s historical and cultural events. Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the most visited attractions in the city's heart. The 19th-century church is admired for its architectural elements.

Ho Chi Minh City offers more than a vacation. It’s a diorama for those fascinated with its history–it can also expose you to a whole new world you eventually fall in love with.

Thus, it would be a great idea to choose Ho Chi Minh as your next destination, whether for a honeymoon, family vacation, or even backpacking. In case you’re already planning to go to Ho Chi Minh and looking for areas to stay in the city, here are several recommended places to consider:

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh District 1? District 1 is the city's heart and a popular choice for tourists. It’s ideal for those who want to be close to major attractions like Ben Thanh Market, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Opera House since it has easy access everywhere in the city.

The area is packed with rooftop bars, clubs, and restaurants that come alive after sunset, making it the best place to stay in Ho Chi Minh for nightlife. The city offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget hostels.

If you’re traveling on a budget or backpacking and wondering where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City for backpackers, come to the Pham Ngu Lao area. It’s a haven for backpackers and full of affordable guesthouses, hostels, and budget-friendly restaurants.

It’s located 25-minutes taxi ride from Tan Sot Nhat Airport, Pham Ngu Lao, and attracts backpackers. Tourists from different backgrounds come for its unique composition of an authentic Vietnamese lifestyle and a Western-influenced establishment from its historical building to cafes and restaurants. You can go to Ho Chi Minh Fine Arts Museum or Mariamman Hindu Temple on a 10-minute walk.

District 3 is less touristy than the city center, allowing you to immerse yourself in the daily lives of locals. It’s a quieter and more residential area, perfect for those who want a more local experience.

It could be an ideal place to stay with kids or a big family group wanting to enjoy a full rest during the night.

District 3 offers a mix of local restaurants, cafes, and shops. It’s also home to the War Remnants Museum and Turtle Lake. While not as popular with backpackers, District 3 does have some affordable accommodations and local street food options.

Ho Chi Minh’s Chinatown is an excellent choice for travelers interested in exploring the cultural diversity of Ho Chi Minh City. As a melting pot of cultures, District 5 showcases a fusion of Vietnamese and Chinese traditions. You'll notice signs and banners in both languages, and you can witness rituals and practices that combine elements of both cultures.

The area is known for its temples, markets, and vibrant street views. It has a more laid-back nightlife, with traditional tea houses, local pubs, and Chinese-style clubs. You can find a line of affordable guesthouses in the area.

District 2 suits those who prefer a more suburban and upscale experience. It has a quieter atmosphere and a growing number of expat-friendly establishments, making it great for families or travelers looking for a different perspective on the city.

District 2 has a growing nightlife scene with many trendy bars and restaurants along the Thao Dien area, popular with expats. Since it generally caters to a more upscale crowd and might not be the best choice for budget backpackers to find where to stay in Ho Chi Minh for backpackers.

District 7 is known for its modern amenities, clean streets, and international vibe. It also has a growing expat community, so that you can find many international bars, shopping malls, and restaurants with a more relaxed vibe. Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh for the first time? For first-timers looking for a comfort-guaranteed place, District 7 is worth considering.

The attractions in District 7 are fascinating for people who want to escape to a completely different world. The luxurious vibe can be found at Starlight Bridge, Lawrensting Park, and Riverside Park, all free to enter.

If you’re looking for a laid-back environment with affordable living fares, Phu Nhuan District might be your answer. You will experience a more residential side of the city in Phu Nhuan. It's less touristy and offers a glimpse of everyday life.

Although a typically quieter area in a big city, Phu Nhuan has many trendy cafes and bars that attract local crowds and tourists wanting to blend in. Phu Nhuan might not have an intense backpacker scene, but it's a peaceful area to explore if you want to avoid the crowds.

It’s time to immerse in the beauty of Ho Chi Minh City. Get started with your journey by planning all your trips with Traveloka. On Traveloka, you can book flights to any destination, find budgeted, comfortable accommodations, and book tickets to many popular attractions. Don’t forget to check out recent promos to make your trip more efficient.

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