Where to Stay in Vietnam Now

Planning a trip to Vietnam? That’s fantastic! Vietnam is a land of stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. But before you pack your bags, one crucial decision awaits: where to stay. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the best places to stay in Vietnam, catering to a range of budgets and travel styles. We’ll explore bustling cities, tranquil beaches, and serene mountain retreats, helping you find the perfect base for your Vietnamese adventure. We’ll cover everything from luxury resorts and boutique hotels to budget-friendly hostels and charming homestays, ensuring you have all the information you need to make an informed choice.

Choosing the Right Region: A Vietnam Stay for Every Traveler

Vietnam stretches over 1,650 kilometers, offering a diverse range of experiences. Before diving into specific accommodations, consider which region best suits your interests. Here’s a breakdown:

Northern Vietnam: Culture, Mountains, and Adventure

Northern Vietnam is a haven for culture enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Think stunning rice terraces, towering mountains, and vibrant ethnic minority cultures. Here are some key areas:

Hanoi: The Bustling Capital

Hanoi, the capital city, is a captivating blend of old and new. Its chaotic streets, ancient temples, and delicious street food create an unforgettable atmosphere. Staying in Hanoi provides easy access to historical sites, museums, and the famous Hoan Kiem Lake. Popular accommodation choices range from boutique hotels in the Old Quarter to modern apartments further out.

Consider these factors when choosing your Hanoi accommodation:

Location: The Old Quarter is ideal for exploring historical sites and enjoying the city’s vibrant atmosphere. The French Quarter offers a more refined experience with elegant architecture and upscale restaurants.
Budget: Hanoi offers a wide range of options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels.
Amenities: Consider what’s important to you, such as a swimming pool, fitness center, or on-site restaurant.

Some highly-rated Hanoi hotels include:

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi: A historic luxury hotel in the French Quarter.
La Siesta Premium Hang Be: A boutique hotel in the Old Quarter with excellent reviews.
Hanoi Backpackers Hostel: A popular choice for budget travelers.

Sapa: Trekking Paradise

Sapa is a mountainous region famous for its breathtaking rice terraces and ethnic minority villages. Trekking is the main activity here, and staying in Sapa town provides a convenient base for exploring the surrounding area. Alternatively, consider staying in a homestay in one of the villages for a more authentic experience.

When planning your Sapa stay, keep these points in mind:

Trekking distance: Consider your fitness level when choosing your accommodation. Some homestays are located further from Sapa town and require longer treks.
Amenities: Homestays typically offer basic amenities, while hotels in Sapa town offer more modern conveniences.
Weather: Sapa can be cold and misty, especially during the winter months. Choose accommodation with adequate heating.

Recommended Sapa accommodations:

Hotel de la Coupole – MGallery: A luxurious hotel with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Sapa Clay House – Mountain Retreat: A charming homestay located in a traditional Hmong village.
Cat Cat Garden Hotel: A mid-range option with comfortable rooms and a convenient location.

Ha Long Bay: Cruise and Coastal Delights

Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must-see destination in Northern Vietnam. The iconic limestone karsts rising from the emerald waters create a mesmerizing landscape. Most visitors opt for an overnight cruise, which includes accommodation, meals, and activities such as kayaking and swimming. Alternatively, you can stay in a hotel in Ha Long City and take day trips to the bay.

Considerations for your Ha Long Bay stay:

Cruise duration: Cruises range from one to three nights. Choose a cruise that fits your time and budget.
Cruise quality: Research different cruise operators and read reviews before booking.
Ha Long City: If staying in Ha Long City, choose a hotel with views of the bay.

Popular Ha Long Bay cruise options:

Paradise Cruises: Known for their luxurious amenities and impeccable service.
Indochina Junk: Offers unique and authentic cruise experiences.
Swan Cruises: A more budget-friendly option with comfortable accommodations.

Recommended hotels in Ha Long City:

Wyndham Legend Halong Hotel: Offers stunning bay views and luxurious amenities.
Novotel Ha Long Bay: A comfortable and convenient option for families.

Central Vietnam: History, Beaches, and Tailoring

Central Vietnam boasts a rich history, beautiful beaches, and a thriving tailoring industry. Here are some key destinations:

Hoi An: Ancient Town Charm

Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a charming ancient town with colorful architecture, tailor shops, and delicious food. Staying in Hoi An allows you to explore the historic streets, relax on nearby beaches, and get custom-made clothing. Accommodation options range from boutique hotels in the Old Town to luxurious resorts on the coast.

When choosing your Hoi An accommodation, consider these aspects:

Location: Staying in the Old Town allows you to easily explore the historic sites. Staying near An Bang Beach offers a more relaxing beach vacation.
Tailoring: Hoi An is famous for its tailoring. Choose accommodation near reputable tailor shops.
Activities: Consider your desired activities, such as cooking classes, cycling tours, or river cruises, and choose accommodation accordingly.

Highly recommended Hoi An accommodations:

Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, Hoi An: A luxurious beachfront resort with impeccable service.
Anantara Hoi An Resort: A beautiful resort located on the Thu Bon River.
Little Riverside Hoi An . a Boutique Hotel & Spa: A charming boutique hotel in the Old Town.

Da Nang: Modern City and Coastal Beauty

Da Nang is a modern city with beautiful beaches, a bustling waterfront, and the iconic Dragon Bridge. Staying in Da Nang provides easy access to My Khe Beach, Marble Mountains, and the nearby Ba Na Hills. Accommodation options range from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels and apartments.

Things to consider for your Da Nang stay:

Beach access: Choose accommodation near My Khe Beach for easy access to the sand and surf.
City center: Staying in the city center provides easy access to restaurants, shops, and attractions.
Ba Na Hills: If you plan to visit Ba Na Hills, consider accommodation closer to the cable car station.

Recommended Da Nang hotels:

InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort: A luxurious resort nestled in the Son Tra Peninsula.
Pullman Danang Beach Resort: A modern resort located on My Khe Beach.
Brilliant Hotel Danang: A stylish hotel in the city center.

Hue: Imperial City and Historical Significance

Hue, the former imperial capital, is a city steeped in history and culture. The Citadel, royal tombs, and pagodas offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s imperial past. Staying in Hue allows you to explore these historical sites and sample the city’s unique cuisine. Accommodation options range from boutique hotels in the city center to peaceful homestays in the countryside.

Considerations for your Hue accommodation:

Historical sites: Choose accommodation within easy reach of the Citadel, royal tombs, and other historical attractions.
Perfume River: Consider accommodation with views of the Perfume River.
Cuisine: Hue is known for its royal cuisine. Choose accommodation near restaurants that specialize in these dishes.

Highly-rated Hue hotels:

Azerai La Residence, Hue: A luxurious hotel located in a former French colonial residence.
Indochine Palace: A stylish hotel with a convenient location.
Homestay Thanh Tan: A peaceful homestay located in the countryside.

Southern Vietnam: Bustling Cities, Mekong Delta, and Island Paradise

Southern Vietnam offers a diverse range of experiences, from the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh City to the tranquil Mekong Delta and the idyllic island of Phu Quoc. Here’s a look at key destinations:

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon): A Metropolis of Energy

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, is a dynamic metropolis with a rich history and vibrant culture. The city is known for its bustling streets, French colonial architecture, and delicious street food. Staying in Ho Chi Minh City provides easy access to historical sites, museums, and vibrant nightlife. Accommodation options range from luxury hotels in District 1 to budget-friendly hostels in Pham Ngu Lao.

Factors to consider when choosing your Ho Chi Minh City accommodation:

District: District 1 is the city center and offers easy access to attractions, restaurants, and shops. Pham Ngu Lao is a popular area for backpackers with budget-friendly accommodation and lively nightlife.
Traffic: Ho Chi Minh City is known for its heavy traffic. Choose accommodation that is easily accessible by taxi or public transportation.
Noise: The city can be noisy. Choose accommodation away from busy streets if you prefer a quieter environment.

Recommended Ho Chi Minh City hotels:

The Reverie Saigon: A luxurious hotel with stunning views of the city.
Park Hyatt Saigon: An elegant hotel in the heart of District 1.
The Rex Hotel: A historic hotel with a rooftop bar and pool.

Mekong Delta: Floating Markets and River Life

The Mekong Delta is a vast network of rivers, canals, and rice paddies. Exploring the Mekong Delta offers a glimpse into traditional Vietnamese river life. Staying in a riverside town or taking a Mekong Delta cruise allows you to experience the floating markets, visit local villages, and sample the region’s unique cuisine. Popular towns to stay in include Can Tho and Ben Tre.

Things to consider for your Mekong Delta stay:

Cruise or land-based: Choose between a Mekong Delta cruise or staying in a riverside town and taking day trips.
Town: Can Tho is the largest city in the Mekong Delta and offers a wider range of accommodation options. Ben Tre is a smaller, more peaceful town.
Activities: Consider your desired activities, such as visiting floating markets, cycling through rice paddies, or taking a cooking class, and choose accommodation accordingly.

Recommended Mekong Delta accommodations:

Victoria Can Tho Resort: A luxurious resort located on the Hau River.
Riverside Resort Long Xuyen: A charming resort located in Long Xuyen.
Homestay Nam Hien: A traditional homestay located in a rural village.

Phu Quoc Island: Beach Paradise and Island Escape

Phu Quoc Island is a tropical paradise with pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush forests. Staying in Phu Quoc offers a relaxing beach vacation with opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and diving. Accommodation options range from luxury resorts on Long Beach to budget-friendly guesthouses in Duong Dong town.

Considerations for your Phu Quoc Island stay:

Beach: Long Beach is the most popular beach with a wide range of accommodation options. Ong Lang Beach is a quieter beach with more secluded resorts.
Town: Duong Dong is the main town on Phu Quoc Island and offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and markets.
Activities: Consider your desired activities, such as snorkeling, diving, or exploring the island’s national park, and choose accommodation accordingly.

Highly-rated Phu Quoc Island resorts and hotels:

JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa: A luxurious resort with a unique design and stunning beach.
InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort: A modern resort located on Long Beach.
La Veranda Resort Phu Quoc – MGallery: A charming boutique resort with a French colonial style.

Accommodation Types: From Budget to Luxury

Vietnam offers a wide range of accommodation types to suit every budget and travel style. Here’s a breakdown:

Hostels: Budget-Friendly Social Hubs

Hostels are a great option for budget travelers and solo backpackers. They offer dormitory-style rooms and communal facilities such as kitchens and common areas. Hostels are a great place to meet other travelers and learn about local tips and recommendations. Many hostels also offer private rooms at a slightly higher price.

Key features of hostels:

Dormitory-style rooms: Shared rooms with bunk beds.
Communal facilities: Kitchens, common areas, and sometimes swimming pools.
Social atmosphere: A great place to meet other travelers.
Budget-friendly: Typically the cheapest accommodation option.

Guesthouses: Local Charm and Value

Guesthouses are small, family-run businesses that offer a more personal and authentic experience. They typically offer private rooms with basic amenities at affordable prices. Guesthouses are a great way to support local businesses and experience Vietnamese hospitality.

Key features of guesthouses:

Private rooms: Typically with a private bathroom.
Family-run: Offers a more personal and authentic experience.
Affordable prices: A good value for money.
Local hospitality: Experience Vietnamese culture firsthand.

Hotels: Comfort and Convenience

Hotels offer a range of amenities and services, such as private rooms, en-suite bathrooms, restaurants, and swimming pools. Hotels are a good option for travelers who value comfort and convenience. Hotels range from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts.

Key features of hotels:

Private rooms: With a private bathroom.
Amenities: Restaurants, swimming pools, fitness centers, and more.
Services: Room service, laundry service, and concierge services.
Range of options: From budget-friendly to luxury.

Boutique Hotels: Style and Individuality

Boutique hotels are small, stylish hotels that offer a unique and personalized experience. They often feature unique design elements, personalized service, and a more intimate atmosphere. Boutique hotels are a good option for travelers who appreciate style and individuality.

Key features of boutique hotels:

Unique design: Often with a distinct theme or style.
Personalized service: Attentive and friendly staff.
Intimate atmosphere: A smaller and more exclusive experience.
Higher prices: Typically more expensive than standard hotels.

Resorts: Luxury and Relaxation

Resorts offer a luxurious and relaxing vacation experience. They typically feature a wide range of amenities and services, such as private beaches, swimming pools, spas, and multiple restaurants. Resorts are a good option for travelers who want to indulge in luxury and escape from the stresses of everyday life.

Key features of resorts:

Extensive amenities: Private beaches, swimming pools, spas, and multiple restaurants.
Luxury services: Room service, concierge services, and activities programs.
Relaxing atmosphere: Designed for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Higher prices: The most expensive accommodation option.

Homestays: Authentic Cultural Immersion

Homestays offer a unique opportunity to experience Vietnamese culture firsthand. You’ll stay with a local family in their home and participate in their daily life. Homestays typically offer basic amenities and simple meals, but the experience is invaluable. Homestays are a great option for travelers who want to learn about Vietnamese culture and support local communities.

Key features of homestays:

Stay with a local family: Experience Vietnamese culture firsthand.
Basic amenities: Simple rooms and meals.
Cultural immersion: Learn about Vietnamese traditions and customs.
Support local communities: A sustainable travel option.

Booking Tips: Securing the Best Deals

Booking your accommodation in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season. Here are some tips to help you secure the best deals:

Book in advance: Especially during peak season.
Compare prices: Use online travel agencies to compare prices from different hotels and websites.
Read reviews: Check online reviews from other travelers to get an idea of the quality of the accommodation.
Consider the location: Choose accommodation that is conveniently located for your desired activities.
Check the amenities: Make sure the accommodation has the amenities that are important to you.
Look for deals and discounts: Many hotels and travel agencies offer deals and discounts, especially during the off-season.
Book directly: Sometimes booking directly with the hotel can offer better rates or added perks.

Essential Amenities: What to Look For

When choosing your accommodation, consider these essential amenities:

Air conditioning: Essential in the hot and humid climate of Vietnam.
Wi-Fi: Important for staying connected and planning your travels.
Hot water: Not always guaranteed in budget accommodation.
Cleanliness: Check reviews to ensure the accommodation is clean and well-maintained.
Security: Choose accommodation with secure doors and windows, and a safe for valuables.
Breakfast: Many hotels and guesthouses offer complimentary breakfast.

Safety and Security: Traveling with Peace of Mind

Vietnam is generally a safe country for travelers, but it’s always important to take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings:

Be aware of your surroundings: Be especially careful in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.
Keep your valuables safe: Use a money belt or secure bag to protect your valuables.
Avoid walking alone at night: Especially in poorly lit areas.
Be wary of scams: Be aware of common scams targeting tourists, such as overcharging for goods and services.
Trust your instincts: If something doesn’t feel right, remove yourself from the situation.
Purchase travel insurance: Travel insurance can protect you in case of illness, injury, or theft.

Conclusion: Your Perfect Vietnam Getaway Awaits

Vietnam offers an incredible range of experiences, and choosing the right accommodation is crucial for a memorable trip. By considering your budget, travel style, and desired activities, you can find the perfect base for exploring this fascinating country. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious resort, a charming boutique hotel, or a budget-friendly hostel, Vietnam has something to offer everyone. So, start planning your Vietnamese adventure today and get ready to be amazed!