Choosing where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) can make or break your trip. The city is divided into numbered districts, and while there are 24 districts in total, for 99% of travelers, the choice comes down to just two: District 1 and District 3.
They are right next to each other, yet they feel like different worlds.
- District 1 (D1): The beating heart of the city. Skyscrapers, rooftop bars, Ben Thanh Market, and intense energy.
- District 3 (D3): The soulful sister. French colonial villas, tree-lined streets, trendy cafes, and a slower pace.
So, which one is right for you? In this 2026 guide, we break down the pros and cons of each area to help you book the perfect hotel.
District 1: The Heart of the Action
If you want to step out of your hotel lobby and immediately be in the center of everything, District 1 is the place. It is the commercial, financial, and tourist hub of Saigon.
The Vibe
Chaotic, exciting, and convenient. This is where the skyline is defined by the Bitexco Tower and Landmark 81 in the distance. The streets are busy 24/7.
Why Stay in District 1?
- Walkability: You can walk to all major attractions: Notre Dame Cathedral, the Opera House, Nguyen Hue Walking Street, and the War Remnants Museum.
- Shopping Paradise: You are minutes away from Ben Thanh Market for souvenirs and Saigon Square for high-quality fashion and golf wear. (See our guide on [Saigon Square vs Ben Thanh Market]).
- Nightlife: From the backpacker chaos of Bui Vien Street to the luxury rooftop bars on Dong Khoi Street, the party is here.
The Downside
- Noise: It can be loud. Traffic noise is constant.
- Price: Hotels here carry a premium price tag due to the location.
- Tourist Traps: You are more likely to encounter higher prices and scams.
Who Should Stay Here?
- First-time visitors.
- Shopaholics (Close to Saigon Square).
- Business travelers.
- Nightlife lovers.
District 3: The Local Charm & French Vibes
District 3 borders District 1. In fact, you might cross the street and not realize you have changed districts. But the atmosphere shifts. The roads become shaded by massive old trees, and modern skyscrapers are replaced by French colonial villas.
The Vibe
Relaxed, authentic, and trendy. In 2026, District 3 has established itself as the “cool” neighborhood. It was even named one of the “coolest neighborhoods in the world” by Time Out magazine.
Why Stay in District 3?
- Cafe Culture: This area is famous for its hidden cafes. You will find beautiful coffee shops housed in repurposed old villas.
- Authentic Food: While D1 has tourist restaurants, D3 has the places where locals actually eat. The street food scene here is legendary (especially around Nguyen Thuong Hien street).
- Value for Money: You can often find a larger, nicer room for the same price as a small room in District 1.
- Atmosphere: It feels less like a tourist park and more like a real Vietnamese neighborhood.
The Downside
- Transport Needed: While some parts are walkable to D1, you will likely need to take a Grab (taxi) to get to Ben Thanh Market or the Opera House (usually a 5-10 minute ride).
- Less English: Fewer staff in small shops might speak fluent English compared to the tourist hub.
Who Should Stay Here?
- Returning visitors who have seen the main sights.
- Couples seeking a romantic atmosphere.
- Digital nomads and “slow travel” enthusiasts.
- Foodies who want to eat like a local.
Comparison at a Glance (D1 vs. D3)
| Feature | District 1 | District 3 |
| Walkability to Sights | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Excellent) | ⭐⭐⭐ (Good, but need taxi) |
| Shopping | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Saigon Sq, Malls) | ⭐⭐⭐ (Local boutiques) |
| Food Scene | International & Touristy | Local & Authentic |
| Noise Level | High (Energetic) | Moderate (Relaxed) |
| Price | $$$ | $$ |
| Best For | Convenience & Sightseeing | Culture & Vibe |
Our Recommendations
If you choose District 1…
Look for hotels near Nguyen Hue Walking Street or Ben Thanh Market.
- Luxury: The Reverie Saigon or Park Hyatt Saigon.
- Mid-Range: Liberty Central Saigon Centre (Very close to Saigon Square).
- Budget: Hotels in the Bui Vien area (but be warned, it is noisy!).
If you choose District 3…
Look for hotels along Vo Van Tan or Dien Bien Phu streets.
- Luxury: La Vela Saigon Hotel. (Famous for having one of the world’s highest infinity pools with a stunning view of the city).
- Boutique: Mai House Saigon Hotel. A beautiful French-Indochine style 5-star hotel that feels like a palace.
- Mid-Range: Au Lac Legend Hotel.
The Verdict
So, where should you book?
- Choose District 1 if: You are in Ho Chi Minh City for only 1-2 days, it is your first trip, and you want to pack as much sightseeing and shopping into your schedule as possible. Being able to walk to Saigon Square to buy your winter coats or golf gear and then drop them off at your hotel is a huge advantage.
- Choose District 3 if: You are staying for 3+ days, you hate traffic noise, and you prefer sipping coffee under a tree to bustling markets. It offers a more sophisticated, local experience.