Ho Chi Minh City · living & travel
Stay well in Saigon, then go further.
Independent guides to where to stay, what to eat, which day trips to take, and how to live here for a month or a year.
Our top choice
First time in Saigon? Stay in District 1.
Central, walkable and with the widest range of places to stay. Dong Khoi for premium hotels, Nguyen Hue for mid-range, Pham Ngu Lao for budget.
- Walk to Ben Thanh & Nguyen Hue
- Budget to five-star
- Fast Grab pickups for day trips
Where are you headed?
Saigon first, then the rest of Vietnam. Every guide links to places you can book yourself.
Plan by question
Short answers from our guides. Tap through for the detail.
When to goWhen is the best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City?December to April: the dry season, clear skies, around 28–32°C.Month-by-month guide →
ItineraryIs 3 days enough for Saigon?Yes: District 1's landmarks, one day trip (Cu Chi or the Mekong Delta) and a half-day in Cholon.Saigon 3-day itinerary →
Day tripsWhat's the most popular day trip from Saigon?Cu Chi Tunnels, then My Tho in the Mekong Delta and Vung Tau.Day trips from Saigon →
RentingWhat does a monthly apartment cost in Saigon?From about $250 for a basic studio in an outer district to over $3,000 for a luxury two-bedroom in District 1.Monthly rent guide →
VisaHow do I get a Vietnam e-visa?Apply on the official portal (evisa.gov.vn) before you fly; it allows stays of up to 90 days.E-visa step by step →
Cost of livingHow much do expats spend in Saigon?Most spend $1,500–$2,500 a month all-in, depending on rent and lifestyle.Cost of living guide →
Latest guides
Newest first.
Cost of Living
Cost of Living Da Nang vs Saigon 2026: Which City Wins for Expat Value?
The cost of living in Da Nang runs roughly 20–30% cheaper than Ho Chi Minh City across most expense categories — but that headline…
Saigon
Luxury Hotels in Saigon 2026: The 12 Best Properties Ranked by Experience and Value
Luxury hotels in Saigon compete on location, service, rooms, dining, and facilities, but value can vary sharply by district.
Expat Life
Best City Vietnam for Career-Focused Expats: HCMC vs Hanoi vs Da Nang Ranked
The best city to live in Vietnam for career-focused expats is Ho Chi Minh City — and it’s not particularly close.
Saigon
Where to Stay in Saigon 2026: District-by-District Guide for Every Budget and Travel Style
Where to stay in Saigon depends on whether you prioritize walkability, nightlife, family calm, office access, or monthly value.
Saigon
Hotel Near Ben Thanh Market 2026: Every Option Within Walking Distance Reviewed
The best hotel near Ben Thanh Market depends entirely on your priorities — whether that is budget, proximity, amenities, or value per night.
Saigon
Ho Chi Minh City Hotel Guide 2026: Best Areas, Price Ranges, and What to Book for Each Trip Type
The best ho chi minh city hotel for your trip depends entirely on where you stay, how long you stay, and what you need…
Saigon
Saigon Hostel Guide 2026: Best Budget Stays in District 1 and Backpacker Zones
The best saigon hostel options in 2026 sit inside District 1 and the Pham Ngu Lao backpacker corridor — a dense square kilometre of…
Independent, not a landlord
We don't run hotels, rent apartments or sell tours. We write about the city and point you to places you can book yourself.
How guides are made
Written by the Saigon Apartment editorial team with AI assistance, then checked and dated. Images are AI illustrations unless credited.
How we earn
Some hotel and tour links pay us a commission through Stay22, at no cost to you. It never decides which area we recommend. Affiliate disclosure