Ho Chi Minh City, previously known as Saigon, has Vietnam's best hotels and the widest variety. They range from the grandest deluxe business places and international chains to family hotels, clean mini-hotels, cheap guest houses, and budget backpacker digs.

Many of the state-run hotels of old have been converted into smart hotels that compete with the big chain places. You will find most on Nguyen Hue Street in District 1, where the bulk of the city's shops and restaurants are.

Luxury hotels are now all over the place in Ho Chi Minh City and despite being a cheap country for most things, you can expect to pay handsomely to stay at the Sheraton or Best Western. Despite the choice of top-end hotels, many better priced hotels have been established in grand colonial buildings, although facilities and service are often not on par with international chains.

You can find the Sheraton, Sofitel Plaza, and Best Western in the Central and Phu Nhuan districts, along with the Caravelle, the Hyatt, and the Saigon Prince hotels. All these places have exceptional facilities and service.

Other top-end hotels include: the Hotel Majestic, a four-star hotel in District 1; the New World Saigon Hotel, a recently renovated top hotel with an executive floor; the Sofitel Plaza Saigon, also in District 1 although a little way from the shopping, restaurants, and nightlife; and the Renaissance Riverside Hotel, on the river.

The Central and Phu Nhuan districts are the best places to be based in Ho Chi Minh City, boasting easily what is the best choice of top-end hotels and having the best access to the city's shopping and entertainment.

Central District 1 is home to many luxury hotels and has the look and feel of a nice area. The Renaissance Riverside Hotel Saigon and the Saigon Prince Hotel are both in this area of town and are within easy reach of attractions, shops, and restaurants. You will also find the top international chain hotels in District 1, including the: Sheraton, Sofitel, and the Best Western.

In contrast, the budget district is mainly focused on De Tham Street and is generally where backpackers head. Nearby Pham Ngu Lao is another budget area.

Although these areas have the cheapest hotels, they also have the most character, with all the din of the street markets and general bustle of old Saigon. You can find a mid-range place in these areas with en-suite bathroom, air conditioning and minibar.