Vietnam Hotels Near Tourist Spots and Food

Planning a trip to Vietnam? Finding the perfect hotel can make or break your experience. You want a place that’s comfortable, convenient, and close to all the action – the must-see tourist spots and, of course, the mouthwatering food that Vietnam is famous for. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the world of Vietnamese hotels and pinpoint the best options based on location, amenities, and proximity to the country’s top attractions and culinary delights.

Why Location Matters: Choosing the Right Vietnamese City

Vietnam is a diverse country with a rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. The best city for you will depend on your interests. Are you a history buff? A foodie? An adventure seeker? Here’s a brief overview of some of Vietnam’s most popular tourist destinations and why you might choose to stay there:

Hanoi: The Cultural Capital

Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, is a captivating blend of ancient traditions and modern development. It boasts a charming Old Quarter with narrow streets, bustling markets, and traditional architecture. Hanoi is a fantastic choice for those interested in Vietnamese history, culture, and street food.

Key Tourist Spots in Hanoi:

Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple: The heart of Hanoi, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Temple of Literature: Vietnam’s first university, showcasing impressive Confucian architecture.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum & Museum: A significant historical site honoring the former president.
Old Quarter: A vibrant maze of streets filled with shops, restaurants, and street food vendors.
Water Puppet Theatre: A traditional Vietnamese art form.

Food Hotspots in Hanoi:

Pho (Beef Noodle Soup): Sample the original pho at Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su or Pho Thin.
Bun Cha (Grilled Pork with Noodles): Try Bun Cha Huong Lien (Obama Bun Cha).
Egg Coffee: A unique Hanoi specialty, enjoy it at Cafe Giang.
Banh Mi (Vietnamese Sandwich): Find delicious banh mi at Banh Mi 25.
Cha Ca (Turmeric Fish): Indulge in this Hanoi delicacy at Cha Ca La Vong.

Ho Chi Minh City: The Dynamic Metropolis

Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) is a bustling metropolis, a hub of commerce and modern culture. It’s known for its French colonial architecture, vibrant nightlife, and delicious Southern Vietnamese cuisine. This city is ideal for those seeking a fast-paced environment with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Key Tourist Spots in Ho Chi Minh City:

War Remnants Museum: A poignant reminder of the Vietnam War.
Reunification Palace: The former Presidential Palace of South Vietnam.
Notre-Dame Cathedral: A stunning example of French colonial architecture.
Central Post Office: Designed by Gustave Eiffel, a beautiful historical building.
Cu Chi Tunnels: An extensive network of underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War. (Requires a day trip)

Food Hotspots in Ho Chi Minh City:

Pho (Beef Noodle Soup): Try Pho Le or Pho Hoa Pasteur.
Banh Mi (Vietnamese Sandwich): Enjoy banh mi at Banh Mi Huynh Hoa.
Com Tam (Broken Rice): A popular Southern Vietnamese dish, try it at Com Tam Ba Ghien.
Banh Xeo (Crispy Pancake): Sample banh xeo at Banh Xeo 46A.
Goi Cuon (Fresh Spring Rolls): Find fresh spring rolls at many street food stalls.

Hoi An: The Ancient Town

Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a charming ancient town with well-preserved architecture, tailor shops, and beautiful beaches nearby. It’s a perfect destination for those looking for a relaxing getaway with a touch of history and culture.

Key Tourist Spots in Hoi An:

Japanese Covered Bridge: An iconic landmark of Hoi An.
Old Town: Explore the narrow streets lined with historic buildings and tailor shops.
Assembly Halls: Visit the Chinese Assembly Halls, each dedicated to a different group of Chinese immigrants.
An Bang Beach & Cua Dai Beach: Relax on the sandy beaches just a short drive from the Old Town.
My Son Sanctuary: An ancient Cham ruin located about an hour from Hoi An. (Requires a day trip)

Food Hotspots in Hoi An:

Cao Lau (Hoi An Noodles): A local noodle dish, try it at Cao Lau Ba Be.
White Rose Dumplings: A Hoi An specialty, find them at White Rose Restaurant.
Banh Mi Phuong: Arguably the best banh mi in Vietnam.
Com Ga (Chicken Rice): A simple yet delicious dish, try it at Com Ga Ba Buoi.
Hoi An Market: Explore the market for a variety of street food options.

Da Nang: The Coastal City

Da Nang is a modern coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, the iconic Dragon Bridge, and its proximity to the Marble Mountains. It’s a great choice for those who want a mix of beach relaxation, city life, and easy access to natural attractions.

Key Tourist Spots in Da Nang:

My Khe Beach: One of the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam.
Dragon Bridge: A spectacular bridge that breathes fire and water on weekends.
Marble Mountains: A group of five limestone hills with caves, temples, and pagodas.
Son Tra Peninsula (Monkey Mountain): Home to the Linh Ung Pagoda and stunning views.
Ba Na Hills: A mountain resort with a French village, amusement park, and the Golden Bridge.

Food Hotspots in Da Nang:

Mi Quang (Turmeric Noodles): A local noodle dish, try it at Mi Quang Ba Vi.
Banh Xeo (Crispy Pancake): Sample banh xeo at Banh Xeo Ba Duong.
Bun Cha Ca (Fish Cake Noodle Soup): A Da Nang specialty.
Seafood: Enjoy fresh seafood at the many restaurants along the beach.
Nem Lui (Lemongrass Skewers): Grilled pork skewers served with rice paper and vegetables.

Finding the Perfect Hotel: Key Considerations

Once you’ve chosen your destination, it’s time to find the perfect hotel. Here are some key factors to consider:

Proximity to Tourist Spots

Ideally, you want a hotel that’s within walking distance or a short taxi ride from the main attractions you want to see. This will save you time and money on transportation and allow you to easily explore the city.

Hanoi: Consider hotels in the Old Quarter or near Hoan Kiem Lake.

Ho Chi Minh City: Look for hotels in District 1, the city’s central business and entertainment district.

Hoi An: Stay in the Old Town or near the riverside for easy access to the main attractions.

Da Nang: Choose a hotel along My Khe Beach or near the city center.

Proximity to Food

Vietnam is a foodie paradise, and you’ll want to be close to the best restaurants and street food vendors. Check online reviews and food blogs to identify the culinary hotspots in your chosen city and look for hotels nearby.

Hanoi: The Old Quarter is a street food haven, with countless stalls and restaurants offering local specialties.

Ho Chi Minh City: District 1 and District 3 are packed with restaurants serving both Vietnamese and international cuisine.

Hoi An: The Old Town is home to many excellent restaurants and cafes serving local delicacies.

Da Nang: The beach area and city center offer a wide range of seafood restaurants and street food options.

Budget

Vietnam offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious five-star hotels. Set a budget for your accommodation and stick to it. Consider traveling during the shoulder season (April-May or September-October) for lower prices and fewer crowds.

Amenities

Think about what amenities are important to you. Do you need a swimming pool? A gym? Free Wi-Fi? Air conditioning? Make a list of your must-have amenities and use it to narrow down your options.

Reviews

Before booking a hotel, read reviews from other travelers on websites like TripAdvisor, Booking.com, and Agoda. Pay attention to comments about the hotel’s location, cleanliness, service, and value for money.

Recommended Hotels in Vietnam (by City)

Here are some recommended hotels in Vietnam, based on location, amenities, and reviews. These are just suggestions, and the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

Hanoi Hotels

Luxury

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi: A historic luxury hotel in the heart of Hanoi, near Hoan Kiem Lake.

This iconic hotel offers elegant rooms, exceptional service, and a prime location. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a luxurious and unforgettable experience.

InterContinental Hanoi Landmark72: Located in a modern skyscraper, offering panoramic city views.

This hotel features spacious rooms, a rooftop bar, and a variety of dining options. It’s a great choice for business travelers and those seeking a contemporary stay.

Mid-Range

Hanoi La Castela Hotel: Situated in the Old Quarter, offering comfortable rooms at a reasonable price.

This hotel provides a convenient location, friendly staff, and clean rooms. It’s a good option for budget-conscious travelers who want to be close to the action.

O’Gallery Premier Hotel & Spa: A stylish boutique hotel in the Old Quarter with a spa and rooftop terrace.

This hotel offers a relaxing atmosphere, comfortable rooms, and a convenient location. It’s a great choice for couples and those seeking a more intimate experience.

Budget

Hanoi Backpackers’ Hostel: A popular hostel in the Old Quarter, offering dorm rooms and private rooms at affordable prices.

This hostel provides a social atmosphere, helpful staff, and a great location. It’s a good option for solo travelers and backpackers.

Rising Dragon Estate Hotel: A budget-friendly hotel in the Old Quarter with clean rooms and friendly staff.

This hotel offers a simple and comfortable stay at a reasonable price. It’s a good option for travelers who are looking for a basic but convenient place to stay.

Ho Chi Minh City Hotels

Luxury

The Reverie Saigon: A lavish hotel in District 1, offering stunning city views and luxurious amenities.

This hotel features opulent rooms, world-class dining, and a rooftop pool. It’s perfect for travelers seeking the ultimate in luxury and sophistication.

Park Hyatt Saigon: An elegant hotel in District 1, located near the Opera House.

This hotel offers spacious rooms, a beautiful courtyard, and excellent service. It’s a great choice for discerning travelers who appreciate classic elegance.

Mid-Range

Liberty Central Saigon Citypoint: A modern hotel in District 1, offering comfortable rooms and a rooftop pool.

This hotel provides a convenient location, stylish rooms, and a range of amenities. It’s a good option for both business and leisure travelers.

Silverland Central Hotel: A boutique hotel in District 1, offering comfortable rooms and a central location.

This hotel features a cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, and a convenient location. It’s a great choice for travelers who want to be close to the action.

Budget

The Dorm Saigon: A stylish hostel in District 1, offering dorm rooms and private rooms at affordable prices.

This hostel provides a social atmosphere, a rooftop terrace, and a great location. It’s a good option for solo travelers and backpackers.

Nguyen Shack – Central Saigon: A budget-friendly hotel in District 1 with clean rooms and a friendly atmosphere.

This hotel offers a simple and comfortable stay at a reasonable price. It’s a good option for travelers who are looking for a basic but convenient place to stay.

Hoi An Hotels

Luxury

Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, Hoi An: A luxurious beachfront resort located a short drive from Hoi An Old Town.

This resort offers private villas, a stunning beach, and world-class amenities. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a relaxing and luxurious getaway.

Anantara Hoi An Resort: A beautiful resort located on the Thu Bon River, near Hoi An Old Town.

This resort features colonial-style architecture, a swimming pool, and excellent service. It’s a great choice for couples and families.

Mid-Range

Hoi An Silk Village Resort & Spa: A charming resort located in a peaceful setting, near Hoi An Old Town.

This resort offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and a spa. It’s a good option for travelers who want a relaxing and convenient stay.

Little Hoi An . A Boutique Hotel & Spa: A stylish boutique hotel in the heart of Hoi An Old Town.

This hotel features a central location, comfortable rooms, and a spa. It’s a great choice for travelers who want to be close to the action.

Budget

Tribee Bana Hostel: A popular hostel in Hoi An, offering dorm rooms and private rooms at affordable prices.

This hostel provides a social atmosphere, a swimming pool, and a convenient location. It’s a good option for solo travelers and backpackers.

Backhome Hostel & Bar: A budget-friendly hostel in Hoi An with clean rooms and a friendly atmosphere.

This hostel offers a simple and comfortable stay at a reasonable price. It’s a good option for travelers who are looking for a basic but convenient place to stay.

Da Nang Hotels

Luxury

InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort: A luxurious resort located on the Son Tra Peninsula, offering stunning views of the ocean.

This resort features private villas, a private beach, and world-class amenities. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a secluded and luxurious getaway.

Hyatt Regency Danang Resort & Spa: A beachfront resort located on My Khe Beach.

This resort offers spacious rooms, multiple swimming pools, and excellent service. It’s a great choice for families and couples.

Mid-Range

Grand Tourane Hotel: A modern hotel located on My Khe Beach, offering comfortable rooms and stunning views.

This hotel provides a convenient location, stylish rooms, and a range of amenities. It’s a good option for both business and leisure travelers.

A La Carte Da Nang Beach: A stylish hotel located on My Khe Beach, offering comfortable rooms and a rooftop infinity pool.

This hotel features a modern design, friendly staff, and a great location. It’s a great choice for travelers who want to be close to the beach.

Budget

Like Backpacker Hostel: A popular hostel in Da Nang, offering dorm rooms and private rooms at affordable prices.

This hostel provides a social atmosphere, a rooftop terrace, and a convenient location. It’s a good option for solo travelers and backpackers.

Memory Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel in Da Nang with clean rooms and a friendly atmosphere.

This hostel offers a simple and comfortable stay at a reasonable price. It’s a good option for travelers who are looking for a basic but convenient place to stay.

Beyond the Hotel: Exploring Vietnamese Culture and Cuisine

While finding the perfect hotel is essential, don’t forget to explore the rich culture and delicious cuisine that Vietnam has to offer. Here are some tips:

Take a Cooking Class

Learn to prepare some of Vietnam’s most popular dishes by taking a cooking class. This is a fun and interactive way to learn about Vietnamese cuisine and culture.

Visit Local Markets

Explore the bustling local markets for a glimpse into everyday Vietnamese life. You’ll find fresh produce, street food, handicrafts, and more.

Try Street Food

Vietnam is famous for its delicious street food. Be adventurous and try some of the local specialties, such as pho, banh mi, and spring rolls.

Learn a Few Basic Vietnamese Phrases

Learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases will go a long way in showing respect for the local culture and making your trip more enjoyable. Simple phrases like “Xin chào” (hello), “Cảm ơn” (thank you), and “Bao nhiêu tiền?” (how much?) are a great start.

Be Respectful of Local Customs

Vietnam is a conservative country, so it’s important to dress modestly and be respectful of local customs. When visiting temples or pagodas, dress respectfully and remove your shoes.

Be Aware of Scams

Like any popular tourist destination, Vietnam has its share of scams. Be aware of common scams, such as overcharging for taxis and goods, and always negotiate prices before agreeing to a service.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right hotel in Vietnam can significantly enhance your travel experience. By considering factors such as location, proximity to tourist spots and food, budget, amenities, and reviews, you can find the perfect accommodation to suit your needs. Remember to embrace the local culture, try the delicious cuisine, and be open to new experiences. With a little planning, your trip to Vietnam will be an unforgettable adventure.