In this post, we will be looking at the best areas to stay in Ho Chi Minh City for families, along with a map. I’ll also recommend some of the best family-friendly hotels in Ho Chi Minh City.
Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), formerly known as Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam, both in terms of population and economic activity. The city has many historical landmarks, good shopping, nightlife, and dining scene, so you’ll have plenty of things to do and see here.
Is Ho Chi Minh City a good place to visit with family?
Yes, Ho Chi Minh City is a fantastic destination for a family trip! Your family can visit historical sites like the War Remnants Museum or Cu Chi Tunnels. There are family-friendly attractions like Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Suoi Tien Theme Park, and Dam Sen Water Park. You can also enjoy delicious street food and go shopping with your children.
Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City with kids?
The best areas to stay in Ho Chi Minh City with kids, in my opinion, are District 1, District 3, and District 2 (Thao Dien). District 1 is the most popular base for families who want to be in the heart of the action.
District 1 is the city’s central district, known for its bustling streets, diverse dining options, and proximity to major attractions like Ben Thanh Market, Notre-Dame Basilica, and War Museum. You’ll find a range of accommodations here, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options.
District 3, located right next to District 1, is also a convenient base for easy access to major sights. It is a huge district, so if you stay here, I recommend booking a hotel around Vo Thi Sau ward, which is an area closer to District 1. The further from District 1, the more you need to travel to get to popular attractions.
You can consider staying in District 2 (Thao Dien and An Phu). This area is popular among expatriates and offers a range of international schools, parks, and Western-style supermarkets. It’s a bit further from the city center but provides a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle.
Just a note that HCMC is a noisy and busy city, so I recommend you bring ear plugs if you’re a light sleeper. Many hotels don’t have good soundproofing windows. Plus, Staying in central locations often comes with noise (from traffic, bars, and nightclubs).
During one of my trips to HCMC, I stayed at the mid-range Au Lac Charner Hotel. It was a great hotel in a central location, within walking distance to various attractions, restaurants and cafes. My room was very clean and comfy. The rooftop pool had awesome views of the city.
Below is a map of the popular areas in Ho Chi Minh City for families.
3 Best areas to stay in Ho Chi Minh City with family:
1. District 1
District 1 is a popular choice in Ho Chi Minh City for families who want to be in the heart of the action and want easy access to major tourist attractions. It’s bustling and lively, with plenty of dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
This district is the city’s central business and commercial hub, home to many famous landmarks such as Ben Thanh Market, Notre Dame Cathedral, Opera House, Central Post Office, War Remnants Museum, and Independence Palace.
District 1 offers a wide range of dining experiences to suit every taste and budget. Families can enjoy sampling delicious Vietnamese cuisine as well as international dishes.
Whether you’re looking for traditional handicrafts, designer boutiques, or modern shopping malls, District 1 has it all. The area is known for its bustling markets like Ben Thanh Market and trendy shopping streets like Dong Khoi.
District 1 is characterized by a mix of old colonial architecture, modern skyscrapers, and bustling markets, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s rich history and rapid development.
As Distrit 1 is quite large area, I recommend booking a hotel on Nguyen Hue and Dong Khoi area. This is a trendy and central part of the city near Saigon River. You will have easy access to all tourist attractions and amenities when stay here and it is calmer compared to the bustling Bui Vien and Ben Thanh market area.
Best places to stay in District 1 with kids:
Luxury ($$$): Fusion Original Saigon Centre, 5-star family-friendly hotel centrally located on Le Loi Street in District 1, within walking distance from major attractions. It is located inside an upmarket mall where you can find many shops and food outlets. It has good breakfast, an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a 24-hour front desk. The executive family rooms have plenty of room for a family of 4.
Luxury ($$$): InterContinental Residences Saigon, an IHG Hotel, 5-star kid-friendly hotel, located on the corner Nguyen Du Street and Le Van Huu Street, in central HCMC. It is close to many popular points of interest including Book street, Notre Dame Cathedral, Post Office, and Reunification Palace. It has one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, which can accommodate up to 7 family members.
Mid-range ($$): Au Lac Charner Hotel, 4-star family-friendly hotel located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, a short stroll from major sights like the Opera House and Noter-Dame Cathedral. Easlo close to a range of traditional markets, street stalls, cafés and restaurants. It has a wonderful breakfast, outdoor pool, and paid airport transfer.
Budget ($): Calista Sai Gon Hotel, 3-star family-friendly hotel conveniently located in Ben Thanh Ward, close to Ben Thanh Market. The hotel has family rooms, bicycle rental services and a 24-hour front desk.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN DISTRICT 12. District 3
District 3, particularly the area around Vo Thi Sau Ward, is a convenient base for families who want central location and easy access to major attractions. You’ll be close to attractions like the War Museum, Independence Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, Diamond Plaza, and Tao Dan park.
Best places to stay in District 3 with family:
Luxury ($$$): Sherwood Residence, 5-star good value for money hotel in central location in District 3 of HCMC, featuring two and three-bedroom apartments which are comfortable for families of 4 to 6. It is a short distance from major attractions, and a cheap Grab ride to the city center.
Luxury ($$$): Mai House Saigon Hotel, 5-star good value for money children-friendly hotel conveniently located on Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street. It has 2 swimming pools, a fitness center, and a wonderful breakfast. It is in a quiet area and it is an easy walk to everything.
Budget ($): Hoang Lan Hotel, 3-star family-friendly hotel, located in District 3, a short walk/Grab ride from the War Remnants Museum, Tan Dinh Market and Reunification Palace. The hotel has excellent breakfast, 24-hour front desk, and currency exchange.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN DISTRICT 33. District 2 (Thao Dien)
District 2, particularly the Thao Dien area, is popular among expatriates and affluent locals. It’s known for its expat-friendly amenities, including international schools, upscale restaurants, and modern shopping malls.
Thao Dien is quieter and greener compared to the city center, making it a good option for families looking for a more suburban lifestyle and don’t mind traveling a bit to get to downtown. It’s also close to the Saigon River, offering opportunities for scenic walks and boat rides.
Best places to stay in District 2 for families:
Mid-range ($$): Amanaki Thao Dien, family-friendly accommodation in district 2 of HCMC, offering free bikes, an indoor pool and family rooms. It is in the heart of Thao Dien, so you’ll be a short walk from the main street with many cafes and restaurants.
Mid-range ($$): Riverside Serviced Apartments, 4-star family-friendly apartment complex located on the banks of the Saigon River, featuring an outdoor pool, tennis courts, and free boat/bus transfer to Bach Dang Port. It has family rooms, laundry services, and free parking.
Budget ($): Mecozy Apartel, 3-star condo hotel in district 2, offering rooms with a fully equipped kitchen. 10 mins walk to the shopping area and restaurants. Vincom Megamall is also nearby.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN DISTRICT 2You can continue reading about HCMC and other destinations in Vietnam in these articles:
- Best places to stay in Ho Chi Minh first time
- Best places to stay in Vietnam first time
- safe areas to stay in Hanoi first time
- safe areas to stay in Dalat
- Safes areas to stay in Nha Trang
- Safest areas to stay in Da Nang
- Safest areas to stay in Phu Quoc
In conclusion, District 1 and District 3 are the best places to stay in Ho Chi Minh City with family. District 1 is the best overall base for families who want to be in the heart of the action as this area offers a wide range of accommodations and easy access to major sights.