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Where Do Backpackers Go in Vietnam? A Review of Hostels and Guesthouses.

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Vietnam is an affordable travel destination, even by Southeast Asian standards. There is no shortage of accommodation in most cities and towns, even if you're on a tight budget. The accommodation quality can vary though, and there is a lot of ownership turnover, so it can be difficult to understand what you're really getting by reading reviews online.

The idea of "homestays" has grown in popularity in Vietnam. Many guesthouses have incorporated that word into their name, but the guesthouse really offers nothing particularly different from any other commercial hotel. It's best to be skeptical and ask lots of questions when offered a "homestay" either on a booking website or through a travel agency.

Where Do Backpackers Stay in Hanoi?

The Best Hostels in the Old Quarter

The Old Quarter is the most popular area for backpackers in Hanoi. The area is filled with narrow winding streets, restaurants, and shops. It's right next to Hoan Kiem and it's a fun place to explore. Grab a business card from your guesthouse before you head out so you have something to show a taxi driver if (when) you get lost.
Dorm Bed: $12.65
Private Room: $20.88
Overall Rating: 87%
Overall Rating: 95%
Private Room: $14.25
Overall Rating: 89%
Dorm Bed: $9.00
Private Room: $10.00
Overall Rating: 93%
Private Room: $8.50
Overall Rating: 89%

The Best Hostels and Guesthouses Around Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem is the area around the lake that offers a peaceful setting, particularly during the morning hours when runners and walkers are out and about. During the evening hours there are many families that hang out in the area. Nearby you'll find museums, restaurants, markets, and a post office.
Overall Rating: 88%
Overall Rating: 74%

Hanoi's French Quarter

Southeast of Hoan Kiem Lake is the French Quarter. This area has many foreign embassies and government buildings. There are also high end hotels and fine dining restaurants nearby.

Ba Dinh

Ba Dinh was the administrative center for Hanoi during the French colonial times. Today it attracts tourists who come to see the botanical gardens, the Temple of Literature, the One Pillar pagoda, and the high end hotels.

Where Do Backpackers Stay in Ho Chi Minh City?

The Best Hostels and Guesthouses Near Pham Ngu Lau

Pha Ngu Lau is the backpacker party area in Ho Chi Minh City. It refers to the street of Pham Ngu Lau as well as Bui Vien, which runs parallel. There are alleys that connect the two streets. This area is known for its cheap hostels and guesthouses, and there are bars that stay open late into the night. Some people compare it to Khao San Road in Bangkok. If you're looking for really cheap places to stay and loud parties, then this is the place to go.
Private Room: $0.09
Overall Rating: 94%
Private Room: $9.50
Overall Rating: 97%

The Best Hostels and Guesthouses Near Ben Thanh

Ben Thanh is a very central area that is convenient to everything, in part because there is a large metro station nearby. The area has plenty of budget accommodation and as well as slightly more expensive hotels. If you want affordability, but also want to avoid the backpacker party scene, then this is a good area to stay.
Dorm Bed: $11.00
Private Room: $13.00
Overall Rating: 91%
Private Room: $7.00

The Best Hostels Near Dong Khoi/Nguyen Hue (Downtown)

This downtown area is where you'll find a good number of mid-range and luxury hotels. Some of these hotels are famous and date back to colonial times. If you want a central location without all of the chaos of some parts of the city, then this is a good option, particularly if you're willing to spend some money.
Dorm Bed: $10.96
Overall Rating: 95%

Where Do Backpackers Stay in Hoi An?

The Best Hostels Near Hoi An's Old Town

Most people visit Hoi An specifically for the Old Town, so it really is best to stay in or near this area. Despite gaining much popularity as a tourist destination, there is still a lot of charm to the area. There are many affordable guesthouses an hotels around, and there is also a great selection of restaurants. Hoi An is famous for its unique cuisine, so being near a diverse selection of restaurants is a must.
Private Room: $10.00
Overall Rating: 94%
Dorm Bed: $7.00
Private Room: $6.98
Overall Rating: 83%

The Best Hostels Near the Beach

The beach in Hoi An isn't the picturesque setting you'd find in Thailand, but it is a relatively relaxing place to visit. There are hotels and guesthouses around, but it's also easy to catch a taxi from the Old Town to the beach so staying nearby isn't necessary.
Overall Rating: 95%

Where Do Backpackers Stay in Da Lat?

Dalat is a mid-sized city that has become a major tourist destination for its cool temperatures and funky landmarks. There are a good number of budget hostels and guesthouses around town, and most visitors explore the city with a package tour, which can be booked after you arrive.
Private Room: $11.50
Overall Rating: 95%
Dorm Bed: $3.00
Private Room: $3.00
Overall Rating: 89%

Where Do Backpackers Stay in Hue?

The Best Hostels and Guesthouses Near Hue's New City

Most of Hue's hotels and budget guesthouses are in the New City across the river from the Citadel. There are good number of options around Pham Ngu Lao (near Le Loi, Hung Vuong, Chu Van An, and Nguyen Cong Tru).
Private Room: $7.00
Overall Rating: 95%
Dorm Bed: $6.00
Private Room: $7.50
Overall Rating: 95%

The Old City and the Citadel

The Old City and Citadel are across the river from the New City. There are a few budget guesthouses around Dinh Tien Hoang.

Where Do Backpackers Stay in Nha Trang?

The Best Hostels Near Tran Phu Beach

Tran Phu Beach is the most popular beach in the area. Tran Phu Street runs along the coast and there are many resorts, guesthouses, and restaurants nearby. This area is known for its nightlife and is generally a hub of activity.
Overall Rating: 86%

The Best Hostels Near Nha Trang Bay

If you have more money, you can head to Nha Trang Bay and the nearby islands. This area is known for its five star hotels and family friendly activities.
Overall Rating: 78%

Nha Trang City

Backpackers sometimes stay in Nha Trang City, because it's the most affordable area and is relatively easy to get around. There are plenty of restaurants, but no beaches in the immediate area. There are also a lot of travel agencies nearby that can arrange any number of tours and activities.

Where Do Backpackers Stay in Mui Ne?

The Best Hostels in Mui Ne Beach

Mui Ne Beach is a span of sandy beaches where you'll find many resorts, hotels, and restaurants. There's a traditional fishing village to the north, and most of the accommodation is to the south. The area has a good nightlife scene and plenty to see and do.
Dorm Bed: $6.00
Private Room: $8.00
Overall Rating: 86%
Dorm Bed: $4.22
Private Room: $5.27
Overall Rating: 80%
Overall Rating: 94%

Phan Thiet City Center

Phan Thiet City Center has a more authentic vibe with traditional restaurants and a relaxed setting. The accommodation is more affordable than along Mui Ne Beach, and the nightlife is quieter.

Where Do Backpackers Stay in Da Nang?

Along Tran Hung Dao Street you'll find a good number of small hotels. There are also a variety of budget hotels along Pham Phu Thu.
Dorm Bed: $5.00
Private Room: $10.00
Overall Rating: 91%
Dorm Bed: $6.50
Private Room: $10.00
Overall Rating: 94%
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Check out other places to stay in amazing destinations around the world. The 6 Best Party Hostels in Vietnam (2024)Best Hostels in Hue, Vietnam for Couples, Solo Travellers, and GroupsBest Hostels and Budget Hotels in Hoi An for Backpackers, Couples, and Solo Travellers

Best Budget Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses in Hanoi for Solo Travellers and Backpackers

Best Hostels in Ho Chi Minh City for Solo Travellers, Couples, and Groups

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