MEANDER Saigon

Commonly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is loved by backpackers from all around the world. Located in Southern Vietnam and well known for the critical role it played in the Vietnam war, culture lovers will be in their element here. Interestingly, it’s also the business and financial hub of Vietnam and is a popular destination for backpackers due to its captivating culture, temples, unique architecture and sky-high buildings.

With an impressive number of highly-rated hostels in Ho Chi Minh to choose from, we’re sure you’ll be able to find suitable backpacker accommodation to fit your needs and your fellow travel buddies. Most of our hostels in Ho Chi Minh have free Wi-Fi, and plenty offer free extras like a buffet breakfast and fun nightly events. To really live your best life, look for those with excellent facilities like rooftop terraces, killer swimming pools and on-site cafes. If you prefer a Ho Chi Minh hostel with a party vibe, look for one that offers insane happy hours, pub crawls and even free drinks! And don't forget to check out our best hostels in Ho Chi Minh!

Thanks to such a large quantity of Ho Chi Minh hostels close to the city centre, finding affordable backpacker accommodation that fits your requirements should be a breeze. Choose to stay within District 1 if being right in the centre of the action is what you’re after, specifically Pham Ngu Lao. If you’re looking for a hostel that is a bit further away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre don’t worry, we have you covered too and we’re sure you’ll fall in love with the city and your Ho Chi Minh hostel.

History buffs, it will be hard for you to not to fall in love with this city. Experience an eye-opening perspective on the Vietnam war by visiting sights such as the War Remnants Museum and the Cu Chi Tunnels. There are numerous markets and temples to explore as well during your stay. Cao Dai Temple should make it on your list, its bright interior with dragons flying up the bannisters and cloud painting on the ceiling makes this temple unique and a must see when you’re in town. To experience the city from above, why not take a ride up the Bitexco Tower where the sky deck offers 360-degree views of the city – there’s also a sky bar up there where you can enjoy a cocktail or ten with the view, talk about a win-win.

In such a busy city transportation can seem daunting. Hop on a Cyclos (three-wheeled cycle) to experience a dying mode of transportation in Ho Chi Minh, plus grab an insta-worthy pic while you’re at it. Should you choose to catch a taxi, just hail one from the streets. There are over 100 different bus routes throughout the city which are the safest and cheapest way to get around town. It’s pretty simple, decide what bus you want to catch, hop on, pay and enjoy your day! When travelling in any foreign city you should always be street-smart and be aware of scammers – make sure you don’t pay an arm and a leg to travel 5 minutes in a taxi, that’s never fun. To help out these are the two major taxi companies in the city; Vina, Mai Linh Taxi, and Vinnasun.