Last updated on December 21st, 2025 at 12:05 pm
Where I Stayed in Bui Vien, Ho Chi Minh City
I just returned from a two-week trip to Ho Chi Minh City last month. This time, traveling all by myself. If you know me, I typically stay in budget accommodations when I travel alone.
I’ve visited HCMC numerous times and stayed in various districts throughout the city, including District 1.
And that’s where Bui Vien Walking Street is located.
District 1 is what I consider to be the best area to stay in Ho Chi Minh City. Particularly, the hotels around Ben Thanh Market, the city’s iconic historical shopping center.
Why Stay in Bui Vien, Saigon?
In my opinion, Bui Vien has the highest concentration of budget hotels in the city. Yet still close to Saigon’s tourist attractions.
Ben Thanh Market, which I already mentioned, is only an 800 meter stroll.
I Recommend Monday Saigon Centre Homestay
The best way to save on accommodations in Ho Chi Minh City is to look for “Homestay” style properties.
There’s no reception desk. No bellhops to carry your bags, as well as the traditional trimmings of a full service hotel.
I stayed at Monday Saigon Centre Homestay for 4 days. It’s located in a winding alleyway. I stayed in the deluxe queen room, and it only cost me $20 USD per night after taxes.
They do have other room types available for $15 USD.
Only a few minutes walk from the west entrance of Bui Vien Walking Street. But far enough so that music blaring from bars is just a muffle.
Though I was handed some earplugs from the friendly homestay host, just in case. I never used it, though. The music from the nearby bars was low enough that I could sleep.
The location is perfect because there are many restaurants, a 7-Eleven, and a GS25 store, so you can pick up snacks and beverages 24 hours.
As I mentioned, there is no reception desk. Instead, your contact is a host who will check you in and get you situated. Room cleaning, I believe, is once every 2 days, and you contact your host to arrange it.
Deluxe Queen Room
I booked their Deluxe Queen Room for 4 night stay in December. This room measures 23 square meters and features a private bathroom. It is located on the top floor, which is the 5th floor.
There’s no elevator, so I had to lug my bags up the stairs. That might be a problem for some folks with mobility issues.
There’s a refrigerator, smart TV, and dedicated Wi-Fi internet router right inside the room. The air conditioner looked pretty new and kept the room nice and frosty.
Which is important, being that the room is right on the rooftop. Speaking of the rooftop, you can go up to the roof to hang out or smoke if you do.
Because Smoking is not prohibited inside rooms, but if you are a smoker, you can go outside the building.
I went up a few times to enjoy a banh mi in one hand and a cold beer in the other. I tell you, a Saigon evening in early December, the temperature was cool and comfortable.
There are no chairs on the rooftop. So I brought the foldable chair that was inside my room with me.
Few Things That Bothered Me
I’m an electric power hog. My phone, my cameras, my accessories, and my computer need to recharge every day. But there’s only one easily accessible power socket. And it’s located right below the TV.
I just made do by alternating. It was a bit of a hassle. But I got used to it.
It would’ve been nice to have a power outlet by the bedside for charging my phone, though.
I know, right? First world problems…
The mattress was really firm. I suppose some people will like it. But that’s my biggest gripe.
I’m just amazed how the movers dragged that queen sized mattress up a narrow staircase, 5 flights up.
Also, the shower pressure was weak. The water was hot, though, but these are minor complaints.
Conclusion
The room is clean enough, and soap, shampoo, toilet tissues, clean towels, and toothbrushes are provided.
Monday Saigon Centre Homestay is a good choice for staying near Bui Vien Walking Street in Ho Chi Minh City. Especially if you want to save money. I mean, come on, it was only $20 USD a night after all.
Read reviews and find discounts on Agoda.com for Monday Saigon Centre Homestay
Welcome to my travel blog covering Asia, honest hotel reviews, and practical travel tips. I focus on great places to stay and discovering local food. Travel smarter and eat like a local.
