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Historic Charm: The Best Colonial-Era Hotels in Saigon

6 SourcesUpdated December 9, 2025

TL;DR

Discover Saigon's historic charm through its colonial-era accommodations. From the literary heritage of Hotel Continental to the French elegance of Mai House and the nostalgic Nanyang vibes of Amanaki, these hotels offer a journey into the past, blending vintage aesthetics with modern luxury in the heart of Vietnam.

The Literary Legend: Hotel Continental Saigon

For those seeking the authentic atmosphere of old Saigon, the Hotel Continental Saigon is an unmissable landmark. It is famously associated with the author Graham Greene, who stayed here while writing The Quiet American. The hotel has preserved this literary heritage, even featuring a "Graham Greene Suite".

  • Historic Atmosphere: The interior display is simple but retains traces of history, evoking the city's past.
  • A Writer's View: As described in Greene's letters, the balcony doors were always left open, allowing the sounds of rickshaws and the scent of jasmine to drift in.
  • Architecture: The building features a classic colonial style, located right opposite the Opera House.

Stepping into this hotel feels like walking into a page of history, where the Saigon of the past comes alive through its preserved architecture and stories.

Before an afternoon thunderstorm, the hot air seeping through the blinds carried the scent of fish sauce and jasmine from the street, mixed with the smell of ink from the typewriter ribbon – this was the mark of Saigon.

"Before an afternoon thunderstorm, the hot air seeping through the blinds carried the scent of fish sauce and jasmine from the street, mixed with the smell of ink from the typewriter ribbon – this was the mark of Saigon."

@1va

French Elegance: Mai House Saigon Hotel

If you are looking for a stay that perfectly captures the essence of French colonial decoration combined with modern luxury, Mai House Saigon Hotel is a top recommendation. The hotel is renowned for its impeccable French-style decor, creating a sophisticated and romantic atmosphere.

  • Decor: The interior design is heavily influenced by French aesthetics, offering a grand and elegant visual experience.
  • Service & Dining: The hotel provides excellent soft and hard services. The breakfast is particularly noteworthy, offering delicious options that might tempt you to eat there every morning of your stay.
  • Location: It boasts a superior geographical location, making transportation convenient for exploring the city.
The Mai House Saigon Hotel truly impressed me with its elegant French decor, excellent soft and hard services, superior location, and a breakfast so delicious that even I, someone who usually skips it, ate it for three days straight!

"The Mai House Saigon Hotel truly impressed me with its elegant French decor, excellent soft and hard services, superior location, and a breakfast so delicious that even I, someone who usually skips it, ate it for three days straight!"

@Ari

Colonial Vibes in District 1: New World Saigon Hotel

Located in the heart of District 1, the New World Saigon Hotel offers a chance to experience the colonial-era wind of Saigon. Situated opposite the lush 23 September Park and just a 3-minute walk from the bustling Ben Thanh Market, it balances the convenience of the city center with the tranquility of a park view.

  • Rooms: The Club rooms feature thoughtful touches like Nespresso coffee machines and free local calls.
  • Dining: Guests can enjoy fusion cuisine at Black Vinegar or relax with a sunset cocktail at the Splash Bar by the pool.
  • Atmosphere: The hotel allows you to unlock the "Saigon Aristocrat" experience, blending colonial charm with modern comfort.

You can find this urban oasis at 76 Le Lai Street, District 1.

Unlock the 'Saigon Aristocrat' experience at New World Saigon Hotel.

"Unlock the 'Saigon Aristocrat' experience at New World Saigon Hotel."

@迪尼旅行

Nostalgic Nanyang Style: Amanaki Thao Dien

For a retreat that feels like a "Nanyang old dream," Amanaki Thao Dien in District 2 is a hidden gem. The hotel creates a unique sense of history and sediment through its curated design.

  • Lobby: The ground floor lobby is filled with old objects, setting a nostalgic tone immediately upon arrival.
  • Sensory Experience: Upon entering your room, you are greeted with a unique blend of scents—pineapple, lychee, and lemongrass—creating a refreshing tropical atmosphere.
  • Amenities: The hotel features a clean pool and provides exquisite tableware in rooms equipped with kitchens.

It is a place where you can take thousands of photos and immerse yourself in a bygone era.

Amanaki Nanyang Old Dream: A Ho Chi Minh City hotel imbued with a deep sense of history.

"Amanaki Nanyang Old Dream: A Ho Chi Minh City hotel imbued with a deep sense of history."

@九不告诉你

Living the Duras Novel: Em's Home 5

For travelers who love the humid, ambiguous, and French-tinted Saigon described in Marguerite Duras's novels, Em's Home 5 (an Airbnb near Pham Ngu Lao) is the perfect choice. It captures the romantic and nostalgic essence of the city.

  • Interior: Deep red floors resemble freshly polished lacquer, complemented by soft lighting that creates an intimate atmosphere.
  • Furnishings: The space features French vintage furniture mixed with Chinese patterns, porcelain ornaments, and hanging paintings, blending Eastern and Western aesthetics seamlessly.
  • Comfort: Despite its vintage look, it offers modern comforts like a large bathtub, air conditioning, and a kitchen.

This spot allows you to live inside a "Duras-style" dream in the middle of bustling Saigon.

Step into Em's Home 5, where deep red floors and soft lighting perfectly capture the romantic, Duras-esque Saigon ambiance, making it utterly captivating.

"Step into Em's Home 5, where deep red floors and soft lighting perfectly capture the romantic, Duras-esque Saigon ambiance, making it utterly captivating."

@东南亚民宿种草局

Related Questions

Which famous author is associated with Hotel Continental Saigon?

Graham Greene, who wrote 'The Quiet American' there.

What kind of decor defines Mai House Saigon Hotel?

It features very French-style decoration.

Where is New World Saigon Hotel located relative to local landmarks?

It is located opposite 23 September Park and a 3-minute walk from Ben Thanh Market.

What unique scent can be found in Amanaki Thao Dien rooms?

A mix of pineapple, lychee, and lemongrass.

What is the design theme of Amanaki Thao Dien?

It is described as a 'Nanyang old dream' with a lobby full of old objects.

What literary figure's atmosphere does Em's Home 5 evoke?

Marguerite Duras.

What distinctive flooring is found in Em's Home 5?

Deep red floors that look like polished lacquer.

Does New World Saigon Hotel have a swimming pool?

Yes, it has a pool with a Splash Bar.

What dining option is highlighted for Mai House Saigon Hotel?

The breakfast is highlighted as delicious.

Is Hotel Continental Saigon located near the Opera House?

Yes, the notes mention the Opera House is nearby (opposite).

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