Budget Romance: 5 Saigon Hotels Under $50 That Surprised Us

My girlfriend and I recently visited Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) with a clear mission: find affordable yet comfortable hotels that genuinely suit couples, all for under $50 a night. It's not as easy as it sounds; you often find super basic spots or places that blow the budget. But after a good amount of searching and relying on trusted recommendations, we narrowed it down to five fantastic options. These are the places I'd confidently recommend to my mates.

Top 5 Affordable Saigon Hotels for Couples: Quick List

• Friday Saigon Centre Homestay: Exceptional hospitality, quiet, central. Book here.
• Ben Thanh Boutique Hotel: Stylish, charming, near Ben Thanh Market. Book here.
• Saigon Cozy Hotel: Clean, quiet, central District 1 base. Book here.
• Lanura Saigon Boutique Hotel: Modern, stylish, super affordable. Book here.
• Annie House: Near-perfect ratings, central, surprisingly quiet. Book here.

1. Friday Saigon Centre Homestay

Friday Saigon Centre Homestay remains our top pick for Saigon hotels for couples who want a truly authentic and welcoming experience. What sets this place apart is the incredible host, Trang. Her genuine warmth and helpfulness made us feel like we were staying with friends, not just at a hotel. Her insights and willingness to go the extra mile were invaluable in a new city.

Located in District 1, it’s surprisingly quiet despite being just a stone's throw from Bui Vien Walking Street. This ingenious placement means you can dive into the city's vibrant nightlife and street food scene, then retreat to a peaceful sanctuary away from the noise. Our room was cozy, clean, and perfectly spacious for two, complete with a comfy double bed and a private bathroom with good hot water. The presence of friendly cats downstairs added to the homely charm.

At around $15-$20 USD a night, it's outstanding value, making it one of the best Saigon hotels under $50. Just a heads-up: no elevator, so be prepared for stairs if you have heavy luggage. It's a homestay, so don't expect hotel amenities like a pool, but for genuine hospitality, it's perfect for couples.

2. Ben Thanh Boutique Hotel

The Ben Thanh Boutique Hotel truly impressed us, standing out among Saigon hotels for couples seeking style on a budget. It lives up to its "boutique" name with thoughtful design and an ambiance that feels much more expensive than it is. The decor is "fabulous" and rooms are consistently "nice and clean" – reviews we wholeheartedly agree with. It felt like a significant upgrade for the price.

Its location in District 1, steps from Ben Thanh Market, is perfect for exploring. We could easily walk to major landmarks like the War Remnants Museum and Notre Dame Cathedral. Crucially, despite being so central, it's "tucked away in a quiet alley," offering immediate peace after a chaotic day. Staff were super friendly and helpful, providing excellent local tips. Our room was cozy, clean, with great A/C and Wi-Fi. Breakfast, often included, was a good mix of local and Western fare.

Double rooms usually cost around $35-$45 USD a night, which is fantastic value for this style and location, firmly placing it among the best Saigon hotels under $50. Like many boutique hotels, it prioritizes the room experience over extensive facilities like a gym or pool.

3. Saigon Cozy Hotel

For a central yet peaceful stay, Saigon Cozy Hotel consistently received excellent reviews when we searched for Saigon hotels under $50. It’s a quiet nook in the heart of District 1, just steps from Ben Thanh Market, Nguyen Hue Walking Street, and the Opera House. This meant we could walk everywhere, saving on transport and easily exploring the city.

The standout feature, often praised by other couples, was the incredible cleanliness. Our room, though not huge, was perfectly sized for two, with a comfortable double bed, excellent A/C, and reliable Wi-Fi. The staff were always friendly and helpful, offering tips without us even asking. Despite its central location, our room was surprisingly quiet, tucked away on a less noisy street – a welcome relief after a busy day of exploring. Expect to pay around $20-$25 USD a night, making it a prime choice for Saigon hotels for couples prioritizing clean comfort and an unbeatable location.

4. Lanura Saigon Boutique Hotel

The Lanura Saigon Boutique Hotel quickly became a strong contender for Saigon hotels under $50, especially for those who appreciate modern style. This isn't just a budget hotel; it genuinely offers sleek, contemporary design that feels like a significant upgrade for the price. Its fresh, minimalist aesthetic creates a comfortable and pleasant atmosphere perfect for a couple's getaway.

Located in District 1, on Nguyễn Thái Bình street, it’s perfectly situated for exploring Saigon's attractions, dining, and entertainment, without being on the loudest streets. Reviews consistently praise its cleanliness, modern room amenities, and helpful staff. Our room was well-maintained with a comfy double bed, great A/C, and reliable Wi-Fi. The private bathroom was modern and clean with consistent hot water. While it lacks extensive facilities like a pool, it excels in delivering high-quality room comfort and attentive service.

Pricing typically falls around $20-$30 USD a night, offering a touch of modern luxury within a budget, making it an excellent choice among boutique hotels for couples.

5. Annie House

Annie House truly impressed us, boasting an "Exceptional" 9.7 rating on Booking.com from numerous recent reviews, marking it as one of the most highly-regarded Saigon hotels under $50 for couples. This place genuinely felt like a hidden gem, offering top-notch satisfaction without blowing our budget. It’s consistently praised for its impeccable cleanliness, surprising comfort, and a prime central location combined with unexpected tranquility.

Its District 1 location is incredibly convenient, just a 7-minute walk from the bustling Ben Thanh Street Food Market and close to Tao Dan Park. This central position provides easy access to all of Saigon's major sights, diverse food options, and entertainment. Despite this, reviewers consistently highlight its remarkably quiet atmosphere, which was a huge bonus for us, ensuring a restful night after a busy day of exploring.

Our room was comfortable, spotless, and well-maintained, with a private bathroom, good hot water, effective A/C, and reliable Wi-Fi. The staff at Annie House also received high marks for being exceptionally friendly and helpful. While I don't have an exact current average price, its high ratings and frequent appearance on "best cheap hotels" lists suggest it falls comfortably within the $20-$40 USD range. For couples prioritizing excellent reviews, a convenient yet quiet central location, and a spotless, comfortable environment without overspending, Annie House is a top choice for Saigon hotels for couples.

Tips for Couples in Saigon

Saigon is a vibrant, sometimes chaotic, but always exciting city. Here are some tips to make your couples trip even better:

Getting Around:

We found Grab (similar to Uber for motorbikes and cars) to be the easiest way to navigate. Just download the app. Grab cars offer comfort, while GrabBikes are an experience if you're adventurous. Walking is a great way to discover hidden gems, just be mindful of traffic and sidewalks. Stick to Grab for clear pricing and avoid haggling with "Xe Om" (motorbike taxi) drivers.

Couple-Friendly Activities:

• Enjoy a drink at a rooftop bar for stunning city views, especially at sunset. The Saigon Skydeck at Bitexco Financial Tower is a popular choice.
• Try a Vietnamese cooking class. It’s a fun, interactive way to learn about local culture and cuisine, often available near Ben Thanh Market.
• Stroll along Nguyen Hue Walking Street in the evening. It’s lively with performers and pop-up cafes, perfect for people-watching.
• Admire the colonial architecture of the Saigon Opera House, even if you don't catch a show.
• Visit the War Remnants Museum for a powerful insight into Vietnam's history. It's a significant experience to share.
• Explore Saigon's hidden alleyways and discover charming cafes and quirky shops.
• Consider a Mekong Delta day trip for a peaceful escape from the city hustle.

Foodie Adventures:

• A street food crawl is essential. Try pho, banh mi, bun cha, and fresh spring rolls – Saigon's street food is legendary and cheap.
• Immerse yourselves in Saigon’s vibrant cafe culture, from strong Vietnamese iced coffee to trendy minimalist spots.
• Ask your hotel staff for local restaurant recommendations – they often know the best, most authentic, and affordable spots.

Other Handy Tips:

• Scams: Be wary of overly friendly motorbike drivers or inflated prices. Stick to Grab for reliable transport.
• Bargaining: It's expected at markets like Ben Thanh. Start low and negotiate.
• Dress Code: Generally relaxed, but cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples.
• Money: The currency is Vietnamese Dong (VND). ATMs are widely available. Inform your bank about your travel plans and carry small bills for street vendors.

Final Thoughts

Saigon is an incredible city that’s surprisingly budget-friendly for couples. These five hotels under $50 prove you don’t need to splurge for comfort and a great experience. Whether you prefer the lively energy of Bui Vien, the quiet charm of a homestay, or a stylish boutique, there’s a perfect base for your adventures.

For us, enjoying Saigon meant embracing its vibrant chaos, indulging in all the amazing food, and finding those intimate moments together amidst the city's pulse. These Saigon hotels ensure a comfortable, memorable, and even romantic trip without breaking the bank. So, pack your bags, grab your partner, and get ready for an unforgettable Vietnamese adventure!