Grand Hotel Saigon (Review): A Luxury Stay in the Heart of Ho Chi Minh City

If you’re searching for a luxury hotel in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City that blends old-world charm with modern comfort, the Hotel Grand Saigon is a solid choice. My family stayed here after two busy weeks exploring Vietnam – and it turned out to be the perfect place to unwind, indulge, and enjoy one last taste of city life before heading home.

The thing that won me over wasn’t the marble features in the bathroom or the rooftop bar (though both deserve a mention) – it was the food. From the delicious spring rolls to one of the best buffet breakfasts I’ve had anywhere, the Hotel Grand Saigon made every meal feel special.

But is it worth the expense? And what could be better?

hotel grand saigon
Exterior of the luxury Grand Hotel Saigon in Ho Chi Minh © Bookings.com

Location

Set in a beautifully restored colonial building in District 1, the Hotel Grand Saigon couldn’t be more convenient. You’re just a short stroll from the Saigon River and Opera House, and within a 10-minute drive of major attractions like Ho Chi Minh City Hall, the Fine Arts Museum, and the Reunification Palace.

For shopping fans, Union Square Shopping Mall is only 500 metres away, and Tan Son Nhat International Airport is about a 30-minute drive. It’s an ideal base for exploring both the cultural and modern sides of the city.

Accommodation features

We stayed in a Deluxe Room in the hotel’s luxury wing. The room was clean and well-maintained, with a particularly lovely marble featured bathroom complete with a large bath – always a bonus when travelling with younger kids.

We were provided with an old-fashioned (but spotless) bassinet, which quickly became extra luggage storage when both kids decided they’d rather pile into the oversized king bed with us.

If you’re travelling as a family, consider booking one of the larger suites at the Hotel Grand Saigon in either the ancient or luxury wing for extra space – especially handy for older kids who need their own bed.

hotel grand saigon
Grand Hotel Saigon © Jessica Palmer

On-site activities and entertainment

The Hotel Grand Saigon offers plenty to enjoy between sightseeing sessions. There’s an outdoor pool, a fitness centre, a spa and wellness centre, and even a small casino room with pokies for those wanting to try their luck.

The real highlight, though, is the rooftop bar, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Ho Chi Minh City at sunset. It’s a peaceful escape from the traffic chaos below.

Dining

While meals at the Hotel Grand Saigon are on the pricier side for Vietnam, the quality mostly justifies it. With two main restaurants and a poolside bar to choose from, every option feels a little indulgent.

Breakfast deserves its own special mention – a huge buffet with everything from Vietnamese classics to international comfort food. After two weeks on the road, I appreciated the mix of local and familiar dishes.

If you’re after a cheaper casual meal nearby, Pho 24 (just around the corner) is a good option – but honestly, the hotel’s own restaurant serves some of the best food we had in Vietnam.

hotel grand saigon
The rooftop bar at the Grand Hotel Saigon in Ho Chi Minh © Bookings.com

Service

The staff were professional and polite, though a touch more formal than the warm, kid-loving hospitality we’d experienced everywhere else in Vietnam. They were efficient but didn’t go out of their way to interact with the kids – something worth noting if you’re used to more family-centric service.

Overall experience of the Hotel Grand Saigon

What we loved

  • Massive buffet breakfast
  • Large ensuite with a bath
  • Pool area
  • Location
  • Rooftop bar at sunset

What could be better

  • Restaurants were pricey for Vietnam
  • Staff were not as warm as other hotels in Vietnam

Ratings

Location:

Rating: 5 out of 5.

Rooms:

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Cleanliness:

Rating: 5 out of 5.

Staff & Service:

Rating: 3.5 out of 5.

Value for Money:

Rating: 3.5 out of 5.

Family Friendly:

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Would I recommend Hotel Grand Saigon?

Yes. While it doesn’t have a warm boutique feel about it, the buffet breakfast and luxury vibes make up for it. The Hotel Grand Saigon offers classic colonial style, an unbeatable District 1 location, and food that’s genuinely memorable. It’s a little pricier than other Ho Chi Minh City hotels with similar facilities, but the convenience and comfort make it worthwhile – especially if you want a touch of luxury and comfort before or after your Vietnam adventures.

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Hotel Grand Saigon

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