Top 6 Heritage Hotels in Vietnam That Let You Sleep in History

Why Choose Heritage Hotels in Vietnam?

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If you’re dreaming of a journey filled with culture, elegance, and historical richness, then heritage hotels in Vietnam are the ideal accommodation. These aren’t just places to rest—they are living museums that have stood the test of time. With stunning architecture, grand ballrooms, and unforgettable backstories, these hotels allow you to stay where kings, writers, and world leaders once did.

From the misty highlands of Da Lat to the energetic streets of Ho Chi Minh City and the poetic charm of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Vietnam is full of historic properties that blend luxury with legacy.

Let’s dive into the best heritage hotels in Vietnam that every traveler should experience at least once.

1. Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi

Located in the heart of the capital, the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi is perhaps the most iconic of all heritage hotels in Vietnam. Built in 1901, it has welcomed royalty, politicians, and Hollywood celebrities for over a century.

Highlight: Visit the hotel’s underground wartime bunker and sip your morning coffee at La Terrasse, an open-air café evoking Parisian elegance.

This hotel is a national treasure and a must for history lovers visiting Hanoi.

2. Hotel Majestic Saigon

Nestled along the banks of the Saigon River, the Hotel Majestic Saigon has been part of the city’s skyline since 1925. With its French colonial design, art deco interiors, and river-facing rooms, it stands proudly among the top heritage hotels in Vietnam.

Highlight: Enjoy a signature cocktail on the rooftop terrace while watching the city’s modern skyline blend with old-world charm.

3. Caravelle Saigon

The Caravelle Hotel, opened in 1959, was once the most modern building in Saigon. It played a key role during the Vietnam War, hosting foreign correspondents and diplomats. Today, it is among the most prestigious heritage hotels in Vietnam, thanks to its unique blend of historical significance and modern luxury.

Highlight: Take in panoramic views from the Saigon Saigon Bar, once a journalist hotspot during wartime.

4. Continental Hotel Saigon

The Continental Hotel, dating back to 1880, is a symbol of Saigon’s literary and political history. Located just beside the Opera House, this hotel has welcomed figures like Graham Greene, who wrote much of The Quiet American while staying here.

Highlight: Relax in the shaded courtyard or enjoy a drink at the ground-floor café while watching Saigon’s buzz unfold before your eyes.

With its vintage charm, the Continental remains a shining example of the finest heritage hotels in Vietnam.

5. Dalat Palace Heritage Hotel

Tucked away in the pine-covered hills of Da Lat, the Dalat Palace Heritage Hotel was built in the 1920s for French colonists looking to escape the southern heat. The property’s grand interiors, antique furniture, and lakeside location make it one of the most romantic heritage hotels in Vietnam.

Highlight: Enjoy fireplaces, clawfoot bathtubs, and Victorian-era décor—perfect for honeymoons or nostalgic retreats.

Fun fact: Vietnam’s last emperor, Bao Dai, met his future wife at a dance in this very hotel.

6. Rex Hotel Saigon

Once a French-built garage, the Rex Hotel was transformed into a luxury hotel in the mid-20th century. It gained international attention during the Vietnam War as the site of the daily press briefings known as the “Five O’Clock Follies.”

Highlight: Today, the Rooftop Garden Bar is still a favorite for sunset cocktails, live music, and stunning skyline views.

Among all heritage hotels in Vietnam, the Rex perfectly represents resilience and transformation through turbulent times.

The Enduring Appeal of Heritage Hotels in Vietnam

What makes heritage hotels in Vietnam so special is their ability to connect travelers with the past while offering the comforts of today. Each of these hotels tells its own story—of colonial opulence, wartime resilience, artistic brilliance, or royal romance.

From Hanoi to Saigon to Da Lat, these unique accommodations are ideal for those who want more than just a hotel stay. They offer an experience—one filled with stories, style, and soul.

Whether you’re a fan of history, architecture, or refined travel, choosing one of these heritage hotels in Vietnam will elevate your journey and leave you with lasting memories.