Hotel Continental Saigon
A historic colonial gem since 1880, offering timeless elegance and literary connections in the heart of Saigon.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Soak in the ambiance
Hotel Continental Saigon
Best Time
Soak in the ambiance
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic colonial gem since 1880, offering timeless elegance and literary connections in the heart of Saigon.
"Every single day, we've said how happy we are that we chose this hotel. The location is absolutely perfect!"
🎯 Literary Pilgrimage
Request Room 214 for a chance to stay where Graham Greene wrote 'The Quiet American'.
☕ Colonial High Tea
Experience a taste of the past with afternoon tea on the terrace, though service can be slow.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Continental Bar
Ground floor
Sip a drink where literary legends and war correspondents once gathered. A true taste of old Saigon.
Colonial Architecture
Exterior and common areas
Admire the timeless French colonial design, a stunning contrast to modern Ho Chi Minh City.
Graham Greene's Room
Room 214 (reportedly)
Stay in the very room where 'The Quiet American' was penned. A must for literary enthusiasts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the History
Location is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Literary Pilgrimage
Request Room 214 for a chance to stay where Graham Greene wrote 'The Quiet American'.
☕ Colonial High Tea
Experience a taste of the past with afternoon tea on the terrace, though service can be slow.
🚶♀️ Central Location
Walk to major sights like Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The hotel's architecture is a photographer's dream, especially the courtyard.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Literary Pilgrimage
Request Room 214 for a chance to stay where Graham Greene wrote 'The Quiet American'.
☕ Colonial High Tea
Experience a taste of the past with afternoon tea on the terrace, though service can be slow.
🚶♀️ Central Location
Walk to major sights like Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The hotel's architecture is a photographer's dream, especially the courtyard.
🤫 Quiet American Vibe
Some rooms can be noisy due to the central location; request a quieter room if needed.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Guests rave about Hotel Continental Saigon's unbeatable central location and rich colonial history, often highlighting the exceptional service and the charming ambiance. While some find the hotel's age contributes to its character, others note potential issues with noise and cleanliness. The buffet breakfast and the iconic bar are frequently praised.
"Every single day, we've said how happy we are that we chose this hotel. The location is absolutely perfect - right in the heart of everything. The rooms are spotlessly clean, the beds are comfortable, and hotel is extremely well maintained for a hotel that's been around since 1880! Oh, and the buffet breakfast is a must! Every staff member we've interacted with has been so warm, helpful, and attentive. We genuinely can’t fault a thing. We love this hotel and have already agreed that we’re only staying here next time we’re in HCM. Highly recommend!"
Hasti Z
"It was the creepiest hotel I have ever stayed. As soon as I walked in it had a heavy energy to it. I just wanted to leave . I slept with a lights on cause I felt like someone is watching me. Also no hot water to shower. Booked for 3 days left the next day."
Kristina Nizamutdinova
"After reading Somerset Maugham’s experiences of this place in the 20s, I was intrigued to relive a bit of Old Saigon and have high tea on the terrace. Bit of a let down as no one opened the door or greeted us, we walked into the restaurant and asked about afternoon tea and they couldn’t have cared less and directed us to the terrace where a constant stream of traffic fumes and bipping horns assaulted the senses. Not quite the colonial-reminiscent experience I was looking for. After I’d spent 20 minutes taking photos for posterity, a really over-it waiter came out and begrudgingly tossed a menu at us and said ‘you want tea?’ I was like no thanks Margaret and flounced off in a huff. One star"
Daniel Shaw
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hotel Continental Saigon is centrally located at 132-134 Dong Khoi Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. It's easily accessible by taxi or ride-sharing apps like Grab. Many city attractions are within walking distance.
While there isn't a direct metro line to the hotel, it's a prime spot for the 'Hop on Hop off' city tour bus, making it easy to explore.
The most convenient way is a taxi or Grab from Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), which takes about 30-45 minutes depending on traffic.
Absolutely! The hotel's location is fantastic for walking to landmarks like the Saigon Opera House, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Central Post Office.
Yes, parking is available for guests, though it's advisable to confirm availability and any associated fees with the hotel directly.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, you don't need tickets to enter the hotel's public areas like the lobby, bar, or restaurant. If you wish to stay overnight, you'll need to book a room.
The hotel operates 24/7 for guests. The restaurant and bar have their own specific operating hours, typically from morning until late evening.
Yes, you can book rooms directly through the hotel's official website or via major online travel agencies.
Yes, Room 214 is famously known as the room where Graham Greene wrote 'The Quiet American'. It's highly sought after by guests.
There is no entrance fee for the courtyard or restaurant. You can visit and dine without a room booking, though reservations might be recommended for peak times.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The hotel exudes a classic colonial charm with a blend of historical grandeur and a lively atmosphere, especially in its bar and courtyard. Some guests find it has a 'heavy energy' or can be noisy.
Amenities include a courtyard restaurant, a bar, air-conditioned rooms, and some rooms feature balconies. Wi-Fi is generally available.
Definitely! The colonial architecture, courtyard, and historical details make it a very photogenic spot.
Rooms are generally spacious with high ceilings, reflecting the colonial era. While well-maintained for its age, some areas may show signs of aging, contributing to its charm.
Some guests have reported feeling a 'heavy energy' or a sense of being watched, contributing to its mystique.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The hotel features a courtyard restaurant offering a buffet breakfast and other meals. The iconic Continental Bar is also a popular spot.
Yes, the buffet breakfast is highly recommended by guests for its quality and variety.
The restaurant typically serves a mix of Vietnamese and international dishes, with a focus on classic hotel dining.
Yes, you can enjoy afternoon tea on the terrace, though some reviews suggest the service can be less attentive.
While not explicitly detailed, most hotel restaurants in Vietnam offer some vegetarian options. It's best to inquire directly with the restaurant staff.
📸 📸 Photography
The courtyard, the grand staircase, the lobby, and the exterior facade are all excellent for capturing the hotel's colonial charm.
Generally, taking photos in public areas like the lobby and bar is acceptable. However, for private rooms or extensive shoots, it's best to ask for permission.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing the colonial ambiance.
While not explicitly stated, be mindful of other guests' privacy and avoid intrusive photography.
You can photograph the exterior of the room if accessible, but photographing the interior without permission is not advised.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The courtyard restaurant provides a relaxed setting for meals. However, the hotel's historical nature might mean fewer kid-specific amenities, and some rooms could be prone to noise from the bustling street. 📚 Literary Enthusiasts
Immerse yourself in the history that inspired countless stories and perhaps even find your own inspiration within these storied walls. 📸 Photography Buffs
+1 Focus your lens on the intricate details of the facade, the charming courtyard, the grand staircase, and the elegant interiors. Early morning or late afternoon light will enhance the vintage feel of your shots. While public areas are generally accessible for photos, always be respectful of guests and staff. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Legacy of History and Literature
Many notable figures have graced its halls, including Anthony Bourdain and Hunter S. Thompson, adding to its legendary status.
For those interested in literary history, requesting Room 214 is a must, as it's believed to be the very room where Graham Greene penned his famous work.
Experiencing the Continental Charm
+1 The hotel's French colonial design, with its spacious rooms, high ceilings, and balconies in some accommodations, offers a distinct aesthetic. Guests often praise the central location and the historical ambiance as major draws. The Continental Bar is a highlight, providing a sophisticated setting to enjoy a drink and soak in the atmosphere, reminiscent of its past as a hub for writers and journalists.
The courtyard restaurant is another appealing feature, offering a pleasant space for dining, especially the highly-rated buffet breakfast. Despite potential minor drawbacks, the overall experience is often described as exceptional, with many guests expressing a desire to return.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit