The Rice Hotel Reviews: What Guests Say About This Saigon Gem

What Makes a Hotel Truly Memorable?

For travelers wandering through the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, accommodations can make or break the journey. A hotel is more than just a bed—it’s your home in a foreign land, your safe space after a long day of adventures. That’s why reading guest reviews is essential before booking a room.

If you've heard whispers of The Rice Hotel on Bui Vien Street, you’re not alone. Tucked in a bustling area known for nightlife, food, and culture, this hotel has steadily climbed in popularity. But what do real guests actually think? In this article, we’ll dive deep into The Rice Hotel reviews, summarize insights from real travelers, and explore why this spot has become a rising star in District 1.

First Impressions: A Warm Welcome in the Heart of District 1

Guests consistently praise The Rice Hotel for its warm hospitality and friendly service. From the moment visitors arrive, they’re often greeted with smiles, helpful suggestions, and refreshing drinks.

“The staff treated us like family. They helped us plan day trips, book taxis, and even gave us local food recommendations!” – Daniel, USA

This level of attentiveness is rare among budget-friendly hotels, making it one of the first things mentioned in most reviews.

Location: Why Bui Vien Is a Magnet for Travelers

The Rice Hotel is located right on Bui Vien Walking Street, the beating heart of backpacker culture in Ho Chi Minh City. The location is a common highlight in guest reviews, especially for those who want to be within walking distance of:

• Ben Thanh Market

• Pham Ngu Lao Street

• Nguyen Hue Walking Street

• Popular rooftop bars

• Dozens of local food stalls and international restaurants

Despite being in the middle of a lively area, many guests are pleasantly surprised by how peaceful the rooms are once the doors are shut.

“It’s amazing how quiet my room was, even with Bui Vien’s chaos right outside. Soundproofing is seriously impressive.” – Lily, UK

The Rooms: Honest Opinions From Real Guests

The Rice Hotel offers five distinct room types, catering to solo travelers, couples, and even groups. Here’s a breakdown of each, including what reviews commonly say:

1. Standard Double Room

Perfect for couples or solo travelers, this cozy option includes a queen-sized bed, private bathroom, and full amenities.

“Compact but super clean. Great value for the price.” – Minh, Vietnam

2. Deluxe Double Room

Slightly more spacious than the standard, this room adds more comfort and sometimes a better view.

“Worth the small upgrade. Loved the lighting and the extra space.” – Olivia, Australia

3. Superior Double Room

An upgraded experience with modern furnishings and often located on higher floors.

“Felt luxurious without the luxury price tag.” – Anil, India

4. Family Room

Equipped with two queen beds, this room is ideal for small families or groups of friends.

“Our family of four stayed comfortably. Even with kids, we had enough space.” – Maria, Philippines

5. Triple Room

For three adults or small groups, the triple room features three separate beds.

“Rare to find a room with three separate beds. Very convenient for our group trip.” – Tom, Canada

Cleanliness and Comfort: Daily Feedback From Guests

Cleanliness is a top priority here—and reviews reflect that. Many guests noted the rooms were “spotless,” with fresh towels provided daily and bathrooms that were “cleaner than expected.”

The beds are soft without being too plush, and air conditioning works well—a crucial factor in Vietnam’s humid climate.

“Best sleep I’ve had in weeks. AC was cold, water pressure strong, and everything was sparkling clean.” – Sasha, Germany

Breakfast and Dining: What to Expect

While The Rice Hotel doesn’t have an in-house restaurant, many reviews mention the convenience of nearby dining spots. Guests often enjoy breakfast at Lua Dai Viet, a well-known restaurant just steps away that shares the same management.

“Breakfast at Lua Dai Viet is delicious! The pho and iced coffee combo became my morning ritual.” – Aki, Japan

Traditional Vietnamese breakfast available right downstairs

SEE MORE: Top 5 Must-Try Vietnamese Dishes: A Tasty Introduction to Vietnam’s Culinary Culture

Facilities & Services: Small Details That Matter

Although not a luxury hotel, The Rice Hotel provides surprising amenities that guests appreciate:

• Free high-speed Wi-Fi

• 24/7 reception desk

• Airport shuttle service

• Free luggage storage

• Daily housekeeping

• Elevator access (a big plus in older Saigon buildings)

“Loved the elevator! After walking all day, I really appreciated not having to take stairs.” – Zach, USA

The Rice Hotel offers practical comforts for travelers

Value for Money: Is It Worth the Price?

The Rice Hotel reviews consistently point to excellent value for money. With rooms starting at a reasonable rate, especially considering the central location, many budget travelers say it's a "hidden gem."

Some guests even extended their stays once they experienced the service and comfort.

“Initially booked for two nights and ended up staying for a week. Great price and excellent service.” – Leo, France

Affordable comfort right in the center of Ho Chi Minh City

SEE MORE: Cheap Hotel District 1: Stay Above Great Seafood at The Rice Hotel​​​​​​​

Hidden Gems: What Most Reviewers Don’t Mention (But You Should Know)

While most reviews cover the basics, some small touches often go unnoticed:

• The hotel staff speaks fluent English, Vietnamese, and conversational Korean

• Guests receive welcome tea upon check-in

• Many rooms include small balconies or windows with city views

• It’s easy to walk to nightlife spots but return to a quiet, secure place

“It felt like coming home after a night out. Safe, peaceful, and clean.” – Rebecca, Malaysia

Who Is It Best For?

Based on reviews, The Rice Hotel is perfect for:

• Digital nomads seeking fast Wi-Fi and central location

• Couples on a budget who still want comfort

• Families needing multiple beds without overspending

• Solo travelers looking for safety and staff support

Not ideal for:

• Guests wanting a swimming pool or fitness center

• Travelers looking for full luxury experiences

What Do The Rice Hotel Reviews Really Say?

After reviewing hundreds of comments and firsthand experiences, the verdict is clear:
The Rice Hotel delivers where it matters. Clean, comfortable, centrally located, and operated by a genuinely welcoming team—this hotel lives up to the hype.

If you’re visiting Ho Chi Minh City and want more than just a place to sleep, The Rice Hotel is a smart choice.

Comfort That Surpasses Expectations

What many guests consistently highlight in their The Rice Hotel reviews is the sense of comfort and thoughtful detail. Whether you're staying for one night or a week, the hotel provides amenities that are designed to make your stay feel like home. Each room comes equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi, a smart TV with international channels, complimentary bottled water, and cozy slippers.

The beds are a particular highlight — many reviewers describe them as “cloud-like,” with firm yet soft mattresses and crisp linens. Blackout curtains and soundproof windows allow you to rest well, even if the city outside is still bustling. Small details, such as charging ports next to the bed and tea-making facilities, enhance the overall experience and show attention to the modern traveler's needs.

Perfect Cleanliness and Safety

Hygiene standards are top-notch — something travelers appreciate deeply, especially post-pandemic. From the lobby to the rooms and bathrooms, the hotel is kept spotless. Cleaning staff are efficient, friendly, and respectful of guests' schedules. Reviews often mention that rooms are cleaned daily and thoroughly, with fresh towels and linens replaced promptly upon request.

Guests also note the feeling of security, thanks to keycard access, security cameras in common areas, and a 24-hour front desk. If you're traveling alone or with valuables, The Rice Hotel gives peace of mind — an essential feature not always guaranteed in busy tourist areas like Bui Vien.

Spotless, peaceful, and styled for comfort — a typical room at The Rice Hotel

Who Should Stay at The Rice Hotel?

The Rice Hotel caters to a wide range of guests. Solo travelers looking for a central, secure, and well-priced place will love its convenience. Couples appreciate the romantic, quiet ambiance despite the central location. Digital nomads enjoy the stable Wi-Fi and work-friendly rooms. And budget-conscious families or groups will find that larger room types like the Family Suite or Triple Room offer both space and value.

Moreover, if you're a first-time visitor to Vietnam or Saigon, this hotel acts as a perfect launching point — not too overwhelming, yet surrounded by the authentic energy of local life.

What Guests Are Saying: Honest Reviews

Across various platforms like Booking.com, Agoda, and Google Reviews, The Rice Hotel consistently receives high ratings. The average rating is often 4.5/5 or higher, depending on the platform. Here's a synthesis of real reviews:

• “I stayed here during my backpacking trip and ended up extending my stay. Friendly staff, great price, and close to everything!”

• “Impressed by how quiet it was despite being in Bui Vien. Rooms were fresh and cozy.”

• “Perfect for our honeymoon — we loved the Deluxe room and the cute breakfast cafe next door.”

• “The staff went above and beyond when we had an issue with our taxi. Very helpful and polite.”

Whether guests were here for one night or ten, most praise the hospitality, location, and comfort as highlights.

Booking Tips and Best Rates

To get the best deal, it’s recommended to book directly via the hotel's official Facebook page: The Rice Hotel on Facebook. Here, you can inquire about promotions, room availability, and even request early check-in or late check-out. Many guests note that direct communication often leads to better rates than third-party platforms.

Early bookings during busy seasons (like Christmas, Tet holidays, or summer) are advised, especially if you're seeking a specific room type like the Balcony Suite or Family Room.

Insider Tip: If you're staying more than three nights, ask for a complimentary room upgrade — it's not guaranteed, but many guests have had success simply by asking!

Is The Rice Hotel Worth It?

Based on hundreds of verified The Rice Hotel reviews, the answer is a resounding yes. This isn’t just another budget hotel in the backpacker district — it’s a smart, stylish, and surprisingly peaceful spot that makes you feel cared for. From the thoughtful room design to the exceptional staff, every element works together to deliver comfort and convenience without the hefty price tag.

If you're heading to Ho Chi Minh City and want to stay somewhere that offers authentic local flavor, modern amenities, and reliable service — all at a reasonable price — then The Rice Hotel should be at the top of your list.

A hidden gem in Saigon’s vibrant Bui Vien — discover The Rice Hotel

Planning Your Stay: Quick Info

Address: 

• 195 – 195A – 197 De Tham, District 1

• 40/9 Bui Vien, District 1

• 125–127–129–131 Bui Vien, District 1

• 191–193 Bui Vien, District 1

• 226–228–230 Bui Vien, District 1

Rates: From around 450,000 VND (~18 USD) per night

Check-in: From 2:00 PM | Check-out: Before 12:00 PM

Booking & Contact: The Rice Hotel