Liberty Central Saigon Riverside Hotel

Housed in a glass tower overlooking the Saigon River, Liberty Central Saigon Riverside Hotel is a modern, stylish pick for business and leisure travelers. The lobby is contemporary and bright, with floor-to-ceiling windows, wood accents, and funky armchairs in dark upholstering that contrasts with the gleaming cream-colored floors. This fresh contemporary look continues in the rooms, all featuring large white headboards over dark accent walls, and sleek glass-enclosed bathrooms. Most common spaces offer striking river and city views, but the best vistas can be had from the rooftop deck, which is the hotel’s most popular spot throughout the day. In the morning, guests lounge by the infinity pool, and at night guests mingle with non-guests at Vertical Sky Bar while watching the sunset with drinks in their hands.

Liberty Central Saigon Riverside Hotel is a fantastic pick for design and luxury by the river; those looking to experience old Saigon could consider neighboring Hotel Majestic Saigon. Just note that rates are generally slightly higher there, and that the property is starting to show its age.

The property is located on a busy street in District 1, right by the Saigon River. There are dozens of restaurants, bars, and shops nearby, and most major attractions are within walking distance of the property. The Opera House is less than a five-minute walk away, and Ben Thanh markets, the Fine Arts Museum, Huynh Thuc Khang street market, Notre Dame Basilica, the War Remnants Museum, and the Independence Palace are all within a 15-minute walk. Xa Loi, the largest pagoda in HCM, is a 15-minute drive away, and the airport can be reached by car in about 25 minutes.

The 170 rooms at Liberty Central Saigon Riverside Hotel are decorated in a chic modern style with large white headboards over dark accent walls, a mix of white and blonde wooden furniture, and laminate floors. Wall-mounted flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, safes, minibars, free Wi-Fi, and electric kettles are all standard amenities. Bathrooms are sleek, with glass-enclosed showers overlooking the rooms (there are pull-down blinds for privacy), deep rectangular sinks with modern fittings, back-lit mirrors, and darker floor tiles; suites have large walk-in showers and separate deep soaking tubs, as well as wood-paneled accent walls in the master bedroom. Floor-to-ceiling windows let in lots of light and allow for panoramic river and city views from most rooms. Light sleepers may want to request rooms on higher floors, as street-facing units may get some traffic noise. Past guests have also complained of rooms lacking soundproofing.

The highlight at Liberty Central Saigon Riverside Hotel is arguably the rooftop deck, featuring a gorgeous infinity pool, popular bar, and striking panoramic views of the river and the city. Central Restaurant is located on the first floor and offers a tasty buffet in a modern space with floor-to-ceiling windows. On the mezzanine level, Le Bistro is a popular spot for snacks and drinks at night, when bands perform live. Working out with a view is possible at the small fitness center, featuring a handful of modern machines, a sauna, and a steam bath. Adjacent to the gym is the beautiful spa, which offers an array of body treatments, salon services, and a women-only area. The Executive Lounge -- open to guests staying in Executive rooms and suites only -- is located on the 23rd floor and features a number of great perks, including free breakfast, hors d’oeuvres, happy hour, and international newspapers daily. Extensive meeting space is also available.