Yes. Most homestays in Vietnam provide both breakfast and dinner, freshly cooked by your host family. In many places, you are welcome to join the cooking, which is a great way to learn about Vietnamese cuisine.

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Homestay in Vietnam: The best way to live like a local!

Q: Is it safe to stay in a homestay in Vietnam?

Yes. Vietnam is one of the safest countries in Asia for travelers. Homestay hosts take great care of guests, and even solo travelers will find locals kind and helpful, including with simple body language or translation apps.

Q: Do homestays have private bathrooms?

Some do and some do not. Many homestays are renovated family homes rather than purpose-built hotels. Private bathrooms are available in some places, while others have clean shared bathrooms with basic amenities such as hot water, towels, and toiletries.

For 15 years, Kampá Tour has offered a more personal way to experience Vietnam: by staying in the home of a local family. This opportunity goes beyond typical tourism, offering a welcoming space where you can connect with the daily rhythms of life and gain a deeper appreciation for our culture through genuine interaction. We find these authentic moments are what create the most cherished and lasting memories of a journey.

Written by Oliver PHUNG (Tour Guide)

Updated on Nov 03, 2025

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1. What is a homestay in Vietnam?

In simple terms, a homestay in Vietnam is a cultural exchange where visitors live with local families instead of staying in hotels.

A homestay in Vietnam is a type of accommodation best described as a “home away from home”. It means that during your journey, you’ll stay in a local family’s house, living, eating, and sharing everyday moments as one of their own.

This homestay experience in Vietnam lets you see the country from the inside out. You’ll gain a more intimate and authentic perspective of Vietnamese culture, the warmth, simplicity, and connection that no hotel can truly offer.

*Dinner with the local from Our Dear Travelers*

As the saying goes, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.” In Vietnam, that might mean wearing traditional clothes, tasting homemade dishes, or learning local customs directly from your hosts. With more than 54 ethnic groups, every region offers its own Vietnamese homestay style, a reflection of its people, traditions, and hospitality.

2. Why Stay in a Vietnamese Homestay (Top 5 Reasons)

2.1. Feel the warmth of true Vietnamese hospitality

From the first smile to the last goodbye, your hosts will welcome you as family. You might be offered a cup of hot tea, a plate of fresh tropical fruit, or even a spontaneous motorbike ride through the village. Vietnamese people are known for their genuine kindness, and they simply want you to feel at home.

Veronica's family learning how to make Cha Nem - a traditional dish of Vietnam with local host — *Veronica's family learning how to make Cha Nem, a traditional dish of Vietnam with local host*

2.2. Experience authentic local life

A homestay lets you live the rhythm of the countryside. Wake up to the sound of roosters, join your host at the morning market, or sit together after dinner sharing stories and laughter. These small, human moments are what make travel unforgettable.

cuisine avec les locaux — *Cooking with the locals is an essential experience.*

2.3. Taste home-cooked meals from the heart

Forget menus; you will eat what the family eats, freshly made from what is available that day. Sharing a meal is sharing culture, and every bite carries the warmth of a Vietnamese kitchen.

*They learn how to make Vietnamese rolls*

2.4. Support local communities directly

Choosing a homestay means your journey helps the very people who welcome you. The money you spend stays with the host family, supporting education, preserving traditions, and creating jobs in rural villages. You are not just visiting; you are part of a small story of shared growth and gratitude.

moving firewood for cooking at the homes — *Moving firewood for cooking at the homes*

2.5. Stay comfortably and travel meaningfully

Rooms are clean, simple, and full of charm, often with soft bedding, mosquito nets, and warm showers. You will find comfort, safety, and authenticity all in one place. For just $10 to $25 a night, you will bring home not souvenirs but stories that last a lifetime.

The authentic life of the locals in Northern Vietnam — *Mr. Erick Migliaccio's group is experiencing the authentic life of the locals in Northern Vietnam.*

3. Where to Stay with Locals in Vietnam?

3.1. In the Mountainous North

The northern highlands are the heart of authentic homestay culture in Vietnam. Wooden stilt houses perch above rice terraces, and evenings are filled with laughter, firelight, and the aroma of sticky rice steaming in bamboo baskets.

Here, you will meet ethnic minority groups who welcome guests with open arms and genuine warmth.

Top homestay areas:

Sapa Homestay Vietnam

Stay with the Dzay or Hmong families in Ta Van or Lao Chai village, surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery. Rooms range from $15 to $25 per night, including family-style meals.

Mai Chau Homestay

Live among the White Thai community in traditional stilt houses, with opportunities for cycling and bamboo weaving workshops. Prices start around $12 to $20 per night.

Ha Giang Local Stay

A must for adventure travelers. Sleep in clay-built Trinh Tuong houses or wooden lodges in Dong Van or Meo Vac, and join your hosts for corn wine by the fire.

*Mrs. Madeleine Chenette in front of the local homestay in Ha Giang - October trip to Vietnam*

Pu Luong and Nghia Lo

Ideal for peaceful rural scenery and soft treks through rice terraces. Perfect for travelers seeking quiet authenticity.

Cao Bang Homestay

Stay with the Black Lo Lo community in Khuoi Khon or Khuoi Ky village, near Ban Gioc Waterfall. This is a rare cultural experience that few travelers get to see.

*A local Lô Lô homestay in Khuoi Khon village, Cao Bang province*

3.2. In Central Vietnam

Central Vietnam combines natural beauty with a slower rhythm of life. Homestays here offer both cultural immersion and proximity to the country’s most historic towns.

Best options include:

Hoi An Local Homestay

Charming riverside homes where you can join lantern-making or traditional cooking classes. Prices range from $20 to $30 per night.

Hoi An Local Homestay — *Classic style homestay in Hoi An*

Hue Countryside Stay

Sleep in family-run garden houses surrounded by lotus ponds. Hosts often share stories of royal traditions and local cuisine.

*Homestay in the style of ancient houses of the Nguyen Dynasty in Vietnam*

Phong Nha Farmstay or Rustic Houses

A perfect base for exploring the Phong Nha Ke Bang caves while enjoying tranquil rural views. Rooms cost around $25 to $35 per night.

3.3. In the Southern Delta

The Mekong Delta offers the most classic image of Southern hospitality. Here, families open their homes to visitors eager to discover the delta’s rhythm of life along the waterways.
Expect mornings filled with birdsong, boat trips through canals, and the scent of ripe fruit from the garden.

*The houses of the residents in the Mekong Delta.*

Top places for a Mekong Delta homestay:

Ben Tre Homestay Vietnam

Enjoy a stay among coconut groves and join locals on a sampan ride through shaded canals.

Vinh Long Homestay

Famous for its orchard visits, bicycle paths, and family-style meals cooked from ingredients grown right behind the house.

Can Tho Family Stay

Combine comfort with community. Learn how to make Southern specialties such as bánh xèo and visit floating markets at dawn.

4. How to Book a Homestay in Vietnam

The two main ways to book a homestay in Vietnam are through local tour operators and online platforms. Each option offers a different level of comfort, safety, and personalization.

à l'intérieure de la maison locale — *Inside the local house: the welcoming living room and guest bedroom.*

4.1. Local tour operators

This is the most reliable and professional way to book a homestay in Vietnam, especially if you want an authentic experience without logistical worries. Local operators often collaborate directly with host families, helping them renovate and manage homestays that meet tourist standards while staying true to local traditions.

*Tourists from England visited our headquarters in Hanoi*

At Kampá Tour, for example, we partner with families from different ethnic communities, including the Tay in Bac Ha, the Thai in Pu Luong, and the Black Lo Lo in Bao Lac (Cao Bang). Each homestay is regularly inspected, carefully maintained, and thoughtfully paired with local cultural activities and guided experiences.

🧳 Read More: Why a Private Tour With a Local Agency?

4.2. Online platforms

Popular websites such as Airbnb, Booking.com, and Agoda list thousands of homestays across Vietnam. This option gives you flexibility and access to traveler reviews, but the quality and authenticity can vary significantly from one place to another.

4.3. Direct booking with hosts

Fun fact: In Vietnam, Facebook Messenger is often used like a local booking platform. Especially in rural areas such as Ha Giang or the Mekong Delta, many families take reservations directly through Facebook or community contacts.

So, it is a meaningful way to support them directly, though you will need to arrange details like timing and transport yourself.

avis client — *Preparing Nem, a typical Vietnamese dish (group of Christian Giovalle and friends).*

5. Homestay vs Hotel in Vietnam: Which Is Right for You?

There are many differences between homestays and hotels and hostels, but the three most basic and crucial points are price, space, and service. In addition, homestays are better for authentic local connections, while hotels focus on comfort and convenience.

Aspect	Homestay in Vietnam	Hotel in Vietnam
Price	Usually more affordable, from $10–25 per night. A great option for travelers who want local experiences without spending much.	Typically higher, especially with international hotel chains. Prices often start around $40–200 per night depending on the category.
Space and design	Each homestay has its own unique character, reflecting the owner’s personality and local culture. Cozy, creative, and full of charm.	Hotels follow a standard layout and design, ensuring consistency but sometimes feeling uniform or impersonal.
Service	Limited but personal. Most offer tea and coffee, shared kitchens, laundry, and friendly assistance from hosts.	Full service: daily cleaning, buffet breakfast, swimming pool, gym, spa, and airport transfers. Ideal for travelers who prioritize convenience.

Choose a homestay if you value connection. Choose a hotel if you value comfort.

6. Vietnamese Homestay Etiquette

In a Vietnamese home, small gestures speak louder than words. When staying with a local family in Vietnam, simple gestures of respect make a big difference. So, here are a few cultural tips to keep in mind:

Dress modestly, especially in rural or ethnic minority villages.
Join family meals when invited. Sharing food is a sign of friendship and hospitality.
Bring a small gift such as local snacks, tea, or small souvenirs from your country.
Avoid loud behavior or public displays of affection. Vietnamese families value harmony and politeness.
Be curious and respectful when learning about local customs.

Respect and curiosity go a long way in Vietnamese culture.

*An evening of our travelers (Nikolic family).*

🙅 Read More: What Not to Do in Vietnam (13 Things to Avoid)

7. FAQs about Staying in a Homestay in Vietnam

7.1. Are meals included?

Yes! Most homestays in Vietnam provide both breakfast and dinner, freshly cooked by your host family. You’ll enjoy traditional homemade dishes, and in many places, you’re welcome to join in the cooking. It is a wonderful way to share stories and learn about Vietnamese cuisine.

7.2. Do hosts speak English?

Most local hosts speak only basic English, but communication is rarely a problem. Gestures, smiles, and help from your local guide make every interaction warm and meaningful. Kampá’s guides are always there to help you connect naturally with your hosts.

7.3. Is it safe to stay in a homestay in Vietnam?

Absolutely! Vietnam is one of the safest countries in Asia for travelers. Homestay hosts take great care of their guests, and even if you are traveling alone, you will find locals kind, helpful, and willing to assist you, even through body language or Google Translate.

7.4. Do homestays have private bathrooms?

Some do, and some do not. Many homestays are renovated family homes rather than purpose-built hotels. While private bathrooms are available in some places, others have shared bathrooms that are clean, simple, and equipped with all basic amenities such as hot water, towels, and toiletries.