Yangon is the largest and most exciting city in Myanmar. If you dream of getting off the beaten track as a traveler, then booking a trip to Yangon is the way to go.
You’ll be able to see and experience its intense and unique culture as well as the long history that colors everything you’ll see and experience.
Yangon is undergoing some major changes at the moment. New restaurants, bars, and clubs are springing up every day alongside temples and historical buildings.
And yet the city is still hanging on to its awe-inspiring monuments and unique local culture, which is what makes it such an exciting travel destination.
Unfortunately, Yangon isn’t on the regular tourist trail. That’s why you may have trouble finding the best places to stay in Yangon. But that’s why we’re here to help.
With our Yangon neighborhood guide, you can book your trip and know that you’re ready to have the best time possible.
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Yangon.
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19st Hidden Gem of Yangon | Best Airbnb in Yangon
Whether you’re trying to decide where to stay in Yangon with kids or with friends, this hotel might suit your needs. It’s suitable for up to 6 people and includes 2 bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms for your private use.
The apartment is located in the heart of Downtown too, which will make it very easy for you to explore the city.
Backpacker Hostel Yangon | Best Hostel in Yangon
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Yangon for your first time, this hostel is a great choice. It’s within 800 meters of the Sule Pagoda and is also close to Strand Road. This is where you’ll find a market and lots of street food. There are also plenty of popular restaurants and coffee shops nearby, so you’ll never go hungry.
And finally, the hostel offers a daily breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and all the modern amenities.
If you love hostels, you should check out our list of the coolest hostels in Yangon!
Clover City Center Hotel | Best Hotel in Yangon
This hotel is located in the best neighborhood in Yangon to stay in. It’s right in the city center and has been recently renovated to modern standards.
Each room has modern décor, air conditioning, a private bathroom and free Wi-Fi. And there’s a restaurant and a daily breakfast available as well as lots of eateries close by.
Downtown
Yangon’s Downtown is one of the best places in Yangon to stay if you want convenient access to everything. Some of the best architects in Yangon’s history designed the Downtown area in 1852 after the Second Anglo-Burmese War.
Botahtaung
Botahtaung is one of the coolest places to stay in Yangon if you’re interested in history, culture, and architecture. This neighborhood is filled with buildings from the colonial era that will remind you of the city’s sometimes tumultuous past.
Chinatown
Yangon is a diverse city that’s filled with lots of different cultures and this part of the city is a sign of that. Chinatown is located slightly to the west of the Sule Pagoda, so it’s close to Downtown but has a very different feel and appearance.
Inya Lake
The noise of Yangon can get to you sometimes and if you want a quieter trip then you should consider staying at Inya Lake. This is the best area in Yangon to stay in if you have a little extra money and want to stay where Yangon’s wealthiest citizens live.
Amazing temples, beautiful lakes, colonial architecture, and a busy, modern vibe are just some of the things you’ll experience when you travel to Yangon in Myanmar. This large city is divided into several distinct areas, each of them with their own attractions and atmosphere.
And if you’re looking for the best places in Yangon to stay in for your travel preferences, you should start with the city’s Downtown area.
Yangon’s Downtown is close to everything and contains the largest concentration of temples and historical architecture. You’ll also find great restaurants, cafes, and shops just opening up in this part of the city, so get in there and explore.
However, if you want to be close to the city center but in an area with a little more history and culture, then try Botahtaung. This is the best neighborhood in Yangon to stay in if you want to explore the city’s colonial buildings and history.
Chinatown is the place to stay if your preferences are a little more practical. This is hands down the best area for food in the city, so don’t miss out on all the tasty treats it offers!
It’s also the busiest part of the city, so you might want to try the Bahan Township if you’re looking for some peace and quiet. This is the most prosperous part of the city and it’s great for families with children who can’t stand all the noise of the city center.
The last area to consider for your trip is Inya Lake, a famous recreation area that’s a beacon of peace and quiet for tourists and locals alike.
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5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Yangon
If you’re ready to book your trip to the largest city in Myanmar, then here are the best places to stay in Yangon.
1. Downtown – Where to Stay in Yangon First Time
Yangon’s Downtown is one of the best places in Yangon to stay if you want convenient access to everything. Some of the best architects in Yangon’s history designed the Downtown area in 1852 after the Second Anglo-Burmese War.
Their influence still shapes the wide grid of streets. During the Second World War, bombings destroyed must of the city. However, the locals repaired the damaged and managed to save many interesting colonial and historical buildings and sites in the Downtown area.
If you aren’t that interested in the past, then visit Yangon for the present. This city is rapidly modernizing and expanding, so you’ll see building sites everywhere you go.
New cafes, shops, and restaurants are constantly appearing in the city center, and you can take a happy advantage of them during your trip.
My Yangon Home | Best Airbnb in Downtown
With 2 bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms, this apartment is located right in the heart of the city’s Downtown area and close to everything. The location is known for its delicious street food too, so you’ll find lots of dining options as well as malls within easy walking distance.
The apartment is on the sixth floor and it has a balcony and an elevator as well as a fully stocked kitchen. This all makes it a great choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Yangon with kids or with a group of friends.
Scott@31st Street | Best Hostel in Downtown
This hostel is one of the coolest places to stay in Yangon. It’s right in the center of the city’s cultural and sightseeing areas and a short walk from everything.
The hostel has 9 bedrooms that are comfortable and contain all the amenities as well as free Wi-Fi and a souvenir shop available on the premises.
Hotel Yangon Heritage | Best Hotel in Downtown
This hotel offers the ideal combination of comfort and convenience. It’s located right in the heart of the city’s Downtown neighborhood, one of the best areas to stay in Yangon, and close to everything you’ll want to see, do and eat.
The rooms are spacious and modern and offer a mini bar, private bathroom, and free Wi-Fi.
Things to See and Do in Downtown:
- Make sure you visit the Shwedagon Pagoda, the most famous in the city and located on top of Singuttara Hill.
- Put on your walking shoes and explore this very walkable city on foot.
- Visit the Sule Pagoda, said to contain a hair from Buddha.
- Take the Yangon Circular Railway passenger train to explore Yangon’s local life.
- Visit the Pegu Club, a relic of a bygone colonial era.
- Stroll along the river and explore the many temples, mosques, and synagogues along the way.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Botahtaung – Where to Stay in Yangon on a Budget
Botahtaung is one of the coolest places to stay in Yangon if you’re interested in history, culture, and architecture. This neighborhood is filled with buildings from the colonial era that will remind you of the city’s sometimes tumultuous past.
And best of all, it’s close enough to the Downtown to be incredibly convenient to everywhere. This is why it’s one of the best areas to stay in Yangon.
This neighborhood is located just east of Downtown and has one very important claim to fame. This is where you’ll find the beautiful and historically important Botahtaung Pagoda, said to contain a strand of the Buddha’s hair.
There are also lots of shops, restaurants, and hotels at every price point in this area, which is why it’s one of Yangon’s best neighborhoods for tourists.
Lotus Bed and Breakfast | Best Airbnb in Botahtaung
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Yangon on a budget, then try this comfortable B&B. At a budget price, you can get a private room in this guesthouse and enjoy a free breakfast, clean surroundings, and impeccable personal services.
It’s located close to Downtown and is surrounded by shops and restaurants, so you stay entertained.
Htinn Yue Tann Hostel | Best Hostel in Botahtaung
This hostel in Yangon is perfectly positioned if you want to explore. It’s located on the edge of Botahtaung and the Downtown area, so you shouldn’t have any trouble getting around.
The hostel has been renovated to exacting standards to act as an oasis in the middle of the city. It also provides comfortable pods for singles and doubles as well as lots of common areas so you can get to know your fellow travelers.
Hotel 63 | Best Hotel in Botahtaung
This hotel in Yangon offers air-conditioned rooms with all the modern amenities. There’s also an on-site library, 24-hour reception, and in house restaurant where you can get some great local food.
The rooms have their own bathrooms and have tea and coffee making facilities and entertainment options like DVD players.
Things to See and Do in Botahtaung:
- Visit the Botahtaung Pagoda.
- Just wander the streets and experience a slice of the city’s history.
- Head towards the Downtown a little to see the Sule Pagoda.
- Try as many of the local restaurants as you can!
3. Chinatown – Best Area to Stay in Yangon for Nightlife
Yangon is a diverse city that’s filled with lots of different cultures and this part of the city is a sign of that. Chinatown is located slightly to the west of the Sule Pagoda, so it’s close to Downtown but has a very different feel and appearance.
This is one of the most vibrant, atmospheric parts of the city and there are several interesting temples that aren’t to be missed.
But the real attraction of this part of the city is the food. Chinatown is hands down the best neighborhood to stay in Yangon for tasty treats, and you’ll probably nearly make yourself sick trying everything that’s on offer.
There are also some great budget places to stay in this part of the city, so it’s suitable for nearly all budgets.
Entire Apartment | Best Airbnb in Chinatown
This is a great choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Yangon for nightlife. It’s located right in the heart of Chinatown and surrounded by some of the most delicious places to eat in the city!
It’s five minutes’ walk from a major shopping mall as well as Bogyoke Aung San Market and is offers a private bedroom with comfortable furnishings.
Wayfarer’s Rest | Best Hostel in Chinatown
Located in one of Yangon’s best neighborhoods, this hostel guarantees a comfortable stay in the heart of Chinatown. It provides high-quality Yangon accommodation without the high price.
The hostel is close to shops, restaurants, and public transport and is suitable for all types of travel groups, from families to singles.
Hotel Grand United Chinatown | Best Hotel in Chinatown
Located in the busiest and best neighborhood to stay in Yangon for food and local color, this hotel is an ideal base for travelers. It offers all the modern comforts as well as connecting rooms to suit every size travel group.
A delicious buffet breakfast is served every morning at the on-site restaurant and there are lots of restaurants close by if you want to get adventurous with your meals.
Things to See and Do in Chinatown:
- Visit the Bogyoke Aung San market for bargains and local crafts.
- Make sure you eat as much as your stomach can hold!
- Visit the Guang Dong Kwan Yin Temple, which was built by the Chinese community at the end of the 19th century.
- Visit the largest Chinese temple in the city, Kheng hock Keong.
- Find one of the local cyber cafes and send pictures home of your trip!
- Stake out a seat at one of the outdoor restaurants and just watch the madness of the busiest part of the city unfold in front of you!
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Grab an eSIM!4. Bahan Township – Coolest Place to Stay in Yangon
The Bahan Township is the best area in Yangon to stay in if you want a bit of peace and quiet. This genteel neighborhood is slightly to the north of the Downton are and is on the banks of the Kandawgyi Lake.
This is where the richest people in Yangon live, so it’s filled with great restaurants, bars, and cafes.
There’s a lot to do in this area and it’s also really easy to get from the Bahan Township to the center of the city so you can explore. It’s also a popular destination amongst foodies because of the richer local population, so come prepared to eat as much as you can!
Merchant Art Boutique Special Suite | Best Airbnb in Bahan Township
If you’re looking for a slightly quirky place to stay, this is where you’ll find it. It’s a Contemporary Art Boutique suits that’s outfitted with artwork by famous artists like Patrice Murciano and others.
There are no windows in the apartment, which is a great choice if you’re trying to decide where to stay in Yangon on a budget.
Pleasure View Hotel | Best Hotel in Bahan Township
Try this budget option when you’re trying to decide where to stay in Yangon for your first time or on a return trip. It offers modern, comfortable furnishings and décor, a private bathroom, and air conditioning for those steamy summer days.
There’s a restaurant and bar on-site so you can relax and lots of restaurants close by that offer everything you could ever want to try eating while you’re in the city.
The Link Yangon Boutique Hotel | Best Hotel in Bahan Township
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Yangon for one night or for longer, this hotel is a good choice. Each room is air-conditioned and has a seating area, safe, mini bar, and private bathroom.
The hotel has its own restaurant and is close to local attractions so you can get out and explore.
Things to See and Do in the Bahan Township:
- Explore the Kandawgyi Nature Park and enjoy the serene natural surroundings.
- Find out what’s on at the Karaweik Hall, a golden building that looks like it’s floating on the lake and holds Burmese shows and exhibitions.
- Grab your friends and head out to explore the trendy bars and clubs.
- Indulge your taste buds at the restaurants and street food options littered throughout the neighborhood.
5. Inya Lake – Best Neighborhood in Yangon for Families
The noise of Yangon can get to you sometimes and if you want a quieter trip then you should consider staying at Inya Lake. This is the best area in Yangon to stay in if you have a little extra money and want to stay where Yangon’s wealthiest citizens live.
But that doesn’t mean that Inya Lake is all quiet streets and boredom. In fact, this is the largest lake in Yangon and one of the most popular recreation spots for the locals.
It’s also close to the city so you can duck in to see the sights before returning to your peaceful base again.
Koo Art Boutique | Best Airbnb in Inya Lake
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Yangon for families, this apartment is a great choice. It’s located right in the center of all the action at Inya Lake and surrounded by businesses and attractions.
The host offers free Wi-Fi and laundry services if needed as well as a clean, comfortable place to stay.
Mercure Yangon Kaba Aye | Best Hotel in Inya Lake
If you have a little more money to spend and are trying to decide where to stay in Yangon for nightlife, then try this 4-star option. It’s in a prime location on Inya Lake, close to shops, restaurants, and clubs.
The hotel has free Wi-Fi, a coffee bar, kids’ club, hair salon, and a playground. it also has air-conditioned rooms that include a private bathroom and fridge so you can store cold drinks and snacks.
Bike World Explores Myanmar Inn | Best Hotel in Inya Lake
This budget hotel is a good choice whether you’re trying to decide where to stay in Yangon for one night or for longer. The hotel has free Wi-Fi, room service, a restaurant, and is close to Inya Lake.
As if that wasn’t enough, each room has a minibar, TV, and private shower and is clean and decorated to modern standards. It’s also close to bars and restaurants in the area, so you can get out and get to know the city!
Things to See and Do in Inya Lake:
- Just relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
- Try the local restaurants and find your favorite.
- Enjoy the vibrant nightlife at the local bars and clubs.
- Head down Kabar Aye Pagoda Road until you reach the golf range and indulge in an afternoon of relaxation hitting balls by the lake.
- Head to the west bank and stake out a spot to do some people watching.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Yangon
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Yangon and where to stay.
What To Pack For Yangon
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
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Hanging Laundry Bag
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Final Thoughts On The Best Places To Stay in Yangon
With our Yangon neighborhood guide, you’ll be able to find and choose the accommodation that suits your travel style. Best of all, you’ll be able to choose somewhere to stay that suits your wallet as well.
And that means that you can get on with exploring the towering temples, trying the local food, and getting to know the unique and fascinating country that is Myanmar. So, what are you waiting for? Check out your Yangon accommodation options today.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Myanmar.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Yangon.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Southeast Asia backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
