I have lived and worked in a large number of Yangon neighborhoods. What has changed over the years is the proliferation of new luxury hotels but also the general quality of hotels, guesthouses, and boutique hotels. Wifi, room service, and contemporary luxuries mean that you can quickly feel at home in the right hotel. here’s the complete guide to the Yangon hotel scene.
Where to Stay in Yangon
Myanmar is one of the most spiritual nations on earth. Its quiet and serene moments and landscapes will change you forever. But that’s not how you’re going to feel when you first land in Yangon! Congested traffic, and attractions spread across the city, bounded by major roads and the suburban railway loop, Yangon is a little disorienting for first-timers.
The confusion comes from a clash of cultures – traditional circular Burmese village and township structure bashing against a British colonial imperative of neat grids of sequentially numbered streets.
Add to this planning confusion a terrible level of snarled traffic, narrow streets with cars parked on either side and you get the Yangon that I know and love so well!
When I first went to Yangon in the early 1990s, foreigners were only allowed to stay in 12 hotels in Yangon and they were almost always full!
Read on for a breakdown of the graceful luxury accommodation, the excellent quality mid-range hotels, and the unbelievably cheap accommodation options all over this growing city. I’ve even added in the nascent but burgeoning Airbnb choices!
And if you are wondering what the most essential things to do in Yangon are, see my comprehensive 1, 2, and 3 days Yangon Itineraries here.
This guide to the best hotels in Yangon is divided into neighborhoods. Your main choices are:
- the bustling downtown area where you feel the pulse of the city the moment you set foot outside your hotel, and slightly to the west, the busy Chinatown district
- the gracious lakes and Shwedagon pagoda districts with luxury hotels with lovely views, and
- suburban hotels from luxury boutique hotels to economical and delightfully warm and friendly guest houses
Yangon’s best neighborhoods for accommodation can loosely be divided into north, north central, south, east, and west. South, abutting the Yangon River is downtown Yangon and this is where many new luxury hotels have been built. Immediately north of the downtown area is North Central district which encompasses the Kandwagyi Lake neighborhoods, and further north is the Inya Lake and Shwedagon Pagoda neighborhoods.
East of the downtown area is Botahtaung and neighborhoods south of Kandwagyi Lake and further east across the Yangon River. Finally, immediately west of the downtown area is Chinatown and the West Yangon neighborhoods.
TIP: The links take you to the cheapest meta-search engine, Hotels Combined. If you’d like to book with Agoda, click on the images.
Yangon Neighborhoods, Distances, & Street Names
The downtown area of Yangon was laid out by the British colonizers in the early to mid-nineteenth century as a grid with sequentially numbered streets. This makes it very easy to know where you are and how far you have to go. For example, you may be on 19th street and want to go to 16th street. You would simply head west across three streets to arrive at 16th street.
All distances in Myanmar are measured from the Sule Pagoda. So Hlaing Township is often simply called “6 miles,” and Insein Township is called “8 miles.” It’s pretty simple once you get the hang of it.
Townships (neighborhoods or suburbs) are traditionally built in a snail-shell formation with the most communal parts of the township at the very center. Here you would find a common playing area, a pagoda, and monastery, and local township offices. In order to get to the center of the township you have to pass all the buildings in the neighborhood and these ensured strangers were seen long before they made it to the heart of the village or township. If you find yourself winding your way along township roads in Yangon, you will eventually come to a pagoda or monastery. These circular wanderings are one of the great pleasures of Burmese life.
SOUTH
Best Hotels in Yangon: Downtown Yangon
On my first several visits to Yangon, I stayed in the downtown section. I wanted to walk as much as possible and I avoided the rainy season as well as the hottest part of the year. This allowed me easy access to Bogyoke Market, Sule Pagoda, the Strand Hotel, and the riverfront, as well as Pansodan Street with its colonial buildings.
I worked for a time in a traditional medicine clinic in the downtown area and so it has always been a convenient place for walking, shopping, wandering for hours down busy sidestreets, and easy access to street food and restaurants.
As soon as you step outside your hotel you will find a busy city with many cafes, restaurants, street stalls, and bars all around you. If this sounds like your kind of place, read on for the best luxury, mid-range and budget hotel options in downtown Yangon.
Luxury Yangon Hotels
Let’s face it – Myanmar is cheap by global standards and many of these hotels are very new. Maybe indulge a little when you first land in Yangon? One of the key categories for me is a swimming pool. Myanmar is a hot and humid place and there are some wonderful new hotels with fantastic swimming pools.
Location: Downtown Yangon, very close to the Holy Trinity Cathedral. Other attractions including the Bogyoke Aung San Market and the Sule Pagoda are just a short drive away.
Best Features: This hotel enjoys amazing views of the skyline of Yangon. This view is best enjoyed from the dazzling rooftop infinity pool. There is also a spa and fitness center, as well as several restaurants.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
Location: Downtown Yangon near Bandola Park Bus Terminus. Shwedagon Pagoda and Bogyoke Aung San Market are a ten-minute drive away.
Best Features: This luxurious hotel offers a great range of amenities including a swimming pool and fitness center.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
Location: Downtown Yangon, just 200 meters away from the Sule Pagoda. It is located in one of the most desirable areas of Yangon.
Best Features: This five-star hotel boasts two swimming pools, a fitness center, and a business center. Guests will also enjoy beautiful views over the river and city.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
Location: Downtown Yangon, about a five-minute walk from the famous Sule Pagoda. Many other attractions are within an easy walk of the hotel.
Best Features: This stylish hotel offers various amenities including a restaurant, bar, full-service spa, gym and business center. There’s also free WiFi and private parking.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
Location: Downtown Yangon, just a short stroll away from the Bogyoke Aung San Market, Yangon Central Railway Station, and Yangon City Hall. Sule Pagoda is also close by.
Best Features: This beautiful five-star hotel provides plenty of luxe amenities, including two swimming pools, a fitness center, a sauna, and a spa.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
Mid-Range Yangon Hotels
Location: Downtown Yangon, just a short (300 meters) walk from Bogyoke Aung San Market. Other attractions like the Sule Pagoda and the National Theatre of Yangon are less than a kilometer away.
Best Features: The rooms at this modern and stylish hotel are well-equipped with satellite TVs, a seating area and a safety deposit box.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
Location: Downtown Yangon, just a ten minute walk away from the Bogyoke Aung San Market. Other attractions, like the Shwedagon Pagoda, are also within walking distance.
Best Features: This stylish hotel features modern decor and a range of amenities including a bar and restaurant, business center and fitness center.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
Location: Downtown Yangon, close to the Bogyoke Aung San Stadium. The famous Shwedagon Pagoda is about three-and-a-half kilometers away.
Best Features: Pacific Hotel Yangon’s amenities include free private parking, free WiFi and stylish rooms. There’s also a restaurant, bar and room service available.
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Location: Botahtaung, near downtown Yangon. Yangon City Hall and the Sule Pagoda are both just two kilometers away from the boat.
Best Features: This unique accommodation allows you to sleep on board a boat! As well as the cozy rooms, you’ll find a restaurant, bar and coffee shop. There’s also a charming sun terrace.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
Budget Yangon Hotels
Location: Downtown Yangon, very close to Yangon Central Railway Station. Sule Pagoda and Yangon City Hall are also an easy walk away.
Best Features: This is basic but comfortable and clean rooms enjoy cable TV as well as bathrooms complete with bathtubs. There’s also free private parking on-site.
Tip: Make sure you get a room with a window.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
Location: Downtown Yangon, about a five-minute walk from Yangon City Hall. Sule Pagoda is also less than a kilometer away.
Best Features: This clean and comfortable hotel offers great value for money right in the heart of the city. Options include private rooms (with or without a private bathroom) and dormitories, so it is ideal for travelers on a budget.
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Location: Downtown Yangon, just meters away from Yangon City Hall, this hotel really is in the heart of everything.
Best Features: All of the rooms are clean and comfortable, with air-conditioning, TVs and ensuite bathrooms. (Including Egyptian cotton 330-thread count sheets!) There’s also a 24-hour front desk which can organize shuttle services.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
Location: Downtown Yangon, around 600 meters away from Sule Pagoda and close to other attractions including Yangon City Hall.
Best Features: This hotel and hostel are ideal for guests on a strict budget. Extra amenities include free WiFi, luggage storage, a tour desk, and currency exchange.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
NORTH
Inya Lake and North of the Shwedagon Pagoda
Luxury Yangon Hotels
Location: Bahan, one of the most sought-after areas in Yangon, close to numerous embassies. Shwedagon Pagoda is also within walking distance, as it is located just a kilometer away from the hotel.
Best Features: This elegant hotel features a tempting swimming pool surrounded by a bright sun terrace. Inside, the rooms are furnished with antique furniture plus modern amenities such as air conditioning and satellite TV.
This is one of the very best hotels in Yangon. It is ‘right-sized.’ More of a boutique hotel. It offers the best of Myanmar and it has been operating as a luxury hotel for many years. Like the Strand Hotel, it is an oasis of calm and elegance in the midst of Yangon’s life.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
Location: Bahan Township, located just opposite Inya Lake and close to Aung San Suu Kyi’s House. Shwedagon Pagoda is just over three kilometers away from the hotel.
Best Features: The ultra-luxe Melia Yangon is the place to stay if you’re seeking uncompromising luxury. Amenities include an impressive swimming pool, fitness center and a restaurant with beautiful views.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
Location: Hlaing Township, which is located in the north of Yangon at 6 miles. It is very close to Inya Lake, while Shwedagon Pagoda is about five kilometers away.
Best Features: This ultra-modern and luxurious hotel offers brilliant amenities including an amazing infinity pool, fitness center, jacuzzi, and sauna. The rooms are also well-appointed.
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Location: Located in northern Yangon, the hotel is in a quiet location but still convenient for the city’s attractions. It is three kilometers away from the famous Shwedagon Pagoda.
Best Features: This luxurious hotel boasts an impressive array of amenities, including an expansive outdoor swimming pool with beautiful views, a tennis court, a fitness center and a selection of excellent restaurants.
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Location: Kamaryut Township, which is a quiet yet truly convenient location. The stunning Shwedagon Pagoda is within a short drive or a walk from this property, while downtown Yangon is less than five kilometers away.
Best Features: This hotel is a leafy oasis within striking distance of the city’s major attractions. There’s a large manicured garden, or you might prefer to relax under an umbrella by the large pool. My daughter learned to swim in this pool as a toddler and it has been a safe and welcoming home for ex-pats for many years.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
Location: Mayangone Township, very close to Kaba Aye Pagoda and the Myanmar Gems Museum. Inya Lake is also walking distance from the hotel.
Best Features: This well-appointed and stylishly decorated hotel includes a range of amenities including a swimming pool, spa, fitness center, and free WiFi.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
Location: Yankin Township, in one of Yangon’s most exclusive areas close to Aung San Suu Kyi’s House and numerous embassies. Sule Pagoda is six kilometers from the hotel.
Best Features: This beautiful hotel rests on eight acres of landscaped gardens, and offers relaxing amenities including a spa, fitness center and swimming pool. There are also multiple restaurants to choose from.
The terrace by the pool was my weekly ‘go-to’ place for relaxation, peace, and quietness during all the periods I lived in Yangon. It’s fair to say I have a soft spot for this hotel as before the new luxury hotels were built in the downtown area, the Sedona was (and still is) just far enough away from the downtown bustle to be convenient but relaxed.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
Mid-Range Yangon Hotels
Location: Kyaut Taw Gyi, which is only about two kilometers from the airport. Downtown Yangon is around 14 kilometers away from the hotel. This is the most northern of the hotels I am recommending. It has a great feel – young people enjoying the pool for a great price and it is close enough to the airport to be an overnight-airport stay.
Best Features: This hotel is traditionally decorated and spotlessly clean. Amenities include a swimming pool, fitness center, and massage service.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
Location: Mayangone Township, which is located to the north of Yangon on the way to the airport. Downtown Yangon is around ten kilometers from the hotel.
Best Features: This modern and stylish hotel offers beautiful city views, as well as useful amenities such as free private parking, a fitness center, and a bar/restaurant. The rooms are spacious and light.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
Budget Yangon Hotels
Location: Bahan, a sought-after area in Yangon and within close proximity of attractions including Aung San Suu Kyi’s House. Inya Lake is also close by, while Shwedagon Pagoda is 2.5 kilometers away.
Best Features: This comfortable and clean hotel boasts well-equipped rooms with cable TV, a seating area and an ensuite bathroom. There’s also free parking, or shuttles can be arranged.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
Location: Tamwe Township, which is located to the north of Yangon and offers peace and quiet while still being a short distance from the heart of the city. Sule Pagoda is approximately five kilometers away from the hotel.
Best Features: This budget-friendly option proves you don’t need to trade comfort for value, with a beautiful outdoor pool, fitness center, and in-house restaurant as well.
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Location: Bahan, one of the most influential areas in Yangon. It is also convenient for various attractions including the Nga Htat Gyi Pagoda, Kadawgyi Lake, and Shwedagon Pagoda, which are all walking distance.
Best Features: This comfortable and clean hotel offers great value, with well-appointed rooms that include satellite TV, tea/coffee making facilities and a minibar.
Tip: Ask for a room with a pagoda view.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
North Central Yangon
South of the Shwedagon Pagoda, People’s Park and around Kandawgyi Lake, the hotels in this central zone are truly in the heart of Yangon but just north of the busy downtown area. Surrounded by major Buddhist and cultural sites, the premiere parks and lakes and home to the Generals and the upper echelons of the National League for Democracy, this has always been an influential part of the country.
Luxury Yangon Hotels
Shangri-La Serviced Apartments
Location: Bahan, which is one of the most exclusive areas in Yangon. Kandawgyi Lake is only about half a kilometer away, while other attractions such as Shwedagon Pagoda are just a few minutes away.
Best Features: This stunning hotel offers large self-contained apartments complete with a modern kitchen and stylish dining area. There are also three impressive pools on the property and a fully equipped gym.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
Location: Near Kandawgyi Lake (some rooms have lake views). Both the Sule and Shwedagon Pagodas are less than three kilometers away, meaning the location is very convenient.
Best Features: A visually stunning five-star hotel has a raft of luxurious features including a manicured garden, an alluring swimming pool seemingly hanging between two towers, and a gym. Gorgeously decorated and large rooms.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
Location: In Bahan near Kandawgyi Lake, which is just half a kilometer away. Downtown Yangon is also easily accessible, with attractions like Shwedagon Pagoda less than two kilometers away.
Best Features: This luxurious hotel offers a beautifully manicured garden which is the perfect retreat from the busy city. There’s also a large swimming pool, a bar, and a fitness center.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
Mid-Range Yangon Hotels
Location: Tamwe Township, which is a quiet yet central location in a safe and inviting part of Yangon. The hotel is just two kilometers from Shwedagon Pagoda and just a few hundred meters from the Bogyoke Aung San Museum.
Best Features: This impressive luxury hotel offers everything you could need for a comfortable stay, from a stunning outdoor pool to three excellent restaurants. There’s also a full-service spa on-site
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
Location: Dagon Township, which is home to many embassies as well as the National Museum of Myanmar. It’s a leafy and safe area, that’s convenient for visiting attractions including the Shwedagon Pagoda, which is less than a kilometer away.
Best Features: This well-located and affordable hotel offers some great amenities, including a fitness center and business center. The well-appointed rooms also have cable TV and air conditioning – and some even have views of Shwedagon Pagoda.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
Location: The Kadawgyi Lake area, which means you can enjoy beautiful views of the natural lake while also being close to attractions. For example, the Shwedagon Pagoda is just two and a half kilometers away.
Best Features: As the name (and photo above) suggests, this hotel enjoys a beautiful view out over the lake. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a meal or just a drink while watching the sunset.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
Budget Yangon Hotels
Location: Bahan Township, within a few minutes’ walk of the famous Shwedagon Pagoda. Sule Pagoda and Yangon City Hall are also less than two kilometers away.
Best Features: This affordable hotel is exceptionally located for the show-stopping Shwedagon Pagoda – just look at the view! The rooms themselves are modest but clean and comfortable.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
Location: Dagon Township, which is centrally located in Yangon and particularly convenient for the famous Shwedagon Pagoda. It’s walking distance from this hotel, while other attractions like Sule Pagoda are less than three kilometers away.
Best Features: This well-located hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms. Beauty treatments from massages to makeovers can be arranged, while there is also a golf bar and simulator.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
WEST
Chinatown and Neighborhoods West of Downtown Yangon
The downtown area is contiguous with Chinatown and West Yangon. I have included all hotels west of Shwedagon Pagoda Road as being in Chinatown or West Yangon.
Luxury Yangon Hotels
Location: The hotel is located about a ten-minute drive from the center of Yangon, close to the National Museum of Myanmar. Well-known attractions such as the Shwedagon Pagoda are just a short drive away.
Best Features: This grand hotel is a spectacular example of a colonial atmosphere and oozes romance and style. There’s also a glittering outdoor pool, manicured gardens with lotus ponds and free bicycle tours on offer.
Many return visitors to Yangon swear that this is the best hotel in Yangon. It’s a wonderful hidden gem.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
Mid-Range Yangon Hotels
Location: Dagon Township, which is convenient for the downtown area yet offers a little more peace and quiet. In particular, this hotel is located close to great shopping such as the Taw Win Shopping Centre. Shwedagon Pagoda is less than two kilometers away.
Best Features: This sprawling hotel offers many convenient and luxurious amenities. There’s a well-equipped gym, while massages and other wellness services can be arranged from the 24-hour front desk.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
Location: The hotel is located in the Chinatown area, which is a vibrant area that’s convenient for most Yangon attractions. There’s great shopping and dining right on your doorstep, while attractions like Sule Pagoda are just a short walk away.
Best Features: This modern hotel offers everything you need for a comfortable stay, including air conditioning, satellite TV, and business facilities. There’s also an onsite restaurant, and room service is available 24 hours a day.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
Budget Yangon Hotels
Hotel Grand United (21st Downtown)
Location: Latha Township, which is close to Chinatown and conveniently located for exploring all of Yangon. The Yangon River is very close by, as are the Sule Pagoda, Yangon City Hall, and Bogyoke Aung San Market.
Best Features: This comfortable hotel enjoys a great location close to many of the city’s best attractions. One highlight is the rooftop restaurant, where you can enjoy international or Burmese food while taking in the beautiful view.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
Location: Ahlone is a quiet and safe area of Yangon, yet still close to all the attractions of downtown. Shwedagon Pagoda is just a five minutes drive away, while Bogyoke Market is ten minutes away.
Best Features: This well-equipped hotel offers comfortable and clean rooms, as well as amenities such as a recreation and fitness center and a sauna. There’s also 24-hour room service and an on-site restaurant.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
Location: Lanmandaw Township, which is a popular business area in Yangon. Tourists will also appreciate the proximity to attractions including the famous Shwedagon Pagoda, which is just a few minutes’ drive away.
Best Features: Although the rooms at this hotel are relatively basic, the beautiful views of Shwedagon Pagoda more than make up for it! There’s also free private parking on site.
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Location: The hotel is located a five-minute walk from the National Museum of Myanmar, making it ideal for travelers wishing to see the city’s main sights. Shwedagon Pagoda is just over two kilometers away.
Best Features: If you are looking for an affordable hotel in a convenient location, then this one is for you! Although the rooms are basic, they are comfortable and clean, and there is a 24-hour reception desk.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
Hotel Grand United (Chinatown)
Location: Chinatown, which is one of the most vibrant places to stay in Yangon. Nearby, there is lots of great shopping and dining, or a short walk will have you amongst the best tourist attractions of Yangon.
Best Features: Although modest, the rooms are modern and comfortable with air conditioning. There’s even a penthouse restaurant where you can dine or perhaps just enjoy a drink in the evening.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
EAST
There are not many accommodation options in the east of Yangon. Exceptions include the conveniently located Eastern Hotel and the Grand Laurel Hotel.
Mid-Range Yangon Hotels
Location: Botahtaung, which is a peaceful and central location in the east of Yangon. The hotel is located very near to Saint Mary’s Cathedral, while the Sule Pagoda is just over a kilometer away.
Best Features: This modern hotel offers generous-sized rooms, with free WiFi throughout. There’s also a fitness center and an on-site restaurant, along with a 24-hour reception desk for your convenience.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
Location: Botahtaung, which is a central location popular with business travelers as well as tourists. Sule Pagoda is within walking distance of the hotel, while Shwedagon Pagoda is just a short drive away.
Best Features: This hotel offers modern and generously proportioned rooms for groups of all sizes. There are air conditioning and WiFi throughout, along with free private parking on offer.
Check prices, reviews, and availability here
Check prices, availability, and reviews for ALL Yangon accommodation here
Now that you know where you want to stay in Yangon, your next question is: What are the best things to do in Yangon? Click here to read about my Yangon Itinerary – the ultimate 1, 2, and 3-day itineraries of the best things to do in Yangon
Further Links and Information
- For a comprehensive guide on the most important of all the things to do in Yangon – visiting the Shwedagon Pagoda – see my post here: Shwedagon Pagoda: The Best Pagoda in Myanmar
- Get Your Guide Myanmar travel activities are here
- Make sure you can speak enough Burmese to meet the locals! Read Useful Burmese Phrases for Myanmar Travelers and see all Myanmar articles here
- Visiting Bagan? Click on my ultimate itinerary for one, two, or three days in the largest archaeological site in the world: Bagan Itinerary: Best of Bagan Temples in 1, 2, and 3 Days
- For another spectacular and must-see Asian temple, see the world’s largest Buddhist temple, Borobodur here, and for all Asian destinations here
- More detailed information on how to book transport, airfares, accommodation, and travel insurance is available on my Travel Resources page, and If you are wondering about what luggage to take, check out this post on the best wheeled backpacks.
This is great information for anyone planning a trip to Yangon. We’ll definitely refer to it when we start our travels in that part of the world. Thank you!
Thanks Susan, it’s a wonderfully unusual place!
What a wonderfully detailed post showing so many options for accommodation in Yangon. I would want to try several of them out, including the Yacht Hotel.
Thanks Ruth, sleeping on boats is wonderful!
A very comprehensive selection of accommodation choices. Thank You 🙂
Thanks Marilyn, it’s wonderful to see lots of new quality options for Yangon hotels!