Where to Stay in Dhaka
Bangladesh
|Pop. 10.4M
|4 neighbourhoods covered
|Updated March 2026
Photo: Jared Rice / Unsplash
Quick Answer: Best Area to Stay
For most visitors, Gulshan is the best neighbourhood to stay in Dhaka. An upscale, diplomatic enclave with modern amenities and international flair. Ideal for first-timers, luxury, couples. Budget travellers can get by on BDT 3000/day.
Areas to Avoid in Dhaka
Safety rated "exercise caution". See which areas need extra caution and where to stay instead.
Best Neighbourhoods at a Glance
| Neighbourhood | Vibe | Budget | Best For | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gulshan | An upscale, diplomatic enclave with modern amenities and international flair. | Luxury | first-timers, luxury | Generally safe during the day with good ... |
| Banani | A vibrant and trendy residential area popular with younger crowds and expats. | Mid-range | nightlife, foodies | Generally safe in busy areas and restaur... |
| Dhanmondi | A large, leafy residential area known for its lakes, cultural institutions, and educational centers. | Budget | families, culture | Relatively safe, especially in residenti... |
| Motijheel | The bustling commercial and financial heart of Dhaka, characterized by high-rise buildings and constant activity. | Budget | digital nomads, budget | Safe during business hours due to high a... |
Gulshan
LuxuryAn upscale, diplomatic enclave with modern amenities and international flair.
Generally safe during the day with good security in commercial areas; nighttime ...
Banani
Mid-rangeA vibrant and trendy residential area popular with younger crowds and expats.
Generally safe in busy areas and restaurants; exercise standard precautions at n...
Dhanmondi
BudgetA large, leafy residential area known for its lakes, cultural institutions, and educational centers.
Relatively safe, especially in residential pockets and near parks during the day...
Motijheel
BudgetThe bustling commercial and financial heart of Dhaka, characterized by high-rise buildings and constant activity.
Safe during business hours due to high activity; exercise extreme caution at nig...
Top 3 Areas to Stay in Dhaka
Liveliest areas for nightlife, culture, and entertainment
Banani
A vibrant and trendy residential area popular with younger crowds and expats.
Our top picks in Banani
Motijheel
The bustling commercial and financial heart of Dhaka, characterized by high-rise buildings and constant activity.
Our top picks in Motijheel
Gulshan
An upscale, diplomatic enclave with modern amenities and international flair.
Our top picks in Gulshan
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Things to Do in Dhaka
Popular tours, activities, and experiences you can book in advance
🚶Walking Tour
Explore the city on foot with a local guide
🍽️Food Tour
Taste the best local dishes and street food
🚐Day Trip
Discover stunning destinations just outside the city
🏛️Museum & Culture
Skip-the-line access to top museums and galleries
🚌Hop-on Hop-off Bus
See all the highlights from an open-top bus
⛵Boat Tour
See the city skyline from the water
👨🍳Cooking Class
Learn to cook authentic local recipes
🌙Night Tour
Experience the city after dark with a guided tour
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Dhaka at a Glance
8 categories
Top Tips for Dhaka
Things to know before you go
Local Tip
Always have small denominations of Bangladeshi Taka (BDT) for local transport and street food; negotiate prices politely but firmly before commencing any journey or purchase.
Getting Around
Traffic is a major factor; always add significant buffer time for journeys, especially during peak hours. Use ride-sharing apps for predictable pricing and to avoid haggling.
Watch Out For
Overcharging by rickshaw/auto-rickshaw drivers (insist on meter or agree price beforehand).
Solo Female Travel
Exercise a high degree of caution. Dress conservatively to avoid unwanted attention. Stick to reputable transport like ride-sharing apps, and avoid traveling alone at night in less populated areas.
Hidden Gems in Dhaka
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Panam City
Explore the hauntingly beautiful ruins of this abandoned colonial-era city, where crumbling mansions tell stories of a bygone era. It's like stepping back in time to a forgotten world.
Shankhari Bazar
FREEWander through the narrow lanes of this vibrant Hindu street, filled with intricate temples, artisan workshops, and shops selling religious items and crafts. The atmosphere is lively and deeply cultural.
Baldha Garden
Discover a serene oasis showcasing a stunning collection of rare and exotic plants from around the world, meticulously arranged in different sections. It's a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
Star Mosque (Star Masjid)
FREEAdmire the unique architecture of this beautiful mosque adorned with thousands of stars made from Japanese ceramic tiles. The intricate blue and white patterns create a mesmerizing visual.
Dhaka Art Center
Immerse yourself in contemporary Bangladeshi art at this gallery showcasing works by emerging and established artists. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the nation's artistic pulse.
Haji Biryani
Savor the authentic and legendary flavors of traditional Dhaka biryani at this iconic eatery, a local favorite for generations. The aromatic rice and tender meat are a must-try culinary experience.
Things to Do in Dhaka
Popular tours, activities, and experiences you can book in advance
🚶Walking Tour
Explore the city on foot with a local guide
🍽️Food Tour
Taste the best local dishes and street food
🚐Day Trip
Discover stunning destinations just outside the city
🏛️Museum & Culture
Skip-the-line access to top museums and galleries
🚌Hop-on Hop-off Bus
See all the highlights from an open-top bus
⛵Boat Tour
See the city skyline from the water
👨🍳Cooking Class
Learn to cook authentic local recipes
🌙Night Tour
Experience the city after dark with a guided tour
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Top-rated Dhaka tours and activities
Skip-the-line tickets, guided walking tours, food experiences, and day trips. Reserve now, pay later; free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
We earn a small commission if you book through this link, at no extra cost to you.
What It Costs in Dhaka
Daily budget per person in BDT
💡Premium destination pricing
BDT 3000/day
BDT 8000/day
BDT 20000/day
Where to Stay in Dhaka
Honest neighborhood guide: where to stay and where to avoid
Best for
Walk to
- Banani25 min
- United Hospital15 min
- Gulshan Lake10 min
Pros
- +Modern infrastructure
- +Good range of international dining
- +Relatively cleaner and better maintained
Cons
- -Can feel sterile and less authentically Bangladeshi
- -Traffic congestion is severe
Top stays in Gulshan
The Westin Dhaka
$$$Offers a luxurious stay with excellent amenities and dining options.
Radisson Blu Dhaka Water Garden
$$$Known for its beautiful garden setting and high-quality service.
Best Western Plus Dhaka
$$Reliable international chain offering comfortable rooms and good facilities.
Ascott Palace Dhaka
$$$Provides spacious serviced apartments for longer stays.
Best for
Walk to
- Gulshan25 min
- Banani Lake5 min
- Mirpur Road20 min
Pros
- +Abundant restaurants and cafes
- +Lively atmosphere
- +Good connectivity
Cons
- -Can be noisy due to nightlife
- -Traffic can be extremely bad
Best for
Walk to
- Dhanmondi Lake5 min
- National Museum of Science and Technology15 min
- New Market30 min
Pros
- +More green spaces and recreational areas
- +Access to museums and cultural sites
- +More affordable dining and accommodation options
Cons
- -Can be very crowded, especially near markets and educational institutions
- -Traffic is a constant issue
Best for
Walk to
- Ramna Park20 min
- Dhaka Stock Exchange5 min
- Sadharan Sangho10 min
Pros
- +Central location for business
- +Numerous local eateries and street food
- +Good access to public transport hubs
Cons
- -Extremely crowded and chaotic
- -Limited tourist-oriented amenities
- -Can feel overwhelming
Areas to be cautious
- Old Dhaka (Puran Dhaka) outskirts, particularly slum areas: While historic Old Dhaka has charm, its poorer peripheral areas can be unsafe and lack tourist infrastructure, posing risks of petty crime and unsanitary conditions.
- Isolated industrial zones: These areas are not tourist-friendly, often have poor road conditions, and can be unsafe due to lack of public presence and security.
Insider tip: Always have small denominations of Bangladeshi Taka (BDT) for local transport and street food; negotiate prices politely but firmly before commencing any journey or purchase.
Where to Stay in Dhaka
Compare hotel deals across the best neighbourhoods on Expedia.
Stay in Gulshan
An upscale, diplomatic enclave with modern amenities and international flair.
Stay in Banani
A vibrant and trendy residential area popular with younger crowds and expats.
Stay in Dhanmondi
A large, leafy residential area known for its lakes, cultural institutions, and educational centers.
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Places to Stay in Dhaka
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List Your PropertySafety in Dhaka
Exercise cautionSolo Female Travel
Exercise a high degree of caution. Dress conservatively to avoid unwanted attention. Stick to reputable transport like ride-sharing apps, and avoid traveling alone at night in less populated areas.
At Night
Be aware of your surroundings, especially in less crowded areas. Stick to well-lit, busy streets and avoid displaying valuables. Some areas can become deserted and feel unsafe after dark.
Emergency
999
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overcharging by rickshaw/auto-rickshaw drivers (insist on meter or agree price beforehand).
- 2Fake guides or touts offering unsolicited help.
- 3Pickpocketing in crowded markets and on public transport.
Compare hotel deals in Dhaka
See today's prices across hundreds of hotels. Free cancellation on most bookings, so you can lock in a great rate risk-free.
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Travel Insurance for Dhaka
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. Medical cover from $45/month, designed for travellers. 10% back if unused.
Stay Connected in Bangladesh
Skip expensive roaming. Get an eSIM for Bangladesh and have data the moment you land.
Get an eSIMGetting Around Dhaka
Transport, connectivity, and costs
✈️
Airport to City
Uber/Pathao: BDT 1,000-1,800 (approx. 45-90 mins depending on traffic); Airport Taxi: BDT 1,500-2,500 (fixed rates).
🎫
Day Pass
Not applicable for most systems; single tickets or passes for Metro Rail are available.
Single: Rickshaw: BDT 50-150; Auto-rickshaw: BDT 100-300; Bus: BDT 10-30.
🚶
Walkability
Car NeededUber
📶
WiFi
Good15-30 Mbps
Public Transport
Rickshaws (ubiquitous for short distances, negotiate fare), Auto-rickshaws (CNG - metered but often require negotiation, ensure meter is used), Buses (crowded, complex routes), Metro Rail (limited lines currently, efficient but not comprehensive).
Ride-share
Uber, Pathao (motorcycle taxis are very common and cheap). Typical cost for a 5km ride: BDT 150-300.
Transport Tip
Traffic is a major factor; always add significant buffer time for journeys, especially during peak hours. Use ride-sharing apps for predictable pricing and to avoid haggling.
WiFi & Remote Work
Free WiFi
Hotels, upscale cafes, some shopping malls.
Coworking
Work Shed (BDT 500-1000/day), Impact Hub Dhaka (BDT 800-1500/day).
Rent a Car in Dhaka
Compare prices from top rental companies. Free cancellation on most bookings.
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Weather & Best Time to Visit
Best months to visit: Jan, Feb, Dec
Plan Your Perfect Dhaka Trip
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Hotels & Accommodation in Dhaka
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Compare hotel deals in Dhaka
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Who Is Dhaka Best For?
Matched recommendations for different traveller types
First-time Visitors
Offers familiar amenities, good hotels, and a relatively easier introduction to urban Bangladesh.
Foodies
Boasts a high concentration of diverse restaurants, cafes, and trendy eateries catering to various tastes.
Families
Provides access to parks, lakes, and museums, offering a more relaxed environment with family-friendly activities.
Budget Backpackers
Offers more affordable accommodation and dining options compared to upscale areas, with access to local life.
Digital Nomads
Central location for business, affordable living, and access to coworking spaces, though can be chaotic.
Luxury Travelers
Home to high-end hotels, fine dining, and upscale shopping, providing a comfortable and sophisticated experience.
Dhaka on TripAdvisor
Read traveller reviews, tips, and photos
About Dhaka
Dhaka ( DAH-kə or DAK-ə; Bengali: ঢাকা, romanized: Ḍhākā, pronounced [ˈɖʱaka] ), formerly known as Dacca, is the capital and largest city of Bangladesh. With an estimated population of 36.6 million, Dhaka is the second largest city by population in the world, and is widely considered to be the most densely populated built-up urban area in the world. Dhaka is an important cultural, economic, and scientific hub of Eastern South Asia.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dhaka
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Dhaka Guides by Traveller Type
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